What kind of book titles work best?

Clear beats clever. Pick a memorable title that signals genre and promise at a glance. Avoid ambiguous wordplay unless you already have an audience. Check for clashes (existing books, domains, awkward abbreviations) and say the title aloud—if people mishear it, rethink it. For non-fiction, a short title plus a precise subtitle works well.

Further reading: /information/choosing-a-title

Should I give my book a subtitle?

For non-fiction, usually yes: the subtitle carries the “what it is and who it’s for” message and adds search terms. Keep it specific and honest; avoid fluff. For fiction, subtitles are uncommon unless it’s series information (e.g., “A DI Smith Novel”). Ensure the spine and cover remain legible at thumbnail size.

Further reading: /information/subtitles

Why is book genre important?

Genre is how readers, retailers and recommendation systems find books. It sets expectations for tone, cover style, length and pricing. Mis-labelling harms discoverability and reviews. Choose the primary genre your target reader actually searches for, then add secondary categories where relevant.

Further reading: /information/genre-importance

Can I design my own book cover?

You can, but trade-standard covers must signal genre clearly, read at thumbnail size, and meet technical specs (bleed, spine width, barcode area, colour profiles). DIY covers often look slightly “off” even if you can’t say why. If budget is tight, brief a professional for a focused, single-concept cover.

Further reading: /information/designing-a-book-cover

What do book designers do — and how do I brief them?

Designers translate your manuscript and market into visual form. Covers: research category, develop concepts, set typography, select/commission imagery, and deliver press-ready artwork with correct spine, bleed and barcode. To brief well, share a one-sentence pitch, audience, 3–5 comparable titles, must-have elements, specs (trim, paper, page count if known), and deadlines. Approve one direction first; then iterate on typography and image treatment. Avoid design by committee.

Further reading: /information/briefing-a-book-designer

What are Thema codes?

Thema is the international subject classification standard used by the book trade. Assigning accurate Thema codes (and qualifiers such as region or period) helps retailers and libraries shelve and recommend your book correctly. It’s part of your metadata alongside BISAC (North America) and should be set in your Nielsen/ONIX records.

Further reading: /information/thema-codes