Publishing low-content books can be a simple way to earn extra income, but it’s not always easy to sell them. Low-content books like journals, planners, and notebooks are gaining popularity because they’re useful, easy to create, and in demand. The challenge? Standing out in a crowded market and actually making sales. In this post, I’ll break down how to create, market, and sell low-content books that appeal to buyers and bring in consistent income. Let’s get started!
Understanding Low-Content Books
Low-content books have been making waves in the book market. If you’ve ever used a journal, planner, or coloring book, you’ve already interacted with them. They are designed to serve a specific purpose while requiring minimal content creation on your part. The best part? They offer an easy way for creators to break into self-publishing with low upfront effort and costs.
What Are Low-Content Books?
Low-content books are exactly what they sound like—books with little to no written content. Unlike traditional books filled with stories or information, these books provide space for users to engage directly with the material. The content, or lack thereof, is structured to encourage interaction or utility.
Here are some popular examples of low-content books:
- Journals: Blank or lined pages where users can jot down their thoughts, notes, or ideas.
- Planners: Structured layouts designed to help people organize their schedules and goals.
- Coloring Books: Illustrated pages created for relaxation and creativity.
- Guestbooks: Perfect for weddings, events, or special occasions.
- Activity Books: Think crosswords, puzzles, or mazes.
- Sketchbooks: Blank pages for drawing or designing.
- Logbooks: Used for tracking habits, workouts, or expenses.
These books often require minimal text, focusing instead on functionality or creative visuals. As a publisher, that means you don’t need to be a wordsmith to produce something people want to buy.
Benefits of Low-Content Publishing
Publishing low-content books can be a fantastic side hustle or even a full-time project. Let’s break down some of the biggest advantages:
- Low Production Costs
Compared to high-content books, where you need editors, proofreaders, or even illustrations, low-content books can be created with little to no added expense. Tools like Canva or Adobe Illustrator let you design pages easily without professional training. - Ease of Creation
With no complex storylines or in-depth research required, these books are quick to produce. Some creators can design multiple books in a single day. - Accessible to Beginners
You don’t need to be an experienced writer or designer to get started. Many platforms, like Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), make it simple for anyone to create, upload, and sell a book. - Endless Niches to Explore
Think niche journals for gardeners, custom planners for teachers, or themed coloring books for toddlers—there’s a niche for almost every hobby or interest. - Passive Income Potential
Once your book is live, it can generate income repeatedly without continuous effort. As long as people find and buy your books, you’ll keep earning.
Publishing low-content books isn’t just about simplicity; it’s also about opportunity. In a market filled with content-hungry customers, creating something practical and appealing can yield big results.
Researching Your Niche
Before you start drafting or designing your low-content book, you must identify the right niche. A profitable niche makes all the difference between a book that flies off the shelves and one that collects dust in an Amazon warehouse. Let’s explore how to research your niche effectively.
Analyzing Market Trends
Figuring out what’s popular and selling right now is crucial for success. You don’t want to waste your time creating something nobody is looking for. This is where tools like Google Trends and Amazon Best Sellers come into play.
- Use Google Trends
Google Trends is perfect for spotting how search interest has changed over time. Let’s say you’re considering a niche like fitness planners. Search for related keywords such as “fitness journal,” “workout tracker,” or “meal planner.” If the trend shows consistent or increasing interest, that’s a good sign. - Dive Into Amazon Best Sellers
Amazon has built-in intel for you. Go to the “Books” category, then explore subcategories like “Journals” or “Planners.” Check the Best Sellers list and note the recurring themes or designs. Are people into minimalist designs, bold colors, or specific niches like finance or mental health? Pay attention to customer reviews too—they often highlight additional needs or pain points that you can address in your book. - Spot Emerging Trends
Today’s winners might not dominate forever. Keep an eye on what’s gaining traction but isn’t oversaturated. For example, niches like “habit trackers” or “gratitude journals” have been trending upward in recent years. Staying ahead of emerging trends can help you carve out a space before the competition floods the market.
Identifying Your Target Audience
Knowing your audience is just as important as understanding the market. A journal for busy parents will look very different from one for artists or travelers. Here are some methods to pinpoint your ideal buyer:
- Ask Specific Questions
Who is buying your product, and what problems are they trying to solve? For instance, a mom juggling work and family may need a planner that focuses on time-blocking and meal prep. - Use Customer Feedback
Read product reviews in your chosen niche. Look for repeated phrases like “I wish it had…” or “This was so useful for…” These are clues to what buyers value most—and what’s missing in the current market. - Hang Out Where Your Audience Is
Join Facebook groups or Reddit communities around your niche. If you’re considering dog training journals, find forums or groups where pet owners discuss training challenges. They’ll often share their struggles and needs, giving you inspiration for your product. - Create a Persona
Think of this as creating a character—you need to know your audience inside and out. What’s their age, profession, daily routine? What motivates them to buy? The more specific you can get, the easier it is to design a book they’ll love.
