This meme was started by Books by Proxy, whose fabulous idea was to compare UK and US book covers and decide which is we prefer and is currently hosted by Lynn’s Book Blog. This week the theme is a cover featuring night, or the dark, so I’ve chosen Knights of the Borrowed Dark – Book 1 of Knights of the Borrowed Dark trilogy by Dave Rudden.
This cover, produced by Puffin in April 2016, is not my favourite, but like all these covers it is a strong contender. I like the fact that Denizen looks the right age and as the light pours from his hands, the creatures lurking in the gloom are suitably menacing, thus accurately reflecting the content in this outstanding children’s fantasy series. I love the strapline, but I’m not a fan of the title font, which is rather boring.
This edition was produced by Puffin in January 2017 has a more grandiose backdrop, though the boy looks older which I think is a bit of a shame. That said, the excellent writing and great adventure ought to be enjoyed by anyone in their early teens, as well as younger children. The title font is still rather boring, but reasonably inoffensive and the cover still accurately reflects the content.
Published in August 2016 by Random House, I really like this cover. The sword wreathed in blue coruscating fire glows from the cover, as the dark roils in the background. As for the title font – that’s just what a cool title like this needs! The title now delivers depth and suitable awesomeness that promises – and delivers – a cracking adventure you won’t easily forget. This is my second favourite cover.
This German offering, published in April 2016 by Sauerländer ticks all the boxes as far as I’m concerned. I love the cover as it features the depth and breadth of the world, with Denizen standing in the middle. I also like the font, which is attractively displayed and again, reinforces the impression that this is a strong series with a gritted struggle between Light and Dark. This cover is my favourite. What about you – which of these is your favourite?
Brainfluff 
I think the first one wins for me 🙂
The really nice thing about this choice is that there are no stinkers – lucky Dave Rudden! All the covers are attractive and appropriate, so it is down to personal taste:).
I like the one you’ve chosen, but I also adore the first one. It’s so dramatic with the lighting and shadows!
It’s great, isn’t it? I think they are all good, which is such a refreshing change:)
Yes, I love that last one! It’s the most eye-catching and detailed and just the kind of cover that I like. If it matches the story, that makes it even better!
Yes – all the covers fit the content, which is lovely given what a brilliant book this is…
That last cover, period. Awesome. Kick-a** abounds there! I personally find the sword, well, a bit cliche’, but the title font IS neat, though. If that font were put on the either of the first two covers, then they could be awesome, too. 🙂 xxxxxxxx
I know! Isn’t it annoying?? Because the artwork on the first two is wonderful – but that title font is just ordinary.x
I know! Gah. 😛
The first one for sure. It immediately had me sitting up and taking notice.
It’s a good cover, isn’t it? Thank you for giving your opinion, Laura:)
#1. It really looks like light and dark. #2 looks too much like fire.
Actually, that’s a really good point, Jennie:). I know it’s way beyond the age group you teach – but have you read this one? It really is a cracking tale…
No, I haven’t. It looks really good. I love reading older kids’ books. Kate DiCamillo is my favorite author. Right now I’m reading her Tiger Rising. Many thanks!
And I need to check out Kate DiCamillo:)
I prefer the first cover followed by your second favourite. The final cover is good but the character at the front doesn’t feel right somehow – can’t put my finger on it.
Lovely choice of book. I haven’t read it but it does sound good.
Lynn 😀
It isn’t a long read, but I love his writing style and though it is a children’s book, it is quite dark and creepy. I highly recommend it.
Tough choice!
I really like the first two. They aren’t stunning, but they do draw attention and are aesthetically pleasing. The third one, in my opinion, is a mistake – not only it feels generic and boring, but also art is not eye-catching.
The last one is great, but at the same time it feels like “just another movie cover” in the way it’s designed.
Yes, it was quite close and this was one of my favourite reads of the year – a real treat:)
Yes, it was quite close and this is still one of my favourite reads of last year. I’m looking forward to reading the third book in due course:)