“A great title is a window into the soul of a book—it intrigues, entices, and invites the reader to step inside.”
The journey of writing a book is incomplete without a captivating title and subtitle. These elements are the first impression your book makes, and they can determine whether a potential reader picks it up or scrolls past. A well-crafted title not only captures the essence of your book but also speaks directly to your target audience.
If you’re ready to create a title that grabs attention and a subtitle that seals the deal, here’s your ultimate guide.
The Role of Titles and Subtitles
- Grab Attention
A good title stops people in their tracks. Whether it’s on a bookstore shelf or an online platform, it’s your first chance to hook readers. - Spark Curiosity
Intrigue your audience by posing a question, hinting at a solution, or evoking an emotional response. - Convey the Book’s Value
Your subtitle, often more descriptive, lets readers know what they’ll gain from your book. - Appeal to Your Target Audience
A title should resonate with the people you want to reach. It must speak their language and address their needs.
Elements of an Irresistible Book Title
- Clarity Over Cleverness
While being witty is great, clarity always wins. Your audience should understand what the book is about immediately.Example:- Clear: Atomic Habits by James Clear
- Unclear: Small Explosions (which could mean anything)
- Emotionally Resonant
Tap into emotions like hope, curiosity, or urgency to connect with readers.Example: The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* by Mark Manson evokes boldness and irreverence. - Unique and Memorable
A unique title sets your book apart in a crowded market. Avoid generic or overused phrases.Example: Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert is distinctive and sticks in the mind. - Short and Snappy
Keep it concise. Titles that are too long risk losing impact.Example: Becoming by Michelle Obama is powerful and succinct.
How to Craft a Compelling Subtitle
- Provide Specificity
Your subtitle should expand on the title, clarifying the book’s promise or subject.Example: Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek - Showcase the Benefits
Readers need to know what’s in it for them. Highlight the problem you solve or the transformation your book offers.Example: Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World by Cal Newport - Use Keywords for Discoverability
For nonfiction books especially, include searchable terms that align with your topic.Example: The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich by Tim Ferriss - Balance Length with Clarity
While subtitles are typically longer than titles, avoid overloading them with too much information.
Tips for Crafting Irresistible Titles
- Brainstorm Freely
Start with a list of words and phrases related to your book. Play around with combinations without overthinking. - Focus on Your Audience
What emotions or needs are you addressing? Your title should align with your reader’s desires or challenges. - Test Different Options
Share your ideas with a trusted circle of friends, colleagues, or potential readers. Gauge their reactions and refine accordingly. - Consider Alliteration or Rhyme
These linguistic tools make titles catchy and memorable.Example: The Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale - Draw Inspiration from Other Titles
Analyze bestsellers in your genre. What patterns do they follow? How can you adapt these elements for your own title?
Examples of Great Titles and Subtitles
- Nonfiction
- The Lean Startup: How Today’s Entrepreneurs Use Continuous Innovation to Create Radically Successful Businesses by Eric Ries
- Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead by Brené Brown
- Fiction
- Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens (title sparks curiosity with vivid imagery).
- The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern (evocative and intriguing).
- Self-Help
- You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life by Jen Sincero
- Can’t Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds by David Goggins
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Being Too Generic
Titles like Success Secrets or Life Lessons are vague and unremarkable. - Overcomplicating the Title
Keep it simple enough for readers to remember and repeat. - Ignoring the Audience
If your title doesn’t resonate with your target demographic, it won’t attract readers.
Tools to Help You
- Title Generators
Use tools like Book Title Generator or Portent’s Idea Generator for inspiration. - Keyword Research Tools
Use platforms like Google Keyword Planner to find phrases readers might search for. - A/B Testing
Platforms like PickFu allow you to test multiple titles with real people.
Final Thoughts
Your title and subtitle are more than just words on the cover—they’re promises to your readers. Invest the time to create a title that captivates and a subtitle that delivers clarity and value. With the right combination, your book will stand out, attract your ideal audience, and set the stage for success.
Now, take a moment and brainstorm: What’s the one phrase that embodies your book’s essence? Write it down—it might just be your winning title!