#ChurchDiversity The Book (Help Me Choose The Cover!)

Posted by Scott Williams

January 6, 2011

I can’t believe it’s almost here. The “It” that I’m referring to is the release of my book. Currently, I’m finishing up all of the final details with the help of the great folks over at New Leaf Publishing Group. Now it’s time to go ahead and lock down the cover. My man Kyle over at EIGHTDAY STUDIO came up with some amazing cover comps. It was really hard to narrow the designs down to the top two or three, nonetheless, that’s where we are. I would have never thought about a red cover, but that’s what I ended up liking.

HELP ME CHOOSE MY BOOK COVER! (I’m giving away 5 personalized copies)

I would love for the readers of BigIsTheNewSmall.com to help pick the cover for my book, which is scheduled to release in April. The rules are quite simple… Leave a comment and state whether you prefer Cover #1 or Cover #2 and why. We probably won’t be making any changes to the designs, so simply just pick #1 or #2 and your selections/opinions will choose the cover. If you don’t like either of the covers, that’s fine… Just pick the one that you like best, out of the two.

I will select 5 random comments and give away 5 personalized copies of the book. Simply leave a comment below and please share this post with your friends on Facebook and Twitter.

Church Diversity Cover #1

Church Diversity Cover #2

Thanks for helping me choose my cover. For the record, if I don’t agree with your selection, I reserve the right to make an executive decision.

Would you like your picture and maybe comment to be in the book? Stay tuned for the opportunity to upload your picture to be featured in the book. (Details Coming Soon)

Thanks in advance… ~Scott

Tim

Definitely #2 for me.

AlstonDavid

#2

http://www.latashamorrison.com Latasha

Church cover number one all day long!!! That shirt grabs attention…were to the gym a few times.

http://blog.gods-man.com @gods_man

#2

http://Duncanrobinson.net Duncan robinson

I love cover 1 man that looks sweet I am looking forward to your book!
http://theperkinsblog.net Michael

loved #1 man.
http://mkskeith.info Mike Skeith

I think #1 pops more. #2 would blend in to the surroundings a bit I think
http://thejourneydeeper.wordpress.com/ Darlene

WOW! They both are hot! It’s difficult to choose. #1 could convey the book title even without words.

And the design of #2 is just more “good looking.”

So, I guess I can’t decide.
Josh

Like #2 makes the title really pop.
http://www.dadlife.net Kevin

Both are legit. I’d have to go with number 1 though.
Louanne Dietrich

Scott, Congratulations on your book! I like the 2nd cover. It demands attention, yet simple, modern and depicts the diversity more than the first. Great choice of colors!
http://www.highwayexit72.com Nick Waters

Cover #2
http://thepewview.com Milan Ford

put me down for #1
James Roller

I prefer #1 – I like the image on it the best. The image tells the story so a reader knows it’s going to talk about the clear division in the church. Most often in black and white families and on Sundays. Great job Scott.
http://www.daleschaeffer.com Dale Schaeffer

I love #1 it communicates the theme and draws you in…but #2 is good as well…not a loser in the bunch.
Heredes

Numero UNO #1 fo sHo

cuz…
Warren is bolder
Williams is whiter
Sunday is edgier

#win

Congrats bro.. excited about it. And yes.. u better add my brazillian mugshot somewhere!

@heredes

http://www.twitter.com/kendragolden Kendra Golden

Agree on all points. #1 FTW!

Rocky La Marr

I choose #1 as it seems to show the break that is reality.
http://charleskosuji.typepad.com charleskc

#2 for me. Congrats Scott!
http://twitter.com/willieharris Willie Harris

Both are good, but I vote for #2.
http://dustinkipe.wordpress.com dkipe

I like #1. Congrats on the book.
B Pirt

ONE!
Nicole Hawker

I LOVE #1…it intensifies your message that there is a breakdown on Sunday…the most broken & segregated hour of the week. Can’t wait to read it!! Hubby & I know first hand how tough it can be to have folks reach across the isles. Thank you for your boldness in speaking out against what’s broken…look forward to learning more of how we as Christians start the healing of our nation on the homefront; God’s house.
http://Perrypowershowerjohnson.blogspot.com Perry Johnson

I love #2 bro, I’m a hick I guess and even I got the point of the book with #2.
http://edgarcabello.com Edgar Cabello

#1 says it better!
drewe

#2. Clean and consistent.

Key reason for the response is negatives in #1. The split color ‘breaks’ the continuity of the cover (which doesn’t happen in #2). Also the use of Rick Warrens name in the top right aligned like the rest of the text looks like it is a Rick Warren book. I can see you are looking for that endorsement to be important, but #1 looks more like his book, not just an endorsement…

Also #1 the word ‘sunday’ appears to be part of the title picture, not part of the actual book. Almost like it was left there in the imagery, and shouldn’t be included.

Just my 2 bits!
http://www.jmaxministries.com Jason Maxwell

They are both solid Bro! I tried to go with what caught my eye at first glance, and I have to say #2 does it for me. Can’t wait to have it in my hands!
http://www.stickyjesus.com Tami Heim

Scott

I would go with number 2.

The black band sets the title off. MUCH stronger.
The transition from white to black dots sends a subtle message. (the other looks more like a tape measure and you have to study it too long to get the days of the week – you only get 30 seconds to tell the story on a cover.)
You don’t miss the sunday in the subtitle when it is more tight.
If you use your Twitter handle as your author name – use it exactly how it appears on twitter (you already have equity in it that way.) Keep the lower and upper case consistent.
Take the font size up a couple of notches on your name and keep it all one color. (white is best on the dark red)

Glad to see you stuck with the colorway of your blog. Smart branding, my friend.

Great job!
http://thedreamerspeaks.wordpress.com Nilwona

It was a close call, but I like #2. Here’s why:
* Sounds crazy, but there was something about the circles that appealed to me more than the design on #1
* While it illustrates the topic of the book, #1′s design was kind of “busy”

I like the color choices – it makes me think of:
* Christ’s (red) blood washing us white as snow
* The whole “black/white” issue in the church

Looking forward to reading it!
@Calvin__Brown

The first appeals most to me. The circles look like every other graphic in our day.

Thanks
Erin

I love #2!
@tjenkins777

Love them both but #2 gets my vote.
http://vinceparker.com/ Vince Parker

#1
Terry

I like cover 1. The black and white band stands out. I would rather see Rick Warren’s name at the bottom and yours just underneathe the title.
Stacy Haggard

#1!!! makes u think more!
Karen

Cover # 1 gets my vote.
Joshua Black

#1 does it for me because it’s a better visual of the most segregated time in America. Someone could look at that cover and it says a thousands words. The 2nd one is more of where we should be with black and white together but some people may miss that cover. Where as the first one presents a clear picture of the problem at hand and what you are writing about and is an awesome visual that would hate seen go to waste. Cover number 1 could probably be the best way to describe such a huge issue in one illustration.
http://stevegagne.wordpress.com Steve Gagne

Love the cover choices! If I need to pick one, then it’ll have to be #2. Though the days-of-week idea from #1 is cool. I wouldn’t have considered red either. Sounds like a great book! (Any chance for advance review copies?)
Justin Hartpence

cover 1 all the way bro! I like the SMTWTF out better conveys the theme, for those judging a book by its cover.
http://www.pastorcraig.weebly.com Craig Hicks

Great options, but 1 def conveys the point you’re wanting to get a cross in my opinion. The word Sunday grabs my attention & the segregation in most congregations.
Bukker1

I prefer #!. i love the red and immediately thought of the blood of Christ! The design may be more literal, but still made me curious to know more. God Bless!
Elaine McColl

Hi Scott… I really like #1. It spoke to me about your message. God Bless!
http://steveblumer.com Steve Blumer

#1 highlights the idea of segregating the day of Sunday and the diversity the day of Sunday brings. Like Jon Acuff’s “Booty God Booty” idea.

#2 highlights the idea of segregating a people who get “together” on Sunday (or really the lack of together).

That is my vantage point. Picture is worth a 1000 words…which one would reinforce your first 1000 words?
http://johnupchurch.wordpress.com/ John UpChurch

Both covers capture the idea well, but cover #2 seems clear and concrete.
Monica Mowdy

I vote #1! I love the “break” in the graphic running down the side. It grabs me.
Ana

Cover #1
casey cariker

Number 1 is a little more attention getting…I do like the circles on 2 though! Great job..I know u have worked hard, thanks for not backing down from this subject or letting it go away!
http://cyndiakadisneyqueen.blogspot.com/ DisneyCyndi

I like # one visually (love the graphic showing the break in church on Sunday between black and white), but agree with some who say the name Rick Warren at the top makes it appear at first glance that he wrote the book. Is there a way to combine the two?
http://www.lookthrough.net Sonny Lemmons

I like design #1. Why?

