December 2025: Book Covers Finalized for Centennial Revisited

Perry Hibner, author of the soon-to-be released book Centennial Revisited: An Oral History of the Epic TV Miniseries, has approved the covers for the paperback and hardcover editions.

The Dorrance Publishing design team shared cover ideas with Hibner in early December. Hibner suggested a few changes to the front and back covers, along with the inside jackets for the hardcover edition. The final version of each edition was approved in late December.

“The design that was produced invokes a feeling similar to what I felt when I first read the novel and watched the miniseries,’’ Hibner said. “I’m hoping fans feel the same way.’’

Hibner noted the original plan for the covers was to replicate the caricature cover that was used for James A. Michener’s best-selling novel, Centennial, shortly after the miniseries aired in 1978-79 on NBC. However, due to copyright concerns after discussing the idea with officials from Random House, which owns the book rights, and Universal, which owns the rights to the miniseries, Hibner decided to go in a different direction.

Dorrance is still working on formatting the manuscript. Hibner expects to see a first draft of the formatted book in January 2026. Once he approves, the book should be available to purchase in another 4-6 weeks. 

Hibner’s book contains more than 75 interviews with cast, crew, extras, locals, experts, and fans. Among those interviewed were Gregory Harrison (Levi Zendt), Barbara Carrera (Clay Basket), Cristina Raines (Lucinda McKeag Zendt), Cliff DeYoung (John Skimmerhorn), William Atherton (Jim Lloyd), Stephen McHattie (Jake Pasquinel), Kario Salem (Mike Pasquinel), Mark Harmon (Captain John McIntosh), and John Wilder, who adapted the James A. Michener best-selling novel for television and was the main producer.The book also includes excerpts from more than 60 primary sources.