Book Cover Tips and Tricks

Indie and self-published authors, this article is for you!

Before we get to the nuts and bolts, let’s distinguish an indie author from a self-published author as there are subtle differences, although some use these terms as if they are one and the same. An indie author can be self-published if they publish their work independently, but the term also refers to writers who use a smaller, independent press to help with the publishing process. An indie author may also choose a hybrid publisher which is becoming a popular choice. A hybrid publisher allows the indie author vast control over the process while providing services such as a developmental editing, proofreading, cover design, formatting, and a certain amount of marketing depending on the package chosen. In contrast, traditional publishing takes much of this control away from the author, essentially eliminating the author’s direct hand in the creative vision.

Strictly self-published authors are responsible for all aspects of publishing their book from editing to marketing, cover design to formatting. Many hire their own editors and front and back cover design artists. Self-published authors face a learning curve in terms of formatting, interior design, obtaining an ISBN number, and figuring out the dedication page, back-cover language, spine, book price, distribution, and launch date.

Okay, you’ve drafted your fiction novel, novella, memoir, or non-fiction book. All the particulars are present: the initial wave of hello to readers with an intriguing first line, sensational scenes that are filled with sensory details, writing voice and style maintained throughout, a well thought out plot, fleshed out characters, prose on point, minus flowery language and clichés, dialogue that adheres to each character’s persona and voice, and an authenticity that reflects necessary research, especially for non-fiction work.

Your narrative also contains all the book must-haves such as a clear beginning, middle, and end. Your draft is as mistake-free as you can get it, it’s grammatically correct to the best of your ability, and punctuation is spot-on. You may want to hire a developmental editor or proofreader to help with all of the above. Last, you’ve chosen a fantastic title that captures the essence of your book.

Hooray and congrats, you have come a long way. Wine glasses up, you deserve to celebrate your amazing accomplishment. Many don’t make it this far.

Ta-da, it’s book cover time! One of the last major pieces to the book puzzle is in your hands. Just as your opening line and title must represent the core of your work, so must the book’s front cover. The cover is the first thing readers see. It has to catch their eye and entice them to open the book. It must embody the book’s genre and target audience to attract the right readers. Strive for a front cover with a visual impact that packs a punch and will stand out among the sea of other books. Yet, be mindful that a successful cover is one that is clear and uncluttered.

Ten Practical Tips

Gather 10-12 covers of successful books and ones that spark your interest in and out of your genre. Scour the internet by Googling successful book covers, best book cover designs, or something with key words along those lines. Search Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or any other online arena that sells books and add the ones you like to your list. Explore books at your local library or favorite bookstore and affix them to the tally. Don’t forget your own book shelves and TBR pile. Throw any book covers that invite you in, onto the list. Check out Pinterest for designs and images that strike your fancy and add them too.

Figure out what you’d like to depict by creating a list of nouns, phrases, images, or short passages from your novel or non-fiction work that best describes the spirit of your book.

Next to each book cover jot down what attracted you first. Specify it was an image or text. Write down anything that appeals to you.

Take note of colors, including background color, subtle shades of the same color, contrasting color schemes, and the font color of the title and author. Colors help set the tone and mood of your genre. Even a black and white cover can have a selective pop of color. What do you like?

Move onto the title and subtitle font, and the font used for the author’s name. Which fonts best jive with your book?

If your intent is to represent a character or characters on the front cover, make an appearance list that encompasses body type, hair, eyes, height, weight, anything outstanding like a chin cleft, beard, or glasses, etc. This will help in your quest for the best images.

Add a few characteristics about the way your protagonist and/or love interest (for romance novels) carries themselves. For example, if your protagonist is beautiful and sexy you will want to portray that. Likewise, if the love interest displays an air of confidence, that can be an important component when choosing an image.

If your novel falls in the fantasy genre you may want to find photos and images that depict a realm or world contained in your novel. In other words, keep genre in mind when deciding on a cover design.

Keep a synopsis of your book on hand and refer to it to stay on track.

Decisions, decisions. Is the vision you have for your book cover more traditional than animated? Do you want the trendy cartoonish cover, pop art, or a floral-themed cover? Will you opt for a minimalist design, an actual photo, a retro style, or something completely different?

There’s a lot to consider. Choose wisely.