AUTHOR GUIDE
How to write a book description that turns browsers into readers
THE SHORT ANSWER
A strong book description has four parts: a one-line hook, a short summary of the story or the problem the book solves, a line of credibility or praise, and a clear statement of who the book is for. Keep paragraphs short, because most shoppers read on a phone.
Start with a hook
Your first line must make the reader want the second. For fiction, use the central conflict. For non-fiction, name the problem the reader feels.
Fiction: character, conflict, stakes
Introduce the main character, what goes wrong, and what they could lose. Don’t tell the ending.
Non-fiction: problem, promise, proof
Name the problem, say what the reader will be able to do after reading, and give a reason to trust you.
Make it easy to read
Use short paragraphs, a few bold lines and simple bullet points. Long walls of text lose readers on mobile.
End with who it’s for
“Perfect for fans of…” or “For parents who…” helps the right reader say “that’s me.”
WANT US TO CHECK YOUR BOOK?
MENTOR offers a free Amazon audit of your book page. We look at your cover, description, categories and keywords and tell you what to fix first. Get your free audit.