The two halves are broken, being divided by Sunday. And it doesn’t have to be that way. …which, if I may be so bold, might kinda be part of the premise behind your book.
Rick

Definitely have to say my first impressions are that I love #1 best. Can’t wait to read this. If you could de-emphasize the forward part like #2, it would be perfect!
Laura

I love #1. Just stand out to me more
http://thindifference.com Jon

Design #1 – Definitely. It really stands out, especially with the days of the week and the focus on Sunday. It is unique, bold and may represent the book the best.
http://familysynergy.wordpress.com JD Eddins

I like number 1 and here’s why:
1. The title is in black and white which I think helps highlight the message of the book.
2. It has the calendar running down the side, which again, communicates the message of the book.
http://tomjamieson.wordpress.com Tom Jamieson

I like #1 best. It seems to be more appealing and eye-catching. Plus I like the way “sunday” is stylized as part of the artwork and the subtitle.
Stephanie hunter

Both are great! I see how the book title is more prominently displayed in #2, as another person xcommented. However, I don’t necessarily think that would cause me to choose your book. I think #1 is the best option… The cover itself would make me pick up the book and at least see what it’s about. Sometimes simpler is better . Congrats!!!
Bob Cochran

It’s #2 for me. I think it is a cleaner design. I also like “Forward by Rick Warren” running vertical instead of horizontal that brings the “@ScottWilliams” to the forefront as it should be. The black and white dots coming together as one dot speaks of unity in the church to me in lieu of the torn black and white line which is what we’re working to resolve. Waiting in anticipation!
http://rachelshae.wordpress.com Rachel

#1, hands down. Because:

1) the design is compelling because it’s different–the dots are too “typical” of graphic design, and that cover doesn’t stand out in my mind at all. If I was browsing in a bookstore, I’d skip right over it.

2) it communicates the book’s purpose better. the dots, with the one in the middle by the title being half and half, makes it look like churches are evenly split, and the rest of the world is the problem–like, races are segregated until they get to church, then it’s halvsies all the way. That was my gut reaction to the design.

3) I like how #1 draws you in–I was curious about the calendar, and why the days were listed, then put the graphic together with the title to get the book idea. As I said first, the second cover just didn’t draw me in, plain and simple.
http://Www.onfirestudents.com Jason Allen

# 2
http://ryfresh.com Ryan Hollingsworth

There’s more visual contrast in cover #2. You have varying weights, color, and alignment, which offers a strong visual appeal. The calendar in design #1 resembles a daily vitamin separator, and now that i’ve said that, i can not even see a calendar anymore – just my grandmother’s pill a day box. However, the circle encompassing the word ‘by’ in the first cover ads a nice touch to that text, but the kerning is off and the word ‘by’ is not centered and it’s driving my typographical brain crazy!

my vote: move “rick warren” over a little so you can have that black circle aligned on the word ‘by’ and use that element, aligned vertically, on cover 2. I think this is a sleek look, and isn’t cliché by showing a segregated cover. I say cliché because i’m sure your book not only addresses segregation but focuses on healing and unity, and if its a book about healing and unity from segregation, why do we need to focus so intently on that which is separating people from God?

I’m going to pick up this book, we need to talk about race, diversity, and even other faiths, because we will never live peacefully if we do not understand one another. We fear what we do not understand, and persecute it because what we don’t understand is scary. It didn’t just happen to Jesus…

http://ryfresh.com Ryan Hollingsworth

oh yeah, if we go with #1, making the calendar thinner so there’s less space between “sunday” and “the most…” would be advisable. as it is now it reads ” CHURCH DIVERSITY: THE MOST SEGREGATED DAY OF THE WEEK” because the large amount of space, the word “sunday” look as if it’s merely part of the calendar, and not part of the title ( i like the incorporating design elements into the title, but it’s fighting right now– not sure its working)

Had i not seen design #2, i would not have known this was an issue, as my brain isn’t picking up the grammatical issue with the aforementioned title without ‘sunday,’ just keen on the design principals.. haha

Oh, and since the black one only goes M-F, and the white one goes M-Sat… may want to make them equal, else give room for some irrational person to make some sort of claim that the cover is saying one race is more/less discriminatory than the other.

(some people may think what i’ve said is ludicrous, but I’ve been doing professional graphic design on a national level for a while… trust me, it’s not)

there you have it.. good luck Scott! I look forward to adding another lifechurch book to my shelf!

http://www.marcmillan.com Marc Millan

Both looks great but I would have to say #1 just nails what you have been saying and feeling about the book. Can’t wait to get it.
M_
Dedra Holmes

I like both covers but I would choose cover #2. Too much is going on on cover #1, almost looks like a cover to a planner/calendar. Which ever you choose, I’m sure it will do great!
http://twitter.com/bergstrasser Bergstrasser

#1- The break in the 2 calendars speaks segregation.
C

#2
Sean Wallace

#2 works best for me. It says what it needs to say in a modern and clean way. It makes me want to pick it up and browse through. The title is very self-explanatory.

