Book launch press release template
A book launch release tells readers, bookstores and reviewers what the book is about, who wrote it, when it comes out and where to buy it.
Use it for a new book, a new edition or a launch event. Fill in the brackets and add the cover image.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE [Author] releases [Book title], a [genre] book about [topic] [One line on who the book is for] [City], [State], [Month Day, Year]: [Author], a [author's role or background], today released [Book title], a [number]-page [genre] book published by [publisher / self-published]. It is available in [print / ebook / audio] from [where to buy]. [What the book is about, in two or three sentences, without spoilers.] [Who it is for, and what readers will take from it.] "[Why you wrote the book]," said [Author]. "[One detail from writing it.]" [Launch events, readings or signings, with dates and places.] Book details: [Title], [Author], [Publisher], [Release date], ISBN [number], [Price]. About [Author] [Author] is a [role] based in [City]. [One or two lines on past books or work.] Learn more at [web address]. Media contact [Name] [Email address] [Phone number] ###
Real book launch releases
- College Boy Releases Historical Novel Shadows Over Sugarland in Paperback and HardbackCollege Boy, an author based in suburban Texas, has released the historical novel Shadows Over Sugarland: Bullhead Camp and the Imperial Trials in paperback and hardback.
- Shenston Grant Takes Readers Through the Stage Door and Into the Private Dressing RoomAuthor Shenston Grant announces the upcoming release of *Remember… I've Seen You Naked: A Backstage Memoir*, a wickedly funny look at the outrageous personalities, backstage secrets, and wonderfully unpredictable world of show business.
- Hans Study Publishes Free CPCSC Readiness Book and Level 1 Policy BuilderHans Study, an independent network and security consultant in Ontario, Canada, has released The Study Guide to CPCSC Readiness as a free PDF together with a CPCSC Level 1 policy builder.
What to put in each part
- Headline
- Author, title, genre and topic.
- Lead paragraph
- Who wrote it, what it is, release date and where to buy.
- Summary
- Two or three sentences, no spoilers.
- Quote
- Why the author wrote it. Make it personal.
- Book details
- Title, publisher, date, ISBN and price in one line. Bookstores look for this.
Headline ideas
Pick the one closest to your news and fill in the brackets.
- [Author] releases [Book title], a [genre] book about [topic]
- [Book title] by [Author] out [date] from [Publisher]
- [Author] publishes [Book title], a guide to [topic] for [who]
- [Author] to sign [Book title] at [venue] on [date]
Common mistakes
- A summary that gives away the ending.
- No ISBN or no buying link.
- Calling the book a bestseller before it is one.
- Review quotes used without permission.
- No cover image.
Where to share it
- Publish it on your author website with the cover image and buying links.
- Send it to book bloggers, local newspapers, libraries and bookstores near you. Offer a review copy.
- Share it with your newsletter readers and on the pages where your readers spend time.
Questions
When should I publish a book launch release?
On release day, or when pre-orders open.
Does a self-published book need an ISBN in the release?
Add it if the book has one. It helps stores and libraries find it.
Can I announce a launch event in the same release?
Yes. Add the date, time and place below the book summary.
What image should I use?
The front cover, in good quality.
Should I send review copies?
Yes, if you can. Offer a print or digital copy to bloggers and reviewers who cover your genre, and say in the release how to ask for one.
Can I use this for a children's book?
Yes. Say the age range in the first paragraph, and add a line for parents, teachers or librarians.
More templates
The press release template page explains the format part by part, with a full sample. Other templates: