Book Production Delays (And How You Can Fix Them)
Whether you have a specific release date goal in mind or are just ready to get your book out into the world, you, as an author, want to ensure that your book moves through the production process smoothly. While some delays are out of your control, there are some steps you can take to work with your production editor and have your book sent off to the printer and onto bookstore shelves as quickly and efficiently as possible.
1. Deliver detailed edits to your production editor all at once.
Throughout the production process, you work closely with your designated production editor from perfecting your manuscript, adding illustrations, laying out the book design, and finally sending it off to the printer. As you move through the process, you may be tempted to send edits or preferred changes to your production editor as you go. Because the production editor serves as the liaison between you and the rest of your production team (illustrators, designers, editors, etc.), making changes here and there can ultimately slow down the process.
Instead, try taking the time to review your manuscript, illustrations, or overall layout in detail, and send your production editor all of the edits you wish to make at the same time for clarity and reinforcement.
2. Figure out your ideas for illustration inspiration early on.
Your illustration inspiration can be a certain color scheme, a particular style (cartoony vs. realistic), or elements from an existing book that you would like to emulate. Regardless of your illustration goals, figuring out what you envision for your book and communicating that to your production editor early on in the process will help the process move more efficiently.
3. Decide on your author bio, back cover synopsis, and dedication page.
Other variables that can affect the book publication timeline are the dedication section, the author biography, and the back cover description.
Who do you want to recognize in your dedication section? What back cover text will make your book stand out against the rest? What key facts about yourself do you want to highlight in your biography?
If you are having a difficult time deciding on these pieces, do your research! By looking at other books in your genre, you can decide what you like and do not like about a book’s setup.
Similar to the illustrations process, being open and transparent about what kind of cover design you are looking for will make the design process more efficient in the long run.
Do you gravitate toward certain color schemes? Do you like a specific font? Are you inspired by any existing book covers?
5. Be honest and transparent with your production editor.As the author, you are in the driver’s seat. You have full creative control and your input is a crucial part of the production process. Knowing what you want, communicating effectively, and being honest with your production team will help make your creative vision a reality.
While our production editors are here to offer advice and their expertise when needed, you will need to be confident about your vision and your preferences so that they can take the necessary steps to get your book out into the world.
6. Be on top of your email!
Overall, the production process as a #mascotauthor is very hands-on. As the leader of your project, being communicative with your Mascot team is imperative. Be prepared to check your email often, be open to suggestions and criticism, and most importantly, be ready to dive into the publishing journey!Want to see more author tips like these? Visit our blog archive to learn more.