Another book cover design where I immediately want to own the book for no other reason than I love the design + binding.

This cover says to me: I'm a difficult book. I will tell you of unpleasant things in faraway lands that will leave you feeling somewhat depressed and heavy-of-head.

But: what a book. Intense but good. Dave Eggers does a great job of conveying Valentino Achak's story without hiding it behind linguistic fireworks. It's an incredible story that needs no dramatizing, and fortunately, it's handled well. As with most of Eggers' writing, it's brutally honest. I was lucky enough to hear Valentino read at Reading Frenzy this Wednesday— I was surprised at how gentle & singsong his voice is. Being able to connect his voice with the story gave the book new depth for me.

A somewhat rare combo: great book, great cover. And a (true-life) story so good I feel shallow even discussing its cover.