How do you know when a book cover concept isn't working? In this case study, I share the design journey behind Better Safe Than Sorry? by Dean Klinkenberg—from an initial bridge photograph to a cover featuring a slow boat in Laos. Along the way, we explored illustration, typography, and thumbnail visibility to create a cover that captured the spirit of the book.

When book coach Jo Lena Johnson asked me to design a cover for a menopause book, the creative brief included an unusual challenge: incorporate 67 menopause symptoms into the artwork. Through collaboration, exploration, and a change in direction, the project evolved into a cover that was both informative and visually engaging.

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.

A behind-the-scenes look at the design process for Just A Long Walk, a memoir by first-time author James Gibson. From selecting the perfect cover image to creating balanced typography, this case study explores how thoughtful book design helped shape an award-winning memoir cover.

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.

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.

Creating a children’s book is a team effort. In this case study, author Jon Ferry, illustrator Caroline Zina, and book designer Peggy Nehmen worked together to bring Across the Battlefield: A Pawn’s Journey to life. From choosing the book size and coordinating illustrations to designing the cover and preparing files for print-on-demand publishing, every decision required collaboration, communication, and attention to detail.

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 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.

Before you publish, learn what every author should know about working with editors, designers, and publishing professionals to create a successful book.