The other day, while spending w-a-y too much time in the bookstore, I recognized three criteria I use before choosing a book.
1. I judge a book by its cover.
Initially, anyway. That’s not to say I like bold, busy images. To the contrary. I’m often attracted to cover art that makes me stop, stare, and sigh.
2. I judge a book by its title.
It should tell me something about the story. Isn’t that what its there for? If the title doesn’t arouse my interest or somehow allude to the story’s plot, I keep looking until I find one that does.
3. I judge a book by its blurb.
If a dust jacket description captures my attention, I either purchase it or put it on my wish list for later. (Below is a description and evocative quote from the book, To Kill A Mockingbird.)
 Atticus Finch, a lawyer in the Depression-era South, defends a black man against an undeserved rape charge, and his kids against prejudice. |
I’ve enjoyed books without ever reading the blurb, liking the cover or being fond of its title--but that isn’t the norm. |
