The legal page of your book, usually the first one, contains important copyright and publication information. While not the most exciting part of your book, the legal page still requires thought and strategy.
Wondering what data to include and where to put it?
Copyright Statement
A copyright statement declares your legal copyright ownership. Boldly display this at the top or bottom of the legal page. Here is sample text:
"Copyright © [Your Name], [Year of First Publication]. All rights reserved."
ISBN
The 13-digit ISBN or International Standard Book Number uniquely identifies your book. List this prominently below the copyright line. For example:
"ISBN 978-0-123456-78-0"
Edition Statement
Note the edition of your book under the ISBN if applicable. The first publication is usually the "First Edition." For example:
"First Edition"
Publisher and Publication Date
On the next lines, state the publisher name and publication date. For instance:
"Published by Mountain Ridge Books, July 2023"
Author Name and Location
Add your name and location on the next line. This asserts your authorship and where the book was written. For example:
"Jane Doe, Denver, Colorado"
Legal Disclaimers
Conclude with any legal disclaimers such as that the book contains fictional characters/events or does not provide professional advice. Place these in italics at the bottom of the page.
By thoughtfully arranging these key details, you can craft an organized legal page that protects your writerly rights. Let me know if you would like me to revise or expand this translation.