Gialli book covers and their impact on the popularity of Italian crime and thriller novels

Abstract

Using state-of-the-art computer vision algorithms, our research analyzes Goodreads book covers to assess how visual elements influence book popularity across genres, countries, and genders. It provides publishers with targeted cover design recommendations in an increasingly competitive, digital book market. Our research found that book covers significantly influence reader behavior and a book’s popularity. Four analyses revealed that book cover typography signals genres and attracts audiences, gender norms and stereotypes impact cover design and market success, yellow covers in Italian crime novels enhance cultural appeal publishers can leverage, and combining engaging cover designs with impactful reviews further elevates a book’s popularity.