Books are like food. If it looks good, you’re tempted to try it. If it doesn’t look too good, you might pass. Now, that doesn’t mean that just because it looks good it will be good. What it means is that if you a bad look may turn folks off. That would lead them to miss what could be a wonderful opportunity.
So, your book’s cover is just as good as the words on the pages. This is the reason why it’s essential to ensure that your cover is enticing so it compels potential readers to give your book a chance. Otherwise, you might be doing your book a disservice.
In this article, we are going to look at three reasons why your book’s cover is just as important as the content itself.
First Impressions Count
Like people, your book will only get one chance to make a first impression. If the cover is attractive, it will compel readers to go in for a closer look. There, your content has a fair chance to shine. Readers will not pick your book based on the cover alone. However, readers will give it a fair chance if the cover looks appealing.
Does that mean you need a flashy cover?
Not really. What you need is a cover that is consistent with the message you are trying to convey. Consistency is key in the world of book publishing.
Your Cover Tells a Story
Great book covers tell your book’s story in a nutshell. For novels, the cover should highlight the heart of the story. There should be an element that underscores what the reader can expect to find. For instance, if it’s a romance novel, the cover should let the reader know what they will discover inside. As for non-fiction books, the cover should enable readers to quickly identify the main topic covered in the book.
It’s worth noting that a cover that is not consistent with the book’s essence will confuse readers. Even if the cover is amazing, readers may be turned off when they move in for a closer look. So, make sure that your cover tells your book’s story. After all, a picture is worth a thousand words.
Don’t Neglect the Back Cover
Often, publishers get caught up in the front cover. They go for all the bells and whistles in the front. However, don’t forget that readers often turn the book over to see what’s on the other side. If your book is planned for a print-to-order format, this is an absolute must. In digital versions, please remember that readers can browse the front and back covers.
To make a back cover work well, make sure you include a succinct description of the book’s content. Also, make sure that you incorporate images that reflect what the book is all about. That way, the back will be just as compelling as the front. In the end, your readers will have no excuses not to give your book a fair chance. While looks aren’t everything, the wrong look can hamper your book’s chances of success. So, do take the time to make the covers as appealing as they possibly can.
