Honoring the life and work of book cover designer, Adalis Martinez

If you read modern fiction, you’ve probably seen one of Adalis Martinez’s book cover designs, or have one your shelf.

Martinez designed covers for bestselling books like Michael Chabon’s “Moonglow” and Lauren Groff’s “Fates and Furies,” among many others.

While planning an interview with Martinez, we were saddened to learn she recently passed away. Those who knew her describe her as adventurous, generous and hardworking. Even to those of us who didn't know her personally, it's clear she loved what she did.

As readers, we form emotional connections to covers. They can draw us to a book we wouldn’t otherwise read, bring a story to life in a single image and become imprinted on our minds.

As designers, creating a cover is a dream opportunity. A chance to design something that is printed, held in the hands of countless others, interwoven through pop culture, displayed proudly on a bookshelf or table, wrapped lovingly as a gift. Something that lasts.

And Adalis Martinez's work will.