You can't judge a book by its cover
Book cover design is the process of creating an attractive and visually compelling cover for a book. It is an essential aspect of publishing that aims to grab the attention of potential readers, convey the essence of the book's content, and differentiate it from other books on the market. A well-designed book cover can greatly impact a book's success by enticing readers to pick it up, browse its contents, and ultimately make a purchase.
Your book's title and author's name will be prominently displayed on the cover. They will be legible and positioned in a way that is easy to read.
An engaging and relevant image or illustration will capture the essence of your book's subject matter, genre, or theme. It should create a visual impact and evoke curiosity or emotion. The imagery should be aligned with the target audience's preferences and expectations.
The choice of fonts and typography plays a crucial role in book cover design. The font should be legible and appropriate for your book's genre and theme. Different fonts can convey different moods and tones, so selecting the right combination is essential when we are creating your book cover.
Colours also evoke specific emotions and associations. The colour palette will be carefully selected to complement the book's content and genre. It should create a harmonious and visually appealing composition.
Well maybe you shouldn’t judge a book by it's cover, but unfortunately that’s what most readers do.
A good book cover is the best way to advertise your book.
Branding: If the book is part of a series or if the author has an established brand, the cover design should maintain that consistent branding of elements to create recognition and continuity.
Understanding the target audience is crucial for your book cover design. Different genres and demographics have specific design expectations and preferences. Researching the target audience's visual tastes and studying successful book covers in the same genre can provide valuable insights.
Book cover design is a collaborative process involving authors, publishers, and professional designers. It requires creativity, a deep understanding of the book's content, and the ability to visually communicate its essence in a captivating way. A well-designed book cover can spark interest, make a strong first impression, and ultimately contribute to the overall success of the book.
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The back cover and blurb are very important.
• A photo of the author gives a personal touch
• Outline the reason for writing your book
• A synopsis or a brief insight of the book
• A review or testimonial if possible are very important
• You will also need an ISBN (International Standard Book Number)
These are samples of book covers produced for printing and ebook publication by Book Covers Australia. Unfortunately there is not enough space to show the typesetting inside these books.
A good book cover manages to catch one’s eye and convey the idea and feel behind your book.
Our goal is to produce the book cover that YOU WANT with a high standard and at a reasonable price.
Your cover should reflect the inside of your book and this is done through graphics that are chosen, typesetting, style and fonts, as well as the colour coordination.
The cover of your book should be a visual that appeals to the buyer and reflects the story inside your book. We offer personalised, professional and exclusive one off designs for you at very competitive rates.
Book Covers Australia use Adobe CS software which is compatible with all printers in Australia and over seas. After the files are submitted to the printer, we are available to deal with any technical problems should they arise.
Images to be used for the cover design should be high resolution and sharp if supplied by the client. Book cover design includes the cover, spine and back, and inside flaps for hard cover books. Cover sample proofs will be provided to you as PDF files.
The total page count of your finished book interior will determine the spine width of the book cover. I will need a number of things later for the back cover, including your ISBN.
An ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is a unique 13-digit number, which ensures that your book can be identified throughout the world.
I feel that unless you’re writing something like a technical manual, it’s important to have a photo of yourself on the back cover. It adds a personality to your book.
Cover
Dust jacket cover
Inside cover
Verso Recto
Verso - Recto
Verso - left hand side. Recto - right hand side. The terms are shortened from Latin rectō foliō and versō foliō, translating to "on the right side of the page" and "on the turned side of the page", respectively.
Front of Book
Half Title
Usually a single line in capital letters, precedes the title page, and only contains the title (as opposed to the author, publisher etc. found on the full title page).
Title Page
Repeats the title and author as printed on the cover or spine.
Colophon
Technical information such as edition dates, copyrights, typefaces and the name and address of the Printer and Graphic Designer.
Frontispiece
A decorative illustration on the verso facing the title page. It may be related to the book's subject, or be a portrait of the author.
Dedication
Text, in which the author names the person or people for whom he/she has written the book.
Epigraph
A phrase, quotation, or poem. The epigraph may serve as a preface or as a summary.
Contents
This is a list of chapter headings, and subheadings, together with their respective page numbers.
Forward
Typically written by someone other than the primary author of the work, it often tells of some interaction between the writer of the foreword and the book's primary author.
Preface
A preface generally covers the story of how the book came into being, or how the idea for the book was developed.
Acknowledgement
Acknowledges those who contributed to the creation of the book.
Introduction
The introduction typically describes the scope of the document and gives the brief explanation or summary of the document.
Prologue
A prologue is an opening to a story that establishes the setting and gives background details.
Back of Book
Epilogue
This piece of writing at the end of a work of literature or drama is usually used to bring closure to the work.
Outro
The conclusion to a piece of work; this is considered the opposite of the intro. These terms are more commonly used in music.
Afterword
An afterword generally covers the story of how the book came into being, or of how the idea for the book was developed.
Conclusion
A ending section which states the concluding ideas and concepts of the preceding writing.
Postscript
A postscript may be a sentence, a paragraph, or occasionally many paragraphs as an after thought.
Appendix or Addendum
This supplemental addition to a given main work may correct errors, explain inconsistencies or otherwise detail or update the information found in the main work.
Glossary
The glossary consists of a set of definitions of words of importance to the work. They are normally alphabetized. The entries may consist of places and characters, which is common for longer works of fiction.
Index
This list of terms used in the text contains references, often page numbers, to where the terms can be found in the text. More common in non-fiction books.
Postface
A postface is a text added to the end of a book or written as a supplement or conclusion, usually to give a comment or an explanation.
We provide creative layout and design at a fair and cost effective price for small business, retail, corporate, and government departments.
We specialise in:
• Advertising flyers
• Annual reports
• Book Layout
• Book marks
• Brochures
• Business stationary
• Catalogues
• eBook conversion
• Logo design
• Magazines
• Photography
• Photo restoration
• Press adverts
• Prospectuses
• Typesetting
We offer conversions from printed book files to tablet format or ebook format:
Because of the nature of eReaders and there are many, automatic conversion from a PDF file to an ebook format using something like Calibre will not always appear the same as the printed book.
This can be a real problem with photos and chapters looking out of place or out of sequence.
Book Covers Australia we use Adobe InDesign to totally re format the PDF file so you can navigate through the chapters and the photos appear in the right section (not at the end of each chapter or even worse at the end of the book).
Ross MacLennan (Book Covers Australia) was able to connect with the themes of my new novel by designing a cover that was excitingly apt, well balanced, beautifully crafted and responsive to the demands of the book trade.
In the negotiations that followed he showed flexibility, patience and professionalism and delivered the goods as a very competitive rate.
Bruce L Russell
Award-winning author of
Jacob's Air
I was a first time self-publisher who needed a customized book cover and a typesetter who would prepare my book for printing. Ross had the experience, professionalism and patience to make it all happen. I found he was most helpful as he guided me through the process. I discovered he was very consciousness about his work and nothing was too hard for him. I couldn't be more satisfied with his work and would certainly use him again.
James Yates
Author: 9370 Sooner or Later Everyone Pays the Price
Ross Maclennan (Book Covers Australia) connected with me immediately. After a simple discussion over the phone, I emailed a brief summary of my book and some graphics that I had in mind.
He took it a step further and presented something truly striking. My book is set for release quite soon and his cover has made it very easy for me to generate some genuine pre-launch interest.
His assistance through each step made the process effortless and his response was always quick and informative.
I have no hesitation in recommending Ross to anyone for their project and have even asked him to have a think about the next cover idea that I have in mind.
Fiona Kerr
Author: Gripped
Ross MacLennan produced a striking cover for my novel Harvest of Greed, published in 2012. It was immediate, arresting and also effectively conveyed the essential focus of the story. More than that, Ross listened.
This led to the vital extra touch of superimposed stockmarket-style trading figures on the cover -- an extra dimension to the cover image which further illuminated key aspects of the plot. He took extra care to get the technicals right and to fit in with the requirements of printers and publishers. In my view, and in the view of others who helped or advised on the book, it was an excellent job.
Michael Byrnes
Author: Harvest Greed
I was first introduced to Ross MacLennan in 2004 when looking for a graphic artist to produce the cover for my book Additive Alert – Your Guide to Safer Shopping.
Ross was innovative and efficient to work with, and designed a cover for my book which is both eye catching and memorable. I know from customer feedback that it is the cover design of my book which leads many customers to pick up my book for further inspection.
Since then I have used Ross on many occasions to design brochures and small projects and he is unfailingly reliable ,efficient ,helpful and creative. His work is always high of a very high standard and I am delighted to recommend Ross’ services and will continue to be a loyal and happy customer of Book Covers Australia.
Julie Eady
Author: Additive Alert -Your Guide to Safer Shopping.
In December 2012 Ross MacLennan designed a cover for my children’s historical fiction novel entitled Run Peter Run.
Ross’s starting point for the front cover was a running shadow figure (obtained from me), around which he designed a background.
I was delighted with the choice of colours which provoked a feeling of mystery and danger. The choice of buildings was well suited to the time period and place (Germany 1940’s), as well as the use of red giving the illusion of escaping from a bomb blast.
The back cover is in similar colours and the faded background also perfectly suited, allowing the blurb in white, to be easily read.
Overall, I was extremely pleased with the book’s cover. It was exactly the ‘look’ I wanted.
Marianne Tozer
Author: Run Peter Run
Ross Maclennan from Book Covers Australia was extremely helpful and understanding from the first contact. He listened to what I wanted for my cover, made a few suggestions and presented me with the perfect book cover for my memoir Taxi 528. Beautifully designed, very reasonably priced, hassle free and on time. Ross is flexible, perceptive, knowledgable, innovative and extremely efficient. I look forward to using his services for my next book and would recommend him 100% to everyone! Thanks for making the process so pleasurable and stress free Ross!