I don’t think I own a red book, I will now! Thanks for being bold and thanks for your blogs and tweets!
http://twitter.com/bergstrasser bergstrasser

#1- The break in the two calendars speaks your title. Critique- Your name is spelled incorrectly- @ScottWill_ams.
http://Ryandayministries.com Ryan

Scott – love both covers…simple design…very effective! I prefer cover #2…I like the subtle dots over the “calendar week” – I also think the half black half white circle is a better image of the current problem – rather than the “break”
Congrats on the book!
http://mhmcintyre.wordpress.com Mark McIntyre

For me, #1 conveys the idea of racial divide better than #2. I like the days of the week in the bar graphic. I agree the the prominence of Rick Warren’s name is a little confusing on #1. I would tweak #1 a little and run with it. Just sayin’
http://christfocusbookclub.blogspot.com/ Debbie

I like #1 better because it visually tells what the book is about.
http://www.rickcosta.com Rick Costa

Definitely # 2 hands down.

A) Because it’s visually more appealing to me.
B) People are too lazy (sorry) to figure out what’s going on with the first one. You’ve only got a second to grab them and if it seems like too much work…NEXT! And you’ve lost them.
C) My first reaction to the second one was “NICE!!!” but to the first cover it was “What the heck is that? NEXT!” lol.
http://onepilgrim86@yahoo.com Hope L

Definitely #1! You don’t even have to read the title to understand what the book is about. Great visual effect!
VicktoryManuel

Cover 1 because it outlines th dates giving a visual to the title! You rock! Hook up a copy , can’t wait to get my hands on it….
http://www.d2design.com Paul Loyless

Number 1 is SOLID! Number 2 is good though.
Joe Holliday

I like the first one. Your name pops more with it being all white on the red background. I like the torn or broken strip on the side. It expresses the break in community of the Church, especially on Sundays. I also like how the tape looks torn as if it could be repaired. I believe Cover 1 summarizes the problem you are addressing and the hope of a solution.
Desi

NUMBER 2! Can’t wait to read it!!
http://chaplynne.wordpress.com/ Lynne Kennedy

Number 2 looks better to me for several reasons. Like others noted, the visual separation and split of black and white is clear. Rick Warrens is present but sidelined as opposed to the key point of the cover.

I have problems with #1. Sunday is the most segregated day of the week and yet, Sunday is red, showing no split between black and white.

While it is visually striking, the two calendars, one white and one black contradict your premise by showing a completely white week and a completely black week, not integrated, but segregated.

Hence, #1 suggests all six days are more segregated than Sunday which is blood red, neither black nor white, a sign of integration. Blood doesn’t distinguish black or white. A, B, O are found in all ethnicities. Blood symbolizes unity, integration, oneness. This is opposite what the title says is true.

Even though the dots are split similarly in the second cover, they do not represent the days of the week specifically. They do represent the split into ethnic groups. In addition, unlike the red center of the first one, the second shows a clear division of white and black. It suggests that the division that starts on Sundays spills over into the segregation during the week.

The symbolism in the second cover is more apropos for the title in cover #2. Not so, for cover #1.

Best wishes. The book sounds insightful. As a retired Navy chaplain, I can verify that I saw this to be true in my organizing worship aboard the ships.
http://tonotdecideistodecide.blogspot.com/ Haelie

#1 – Looking forward to it!

Haelie
@Decide2day
http://tijuanabecky.livingproof.us Becky

I prefer cover 2. Well I actually like both but #2 seems more focused on the book title. The title stands our more in #2.
Patricia

Cover number 1 creates an excellent visual of the truth. Sunday is the most segregated day of the week, especially in a morning worship service. I have heard this truth stated for years. Now I am looking forward to reading a book that expounds upon it. Thanks for tackling the subject.
http://www.sarahfholbrook.com Sarah Holbrook

I love #1…can’t wait to read it! Congrats!
Bryan Pollard

I like them both… The first makes the point better, but the 2nd is more visually striking – I’d go with it.
http://www.forefrontchurch.tv Brett Crimmel

Both designs catch my eye – great job. As I think about the cover and the content, #1 seems to convey a bit more of the subtitle … would intrigue me more than #2.
http://reactlove.com Lance M.

#1
Rebecca

#1
Lillian Walter

Book cover number 2 would be my pick. I think having the artwork away from the spine of the book looks better symmetrically. That’s just how my brain likes to view things though.
Jaye Lindo

Number 1 Definitely… It brings the entire point about church with the monday tuesday wednesday and I don’t like the black background in the words for church diversity in #2 It subliminally spoke to me. Felt like a choice was being made. I know I am unique in my thinking but thats what make me, me!
http://www.kellysauer.com/ Kelly Sauer

Number 2.

