WITSEC is a fascinating read, but the current cover feels dated and doesn't do much justice in sparking the allure and mystique that is the Federal Witness Protection Program.
I wanted to create a version that played into the mystery and secrecy of the program, using a manila folder and simple red lettering to draw in prospective readers that want to open the file and gain access to the program's secrets.
Initial sketch. The original concept was to play off of the original cover but include a sense of the silhouetted person disappearing or vanishing into the darkness. The idea was to symbolize the program making someone's identity disappear. From there, I thought of the idea of using an envelope as the background, with a polaroid attached of the disappearing person.
As I thought more, though, I decided the emphasis should be on the program itself and all of the shrouded mystery that comes with it. Since this is such an interesting peak behind the curtain of this program, I wanted the program to be the focal point: putting WITSEC as the folder's label at the top, with the bright red lettering of the program's name front and center, almost as if that is the main title.
The font used throughout the design is Mettalophile Sp8, chosen for its typewriter look that supports the clandestine nature of the folder and overall subject of the book.
The added texture of the envelope helps the cover stand out on black and white Kindle and e-reader screens.
