If you want your book to stand out from the competition, it must be distinctive and eye-catching. For that to occur, it should be designed by an experienced book designer. My mission is to guide authors through the book-design process with custom-designed book covers and interiors, production, and file preparation for printing. This process includes design and layout, typesetting, formatting the cover and interior files, and retouching images. My goal is to make your book compelling, so that it captures the attention of a potential buyer and stands out in a crowded marketplace.
These are the questions I ask at the beginning of our process:
Before a project begins, I will discuss the parameters with you by asking several important questions:
- Can you summarize your book in a few sentences? (This is similar to an elevator pitch.)
- What is the status of your manuscript? (Is it still in the works or completed?)
- Has your book been professionally copy edited—the last step before design?
- What is your publishing deadline?
- Who is your specific target audience, and what will those readers gain from your book?
- Is this book just for you and your family, or do you plan to market and sell it to the public?
- What is your book’s genre, such as historical fiction, mystery, romance, memoir, or nonfiction?
- Who is your competition? What other books are out there that are similar or on the same subject?
- How will your book stand out from competitive titles?
With that information, I will write a budget for the proposed project and submit it to you for your questions and approval and your signature. After the contract is signed, you and I will investigate the genre, competition, and graphics for the cover. This information helps formulate creative ideas.
Here are the ways in which I guide authors:
- Help find quality editors, proofreaders, and indexers
- Assist in researching and contacting illustrators or photographers
- Advise and guide authors through each step of the design process
- Offer advice and assistance with print-on-demand (POD) or respected book printers
- Explain publishing options and make recommendations
- Provide book-marketing tips and suggestions
- Furnish additional marketing materials to support your marketing plan
As you can see, designing a book is a multifaceted process and one in which you, as the author, should be involved. The designer and the author are a team committed to creating a one-of-a-kind book that buyers will pick up, buy, and read.
