Change Isn't Always Bad: Cobbogoth's New Title and Release Date

So when a book gets picked up by a publisher, that publisher often decides to change the title of the original manuscript to something more catchy or informative to the reader--something more marketable to increase the chance of enticing readers enough to pick it up and try it.

Well, Cobbogoth is one of those tricky titles, where the author thinks it's cool, because she already knows what the book is about.  However, to readers, who are coming to the story with no idea, can find it completely ambiguous and unenticing. We've had a few complaints about the title, and so I wasn't surprised when my editor from Cedar Fort contacted me to tell me they were thinking about amending my title. 

At first, when I read her e-mail, I was leery.  I mean, it's kind of like someone trying to change your child's name.  But after considering their reasons for the change, and discussing it with Bekah (my sister/illustrator/partner) and my husband, I quickly grew on me.

So, without further ado, may I preset to you, dear readers, the new title for Book 1 in the Cobbogoth series:

 (Drum Roll!!!)

Uncovering

I know, I know, Uncovering Cobbogoth isn't that different from the original, which is one of the reasons it was so easy to sell me on it.  But it is different.

By adding "Uncovering" to the title, Cedar Fort hoped to establish what Cobbogoth is, which is a place. It's been a little confusing to first time readers, something I totally get. "Uncovering" also lends to the mystery element, and I think, keeps nicely with the whole myth-chaser, archeology dig, etc themes going on.  Plus it has double meaning for Norah's journey of uncovering other secrets as well.

And by keeping "Cobbogoth" in the title, all of you fine readers who have already read the first edition of my book, will be able to recognize the new and improved second edition when it comes out on May 13th!

That's right!  Uncovering Cobbogoth will be released (tentatively) on May 13th, 2014. Mark your calendars!

So, when all is said and done, change isn't always a bad thing.  As a matter of fact, I'm pretty happy with this one.  What do you think? Do you like the original title better, or wish it was something completely different? I'd love to hear your opinions!