Official Review: Book Production Guide, 3rd Edition

[Katherine E Wall]

[Following is the official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Book Production Guide, 3rd Edition" by Anna Faktorovich.]

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In her Book Production Guide, 3rd Edition, Anna Fakorvitch achieves several different things. First and foremost it is a guide for interns working for Anaphora Literary Press. It takes the reader through the entire process of producing a book, and as such is a valuable resource for the people working with the press.

However, it goes beyond that, for the average person, who has never been involved in the production of a book, we are able to see (to a degree) the inner workings involved. Finally, this book would be beneficial for small presses and self-publishing authors. In fact, by understanding the process literary houses follow, an independent author can better represent themselves in a market which is saturated by writers who write and publish without regard to the steps required to create a quality product.

As beneficial as this is though, it can affect the flow of the text. At times, the target audience is obviously the intern, while at others it seems to be directed at an author. As I mentioned, there is valuable information for both, and I think Ms. Fakorvitch could explore the concept of developing specific texts for both audiences. By focusing on a specific target audience, she could address their unique needs. If there is going to be a fourth edition, it might be worth exploring two volumes: a book production guide for interns which sets up style guides and procedures specific to Anaphora Literary Press, and a book production guide for self-publishing and start-up presses. Granted there are several books on the market for self-publishers, but I believe, with her background, Ms. Fakorvitch offers more than the majority of these books, often produced by first-time and inexperienced authors.

There were a few things I think could be improved in this book. In particular, the images used in the cover design section could be better quality. While the information is well-developed, the reproductions of the covers do not do justice to the section overall. Cover design, both in small presses and self-publishing is a major part of sales, and the competition is becoming more intense, and therefore, it is imperative to produce the very best covers possible. Higher quality reproductions would enhance the message of this section.

Overall, Book Production Guide, 3rd Edition is written in accessible language, follows a logical progression with step-by-step instructions, and contains valuable resources for independent authors, small presses, and those who want to begin their own literary press. As it is, I recommend it to anyone who is considering producing a book, but I would love to see it developed into volumes targeting the specific needs of different audiences.

I rate this book 3 out of 4 stars.

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[KLyons1]

This aspiring author is glad to see this review, and add it to the reference list for that day (sooner rather than later, one hopes) when the manuscript should move to the publication stage

[sophiachic]

I only gave this book 3/4 stars too on another review i gave

[JenniferBoyce]

I have never been a writer, nor will I ever be, but this book does sound like a good read. I'm sure learning about what goes into writing a book would greatly increase my appreciation for books and their authors. Do you think this would be an interesting read for those who are not greatly familiar with the world of writing a book?

Thanks for the informative and well-written review.

[Katherine E Wall]

I think people interested in the industry would enjoy it the most. The general reader might not get as much out of it. However, it is written in terms that anyone can understand, and who knows it may inspire you or someone you know to look at different angles of the business. There are many more people and steps involved in producing a book than most of us realize.

I know it is not a definitive answer, but I hope it helps.

[JenniferBoyce]

I think people interested in the industry would enjoy it the most. The general reader might not get as much out of it. However, it is written in terms that anyone can understand, and who knows it may inspire you or someone you know to look at different angles of the business. There are many more people and steps involved in producing a book than most of us realize.

I know it is not a definitive answer, but I hope it helps.

Alright, that definitely makes sense and helps. I will have to check the book out when I get a chance.

[Crystal Bechler]

This books sounds like a great read and a great asset to up and coming authors. If we are better able to understand the process then we will be better able to provide the publisher with what they are looking for in a book. I look forward to reading this book and am adding it to my must read bucket list.