While most published writers pay close attention to word choice and crafting sentences, some pay very little attention to web design. Case in point: Suzanne Collins, author of the Hunger Games. For an author with a New York Times Bestseller, her website definitely leaves you hungry…for better design.
Thankfully the following top 10 author/writer web designs have a little more meat on their bones.
10. J.K. Rowling
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Upon landing, Rowling’s site gives a quick once-over on how to get around. If you don’t want the lesson, it is easy enough to click and move on. Known for the Harry Potter series, her site also informs of her other works and interests.
9. Chris Van Allsburg
Fritz the dog is weird but memorable with his strange accent reminiscent of the Taco Bell Chihuahua only German. The links at the top of the square sound like a mallet hitting a xylophone or possibly loud bubbles popping. There are a few fun interactive to-do’s.
8. Amy Krouse Rosenthal
The whimsical design and the hand-written print make this site feel personal and intimate. It’s simple and straightforward.
7. Jay Asher
The book jacket design and the website background design match bringing a cohesive feel to Asher’s site. The shocks of red font contrast well with the different shades of gray used throughout the design.
6. Lesley M.M. Blume
This site reflects the author’s interest in nostalgia. The menu items light up with different colors of behind the print when hovering.
5. James Dashner
The landing page of this site feels like one is looking through an opening in the forest. Scrolling down changes the view and highlights different parts of the author’s latest series.
4. Cassandra Clare
The cursive writing on old paper creates of a look of mystery and intrigue. All relevant info is easily accessible and navigable.
3. John le Carré
After watching a video to that gives a feel for the book, the information behind the clip is listed as “transmitted” and “intercepted,” cleverly reflecting the theme of the book.
2. Shel Silverstein
Silverstein’s sidewalk may have ended (he died in 1999), but his work is alive and well on his website. The site reflects the drawings in his books and covers the depths of the man himself.
1. Jeff Kinney
Kinney’s site is visually pleasing, but it takes a few seconds to figure out the music is coming from the video if you want to turn it off. Otherwise, the site offers scrolling images, videos and a cartoon of the day and easy access to anything about the author.
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