Deciding on a Book Title

The title of your book and the book cover design are the two most important elements for grabbing a potential reader’s interest. We’ve all been taught to not judge a book by its cover; however, that’s exactly what potential readers typically do. 

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The book title will be the first showcasing of your writing abilities. A great book title grabs a potential reader’s attention, sparking their interest without giving away the plot.

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Book Titles

Whether they’re in a store or online, a potential reader shopping for a book will be flooded by a sea of titles. Your job is to know your target audience and create an evocative title. 

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Think about your favorite books and their titles. What imagery do those titles create in your mind? Think about why those titles got your attention. 

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‌Choosing a book title

Choosing a book title can be extremely stressful. Here are some tips to help make the process a little easier:

1. Keep it simple. More isn’t always better. Many best-selling titles are very short or contain just one word.
2. Know your book’s genre. Your book title should flow with other titles in the same genre. You don’t want to confuse potential readers by choosing a title for a thriller that could be confused as a romance novel.
3. Consider using a character’s name as the title. Using a character’s name makes a great book title. This is especially true if you’re planning to write a series. 
4. Consider using the setting as the title. Using the location and time period in the title is a great way to spark interest with your target audience. 
5. Consider literary devices. Catchy play on word titles easily grab people’s attention.

‌Things to avoid when choosing a book title

Your book’s title will be at the forefront of marketing. A bad title can create negative marketing. Here are a few things to avoid when you’re brainstorming a book title:

1. Controversy. A good book title won’t inadvertently reference a controversial topic. Controversial words will alienate entire groups of potential readers.
2. Plot spoilers. Be careful to not give away the plot. 
3. Long length. A lengthy title can quickly cause a potential reader to lose interest. 
4. Picking a title that’s already been used. Before choosing a title, do some research to make sure it’s not already being used.

‌Creative strategies for choosing a book title

If you’re feeling blocked and having trouble creating the perfect title, try some of these techniques to get the creative juices flowing. 

• Exercise to get more blood pumping to your brain. 
• Play a word game such as Scrabble.
• Listen to music. 
• Read something else. 
• Take a nap.
• Contact someone you can bounce ideas off of.
• Use a self-publishing service

Publishing with Palmetto Publishing Group‌‌

Palmetto Publishing Group has knowledgeable, experienced staff members available to assist you in every aspect of self-publishing your book. When you use our services, you will maintain 100% creative control of your work and can keep all of your royalties.

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We can assist you with book design, interior formatting, illustrations, editing, printing, and marketing. For more information, schedule a time to chat with one of our friendly professionals.

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