I like it when familiar books get new covers. It’s an instant mystery: why did this book get a new cover? Sometimes it’s to appeal to a different audience. Other times to mark an anniversary. And occasionally a book might just use some sprucing up. I have six books that are being recovered in 2019, but I’m sure there’s more out there – let me know in the comments and I’ll add them.
Wishtree by Katherine Applegate
The reason is simple – this cover is to appeal to an adult audience. The edition for kids will continue on with the cover you’re familiar with. Remember when I accidentally bought the adult edition of Roald Dahl’s Boy for my library? Flashback time.
Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg
They’re calling this one a deluxe keepsake edition. I think this one is just for kicks (/$). The simplicity reminds me a little of that cool 30th anniversary Hatchet cover Simon & Schuster also put out a little while ago.
Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
The new cover and bonus content are for the 20th anniversary of this seminal YA novel. The original cover is iconic at this point, but they really did the book justice with this new one as well.
Our Only May Amelia by Jennifer L. Holm
Every so often, Newbery Medal/Honor winners will get a fresh repackage – that’s what the publisher is calling this update.
To Dance by Siena Cherson Siegel, illustrated by Mark Siegel
This one is pretty subtle. Not a new cover, but just new colors for this Seibert Honor winner. This is a great book that I think is still under the radar, so I’m happy to see it get some attention. For reference, here’s the original cover.
Time Twisters (series) by Steve Sheinkin
Another case of sprucing, I believe. These new editions are a it less wacky than the originals.
About Travis Jonker
After this article, I went back and looked at some other Unfortunate Covers and had a great time. But go back and look at that cover for Fourth Grade Rats–see that bully in the pleated jeans and Members Only jacket? See how that haircut makes his ears look? And see those eyebrows? Do you think that kid is really an evil Vulcan?
What Mama Left Me by Renee Watson (2012) has been reissued with a new cover that is certain to draw attention and find new readership.