The first one breaks the flow for my eye – and it took some figuring out. The second one just looks so clever, and intentional.
http://Davidwellmanmusic.com David

Cover 1!! I like the days of the week on the side. Both look good though bro!
Anthony Garcia

Both covers are great. That being said, I think # 1 has the most impact. The way the week is torn apart on the left side is really a strong statement in itself. Good stuff man.
@DannyLYoungers

Number 1 all the way Scott! Looking forward to reading the book. #fistbumps
Jeremy Chandler

I dig Cover #1.
Dorothea

Definitely #1. Like Darlene says it conveys the title of the book without words.
Dona

I like No. 1. Looking forward to reading it! Have wondered about the lack of diversity for years. Glad to have someone address it!
http://mikeymo1741.blogspot.com Mike Mahoney

I would go with #1… it’s striking and conveys the theme well visually. But…

Whichever you choose I would move Rick Warren down off the top. Your book should stand for who you are, and what you’re trying to say. It should grab the reader, not the person who contributed the forward, no matter how “prominent” they are. Don’t sell yourself short.
http://bondchristian.com/ bondChristian

Definitely #2 for me too.

I like how the days show in the first one, but “Sunday” doesn’t connect with the subtitle enough. In the first one, it looks like, “Church Diversity: The most segregated day of the week.”

Also, in the second one, I think the title and your name pop off the page more.

The only downsides to the second one, I think, are that the Rick Warren cred might not show as well and the black and white circles don’t have as much meaning.

Overall, though, the second one, to me, looks more sleek and professional.

-Marshall Jones Jr.

http://bondchristian.com/ bondChristian

You know, after thinking about this a little more, I said I liked #2, but I think I’d be more likely to pick up #1. The thing that really turned me off of #1 was how the “Sunday” doesn’t connect with the subtitle. Why not just bump that over as part of the subtitle, so a black “Sunday” with a white “The most segregated day of the week,” and then leave the calender day for Sunday blank?

I think that would go a long way in pulling the theme together.

-Marshall Jones Jr.

http://kemmeyer.com Kem Meyer

#1 more compelling. It doesn’t just look cool… it tells a story.
http://Www.mytobin.com Rachel cobb

Number one (:
Leslie

These are both really nicely designed.

#1 I like the days of the week and your name all white.

#2 I like the subliminal nature of the dots and how they intersect.

I say #2 just make your name all white like #1.

Congratulations, such a needed discussion. I’m asking myself the question why is the church so segregated and I hope your book helps to answer that question. May God bless your book and ministry.
http://www.sundijo.wordpress.com Sundi Jo

#2!

So thrilled you’re publishing with New Leaf. They’ve got some wonderful people on their staff.
http://gregsrandomness.blogspot.com/ Greg M

Diversity? In the Church? I am shocked. I havent been this shocked since some visitor sat in my regular seat last week. And they weren’t even like me. I do like Number 1
http://www.twitter.com/RiartDesigns Ria

Hi Scott and congratulations on the new book, I’m so happy for you. May it be a blessing to everyone who reads it. I like Church Diversity Cover #2. People tend to glance over things and I think on display the name of the book will stand out more. Red is an excellent color it catches my attention right away. For me on cover #1 my attention is drawn to the two ribbons, one black and one white. I’m trying to figure out what that stands for instead of reading the title and author.

No matter what cover you choose it will be a wonderful read.
Abundant Blessing,
Ria
Brett Rachel

I prefer Cover #1 because the graphic defines the diversity we experience on Sunday – we work together but do not worship together. In one student ministry, the first seven students we baptized under my leadership were black. Yet some of the older white members were offended. Our student ministry was diverse but the church was not. I’m looking forward to reading your book.
Steve Elliott

Scott, all the best of blessings and congratulations over the publication of your book!!!

As to cover choice, though both are good, I prefer #1 as the border is on the left side and I like the M T W T F S vs. the circles.

Whatever you choose, I wish you all the best of success!
http://www.godsoverflow.com Nick Carita

I REALLY like #1 – it fits in with the subtitle “the most segregated day of the week” very nicely. It kind of connects the title of your book together. I also agree that it pops very nicely
http://www.twitter.com/godsguru GodsGuru

I like #1 the best communicates tension, and we all know tension is good…and sets me up for fixing something that is broken. Congrats my friend looking forward to picking up a copy. #fistbump
http://www.lifestreams.org Randy Magray

Cover 1. The vertical illustration infers the broken/disconnect that is at the heart of this problem that has permeated every denomination. I immediately resonated with the cover emotionally as someone who has joined in asking why our “corporate” heads have largely refused to answer questions or to speak openly with their constituents about it.

