Choosing the Perfect Trim Size for Your Fiction Book

What is the perfect size for your book? It depends. Fiction books come in different shapes and sizes, known as trim sizes, which affect how easy they are to carry, how they look, and even how much they cost to print. Whether you want a small, pocket-friendly book or a larger, more prominent one, choosing the correct trim size is essential in publishing a book.

Pocketbooks: Small But Handy

For self-publishing on Amazon KDP, a Pocketbook is among the most popular sizes. It is 4.25" x 6.87" and is often used for paperbacks because it is portable, easy to hold, and easily tucks into a pocket or purse. It is frequently referred to as a Mass Market Paperback. I prefer this size because I never leave home without a book, fearing I'll be stuck waiting in a queue with nothing to occupy my time. This size is also an excellent option for self-published authors because it helps lower publishing costs, making it an affordable choice for both production and retail pricing. Look for journals, small notebooks, and paperbacks in "Pocketbook" size on Amazon.

Digest Size: A Versatile Choice for Fiction Books

The Digest size, 5.5" x 8.5", is often used for paperback books. This size provides more room for content, making it suitable for books with a larger page count. While it remains portable, the Digest size offers additional space for slightly longer novels.

US Trade Size: Bigger, Bolder, Better

Want to make an impact? Choose the 6x9 trim size, often called the US Trade size. You'll usually find this size used for hardcover books, but it also appears in some paperback editions, as it is likely to stand out on bookshelves. It's an attention grabber for genres like thrillers and crime novels. Printing costs are slightly higher than the smaller sizes, but it gives your book a polished look that catches the reader's attention.

Choosing the correct trim size is all about finding the right balance. There's a perfect trim size that will fit your goals and vision just right, whether you're focused on portability, cost, or the visual appeal of your book.

Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash

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