By blending market trends with audience insights, you’ll position yourself to create low-content books that resonate and, more importantly, sell.
Creating Your Low-Content Book
Creating and designing a low-content book starts with the right tools and an understanding of appealing design principles. You don’t need to be a professional designer to stand out, but using reliable tools and keeping design in mind can elevate your books from basic to bestsellers. Below, I’ll break it into simple, actionable steps.
Choosing the Right Tools
The tools you use can make or break your workflow. Some offer advanced features for professionals, while others are beginner-friendly yet productive. Here are my top recommendations:
- Canva
Canva is a go-to for many creators due to its simplicity. You can easily design covers and interiors with drag-and-drop features. Plus, it has templates tailored for books, making it a great option if you’re just starting out. It’s free with an optional premium upgrade. - Adobe InDesign
This is a favorite for professionals. InDesign gives you ultimate control over layouts and design precision. It’s excellent for creating custom interiors but comes with a steeper learning curve. - Affinity Publisher
A less expensive alternative to InDesign, Affinity Publisher still offers robust features for designing professional layouts. It’s a good middle ground for advanced yet affordable design software. - Microsoft PowerPoint or Google Slides
Believe it or not, these tools aren’t just for presentations. You can create simple interiors for planners or notebooks using these programs. They’re functional if you want a no-frills solution. - Book Bolt
This platform is built specifically for low-content books. It comes with tools for creating interiors from scratch, along with cover design options. It’s user-friendly for beginners and includes integrations with Amazon KDP.
There’s no “right” tool—you just need one that fits your budget and skill level. If you’re unsure, start with Canva or Book Bolt and work your way up as you gain confidence.
Designing for Appeal
Design matters—a lot. Your book may be functional, but it also needs to catch someone’s eye in a market flooded with options. Let’s break down interior and cover design strategies to ensure your book stands out.
Creating Eye-Catching Covers
Your cover is the first impression buyers will have. Here’s how to make it count:
- Keep It Simple: Don’t flood your cover with text, colors, or graphics. Minimalist designs often perform better, especially in niches like planners or journals.
- Use High-Quality Images: Blurry or pixelated graphics are an instant turn-off. Invest in clear visuals and high-resolution images.
- Readable Fonts: Choose fonts that are easy to read, even at a glance. Avoid overly decorative fonts that confuse the title or subtitle.
- Colors That Pop: Use contrasting colors for the background and text. Bright, bold colors often stand out more in search results.
- Consider Your Niche: The design should match your audience. A kid’s activity book might use playful, vibrant designs, while a financial planner would feel more professional with clean layouts and muted tones.
Designing the Interior
The interior design is where your book becomes practical. Here are some tips to align functionality with aesthetics:
- Stick to a Consistent Layout: Repetition isn’t boring; it’s functional. Keep page elements like headers, lines, and boxes uniform throughout the book.
- Leave Room for Writing: Make sure there’s enough space for users to write comfortably. Cluttered or overcrowded pages frustrate buyers.
- Align with User Needs: Think about how your target audience will use the pages. For example, planners could include dated boxes, to-do lists, or habit trackers.
- Fonts and Lines Matter: Use faint lines for journals or sketchbooks. They’re less intrusive and make the book easier to use.
- Test the Print Version: Always preview your interiors in print mode using platforms like Amazon KDP before publishing. This ensures margins and alignments are on point.
Great design doesn’t have to be complex. Focus on creating a tool that buyers find visually appealing and practical to use. Combine intuitive layouts with thoughtful design elements, and you’ll be ahead of many others in the market.
Publishing on Amazon KDP
Publishing your low-content book on Amazon KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing) doesn’t have to be overwhelming—it’s actually one of the most beginner-friendly platforms for self-publishing. Amazon’s vast marketplace makes it easy to reach global audiences without upfront costs. Whether you’re creating journals, planners, or notebooks, KDP is the perfect launchpad. Below, I’ll guide you through setting up your account and formatting your content properly to meet Amazon’s requirements.
Setting Up Your KDP Account
Creating your KDP account is the first step to getting your low-content book on Amazon. Here’s how to get started:
- Go to the Amazon KDP Website
Visit kdp.amazon.com and click on “Sign Up” or “Sign In.” If you already have an Amazon account, you can use those credentials. - Provide Basic Information
After logging in, you’ll need to fill out your author profile, including your name and email. This doesn’t have to be your personal information if you plan to use a pen name or operate as a business. - Enter Payment and Tax Details
- Payment: Link a bank account where your royalties will be deposited. Double-check that the bank’s currency matches Amazon’s supported payment currencies.
