Aside from looking at general children’s books, which generally have a lighter themed content that is reflected on the front cover, I wanted to research into World War 1 children’s book design to get an understanding of what techniques are used to apply a serious theme but in a light hearted manner.
Above are three completely different types of covers, yet all are aimed at children. The first is quite wordy when it comes to a children’s book cover, however, for the purpose it serves (being a scrapbook) I believe it works as a design. The second uses quite detailed illustrations of soldiers in trenches – another note is that because of this the book cover allows for more brighter colours, which children will be attracted to. The third uses simple illustration technique, which I believe to be the best. Keeping it simple means that you don’t over complicate anything and also allows you to get away with a more cartoony vibe that children are more likely to be drawn to.
In conclusion, I believe that a simple illustrated front cover allows for a easier to look at, inviting, more appealing design that children will be attracted to. As a spin off of this, the typography can be a bit more crazy and other design elements can be implemented into the design to make to even more appealing for kids.
Children's Book Design 