<HTML>In fact, I've not yet purchased TEA, although I'm planning to at some point.
The US hardback of TEA was lent to me, and a couple of other people, by a friend who suspected (correctly) that we would enjoy it. Upon learning that there was another book out, but it wouldn't be available here in the states until next year, I decided to mail order the UK trade paperback of LIAGB. So at present, my copy of LIAGB is in the custody of the friend who lent me the first book (which seems only fair), and is circulating to the same folks who've read the first one
And lest you think that all this lending is costing book sales, one coworker of mine has already bought the book and is halfway through it, and another has ordered it from Amazon.com. Another person who borrowed TEA before me and has also borrowed my copy of LIAGB is planning to get both books for her brother for Christmas. And I gave Jasper's name to at least 2 people at the Halloween party that Pickwick and I attended.
So yes, I think word of mouth is apt to make more of an impression here in the states than the covers, although I personally don't dislike them, and the dictionary entry back cover is fun.
Twila, I would suggest looking for a signed 1st ed TEA at:
[
www.abebooks.com]
I just took a peek and while you can get a signed 1st UK ed. hardback LIAGB for about $25-$30, TEA is running from $175 up to $355 depending upon the seller, and what promo items/easter eggs are included. There's also an offer from Post Mortem Books to pre-order signed first editions of WOLP for about $28.
-Magda-</HTML>