A book release should make it easy for an editor to see the story beyond 'a book exists.' The angle might be an author's expertise, a local connection, a timely subject, or a distinctive approach to a genre. Include the exact title, publication date, formats, publisher, and legitimate review-copy contact. The example here is a fill-in template, not a claim that a real book or endorsement exists.
Find the actual news angle
Start with the reader or reporter you hope to reach. A local paper may care that the author lives in the area; a trade publication may care about the book's documented research or industry application. A literary outlet may want a clear description of style, subject, and comparable readership.
Write one sentence that answers why this title deserves attention now. If the answer is only the publication date, consider whether an interview, event, research finding, or community connection provides a more useful hook. Do not invent a controversy or endorsement to manufacture one.
Fictional fill-in template
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — [Author] publishes [Book Title], a [genre or category] about [specific subject]. [City, State], [Date] — [Publisher or author] announced that [Book Title] will be released on [publication date] in [formats]. The book [one or two factual sentences describing its subject or story].
'[Approved author quote about the purpose or creative approach],' said [Author]. [Brief verified author biography and relevant credentials]. [Book Title] is available through [confirmed retailers or ordering link] at [price, if useful]. Review copies and interview requests: [media contact, email and website].
Replace placeholders with checked information. If citing praise from a reviewer, obtain permission and identify the source accurately. Do not label paid promotion or a friendly advance comment as independent critical acclaim.
Make the press kit useful
A reviewer may need time to read the book before publication. If you offer an advance copy under an embargo, agree on the terms before sending it. If the title is already available, a targeted timely pitch may be more useful than a broad generic blast.
- Include a high-resolution cover with clear usage rights and caption.
- Provide the ISBN for each format if available and verify it against the publisher's records.
- Offer an accessible digital review copy through an approved channel.
- List interview availability and any public launch events with confirmed dates.
- Keep author biography factual and tailored to the book's subject.
Check the final draft
Verify the book title, subtitle, spelling of names, publisher imprint, release date, retailer links, prices, and formats. Ensure any quoted passage or endorsement can be used in promotional materials. A claimed bestseller status needs a named list and date, not an unsupported adjective.
After distribution, keep the book's own page current. The release may be republished later, so use a precise date and avoid 'out today' unless the copy will be updated. Measure relevant reviews, interviews, event attendance, and reader referrals separately from raw syndicated link count.