Before a book designer can create your cover and interior, several important publishing decisions must be made. Learn how trim size, paper stock, formats, page count, and distribution choices affect your book's design, production, and overall project scope.

Designing Choosing the Future raised an unusual publishing question: should a business novel be categorized as fiction or business? This case study explores book positioning, KDP categories, subtitle refinement, and balancing professional credibility with storytelling.

A great book doesn’t sell itself — it needs a strong presentation. Inspired by the Book Marketing Tips & Author Successpodcast, this post explores how authors can “set the table for success” with better book covers, websites, keywords, social media, and more.

Publishing podcasts can be an excellent source of book marketing advice. Learn valuable tips from Honorée Corder and Mark Dawson on writing memorable books, building newsletters, appearing on podcasts, and connecting with readers.

A behind-the-scenes look at designing four self-published memoirs — from cover concept to print. Discover the design choices, challenges, and personal stories that shaped each book.

Ready to publish your first book? There are more options than you might think—from printing copies just for family to getting listed on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Here's what every first-time author needs to know about print-on-demand publishing, ISBNs, and the steps most people don't see coming.

A first-time author hired me to design his suspense novel in ebook, paperback, and hardcover formats. Along the way, we discussed ISBNs, book sizes, print-on-demand platforms, proofreading, and the realities of self-publishing. This project became a reminder that new authors often need guidance through every step of the publishing process—and that education is just as important as design.

Successful authors rarely work in isolation. Discover some of the podcasts, newsletters, webinars, and publishing experts I follow to stay informed about self-publishing, book marketing, and industry trends.

Curious about how book covers are created? After a friend asked a series of thoughtful questions about the cover design process, I shared insights into how professional book designers work with authors to create covers that fit their genre, audience, and goals.

A former NBC war correspondent. A lost love. A dramatic rescue attempt during the final days of Saigon. Learn how a memoir evolved from an initial cover concept to a powerful design that ultimately appeared on CNN.

A professionally designed book doesn't happen by accident. Discover the questions I ask before every project begins, how I guide authors through each stage of book design and production, and why collaboration is the key to creating a book that stands out in today's marketplace.

If you've never worked with a book designer, you probably have questions. Here are answers to some of the most common questions authors ask about book cover design, the design process, pricing, file delivery, and self-publishing.

Your book’s title, cover, and description must work together. If they send mixed messages, readers become confused—and confused readers rarely buy books. Here’s why I compare every successful book to a three-legged stool.

Getting reviews is one of the biggest challenges authors face after publishing a book. In this review of The Book Review Companion by David Wogahn, I share why this practical guide belongs on every self-published author's bookshelf—and why my own copy is filled with highlights and dog-eared pages.

Many first-time authors are eager to design and publish their books, but they're often missing the foundation for success. Before meeting with a book designer, take time to define your audience, create a marketing plan, and understand your publishing options. A little preparation can save time, money, and frustration.