Client desired a book cover to capture the wonder of the American carnival and his adventure traveling to them. The ferris wheel sits on the horizon line at the end of the "yellow brick road" referencing the concept of OZ. Sparkling light element is layered over the entire cover and colorful glowing lights suggest the wonder the carnival has in store.
Author's photo is made into a silhouette on the road representing his journey.
A bright red carnival banner at the top ensures that the subtitle quickly communicates the idea of the book.