2026 Book Cover Designers to Watch Featuring Two PRH Designers
Janet Hansen-Brand (l) and Linda Huang (r)
We love seeing book cover design get its moment, especially when it comes to our designers! In a recent OurCulture article highlighting seven designers worth following in 2026, two Penguin Random House colleagues were featured: Janet Hansen-Brand, Director, Art/Design, Alfred A. Knopf & Everyman’s Library and Linda Huang, Director, Art/Design, Pantheon Books.
The piece traces the evolution of book cover design from the days of plain, custom-bound volumes to today’s vibrant shelves. In a year marked by experimentation and visual risk-taking, the article celebrates designers who are pushing the form forward.
Keep reading to learn more about our featured designers!
Janet Hansen-Brand is celebrated for her emotionally rich, conceptually layered covers.
Her recent work includes the cover for Michael Clune’s PAN, blending collage, classical imagery, and photography.
“I’ve spent most of my adult life trying to insert curiosity and emotion into a small rectangle—and while it’s not always easy, it’s a really lovely feeling when the author, publisher, and the public connect with it.” Janet said.
Linda Huang is recognized for her striking, text-driven designs and her ability to invite readers into a story before the first page.
Recently, she created the cover for Vauhini Vara’s SEARCHES, in collaboration with Andrew LeClair.
“After fifteen years in the industry, it’s rewarding to see that my work continues to resonate and evolve,” Linda said. “I’m grateful for the recognition and excited to continue to push boundaries,” Linda said.
Congratulations to Linda and Janet for this well-deserved recognition!
Read the full Our Culture article here.