Rowena Hopper
Author: Taxi 528 A Memoir
Cover Design: Jessica Bell
Book Covers Australia (Ross MacLennan) works with you to create neat and professional book interiors. I am grateful for Ross’s help in creating my ridiculously sized fantasy novels, which have many images and hundreds of thousands of words. Ross always went beyond expectations to create high-quality typesets. Book Covers Australia has a way with impacting a novel like no other company. I would definitely recommend them if your in search for a reliable, trustworthy and passionate typesetter.
Oliver Smuhar
Author: The Gifts of Life, The Gifts of Happeness
Ross MacLennan was recommended to me by the printer of my novel
New World Kingdom.
I produced a rough composite picture of the cover design which encapsulated the theme of the novel.
I sent a photo of the rough idea to Ross and I was stunned when, within the hour, he came back with what I had in my minds eye. I changed a couple of small details and it was just what I wanted.
Ross has brilliant perception and ability to quickly produce the sort of artwork he hears you describe.
He's very flexible - and patient - to make whatever changes to achieve what you want.
I've seen his website and the other cover designs he's produced and I am very happy to go back to him for the cover for my second book, soon to be released.
I can thoroughly recommend Ross MacLennan as a graphic artist for book covers or any other purpose.
Greg Webber Author & publisher
New World Kingdom,
Blue Star Flash Amazon
I have used Book Covers Australia on several occasions and found the covers they supplied to perfectly match my book.
I was impressed by how well their designs represented my book and they have helped to sell my books.
Rob Kennedy
Author: The Pusher, Five Ways
Book Covers Australia undertook the cover design for my first novel, Hiding Place.
I found the company to provide an effective, efficient, helpful service, the experience was pleasant and the cost was very reasonable.
Ross MacLennan, whom I dealt with directly, added considerably to the front cover with ideas that enhanced the mystery that is intrinsic in the title.
Dave Goddard
Author:
Hiding Place,
The Wiluna Solution,
Turn on a Light
I wish to convey my genuine praise in all aspects of my dealing with BCA.
From the very first phone call I was given assurance of quality work at a fair price.
I was given assurance of a sample of their intended work for my book cover which was submitted on time - as promised.
In dealing with BCA for something that I have been working on for 2 years, I was so pleased and relieved to receive a quality, hassle-free service at a very reasonable cost. My second novel will hopefully be completed in two months and I will have no hesitation in utilising the services of BCA again.
Thank-you, Ross and team for all your work and efforts.
Craig Phillips Author: KIll the Devil, Battle Scar, Dead Blood
Ross created the stunning cover for my novel, GOLD! I made an enquiry on his website and he phoned me within minutes. I told him what I had in mind—he told me what was wrong with my concept— and when he sent me his first version of the cover I knew he'd nailed it. He took all my ideas on board and delivered just what I wanted. I love the cover he’s designed, and he charged me less than half of what some others had quoted. I’d recommend Ross to any author, any day. I’ll definitely be using Book Covers Australia for my future works.
Thomas Greenbank
Ross MacLennan, from Book Covers Australia, completed the graphic design for the cover of our publication Man Overboard.
We had few ideas, but as soon as we sighted his arresting design we knew straight away that it was perfect for our publication.
Man Overboard has now nearly sold out, assisted by the fine work done by Ross.
We are pleased to recommend Ross’s graphic design talents to prospective users.
Sandra & Andy Rose
Authors: Man Overboard
OMG was my first reaction when Ross Maclennan from Book Covers Australia revealed his masterpiece creation to me. Ross’s artistic endeavours both externally and internally for ‘Owning a Café or Coffee Shop’ has not only left me in awe but for others also. In fact, Ross achieves that WOW factor often missing in publications. Sincerely I thank Ross for his guidance and professionalism and importantly his input in becoming a major player in the success of my book.
Mark Norman
My dealings with Ross have always been highly professional, right from the first time I contacted him, looking for a cover design for my first book. He came up with excellent creative ideas; and has now produced the covers for three of my books, to the highest standard. I have no doubt that Ross’s elegantly designed covers have attracted many Amazon customers to my books. I will not hesitate in engaging Ross for all of my future books.
Giuseppe Ferrone
Joe.Ferrone@education.wa.edu.au
Author:
The History of Molise & Abruzzo Italy, Big History, The Lessons in Time
Photo manipulation of LP cover
Characterization
Art work by author
Gregory Pastoll
If you have a iPad or an Android-based tablet with a 10" display, a PDF file will always look similar to the original book.
Unfortunately a PDF file can be very hard to read on the likes of a Kindle reader.
Keep in mind that the Kindle reader displays only black and white (for now) so the designed artwork for a Kindle book cover will have to look good in gray scale as well as colour.
The sample below is a hard copy book reformatted to fit a tablet for the Department of Agriculture and Food in Western Australia.
The original book was square (250mm x 250mm).
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