Always striving to improve the advise we have to offer... Although it may seem obvious, the difference in design from one book to another is often for very good reason. Understanding these reasons can allow a publisher or self publisher to make much better decisions regarding what type of book they should produce in order to attract the right buyers. Design elements to consider are: weight, size, number of pages, type of paper, type of binding and use of colour.
Leisure reading - Small and light novels:
Such as a novel for those on the move. It will usually be produced in a small trim size on light weight, cream paper, they would not generally use any colour in the printing and the binding style is usually reasonably cheap. This makes the book easy to carry in a handbag or in a suitcase, is cheap to produce and has a low retail price for the reader to "buy-read & pass-on."
Leisure reading - Bigger and better novels:
Such as novels for bedtime reading. These are usually on a creamy coloured paper, the size and binding may be of larger/superior quality to the small and light books. They may also have a picture section printed on a high quality paper, using black and white or even colour printing. Some of these are hard covered or "Case bound". These books will attract a higher retail price. Many larger publishers reserve these formats for best seller authors such as first run Bryce Courtney or J.K. Rowling titles.
TIPS: The above types of books are almost always printed on cream paper, as it is easier on the eyes for reading pleasure an the reader will not tire as quickly. However, there are few creamy coloured papers that photos will print well on, so you are not likely to see a lot of photos in this type of book.
INSERT DIAGRAM OF A, B, B+ & C FORMAT BOOK SIZES
Academic reading, text and study books:
Educational books or "text books" are generally larger in size, the method of binding is different, regularly "section sewn". Section sewing is a strong binding method that allows the book to be opened flat for study. Academic books are also often printed in more than one colour (although not a necessity), this allows the authors to draw particular focus to a particular element, such as "tips" or "case studies".
As these types of books often use more complex design elements (such as multiple colours), they are usually printed on white paper, so as to make the best use of the design. Some may also suggest that it allows the student to write notes or use highlighters in the book.
INSERT DIAGRAM OF B5, 270x195, A4
Specialty Books:
Biography's
Usually C format on creamy stock if they are an intensive read or they may be B5 on white paper if they have lots of photos and digrams.
Family History's
B5 on white paper or for a little flair, they can be done in a landscape (traditional photo albumn) fashion.
Cook Books
Can vary greatly depending upon the anticipated retail price. Some cook books comand a higher price due to the use of colour, some are kept simple and only printed in black ink on cream or white paper. They can also be anything from pocket book to Magazine size.
Always striving to improve the advise we have to offer...