Judging A Book

This post on Josh Blackman's Blog comparing the covers of two recently published book on the Constitution took me back to a time around a decade ago.

Cass Sunstein, now working for the White House, was coming out with The Partial Constitution and looking for a cover. Considering the title, I suggested he use Gilbert Stuart's famous unfinished portrait of George Washington. Sunstein told me I was missing the point--the book used partial not simply to mean "missing something," but also "taking sides."

I made another suggestion. He should plan a striking look for his name, and use it on every book, like a trademark. My particular idea was he turn Cass Sunstein into one word--"Cassunstein"--using heavy metal/gothic lettering, in embossed gold with blood dripping from it. He didn't even respond to that one. I still think it's a good idea.