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Publishing a book is a major accomplishment. But once your manuscript is polished and printed, one critical step remains—getting people to notice it.
That’s where a book press release comes in.
A well-written press release can launch your book into the spotlight, land media coverage, and open doors to interviews, reviews, podcasts, and more. But to make that happen, your press release needs to be more than just a summary—it needs to tell a story that sells.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about writing a compelling book press release, including:
- ✅ What a book press release is
- ✅ The format professional publicists use
- ✅ Expert advice to get media attention
Let’s break it down.
🧐 What Is a Book Press Release?
A book press release is a short, engaging news announcement sent to media outlets, blogs, journalists, and influencers to publicize the launch of your book.
Think of it as a news story about your book, written in third person, that answers the media’s biggest question:
“Why should our audience care about this book?”
It’s not a sales pitch—it’s a newsworthy update meant to catch the attention of reporters and reviewers who might feature your book in an article, review, interview, or TV/radio segment.
✏️ How to Write a Book Press Release
Crafting a compelling book press release isn’t just about sharing the facts—it’s about packaging your book as a newsworthy event. Whether you’re launching your debut novel, a memoir, or the next big self-help guide, the structure of your press release should be built on clarity, relevance, and purpose.
Here’s how to write a strong book press release from scratch:
🧭 Start with a Strong Hook
The first sentence or two should immediately answer this question:
Why should the media (or the reader) care about this book?
Avoid clichés or vague praise. Focus on what makes your book timely, topical, or unique. Whether it touches on current issues, breaks new ground in its genre, or reflects a powerful personal journey, lead with impact.
🧱 Keep the Structure Tight
Stick to a traditional press release format: headline, subheadline, dateline, introduction, body, and call to action. Write in third person, and avoid marketing hype or personal appeals. The tone should be informative, not promotional.
📣 Highlight What Sets the Book Apart
In the body of your press release, give a concise summary of the book. This should be more than a synopsis—it should reveal the core message, emotion, or theme behind your work. Ask yourself:
- What problem does it solve?
- What conversation does it join?
- What feeling does it leave behind?
This section should also include a brief author bio, showing your credibility or unique perspective in writing the book.
🗨️ Add a Quote to Humanize the Story
A brief quote from the author (you!) helps the press release feel personal and insightful. Use this space to reflect on your motivation, the book’s deeper meaning, or the process of bringing it to life. Keep it authentic, but polished.
🛒 Close with a Clear Call to Action
Wrap up your release by telling the reader what to do next:
- Where can they buy the book?
- Who can they contact for interviews, review copies, or event invitations?
Make it easy for journalists, bloggers, and editors to say yes by including full contact information, links, and availability details.
📐 Book Press Release Format (Standard Template)
Here’s a simple and professional format most successful authors and publicists follow. Keep it clean, focused, and easy to skim.
🔹 HEADLINE (Bold, Centered)
Make it newsworthy. Keep it under 15 words.
Example: Award-Winning Author Releases Haunting New Mystery Novel Set in Alaska
🔹 Subheadline (Optional)
A secondary sentence that adds context or intrigue.
Example: “Frozen Lies” explores memory loss, betrayal, and murder in a chilling Arctic town.
🔹 Dateline
Start with the city and date.
Example: SEATTLE, WA — July 24, 2025 — Then begin your opening paragraph.
🔹 Opening Paragraph (The Hook)
Answer the who, what, when, where, and why in 2–3 sentences.
Example:
Author Emily Carson, best known for her award-winning debut “The Glass Girl,” returns with Frozen Lies—a psychological thriller releasing August 1, 2025, through Northwind Books. Set in a remote Arctic town, the novel blends suspense with emotional depth and unforgettable characters.
🔹 Body Paragraphs (The Details)
These 1–3 paragraphs offer more depth:
- A short plot summary (no spoilers!)
- Background on the author
- Inspiration or message behind the book
- Notable endorsements, reviews, or awards
- A quote from the author
Example:
Inspired by her upbringing in rural Alaska, Carson weaves an atmospheric tale that asks: How far will you go to protect a lie?
“Some stories choose you,” Carson explains. “This book began as a short story about trauma and isolation—but it grew into something darker and more meaningful.”
Closing Paragraph (The Call to Action)
Conclude your press release by letting readers and media professionals know how to take the next step.
Example:
The book will be available in paperback, eBook, and audiobook formats through major retailers. For review copies, interviews, or media inquiries, contact the publisher’s publicity department through standard channels.
💡 10 Quick Tips for a Press Release That Gets Noticed
Before you hit send, make sure your release checks these boxes:
- Keep it under 500 wordsShort and skimmable wins.
- Use a professional toneWrite in the third person and avoid hype.
- Include a compelling quoteLet the author’s voice shine.
- Focus on what makes the book uniqueThink themes, relevance, or unexpected plot twists.
- Include linksEspecially to your website, social media, or Amazon page.
- Attach the book coverA hi-res image goes a long way.
- Tailor your subject lineEmail it with a punchy headline.
- Send it at the right time2–3 weeks before launch is ideal.
- Personalize your email pitchDon’t just blind CC a list.
- Follow up (but don’t pester)A polite reminder email is okay. Two is too many.
🧠 Expert Advice: What Publicists Want You to Know
We spoke to a few PR professionals and publishing insiders for their best advice. Here’s what they said:
🗣 “Make It About the Reader”
“Your book may be personal to you, but your press release has to show why it matters to others. Tie it into current trends, culture, or real-world issues.”
— Lisa Murray, Literary Publicist
🕵️ “Don’t Skip the Hook”
“Journalists get hundreds of emails. If your first two lines don’t hook them, it’s over. Think like a headline writer.”
— Jordan Cole, Former Editor, Book Today
📅 “Timing Is Everything”
“Media plans months in advance. If you want coverage, send your release early—six weeks before launch is ideal for print.”
— Clara Singh, PR Strategist
🧷 “Always Include Contact Info.”
“You’d be shocked how many releases don’t include a clear way to reach the author. Make it easy.”
— Derek Yu, Author Coach
🧾 Book Press Release Checklist
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📬 Where to Send Your Book Press Release
Writing a good press release is half the work. Sending it to the right people is the other half. Here are some smart places to share it:
- Local newspapers & magazines
- Book bloggers & YouTubers
- Genre-specific websites (e.g., Romance Reads, Crime Beat)
- Podcasters and bookstagrammers
- Online press release distribution services (like PRWeb, EIN Presswire)
- Library newsletters & indie bookstore mailing lists
- Facebook reading groups or Goodreads communities
Pro tip: Keep a spreadsheet of whom you pitched and who responded. Media relationships grow over time.
🧠 Final Thoughts: Your Book Deserves Attention
Don’t underestimate the power of a press release. It might seem old-school, but when done right, it’s one of the fastest, most effective tools to spread the word and sell more books.
So, take your time, craft something memorable, and share your story with confidence.
Your words matter—and now, the world needs to hear about them.
