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Book Press Releases
Whether you are a publishing house, a book publicist, or an author wishing to sell more copies of their book, you should definitely consider releasing one or more press releases.
What Is a Book Press Release?
A book press release is a one-page announcement sent to and designed to inform journalists, bloggers, media outlets, and other influencers about your book launch or book-related news.
Unlike a book description or back cover blurb, a press release isn’t written to sell books directly to readers. Instead, it’s crafted to convince media gatekeepers that your book is newsworthy enough to deserve coverage. You’re essentially pitching a story that journalists can share with their audiences, whether that’s a newspaper article, blog post, podcast interview, or TV segment.
A well-written book press release serves several purposes:
- Generates media attention that can lead to reviews, interviews, and feature stories
- Creates publicity momentum around your book launch
- Builds credibility when shared on your website or included in your media kit
- Provides SEO benefits when published online and indexed by search engines
- Opens doors to speaking opportunities, awards, and literary events
The key difference between a successful press release and one that gets deleted? Newsworthiness. Journalists receive hundreds of pitches daily, so your press release needs to answer one critical question for the journalist: “Why should my readers care about this book right now?”
That’s where strategy comes in. A generic announcement that you’ve published a novel won’t cut it. But a press release about a timely thriller addressing current events, or a local author’s inspiring journey, or a book that solves a problem people are actively searching for solutions to? That gets attention.
In the sections that follow, you’ll learn exactly how to craft a press release that stands out, when to send it for maximum impact, and how to distribute it to the right people who can amplify your message.
Table of Contents:
Book Press Release Examples
We recognize that seeing real-life examples of press releases announcing the publication or news tie-in for your book can make it easier to write yours – so here you go: 15 recently released book press releases:
Example #1: Book launch announcement
| Link to this press release.  What makes this a good book press release
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Example #2: Book achieves best-seller rank
| Link to this press release.  What makes this a good book press release
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Example #3: Book launch tour announcement
Example #4: Bookstore announces book launch signing event
Example #5: Second edition release of a book
Example #6: Publisher announces book launch release
Example #7: Learning series turned into a book announcement
Example #8: Book/movie tie-in
Example #9: Publisher announces book subscription series
Example #10: Collaboration creates new book series
Example #11: Author press release announcing keynote speech at conference
Example #12: Speakers bureau adds best-selling author
Example #13: Release of new author resources website
Example #14: Author wins award
Example #15: Author joins board
Key Elements of a Book Press Release
Creating an effective book press release involves several key elements to ensure it grabs attention and communicates the essential information about your book. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on insights from various sources:
Headline and Subheadline: The headline should be compelling and informative, enticing the reader to continue. A subheadline, while optional, can provide additional context or detail to support the headline.
Impactful Opening Statement: Begin with a statement that highlights the uniqueness or importance of your book. This part should capture the essence of your book and why it’s newsworthy.
Author Quotation: Include a quote from your book or an endorsement that is engaging and relevant to the book’s content. Choose a quote that reflects the book’s tone and topic.
Book Information: Present a concise and punchy description of your book, highlighting the key themes or the problem it addresses. This section should be an advertisement or elevator pitch rather than a detailed synopsis.
Short Author Bio (Boilerplate): Provide a brief author biography, focusing on achievements and credentials that enhance your credibility and appeal to your target audience. Keep it under 100 words.
Contact Information: Include your contact details such as website, email, phone number, and social media handles. Ensure that the information is up-to-date and relevant.
Call to Action (CTA): Clearly state what you want to happen after someone reads your press release. It could be a visit to your website, an invitation to an event, or a review request.
Press Release Distribution: Use a press release distribution service to send your press release to a network of media outlets. This approach can reach a wide audience, while ensuring your press release stands out to engage real interest.
Length and Format: Keep your press release concise, ideally no more than one page or 500 words. Format it like a news story, with a headline, subheadline, and a lead paragraph that includes key details.
Supporting Materials: If possible, include multimedia elements like photos or videos to enhance engagement and provide additional context.
