Most readers when they pick up a new book will read the back cover first to learn about the book, then they’ll flip to the page or blurb about the author. This is true whether the book is in print or is digital (though “flipping” will be replaced by scrolling…).
A good author page can help you connect with your reader and entice them to read your book. The author page can convey a sense of your experience, authority, or general likeability, encouraging your reader to learn more about you and your book.
As with any writing, putting together a good author page takes some work. Here are a few guidelines for helping you write a good one:
Match the Tone
Is your book about the political ramifications of World War II? A light, cheeky tone for your personal bio probably isn’t appropriate. In contrast, if your book is the love story of a sassy fashionista living in the big city, then your bio shouldn’t seem overly formal or business-like.
Make sure your language and your tone matches that of your book. Even though your bio is about you, the passage is part of the total package. You and your book are part of the same “brand.” Make sure your marketing is consistent.
Highlight Relevant Experience
If your book is about the political ramifications of World War II, and you have taught a class on the subject at a local university, highlight it in the bio. Any relevant experience or expertise that you have should be noted. Likewise, if your book is about the love story of a sassy fashionista living in the big city, highlight any experience you have working in the fashion industry or looking for love in all the wrong places and so on.
Show Off a Little
Your bio is no place to be modest. If you have won awards or received professional accolades, highlight them in your bio. Of course, you should highlight writing awards. However, you should also include any awards that are related to your subject matter. You could also choose to highlight any relevant training or endorsements you’ve received.
Keep Personal Information Brief
While it is recommended to include some personal information, you should keep it brief. A little personal information is enough to make you seem like a real person and endear you to your readers. Too much information can become boring or alienate your readers. Just add a line or two about your family, where you live, or noteworthy hobbies.
The author bio is a small but important part of your book. It’s a way to let your readers know a little about the person behind the book so they will feel more of a connection to it and feel more compelled to read. These tips can help you put together a professional yet interesting bio that will draw in your readers.
Audrey Porterman is the main researcher and writer for doctoralprograms.org. Her most recent accomplishment includes graduating from Ohio State, with a degree in business management. Her current focus for the site involves a sociology phd and a nursing phd.
