Author journal / Publishing notes
THE AUTHOR JOURNALWhy your cover and interior should tell the same story
Begin with the reader
The cover establishes a promise about genre and tone. The pages inside should feel like a continuation of that promise, with typography and spacing that support the reading experience.
Make the hierarchy clear
Titles, chapter headings, body text and notes each need a distinct role. A restrained system helps the reader follow the book without noticing the design at every turn.
Think beyond a screen
A cover may need to work as a small retailer thumbnail and as a physical object. Interior margins, contrast and image resolution also need to be reviewed at the intended print size.
Confirm specifications before finalizing the cover
The spine depends on the final specifications. Make sure the cover file matches the confirmed page count, paper and printer template before approval.