How to Write Effective Back Matter for Your Book
Back matter is an essential part of any book, providing readers with additional information that enhances their experience and encourages them to explore more of your work. It appears at the end of the book and can include a variety of elements, from acknowledgments to author bios to sneak peeks of upcoming titles. Well-crafted back matter not only adds value but also serves as a strategic marketing tool, helping authors connect with their audience beyond a single book.
You can see above, I have added my bio to the back of our anthology since the interior included essays by women around the world and their bios, with a list of benefits of the book. If you’re wondering what else to include in your back matter, here are three common approaches that authors use:
1. Reviews by Publishers and Bloggers
Including reviews from reputable sources such as publishers, industry professionals, or influential bloggers can add credibility and entice readers to explore your book further. If your book has received praise from a well-known reviewer or publication, adding excerpts of those reviews in the back matter can reinforce its quality and appeal.
Why Use Reviews?
- Readers trust recommendations from respected sources.
- Positive endorsements help validate your book’s message and writing style.
- It can create excitement and encourage readers to share your book with others.
How to Format Reviews in Back Matter:
- Include a brief heading such as Praise for [Book Title].
- Select two or three short, impactful quotes from credible reviewers.
- Attribute the quotes correctly, listing the reviewer’s name and affiliation.
For example:
“A beautifully written story that will inspire readers of all ages.” – Publishers Weekly
“A must-read for anyone looking to explore themes of resilience and identity.” – Book Blogger XYZ
If you have multiple books, consider adding a section titled Praise for [Your Name’s] Books, where you showcase reviews from past works to build credibility.
2. Just the Book Blurb
Sometimes, simplicity is key. Some authors opt to keep their back matter minimal by including only the book’s blurb. This is particularly effective for readers who have finished your book and may want a quick refresher on its premise when recommending it to others.
Why Use Only the Blurb?
- It keeps the focus on the story itself.
- Readers who pick up the book later will have a quick summary at the end.
- It avoids overwhelming the reader with too much additional information.
How to Format a Book Blurb in Back Matter:
- Place it under a simple heading like About This Book.
- Use the same blurb featured on your book’s back cover or online listings.
- Keep it concise and engaging, maintaining the same tone as your book’s genre.
For example:
When twelve-year-old Maya moves to a new city, she feels like she doesn’t belong—until she discovers a hidden garden with secrets of its own. As she unravels the garden’s mysteries, Maya learns that home is not a place, but the connections we make along the way.
Do’s and Don’ts of Writing a Book Blurb
A well-crafted book blurb is essential for grabbing a reader’s attention and convincing them to pick up your book. It should be engaging, concise, and give just enough information to intrigue the audience without giving away too much. Here are three key do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when writing a compelling book blurb.
? Do’s:
- Hook the Reader in the First Sentence
- Your opening line should immediately spark curiosity or emotion.
- Example: “Maya thought moving to a new city was hard—until she discovered a hidden garden with a secret.”
- Keep It Concise and Focused
- A good blurb is usually between 100-200 words.
- Stick to the main conflict and introduce the protagonist without unnecessary details.
- End with a Cliffhanger or a Question
- Leave the reader wanting more without spoiling the story.
- Example: “With time running out, will Maya uncover the truth before it’s too late?”
? Don’ts:
- Don’t Summarize the Entire Plot
- A blurb is not a synopsis—don’t reveal every major event.
- Instead, hint at the journey and stakes without resolving them.
- Don’t Overload with Names and Details
- Too many character names or world-building elements can overwhelm readers.
- Stick to the main protagonist and their conflict.
- Don’t Use Generic or Cliché Phrases
- Avoid overused lines like “This book will change your life!” or “A tale of love, loss, and redemption.”
- Instead, highlight what makes your story unique.
3. Including a Past Book List
If you have written multiple books, listing your past works in the back matter is an excellent way to introduce readers to your other titles. This can serve as a soft marketing strategy, encouraging readers to explore your backlist and continue engaging with your writing.
Why Include a Past Book List?
- Readers who enjoyed your book may want to read more from you.
- It establishes you as a prolific author with a body of work.
- It increases the chances of cross-promotion among your books.
How to Format a Book List in Back Matter:
- Title the section Also by [Your Name] or More Books by [Your Name].
- List titles in order of publication or group them by series if applicable.
- Include a brief tagline or description for each book to spark interest.
For example:
More Books by Aditi Wardhan Singh
- How Our Skin Sparkles – A heartwarming picture book that celebrates self-acceptance.
- The Sparkles Within – A story about the power of believing in yourself.
- Small or Tall, We Sparkle After All – A celebration of individuality and confidence.
If you have upcoming books, you can also add a “Coming Soon” section to build anticipation for your next release. You can also simply add the images of your past books.
Final Thoughts
The back matter of your book is an opportunity to deepen your connection with readers, provide valuable information, and market your future works. Whether you choose to include reviews, a book blurb, a past book list, or a combination of these elements, ensure that the back matter aligns with your goals as an author. A thoughtful and well-structured back section can turn a one-time reader into a lifelong fan.
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