After writing, editing and finally approving your book, there are still a few tasks to finish before your published book falls into place. As a fantasy author, I understand how important it is to create an immersive world that captivates readers. However, beyond the story itself, the structure of your book plays a crucial role in its professionalism and readability. Whether you're self-publishing or following the traditional route, there are certain pages you should always include to ensure your book is complete, polished, and reader-friendly.
The title page is one of the first things readers see. It typically includes:
1. Title Page
- The book’s title
- The author’s name
- The publisher’s name (if applicable)
This page sets the tone for your book and provides essential publishing details.
This page is vital for protecting your work. It usually contains:
2. Copyright Page
- The copyright notice
- The year of publication
- The author’s name or pen name
- ISBN (if applicable)
- Publisher information
- Rights and permissions statement
- Disclaimer (if needed)
3. Dedication Page (Optional)
A heartfelt dedication adds a personal touch to your book. Here, you can acknowledge someone who inspired or supported you during the writing process.
4. Acknowledgments Page (Optional)
Like a dedication, the acknowledgments page allows you to thank everyone who contributed to your book’s success, including editors, beta readers, and mentors.
5. Table of Contents (For Some Fantasy Books)
Not all fantasy books require a table of contents, but if yours has multiple parts, sections, or a unique structure (such as an epic saga with multiple POVs), it can aid navigation.
6. Foreword (Optional)
If a well-known figure in the fantasy genre writes a foreword for your book, it can enhance credibility and highlight the book’s significance to readers.
7. Preface or Introduction
A preface or introduction allows you to explain why you wrote the book, your inspiration, and what readers can expect. It’s a great way to set the stage for the story.
8. Prologue (Highly Recommended for Fantasy Books)
A well-crafted prologue can provide essential background information, world-building, or a significant event that sets up your story. Many fantasy authors (myself included) use it to immerse readers in the lore and history of the world before the main narrative begins.
9. Body of the Book
This is where the content of your book resides, divided into chapters or sections.
10. Epilogue (For Fantasy, If Needed)
An epilogue can effectively wrap up loose ends or hint at future adventures in your world, especially if you're planning a series.
11. Appendix (Highly Recommended for Fantasy Books)
If your book contains detailed world-building elements, an appendix is invaluable. I always include one to expand on maps, family trees, history, magical systems, or other details that enrich the world without disrupting the main narrative.
12. Glossary (Essential for Fantasy Novels)
Fantasy books often introduce unique terminology, magic systems, creatures, or names. A glossary helps readers keep track of these elements, ensuring they fully understand and engage with your world.
13. Maps (Recommended for Fantasy Books)
If your world spans multiple lands, kingdoms, or realms, including a map can help readers visualize it and follow the characters' journeys more easily. Readers love maps—it helps bring your world to life!
14. About the Author Page
This page gives readers insight into who you are. It may include:
- A short bio
- Your other published works
- Your website and social media links
- Ways to contact you
15. Call-to-Action Page
For self-published authors, this page can be a game-changer. Encourage readers to:
- Leave a review
- Sign up for your newsletter
- Follow you on social media
- Purchase your next book
16. Index (For Complex Fantasy Works, If Needed)
If your book includes extensive lore, locations, or character references, an index can help readers navigate these elements easily.
From personal experience, I can say that including these pages in your fantasy book ensures a professional look, provides a great reader experience, and enhances your credibility as an author. Whether you're writing a standalone novel or an epic series, structuring your book properly will set it up for success.