I pray that God will bless this book that real change can happen across denom lines as lovers of Christ can finally be one on this.
Kelly Bonewell

Both good, but for me No. 1 is more creative and thought-provoking. Looking forward to reading it, Scott!
http://leo4jc.wordpress.com Leo

I like cover #1. It would be better if “Sunday” and the whole byline be shifted a bit to the right, so that word “Sunday” left-align with the Book Title.
Pingback: Help Scott Williams Pick His New Book Cover « Living The Lyrics
Samson

#1 for me
Brian Mason

#FistBump to #2
http://gtksolutions.com Greg Atkinson

Number 1, bro.
http://rlscovens.blogspot.com Rachel Scovens Thompson

Cover #2 for sure!
Heidi

I prefer #1
http://briancromer.com briancromer

Definitely like the first one better. Like the calendar look. Fits your title better. Looking forward to reading it.
James Kline IV

#2 for me. Your name stands out more with Warren’s name vertical and a bit smaller. Nothing against Rick but you wrote the book. Love ‘em both but I gotta go with #2.
http://www.chrisdenham.co.uk Chris Denham

Love #1! seems the one the says the most! hopefully it’ll be available across the pond here in the UK!
http://richardjarmanwriting.com Richard

#1, definitely…
Jessica Hesseltine

Most Def #1!!! Can’t wait to read it!!
http://revtrev.com revtrev

I really like Design #1. It says more than the second one, yet has similar simplicity.

Congrats on the book by the way.
http://www.myeastside.net Bob Halstead

Definitely #1 because the M T W T F S in white and black help to convey the IDEA and makes sense of the SUNDAY. The dots on #2 do not add to the IDEA.
http://www.outdoorgulfcoast.com GulfCoastEditor

I love cover #2. Cover #1 evokes a stronger negative feeling, but I like the black and white in the same circle. Even though they are separate, at least they are in church. To me, the break on #1 looks like neither are in church on Sunday. . .
Blessings!

I’m writing a middle reader historical fiction book on a similar topic. I lived nearby the Michigan town that it’s centered on for several years as a child. I hope you’ll read mine too
Jeannette

I like book cover #1. It illustrates the thought of the title explicitly! It makes me want to open the book and peruse. The second book cover does not stir up my curiosity like #1…
http://www.mustardseedyear.com Jason

I looked at the page with the mindset “if I saw this in a store, would I pick it up?” If I saw cover number one, I wouldn’t pick it. It just looks cheesy to me and makes me think the book is going to preach at me. I would pick up #2. It looks contemporary and almost classy.
Brian havenner

The 1st design. It’s much more artsy. Good job.
http://www.brianandkrista.com Brian French

1. One. Uno.
http://cyberhug.me allan r wallace

I prefer #2 in a glass half full/half empty kind of way. Just picked my cover art today ~ http://www.squidoo.com/Complicitsimplicity#module20068622

I would probably add a half full chalice in the top left corner. That may be my symbol of unity.
http://afterthethrillisgone.blogspot.com/ jason

#2
Jessica Woods

Digging #2! Nehemiah agrees
http://www.twitter.com/cwproject CWProject

Number 1 because it’s the most segregated and looking with the white and black at the top and bottom that’s what this is all about, right?
HD

Love both but #1 I love the most because the design has M T W T F S and then the Sunday is separated. Very creative.
Edrin

#1 tells a story…excellent choice of colors.
http://www.evancourtney.com Evan Courtney

#2 – I like the dots over the days of the week.
http://Richardwestley.com Rich

I am going with #2 because the center is where I believe churches will find the solution to racial segregation.

#1 looks as if there is no solution. It is what it is.

#2 says there is another way.

Can’t wait to read the book!
http://www.studentministry.org Tim Schmoyer

I’m voting for #1.
Lulu Scott

Scott, I feel that cover number 1 is the best choice. I pick books by their cover and number 1 seems the most eye-catching and intresting, especially considering the title of the book.

Good luck!
Maria

Hey Scott, as a Graphic Designer, I am suggesting #1. Good luck!
http://chrisjohnson.tv/ Chris

#2. Got the better vibe goin on.
http://www.likeawarmcupofcoffee.com Sarah Mae

#1
http://blog.ashleypichea.com Ashley Pichea

#1 for me.
Noah furlong

I think number 2, it has a real clean fresh look.
http://www.greenvilletransformation.org Tony Moore

I’m choosing to leave my comment before reading any of the others (thanks to the mobile version of the blog). I prefer cover #2. Both graphics convey the same message, but the rule “less is more” seems to apply here. The first one takes longer to figure out. Now, having said that, I’m not sure either of the graphics accurately convey the title. On #1 you have an entire white week and an entire black week. How can Sunday be more segregated than that? It is a tough concept to portray graphically, but I think #2 does it better. Whichever you choose, I still look forward to reading the book. Now, I’m going to read what everyone else thinks.
http://www.wiredjesus.com Tom Lyberg