Remember, the goal of a book press release is not only to inform but also to intrigue and engage journalists and readers. It’s important to balance providing clear information with maintaining an engaging and newsworthy tone.
Book Press Release Template Examples
Work is always easier when you have a template into which you can insert your information. Since we’re all about making things easier for you, here are three book press release templates:
1. Press Release Template for a Non-Fiction Book Launch
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE [Author Name]’s Groundbreaking Book: [Book Title] – Exploring [Subject Matter] [City, Date] – Renowned [author’s field of expertise] expert, [Author Name], unveils [Book Title], a comprehensive exploration of [subject matter]. [Book Title] dives deep into [brief description of the topics covered]. “[Author quote about the book’s importance or unique insights],” stated [Author Name], [Position/Title]. This enlightening work is now available at [bookstores/online platforms]. Learn more and get a first look at [website]. Contact Information: |
2. Press Release Template for Announcing a Book Tour:
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE [Author Name] Embarks on Nationwide Book Tour for [Book Title] [City, Date] – Bestselling author [Author Name] is excited to announce a nationwide tour for their latest work, [Book Title], a [brief description of the book’s genre or theme]. The tour will kick off on [start date] in [city] and will include stops in [list key cities or regions]. “[Quote from the author expressing excitement about the tour and interacting with fans],” said [Author Name]. The [Book Title] tour will offer readers a chance to meet [Author Name], get their books signed, and participate in [any special events or discussions planned]. A complete schedule of the tour, including dates, venues, and times, can be found at [website]. [Include a paragraph about the book. Briefly describe its plot, themes, or what makes it special. Mention any awards, recognitions, or critical acclaim the book has received if applicable.] For more information about the book tour and to reserve your spot at an event, please visit [website] or follow [Author Name] on [social media handles]. Contact Information: |
3. Press Release Template for Achieving Best-Seller Status
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE [Author Name]’s [Book Title] Hits Bestseller List [City, Date] – [Publisher or Author’s Name] is proud to announce that [Book Title], written by acclaimed author [Author Name], has achieved bestseller status. The book, a [brief description of genre or theme], has been listed as a bestseller on [specify the list, e.g., New York Times, Amazon, etc.]. “[Quote from the author or publisher expressing gratitude and feelings about the achievement],” said [Author Name or Publisher Representative’s Name]. [Book Title], published on [publication date], has captured the attention and hearts of readers across [specify regions or demographic, if relevant]. The book delves into [brief description of the plot or subject matter], and has been praised for its [mention notable aspects of the book, such as writing style, storytelling, unique insights, etc.]. This milestone is a testament to [Author Name]’s talent and the hard work of the entire team involved in bringing this book to the readers. [Include any information about upcoming events, such as book signings, interviews, or special editions related to the bestseller status]. For more information about [Book Title] and upcoming events, please visit [website] or follow [Author Name] on [social media handles]. Contact Information: |
Each template can be customized to suit the specific details of your book release, ensuring a professional and engaging announcement for your audience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Book Press Release
Even experienced authors make critical errors that doom their press releases before they reach the right eyes. Here are the most damaging pitfalls and how to avoid them:
Mistake #1: Treating Your Press Release Like a Book Description
Many authors copy their Amazon blurb, add a headline, and call it done. This fundamentally misunderstands the purpose.
Why it fails: Journalists care about stories that will be compelling to their readers, not plot summaries.
Fix: Focus on the newsworthy angle. Instead of “Detective Jane Smith must solve a murder,” try “Former FBI Profiler Releases Thriller Based on Real Unsolved Cases from Her 20-Year Career.”
Mistake #2: No Clear News Hook
Publishing a book isn’t newsworthy—thousands launch daily. Without answering “why now?” your release gets ignored.
Fix: Tie your book to current events, trending topics, seasonal relevance, or local interest. A climate change book during extreme weather has a hook. A romance novel on Valentine’s Day has a hook.
Mistake #3: Writing for Everyone Instead of Someone
Sending identical releases to tech bloggers, lifestyle magazines, and literary journals shows you haven’t done your homework.
