Why do books come in various sizes?

If you are a book lover, you would have noticed that books can be published in an array of sizes. In fact, you might have a book by the same Author, but the size of each title varies.

There are many reasons why books are published in varying sizes, but the most common reasons are:

1. The Printer

Some printers have specific size formats they are comfortable printing in. This varies depending on the type of paper used and the specific printing machine used to print the book.

2. The Publisher

Some publishers are sensitive to book sizes they are willing to publish as they restrict word-count. They feel a book that might be too thick would put some readers off. So, if the word-count is between 80,000 to 100,000 words, then the publisher might choose to publish a slightly longer book to fit more words per page, and ultimately reduce the overall number of pages of the book.

3. The Distributor

There are many different companies who distribute books globally, from Amazon being the most popular, all the way to less-known distributors. Each distributor has its own printer and sizing preferences. So, you might buy a book through one distributer and its one size, and then the very same book through a different distributor and it’s a different size.

4. The Cost

Ultimately it comes down to cost. What is the most cost-effective size to print a book? Also, what is the most cost-effective size for a distributor to courier that book. This needs to be factored into the equation when choosing a book size.

The size your book is printed in might not always be up to you as an Author, but if you have questions or preferences, make sure to share these with your publishers.

Love, the Kingsley Publishing Team