I like number one with the calendar strip of days and the sunday “break.” Visually drives the title home.
Maribeth ODell

#2 is better.
http://www.mylife-tubswife.tumblr.com Melissa Rorabaugh

#2

reason: in #1 you lose the word “Sunday” from the subtitle.
reason: #2 appears more clean and concise in overall look
reason: Rick Warren’s name is less prominent
http://Moviepastor.com Moviepastor

Cover 2!
http://mamahall.blogspot.com Eryn {mamahall}

#1 caught my attention right away! Love it. And it’s memorable…goes perfectly with the title. Can’t wait to see the finished product!
Makeda

I vote for number 1.
http://devotionmama.blogspot.com christy

I vote for cover #1
http://www.jasoncurlee.com Jason Curlee

Although #1 speaks a lot to the title…#2 gives a clean look, it’s fresh and it pops.
http://www.fathomtheatrechurch.com Jeff Wright (@theatresexton)

Tough choice. #1 disturbs me which is exactly what the lack of church diversity should do. Congrats on your book Scott.
JoeAnna Thompson

I like #2. My eyes go directly to the title of the book verses the day of the week.
http://coachherbie.wordpress.com Simon

Cover #1 for me – I like the days of the week side graphic – the title of the book has more emphasis in #2 though.
Alyssa

#1
http://www.pastorric.org Pastor Ric

Definitely #2. The title jumps off the page. I love the circles; they seem clean and contemporary. The list of days is busy and draws your eyes away from the title. Also, #2 has your name more prominent than Rick Warren. The red rocks, too!!
http://timdruhym.blogspot.com/ Milan Kramolis

Hello there,

my choice is #1. Like it more – I am more into squares than circles
Dustin Frampton

I like #1
Steve G

Gotta go with #1. Looking forward to your book Scott.
http://www.infuzed.org Christopher G. Sykes

Cover #1. Absolutely illustrates the way life in church should be and the wife life outside of church often is.
http://twitter.com/@betsweave BetsWeave

I think #2 is more appealing!

GOOD LUCK with your book!
http://www.rsquaredcomicz.com Justin

I would say cover #2 for the following reasons:

(1) I think depicting segregation and unity with circles being filled with black and white is “fluid” and easy to grasp

(2) I like how the cover background and the word “Diversity” is in red. To me it represents how for us as Christians, the meaning behind Jesus’ blood (both as it was shed at crucifixion and as a symbol via communion), is all the justification we need for modeling true diversity.

Great concept, and I pray the book does well!
Barb

I def like #1. The graphic depicts a breakdown between the rest of the week and Sunday (which I believe is your point). The graphic in #2 looks like a blend or coming together of the black and white kind of like yin yang.

Also Rick Warren’s name disappears on #2 for me which should be a selling point not a subtlety.

So #1 ROCKS!!

Congrats on the book!
Matthew Schultz

I like the first one. It plus in to the days of the week and I like that. The second one looks like a backwards spiral binder. Hope that helps!
http://twitter.com/justindbaker Justin

I choose Cover #1. I like how the white and black days of the week are separated by Sunday. Ties in nicely with the subtitle.
Angel

Number 1
http://www.jasonyarborough.com Jason Yarborough

#1 tells the story well, but #2 has much better visual appeal. Visual appeal is strong IMO. #2 is my vote.
Love that you use @scottwilliams for your name!!
Adolfo Morales

I think copy #2 looks better than #1. The one element that is missing is the days of the week in the circles. If you added the days in the circles, it would tie together the full title of the book while having an edgy, non-traditional style. The visual segregation of Sunday in the circles is another big win. I think the diversity in your name color works really well with the title also.
Cathy Rigby

#1….I like the days of the week & Sunday being “segregated” like it’s the black sheep of the week.
Lacey

LOVE #1! Congrats, can’t wait to get my hands on a copy!!
http://www.michaelrobison.tv Michael Robison

My opinion remains the same bro. I have like option #1 since November….That cover will make an impression for sure. Can’t wait to get the real deal in hand. Praying for HUGE things with this book.
http://about.me/mikerowell Mike Rowell

#1 for me.
http://www.kevinpmahan.com kevin

Scott,

If “Sunday” is in the subtitle of the book then I think you have to go with the 2nd. It gets lost in the first design.

