Every author is excited to finally
see his or her book designed.
But sending a book designer files that aren’t really ready for design or layout is expensive (for you) and frustrating (for your designer). I created this page to help you discern if you’re actually ready to partner with a book designer, or if you still have some work to do.
Book Cover Design
You’re ready if…
You have finalized the title (and preferably the subtitle) of your book.
A one-page book summary that I can read to learn the main themes of your book.
You can describe your book’s target audience.
You can name three other books that might be targeted to the same audience.
You can point to a few book covers that you like and/or some looks or styles you don’t like.
Book Interior Layout
You’re ready if…
Your book’s front cover is already designed and you have final jpeg that you can show me (if I am not designing your cover).
Your manuscript (including all endnotes, footnotes, or appendices) has been professionally edited and proofread. (Referrals available.)
You have finalized a page size for your book.
You are ready to provide any graphics or photos in high-quality resolution (300dpi or vector format).
You have merged your manuscript files (including front and back matter) into no more than three Word files.
Your front matter (copyright page, dedication, etc.) is ready, or almost.
You have researched printer options. (Referrals available.)
You have permission or are obtaining permission to use all copyrighted content.