• Title: Quiet
• Author: Susan Cain
• ISBN: 978-0141029191
• Extent: 352
• Spine width: 21mm
• Format: Paperback 129 x 198 mm
• Publisher: Penguin
• Genre: Non-Fiction/Self-Help

I find the look of this non-fiction title interesting as, to me, it reflects a fiction title. The title, author and tagline are positioned as they would be in a fiction title. Also the trim page size is the same as a fiction title. The serif font, however does lend itself to a non-fiction title as it is usually perceived as formal and mature in contrast to sans serif.

I think what makes this cover so effective is the design applications used. The title is in the same colour as the background which tends to be an uncommon design choice but as the title is created using spot UV and is embossed it is visible. It also reflects the key theme of quietness in the book. The cover takes on a serene feel and is not bold or punchy, and gives another meaning to the benefit of white space. The use of the colour orange is a positive choice as it stands out but also orange promotes feelings of security which tends to be the emotion provided by quiet personalities. The authors name is also in this subdued effect which indicates that she is not a particularly well known author. The part that stands out the most is the tagline, perhaps indicating that the content of the book is the selling point.

The cover on the whole is quite simplistic which could be because quotes and details have been placed on the inside which makes the jacket minimal and less cluttered.