Fix: Create targeted versions for different outlets. Customize the angle, headline, and opening paragraph to match each publication’s focus.
Mistake #4: Burying the Lead
Your most interesting information must be in the headline and first paragraph, not buried after fluff.
Fix: Put your strongest hook in the headline. Include who, what, when, where, and why in your opening paragraph.
Mistake #5: Wrong Length
Three pages overwhelms busy journalists. Three sentences leaves too many questions.
Fix: Aim for 400-500 words on a single page. Include all essential information but cut everything else.
Mistake #6: Weak or Missing Quotes
Generic quotes like “I’m so excited to share this book” add zero value.
Fix: Use quotes to share insight that can’t be expressed otherwise—personal motivation, expert opinion, or compelling backstory. Example: “After my daughter was diagnosed with autism, I couldn’t find books showing families like ours thriving. This fills that gap.”
Mistake #7: Sending at the Wrong Time
Friday afternoons, during major news, or before holidays, virtually guarantees your release gets buried.
Fix: Send Tuesday-Thursday mornings (9-11 AM in the recipient’s timezone). Avoid Mondays and Fridays. Check the news cycle.
Mistake #8: No Follow-Up Strategy
Sending once and hoping rarely works, but aggressive follow-up ignores clear disinterest.
Fix: Wait 5-7 days, then send a brief, personalized follow-up. Reference their recent coverage. If no response after two attempts, move on gracefully.
Distribution Strategies: Getting Your Press Release Seen
Distribution strategy determines whether your announcement reaches journalists who can amplify your message.
Strategy #1: Direct Journalist Outreach
Personalized pitches to targeted journalists consistently outperform mass distribution.
Process:
- Build a media list of 50-100 relevant contacts (journalists, bloggers, podcasters)
- Create tiered lists: Dream outlets, realistic targets, likely coverage
- Personalize each pitch—reference their articles, explain why your book fits their beat
- Time outreach: 3-4 weeks before launch, follow up 5-7 days later
Pros: Highest conversion rate, builds relationships, journalists appreciate relevance
Cons: Time-intensive, requires research skills
Cost: Free to $50-200/month for media databases
Strategy #2 (Best): Press Release Distribution Services
Services send your release to networks of media outlets and publications.
How it works: Upload to their platform, select categories, and they will distribute your press release to their network
Best practices:
- Choose the right tier (basic is usually sufficient)
- Optimize for SEO with natural keywords
- Leverage guaranteed pickups for backlinks
- Track analytics to measure performance
Recommended Supplier: eReleases.com
Pros: Wide reach with minimal effort, SEO benefits, professional credibility
Cons: Limited personalization
Cost: $399+
Strategy #3: Local Media Blitz
Local outlets strongly prefer covering local authors—often your highest-probability path.
Target outlets: Newspapers, TV morning shows, radio, regional magazines, community blogs, library newsletters
Local angles:
- You live or grew up there
- The book is set locally
- Tie to local charities or events
Pros: Highest success rate for unknown authors, builds hometown credibility
Cons: Very limited geographic reach
Cost: Free (time investment only)
Strategy #4: Genre-Specific Targeting
Specialized media covering your topic or genre are more receptive than mainstream.
For fiction: Genre book blogs, BookTok/Bookstagram influencers, podcasts, fan communities
For nonfiction: Trade publications, professional associations, topic-specific blogs, online communities
Pros: Higher engagement from interested audiences, detailed reviews
Cons: Smaller individual reach, time-intensive
Cost: Free to minimal (review copies)
The Hybrid Approach (Recommended)
Most effective strategy combines tactics:
Phase 1 (4-6 weeks before): Build media list, pitch dream outlets, contact local media
Phase 2 (Launch week): Distribute via eReleases press release distribution service, direct pitches to realistic targets, and social media blast
Phase 3 (1-4 weeks after): Follow up, reach out to likely outlets, share early coverage
Phase 4 (Months 2-6): Continue pitching, leverage coverage for speaking, build relationships
Budget allocation ($500):
Distribution service: $400
Review copies: $100
Step-by-Step Tutorial: Writing and Distributing Your Book Press Release
Phase 1: Pre-Writing Preparation (1-2 hours)
Step 1: Define your news hook
Complete this sentence 10 ways: “This book is newsworthy because __________”
Examples:
“…it’s by a local author set in our historic downtown”
“…it addresses the mental health crisis dominating headlines”
“…the author consulted with Fortune 500 companies”
If you can’t find a compelling “because,” develop your hook before writing.
