Posted on October 21, 2024 at 2:00 PM by Guest Author
You’re about to launch a book — an exciting and perhaps overwhelming moment. After pouring so much heart into the story, it's time to ensure the world knows about it.
This is where a book press release comes in, as a ticket to spreading the word and extending reach far beyond the immediate circle.
A well-crafted press release will help get the story into the right hands, and this guide will walk through what a press release is, how to create one that stands out, and when to send it for maximum impact.
Table of Contents
The Purpose of a Book Press Release: Why Do I Need This?
A book press release is like the welcoming mat to your book. It’s a short, engaging summary introducing your new release to the media, bloggers, bookstores, and other key players who can help you spread the word.
A press release is your secret weapon if you want your book to reach beyond your immediate circle and into new territories. It's like that whisper in a crowded library that piques everyone's interest.
Done well, it can lead to media coverage, interviews, feature articles, and sales.
Here’s why you should make a book press release part of your launch:
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Visibility and buzz: A press release can generate excitement before your book launch, creating a buzz that encourages early readers, influencers, and media outlets to talk about your book.
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Media coverage: Reporters, editors, and bloggers are always looking for compelling content. Your press release can serve as a ready-made story that gives them all the details they need.
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SEO benefits: Press releases published online are indexed by search engines, making your book more discoverable and giving your launch an SEO boost.
When & Where to Send a Book Press Release: Timing Is Everything
You wouldn’t open a new bookshop without inviting people to your grand opening, would you? It’s the same idea with a book release. Timing your press release can make all the difference in the impact it makes.
When to send it
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Pre-launch: Send your press release about 3-4 weeks before your book launch date. This gives media outlets enough time to plan any potential coverage or features.
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Launch week: You can send a second wave of press releases during the week of your launch. Remind your contacts that the book is out and ready for review, purchase, or feature!
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Post-launch (optional): If you receive any notable awards or glowing reviews or hit a bestseller list, follow up with another press release to highlight these accomplishments.
Where to send it
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Local and national media outlets: Reach out to newspapers, magazines, and television stations both in your local area and those that cover your genre.
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Book bloggers and review sites: Target sites specializing in book reviews, author interviews, and new release announcements.
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Bookstores and libraries: Yes, librarians love press releases too! Bookstores and libraries can use your press release for consideration in author events, book clubs, or special promotions.
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Social media and online press release services: Share the press release on your social media channels, and consider using online distribution services to expand your reach.
How to Write a Strong Book Press Release
Your press release should be succinct, engaging, and packed with all the key information. It should paint a clear picture of your book and inspire people to take action — whether it’s contacting you for an interview, purchasing a copy, or adding it to their book club lineup.
Here’s how to make it happen:
Craft a Catchy Headline
This is your first impression, so make it count. Your headline should be clear and intriguing—something that grabs attention and conveys what your book is about. Think of it like a book spine in the library shelf—it should stand out.
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Example: "New Thriller Novel ‘Midnight Echoes’ Reveals the Dark Side of Small-Town Secrets"
Include a Strong Opening Paragraph
Your first paragraph should quickly cover the ‘who,’ ‘what,’ ‘when,’ ‘where,’ ‘why,’ and ‘how.’ Think of it as a summary of your story that also teases the book’s allure.
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Example: "Award-winning author Faye Lennox is set to release her gripping new novel, “Midnight Echoes”, on November 15. This edge-of-your-seat thriller unravels the dark secrets hidden in a quiet town, where whispers turn to screams. The novel, published by XYZ Publishing, is already creating a buzz among early readers and is available for pre-order."
Provide Key Details About the Book
Think of this section as the back cover of your book—a teaser that draws readers in. Include:
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A brief synopsis (2-3 sentences)
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Genre and themes
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Author background (with any notable achievements)
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Where to buy the book (online retailers, bookstores)
Share a Compelling Author Bio
Add a short bio about yourself as the author. Mention any other books you've published, awards won, and what inspired you to write this book. It helps build credibility and gives media outlets a fuller picture of who you are.
Add a Call-to-Action (CTA)
What do you want the recipient to do after reading your press release? Whether it’s scheduling an interview, reviewing your book, or attending a book signing, be clear about your CTA.
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Example: “For review copies or interview requests, contact Faye Lennox at janedoeauthor@gmail.com.”
Include Contact Information
Always end with your contact details: full name, email, phone number, website, and social media handles. Make sure it's easy for someone to reach out to you quickly.
Example:
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Faye Lennox
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Email: fayelennoxauthor@gmail.com
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Phone: (123) 456-7890
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Website: www.fayelennoxauthor.com
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Twitter: @FayeLennoxAuthor
A Little Press Release Etiquette: Keep It Professional
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Keep it to one page: Your press release should be concise — just like a well-crafted novel blurb.
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Write in the third person: Think of yourself as an observer reporting on your own book launch.
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Proofread!: Typos can turn off a reporter faster than a book without a title.
Ready, Set, Write!
A well-written book press release is like a guided tour through your story — it highlights what’s to come and leads the reader right to your book.
Remember, a press release is not just about getting attention; it’s about building relationships and laying the foundation for a successful book launch.
Start early, keep it concise, and make it engaging, and you’ll be well on your way to extending your reach far beyond your personal library of friends and family.
Happy launching!
Categories: Behind the scenes