Publishers hope new looks for classic books lure young readers - New York News | NYC Breaking News

Publishers hope new looks for classic books lure young readers

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Kids are reading like crazy when it comes to series like "Twilight" and "Hunger Games," but what about the classics?

Publishers are giving books like "Jane Eyre" and "Wuthering Heights" a new look in the hopes that they will catch the eyes of young readers, but will it work?

Though everyone has been told not to judge a book by its cover, publishers still spice up the face of old favorites every now and again. At Common Good Books, which is owned by author Garrison Keillor, they've seen it over the years -- and they see good reason for it.

"We do like to sell books," said Martin Schmutterer.

With young readers flocking to modern novels with blockbuster movie followings, publishers are pushing to make the classics resemble what the younger crowd is currently pulling from the shelves. In fact, "Wuthering Heights" went so far as to boast being Bella and Edward's favorite book -- and it worked, selling over 100,000 copies.

Yet, the folks at Magers and Quinn, another independent book seller, says changing the cover isn't always a slam dunk.

"From our experience, I don't think the repackaging really makes much of a difference," said Aaron Rosenberg. "Our customers come in and buy used books and new books."

Still, that doesn't mean they won't stock the books with the new look.

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