Step 2: Research target media
Build a list of 25-50 specific outlets:
Local: newspapers, radio, TV, magazines, blogs
Genre-specific: 10-15 blogs/podcasts in your area
National: 5-10 dream outlets (if you have strong hook)
Step 3: Gather materials
Book title, subtitle, publication date, ISBNBook description and author bioHigh-resolution author photo and book cover2-3 compelling quotesPurchase links and contact informationPhase 2: Writing Your Press Release (2-3 hours)
Step 4: Craft your headline
Formula: [Descriptor] + [Author] + [Verb] + [Book/Topic] + [Hook]
Strong: “Former FBI Profiler Releases Thriller Based on Unsolved Boston Cases” Weak: “New Book Released by Local Author”
Keep under 120 characters, use active voice, be specific.
Step 5: Write opening paragraph (the lead)
Include the 5 W’s in your dateline and first paragraph:
“PORTLAND, Maine, April 1, 2025 – Award-winning local author Patricia Morrison releases her debut historical novel, ‘The Last Lighthouse Keeper,’ bringing to life forgotten stories of women who maintained coastal Maine’s lighthouses during World War I.”
Step 6: Write body paragraphs (2-4 paragraphs)
Paragraph 2: Book details, themes, target audience
Paragraph 3: Author quote or endorsement (under 50 words)
Paragraph 4: Author credentials and background
Step 7: Add boilerplate and call to action
Include publication details, where to purchase, and what you want:
“Morrison is available for interviews and speaking engagements”
“Review copies available upon request”
Step 8: Format with standard elements
“FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE” at top
Contact information
“###” centered at bottom
400-500 words, single page
Save as PDFPhase 3: Editing (30-60 minutes)
Step 9: Self-edit checklist
Is the news hook clear in the headline?Does the first paragraph include all 5 W’s?Eliminated promotional language?Sentences under 25 words?Written in third person?Sounds like news, not an advertisement?Is all information accurate?Links working?
Read aloud. Get 2-3 people to review.Phase 4: Distribution (2-4 hours)
Step 10: Upload to the press release distribution service
Select package tier
Upload press release
Add photos/multimedia
Select categories and keywords
Choose distribution date: Tuesday-Thursday, 9-11 AM EST
Step 11: Prepare personalized email pitches
Subject: “Story idea: [Specific Hook] – [Book Title]”
Template:
Hi [First Name],
I noticed your recent piece on [specific article] and thought you might be interested in [your hook].
[2-3 sentences on relevance to their beat]
[Book Title] releases [Date] and explores [theme]. As a [credentials], I can provide [what you offer].
Would you be interested in learning more?
Best,
[Name]
Step 12: Execute outreach campaign
Day 1: Tier 1 contacts, distribution service, social media, email list
Days 2-3: Tier 2 contacts, engage responses
Days 4-5: Tier 3 contacts, book review sites
Days 6-10: Monitor, follow up, thank coverage
Step 13: Track and follow up
Monitor: email opens, media pickups, website traffic, book sales, social engagement
Follow up after 5-7 days. Maximum two follow-ups per contact.Phase 5: Post-Distribution
Step 14: Leverage coverage
Thank journalists publicly
Share on all platforms
Add to website media page
Include in email newsletter
Update Amazon Author Central
Step 15: Continue momentum
Pitch podcast interviews
Submit guest articles
Reach out for speaking opportunities
Build media relationships for future books
Frequently Asked Questions About Book Press Releases
Do I really need a press release for my book?
Not every book needs one. Skip it if you’re publishing for family only, have no platform, or lack a clear news hook. It’s valuable if you’re seeking media attention, building author credibility, targeting awards, or have a newsworthy angle.
