Three Book Marketing Book Reviews
There’s always something new to learn about book marketing.
Writing a book is only the beginning. Authors also need to understand branding, online marketing, publishing basics, and how to connect with readers.
Over the years, I’ve read many books about publishing and marketing. The following three books stood out because they provide practical, easy-to-understand advice for authors and writers.
Add these to your reading list!
Originally published in 2017. The recommendations remain valuable resources for authors navigating book marketing and publishing.
1. Online Marketing for Busy Authors by Fauzia Burke
This is an easy-to-read book with a concrete, step-by-step process for beginning authors to follow. Small-business owners who are just starting out will benefit from Burke’s advice, too.
The book is divided into three phases:
Phase 1: Learn how to create a personal brand statement, identify your audience, and write a reader profile.
Phase 2: Develop a sustainable online marketing plan, including websites, mailing lists, blogging, publicity tips, and social media.
Phase 3: Stay the course as you build your brand, decide what to share online, and monitor your marketing efforts.
Burke’s blueprint provides useful information without becoming overwhelming. I read the book twice—first to understand the overall process, and then again to focus on the individual pieces.
Her writing style is friendly, clear, and easy to understand. Her advice is especially relevant for authors who are trying to find their audience: “The age of generalists is over. Find a niche, develop your audience, hone your skills, and be brilliant.”
Best of all, this is not a long book—perfect for busy authors!
2. Register Your Book: The Essential Guide to ISBNs, Barcodes, Copyright, and LCCNs by David Wogahn
My friend Eleanor Sullivan introduced me to publishing technology expert David Wogahn, and I’m grateful she did.
Do you have questions about ISBNs, barcodes, copyright, or Library of Congress numbers? This is the go-to resource for authors, publishers, and book designers.
Wogahn explains complicated publishing details in a way that makes sense.
Highlights include:
Why ISBNs matter
How to purchase and assign ISBNs
Understanding barcodes
Copyright basics
Library of Congress registration programs
The sections explaining when you need a barcode—and when you don’t—are especially helpful. I also found the explanation of the Library of Congress programs valuable for authors navigating the publishing process.
Wogahn makes book registration understandable and helps authors make informed decisions.
I highly recommend this guide.
3. How to Write a Sizzling Synopsis by Bryan Cohen
This is a must-read for authors.
One of the most important marketing pieces for any book is the description or synopsis. Unfortunately, many authors struggle to write a compelling description that makes readers want to learn more.
As Cohen explains: “Authors often have trouble crafting a compelling description for their books.”
His straightforward advice and excellent examples help authors focus on the elements that matter most:
The hook
The characters
The emotion
The reason readers should care
One especially valuable point: Your synopsis can often serve multiple purposes, including your back cover copy and your online book description. There is no need to start from scratch every time.
This e-book is also an entertaining read.
Cohen is the co-host of The Sell More Books Show, a weekly podcast featuring book marketing tips. I’ve also listened to several of his webinars, and he consistently provides useful information for authors.
What book marketing books do you recommend?
Authors are always learning. Share your favorite book marketing resources with N-K Creative—I’d love to hear what you’re reading.
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