Excited about increased discussion through your book!
@rtodddavis

I like #1. I think the colors are great together. For me, the only thing is the letters for the days are a little ‘faint’, other than that, it’s a GO.
Kris Blair

#1 conveys the message #2 is visually attractive. Which one is the most important (?) and How is God leading you? My mother used to tell me that “If someone is not taught how to use a bar of soap then they don”t know how to use one.” Treating people regardless of skin color, sex, country of origin (this list could go on and on) is something we teach our children,usually something we were shown first. Kindness, love and being loved are taught actions. They are the result of a purpose. How grateful I am that my mother not only taught me how to use a bar of soap but how to be kind, respectful and generous to others. I choose kindness and with that I share love. The same love that my heavenly Father has given to me.
Chadwick

Love #1 and love the fact that it is written by “@scottwilliams”!
Samantha

i like #1!!
http://www.ichilly.com Chilly

#1 without a doubt! I think it’s more intriguing (makes me want to open the book)! But, either way, I’m excited to read anything by @ScottWilliams!
http://twitter.com/nathanayres Nathan

Cover #2.
Danielle Hage

The design of number 1 gives an insight to not only the segregation of the day itself when we “do” church, but gives meaning behind our Christian talk of not just doing church on Sunday bur to be the church.
http://dturn.net David

Number 1 ALL DAY!!
http://robrash.us Rob Rash

Love them both. Number 1 wouldn’t offend anyone that takes and/or struggles with prescription drugs would it?

Just sayin. It sort of reminds me of my mom’s pill box.

However, both are great but #1 is my pick…
http://www.ubcmiami.org Mark Lesher

I choose the first. Like the ragged edge. Real cultural diversity gets messing especially when you ask others to confront deeply ingrained stereotypes & prejudices. It’s also about learning to celebrate the art, music, dress and language of those who are simply different, while embracing the humanity we all share as people plus the inheritance we share as children of God.
Jen

#2
Melissa Zerbe

#1! I like that it looks like a calender. But I do not like the name at the top right corner. Its to big and I think it would look better on the bottom with your name under the title a tad bigger.
VicktoryManuel

Like cover 2 design but cover 1 has the days listed that give vision to days and title. Cover 1 it is. Can’t wait to get a copy! God bless you and book release
http://www.seansabourin.com Sean Sabourin

#2. I like the direction Rick Warren’s name is in. I like how your name has the two different fonts colors and for some reason the circles just seem to have a better appeal to my eye. Just say’in. Congrats on the book!
http://www.pORtlandLifeChurch.org Jamie Worley

I like #1 because the message of diversity and segregation is easily understood. It is addressed immediately. I like the days lettered down the side. It tells me we tend to live life in our colored biases, but what happens on Sundays? There is no color on Sunday. I want to read about Sunday. The use of the oldest discriminating colors, black & white are used. Again, it’s easily understood. No guessing what the book is about on the consumer end, yet highly intriguing.
http://thewiredhomeschoo.com John Wilkerson

I liked them both so I flipped a coin. #2
http://www.gabetaviano.com Gabe Taviano

I definitely like the first cover most. Having the days of the week in the white is what did it for me. I think you could mix the black bar behind the title from the first option with that, and it would be golden.
http://neosoulist.wordpress.com neosoulist

I am going with the 2nd one. I don’t like the W-F lettering on the 1st one and that trumps the things I don’t like on the second one. Plus, the tittle pops out more in the 2nd. Either one is attractive though.
http://new.dreamofdestiny.org/ Byron

I am liking cover #1. It’s clean with nice lines. The eye scans it nicely and makes the sub header natural to read.
Tim Brooks

Definitely love #1
I feel like it visually shows the disconnect between races. Every other day of the week we see fit to work together, but no one is trying to come together on Sunday. This is Definitely a message that needs to be shared in the Christian community. I work in graphic design and you have some great options here.

Can’t wait to check out the book. Keep doing what you are doing.

God Bless.
http://www.rosanneelmore.com Rosanne Elmore

Scott,

I like #1 it is more powerful than #2, it depicts the sub title of the book with out having to read it. And is good for those visual learners, like me.
Beleve it or not #1 is actually more simple than #2. I feel #2′s text is fighting with each other to be noticed (boldness and placement).
They are both great, but I’m a fan of #1
barry

Definitely No.2. The problem with No.1 is the art actually depicts Sunday as neutral and the two weeks segregated.
http://www.joshbaker51.wordpress.com Josh Baker

I would deffinatly have to say cover one! I can’t wait to read this book. I go to a church that is predomantly white but Its starting to turn where we accept more people of other races. I heard a quote one time that said. “If your church is only reaching to people of one race then you are doing the Great Omission, not the Great Commission!” Man I can’t wait to start reading your book!

#ChurchDiversity The Book (Help Me Choose The Cover!)

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#ChurchDiversity The Book (Help Me Choose The Cover!)

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