Over the last decade, one common debate within the publishing industry (and writers hoping to enter it) was the question of whether an author should sell eBooks or print books.
The short answer? Both. They provide different values to an author’s offerings and connect with different audiences.
Instead of debating print vs. digital, an equally important question would concern print versus… print.
More specifically, should authors bother to publish a hardcover book to go with their paperback offerings?
Again, the short answer is a resounding yes! But to elaborate, here are a few reasons why authors need hardcover books.
They sell better at bookstores.
Why are the candy bars and bubble gum near the cash registers at grocery stores? Because the marketing gurus in charge know you’re more likely to buy it if you see it in such a prime location.
The same applies to hardcover books in bookstores. Hardcovers are significantly easier for book stores to display and they often get entire display cases depending on the release. In other words, your book is much more likely to get prime real estate if it debuts as a hardcover.
And don’t forget the business aspect here: most hardcovers deliver better margins and generate more profit, making them even more likely to be pushed by the store.
They’re more popular at libraries and schools.
Schools and libraries are far more likely to pick up your book if it’s a hardcover than if it’s a paperback. For these places, where dozens of people read the same book, durability matters. So much, even, that they’re willing to pay two or three times as much for the hardback.
Additionally, hardbacks are a more commanding presence on a shelf. In the same vein of logic as the bookstore, readers are more likely to notice your book if it’s one with a thick, eye-catching spine – and not the book sandwiched between them.
The more people read your book from a school or library, the more people are likely to hear about it second hand. Having your book fair well in these locations is crucial for sparking business.
They’re more professional
While having any kind of book published (even an eBook) is a great platform piece, there’s a significant jump in credibility for the author between a paperback and hardcover.
In other words, having a hardcover will make your research stand out even more or make your fiction writing appeal to even more potential readers. Consumers think, If the book is good enough to be a hardcover, then it must be a really great book.
And they’re right – you have a great book, so give it the hardcover treatment it deserves. You’ll instantly elevate it above many of its paperback-exclusive competitors.
They make better gifts
Hardcover books are some of the most popular gifts among readers. They’re more durable, of course, but the reasoning here isn’t quite the same as it is with schools and libraries.
Instead, readers often gift hardcover books as a way to show their friends or family member how special they are. Giving a nice hardcover is a bit more expensive, but also a way to say, “You’re worth it and appreciated.” Plus, the sentiment will last for a very, very long time.
For this reason, many writers experience an uptick in hardcover sales during the holiday season.
Hardcover bound?
Do you have a book you’re ready to see as a hardcover? If so, MindStir Media provides the best hardcover book printing options in the industry. Hardcover packages include not only the best quality of books you’ll find, but also the best guidance in taking a manuscript from draft to printed book ready for bookstores, libraries, and gifting.
If you have questions or comments, I’m always happy to help. Drop me a line on Twitter @authorjjhebert.