BOOK DESIGN: How to determine the Best Size for Your Book.
“What size do I make my book?” I get asked this question a lot. Usually the book size depends on the type of book you are writing, not just non-fiction or fiction but subject matter and distribution takes play in your decision as well… and there are exceptions to the rule for those rare few authors who want a more unique looking book.
Here are some of the most common sizes and use:
• Trade paperbacks: 5.5″ x 8.5″ to 6″ x 9″; most fiction and non-fiction self-published books fall in the trade paperbacks range. Business books and textbooks can be up to 7″ x 10″ for best display of content.
• Mass market: fixed size of 4.25″ x 7″. They are sold off book racks at a variety of retail stores and areas where they can be considered an impulse buy. Romance novels etc.
• Manuals and workbooks; 8″ x 10″ to 8.5″ x 11″; and can be either color or black & white interiors and a variety of binding options.
• Novels 5.5″ x 8.5″ and 5.25″ x 8″ are popular sizes. This is a good size for both hardcover and / or paperback books.
Trim sizes:
Offset: not many restrictions; consult your printer
POD: most common preset sizing for both hardcover and paperbacks; paper choice is creme or white. (the following list is from the POD and offset printer LightningSource.com)
5″ x 8″ 7″ x 10″
5.06″ x 7.81″ 7.44″ x 9.69″
5.25″ x 8″ 7.5″ x 9.25″
5.5″ x 8.5″ 8″ x 10″
5.83″ x 8.27″ 8.25″ x 11″
6″ x 9″ 8.268″ x 11.693″
6.14″ x 9.21″ 8.5″ x 11″
6.69″ x 9.61″
Tip: Be sure to visit your local bookstore and check out your category to see what sizes the competition is using.
Remember, do something every day toward your book, web-presence, product, service and promotion.
Karrie Ross, Book Designer, Web-presence, Branding, Coaching & Consulting Services
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