When should I send my book press release?
Send 3-4 weeks before publication when pre-orders are available. Follow up on launch day. Avoid major news events, holidays, or Mondays/Fridays.
How long should a book press release be?
Aim for 400-500 words on a single page. Journalists generally won’t read beyond one page unless the story is compelling.
Can I write my own, or should I hire someone?
You can write your own, especially for local or genre media. Hire help if you’re targeting major national media, uncomfortable with news writing style, or have a budget but not time.
Should my press release be first or third person?
Always third person. It should read like objective news, not personal announcements. Quotes can use the first person.
How do I write a headline without creating clickbait?
Be specific and newsworthy, not sensational. Include your strongest hook, use active verbs, and concrete details. Good: “Former FBI Profiler Releases Thriller Based on Boston’s Unsolved Cases.” Bad: “You Won’t Believe What This Author Discovered!”
What’s better: distribution services or direct outreach?
Both have value. Distribution offers a wide reach and SEO benefits. Direct outreach delivers higher-quality coverage. Most successful campaigns use both.
How much should I spend on press release distribution?
This depends on your goals. $0-$100 for DIY only. $400-$600 for mid-tier service plus outreach. $1,000+ for comprehensive campaigns. Most indie authors find that $400-$600 offers the best balance.
Should I follow up after sending?
Yes. Wait 5-7 business days, keep it brief, and add new information. Maximum two follow-ups. Never be pushy.
My book has no obvious news hook. What do I do?
Tie to calendar events or awareness months, focus on a local angle, position as an expert source, highlight unique research, partner with a charity, or wait for a relevant news event to pitch timely commentary.
Can I reuse the same press release for multiple books?
Create new releases for each book, but you can use the same template. Update all details, highlight what’s evolved, and reference previous success if relevant.
What image specifications should I use?
High-resolution: 300 DPI minimum, 2400×1800 pixels. JPEG for photos, PNG for graphics. Under 10MB. Provide usage rights information.
How do I know if my press release was successful?
Track: media pickups, website traffic, book sales, interview requests, social engagement, new subscribers, and long-term opportunities. Define success metrics before launching.
Should I send a press release for a re-release?
Yes, if you have a news angle: updated content, anniversary edition, new awards, or new format. Simply re-releasing isn’t news.
What if I’m self-published? Will the media care?
Some outlets hesitate, but many don’t care about the publishing path if you have a good story. Focus on professional presentation, emphasize credentials, lead with a news hook, and prove professionalism.
Crafting Your Book Press Release
In crafting an effective book press release, it’s crucial to communicate not just the facts, but the story behind them. The provided templates and examples offer a comprehensive guide on how to approach different types of milestones, ensuring that each announcement is not only informative but also resonates with the intended audience.
The 15 examples of book press releases showed the many different types of book press releases that can be written.
Ultimately, the key to a successful press release lies in its ability to capture the story of the milestone while engaging its audience. By using the provided templates and drawing inspiration from these examples, authors and publishers can craft messages that not only deliver the necessary information but also strengthen the book and author’s brand.
Finally, here are some tips and training to help you write an amazing press release:
Additional Press Release Resources
- Directory of Examples & Templates
- What is a Press Release?
- Press Release Template & Format (including a blank press release example)
- Learn How to Format a Press Release (+ Free Template and 80+ Examples)
- Learn How to Write a Press Release
- How to Submit a Press Release
- To Write a Press Release Yourself or Not?
- 80+ Example Press Releases
- Press Release Syndication Services
- Using AI For Press Releases
- Small Business PR: How to Get Big Media Coverage on a Small Business Budget
- Using Data to Create Newsworthy Press Releases
- The Value of Cision PR Newswire Distribution for Small Businesses
- The Importance of Strong Quotes in Press Releases
- The Ultimate Public Relations Dictionary – Terms Every PR Pro Should Know
- Top 10 PR KPI Metrics Every PR Pro Should Track
- Rebrand and Logo Redesign Press Release Examples and Templates