Anne McCullagh Rennie

'Inspiring, uplifting, internationally best-selling author'

 

Making your self-published book look professional

Increasing numbers of companies offering affordable print runs means many more people self-publish. Badly designed self-published books can diminish your credibility as an author and speaker. Use this checklist to create a professional-looking book.


What size book?

Know which book you want your book to sit next to on the bookstore shelf and you will know the design of your book

Analyse this book.  Check: the book size - width and height, paper quality, number of pages, font size, number of chapters, number of pages in each chapters, chapter lay out; promo of other books in the back, order forms; use of illustrations, different type forms & shading.  If in doubt go for bigger font size for main text.

Details inside the book

Have you included: Title page, author bio, other books by the author, testimonials page, publication details including ISBN, dedication; acknowledgements; foreword; how to use this book (if appropriate), table of contents, introduction, index, glossary.

Consistency

Are all chapter headings consistent, Sections in same font type and size. If you have quotes at the start of each chapter are they similar style?

Editing

Be willing to hire a professional editor who regularly edits books on similar topics.  You will need their help.  Get your manuscript proof read by two or three others whose advice you respect.  Check your research!  Re-check spelling, grammar, logic, repeated words. 

Can you say the same thing using less words? Is your point clear?

Front Cover and back blurb (promotion on back cover)

Be prepared to spend extra on the front cover of your book.  Check back to the book you originally analysed and other favourite authors for ideas on back blurb.  Ask for professional advice on the front cover.  Readers buy: the front cover first, then the title, then the

 backblurb, then the first paragraph.

Final Check.

Have you tested your front cover for buying impact? Is the back cover easy to read and outlines your message clearly.  Proof read the final proofs – again! You will pick up errors. Does your title hold a promise?  Good Luck!