Your book cover is what makes a strong first impression on potential readers. Grabbing the attention of Generation Z presents some unique challenges. Although individual Gen Zers, aka Zoomers, have some similarities with one another, they are a diverse group with multiple interests and unique personalities.
So what does this mean for authors, and how should they design their book covers?
4 Book Design Trends Specifically for Zoomers
Gen Z is made up of people born between 1997 and 2012. The Global Gen Z Report by NielsonIQ, GfK and World Data Lab estimates they’ll have a spending power upward of $12 trillion by 2030, and they currently make up 40% of all consumers in the U.S., making them a vital demographic to target.
To truly understand how to design for Zoomers, you must first consider that they are inclusive, socially conscious and adept at anything digital. While it’s impossible to predict every trend, some of the latest ones younger adults are gravitating to for book design include these elements.
1. Bold Colors
The time for muted and minimalist book covers is over when designing specifically for younger generations. Many in Gen Z prefer more visual interest and covers that grab their attention. If you want to appeal to the younger generation with your design, you’ll need to add pops of orange, red, bright blue and vivid purple.
Many popular books among young adults in 2025 feature a solid color background, such as sunny yellow, and graphic elements. Bubble gum covers would be an apt description. Many of the images on these bright covers are illustrations.
2. Unique Shapes
Even though Zoomers are tech-savvy, many prefer to shop in a physical store rather than online. Perhaps it is the ability to touch the items they are thinking about purchasing. Maybe they want to connect with the world after the shutdowns of 2020, which impacted them greatly as many were still at an impressionable age.
Some book designers have begun using unusual shapes to grab attention and make a book stand out on store shelves, where the competition to be seen is fierce. Things like a book about tacos shaped like a taco are whimsical and fun and add a bit of interest for a generation that has seen it all.
3. Eco-Conscious Elements
Gen Zers care about the future of the planet and are well aware of the impact of conservation. They’ve heard about climate change more frequently than preceding generations and have grown increasingly concerned about the effects of humans on the planet. A return to nature is something many of them crave, even though they often live in urban areas.
Natural elements appear on many of today’s book covers. Tapping into a faint leaf design, adding an image of trees in the background or using colors inspired by nature can grab the attention of readers concerned with sustainability. You’ll get bonus points for books using recycled paper or easily renewable materials like bamboo. Many authors choose to only publish a digital version of their books, forgoing paperbacks and hardcovers altogether.
4. Storytelling
When it comes to creating captivating book designs, the story is everything. Gen Z grew up with role-playing games with vivid and engaging storylines. They want to feel drawn into the tale from the moment they add the book to their library.
The story starts with an engaging cover. A collection of images related to elements of the story may show up as a collage on the front of the book. Another way authors try to tell a story before the reader opens the book is by using the edges of the pages. They might add a floral graphic or other design.
Even the spines of the books can engage readers. A few series have spines that make another image when placed side-by-side on a bookshelf.
Which Design Trends Will You Try?
Book cover design has changed dramatically in the last few years. Younger readers demand more before spending their hard-earned dollars. The cover and layout of the book must create a mood that matches the story. Finding new ways to connect with Zoomer readers could drive your royalties up and help you find lifelong fans.