- Tax Information: For tax purposes, you’ll need to complete a W-9 (for US citizens) or a W-8BEN (for non-US citizens). This ensures Amazon knows how to handle your earnings.
- Agree to Terms & Conditions
KDP will ask you to accept their terms of use. Make sure to read through or at least skim the key points to understand your responsibilities.
Once your account is live, you can immediately start uploading your books. The process is free, and Amazon only takes a percentage from your sales, so there’s little risk to giving it a try.
Formatting Your Book for KDP
Formatting your low-content book properly can make or break its success. Not only does it ensure the book looks professional, but it prevents issues during the upload and printing process. Here’s what you need to know:
KDP’s Formatting Guidelines for Low-Content Books
Amazon has specific requirements for paperback and hardcover formatting. Here’s an overview:
- Page Dimensions: Choose from the standard trim sizes. Common options for low-content books include:
- 6” x 9” (most popular for journals and planners)
- 8.5” x 11” (perfect for activity or coloring books).
- Margins: Leave at least 0.125 inches (3.2 mm) on all sides to prevent content being cut off during printing. For interior designs that go to the edge (bleed), ensure a 0.25-inch bleed area.
- File Requirements:
- Upload interior files as PDF.
- Ensure the resolution is 300 DPI (dots per inch) for maximum clarity.
- Black-and-White or Color: Decide based on your design. Color interiors cost more to print, so price your book accordingly.
Tips for Formatting Low-Content Interiors
Formatting isn’t as intimidating as it sounds, and you don’t need advanced tools. Follow these tips to keep things clean and easy to use:
- Use Pre-Made Templates
Amazon offers free manuscript templates (get them here), which already include the proper dimensions and margins. If you’re new, this can save you a ton of hassle. - Create Enough Pages
Amazon requires a minimum of 24 pages for paperbacks. Journals, sketchbooks, and planners typically have anywhere between 100 to 200 pages to maximize usability. - Include Page Numbers or Labels
While low-content books generally don’t include much text, adding numbered or labeled sections (e.g., “Day 1,” “Weekly Goals”) increases organization and functionality.
Cover Formatting Tips
Your cover design ties everything together. Here are the key formatting rules you need to follow:
- Cover Dimensions: Amazon will calculate cover size based on page count. If in doubt, use Amazon’s Cover Calculator.
- File Format: Submit the cover as a PDF, and make sure it includes the front, back, and spine in one file.
- Bleed and Margins: Ensure there’s a 0.125-inch bleed area around the cover to avoid missing elements during production.
By adhering to Amazon’s formatting rules, you’ll avoid unnecessary delays and rejections. A little extra attention to detail here can save you a lot of troubleshooting later.
Marketing Your Low-Content Book
After putting in the effort to create your low-content book, the next hurdle is getting it noticed. Marketing might seem daunting, but with the right strategies, you can reach the right audience and turn your project into a steady income stream. Let’s explore two key methods to promote your book effectively.
Utilizing Social Media
Social media is a powerful tool for reaching potential buyers, but only if you approach it strategically. The key is to focus on platforms where your target audience spends their time and use engaging content that positions your book as a must-have.
Choosing the Right Platforms
Not all social media platforms work equally well for all audiences. Here’s a breakdown to help you focus:
- Instagram: Ideal for visual niches such as art journals, planners, and coloring books. Use attractive images or videos of your books in action.
- TikTok: Great for trending niches and reaching a younger audience. Share behind-the-scenes design processes or demonstrate how your book solves a specific problem.
- Pinterest: Perfect for productivity tools like planners and trackers. Create pins that link directly to your book’s Amazon page with beautiful cover images and text overlays.
- Facebook Groups: Join niche-focused communities, such as groups for journaling, habit tracking, or specific hobbies. Share value-added content like tips and templates to build trust before introducing your book.
Tactics to Boost Engagement
Effectively marketing on social doesn’t mean spamming your book’s link everywhere. Instead, try these tactics:
- Post Consistently: Share updates, tips, and snippets showcasing your book’s features. Use a content calendar to plan posts.
- Use Short Videos: Quick how-to videos or flip-throughs of your book can grab attention.
- Leverage Hashtags: Use hashtags related to your book’s niche, such as #BulletJournaling, #DailyPlanner, or #HabitTracker.
- Collaborate with Influencers: Partner with micro-influencers in your niche who have an engaged following. This can be more effective than targeting larger influencers.
- Run Contests: Encourage followers to share your book for a chance to win a free copy or exclusive bonus.
Remember, social media thrives on interaction. Reply to comments, ask engaging questions, and create posts that spark conversations.
Building an Email List
An email list is one of the most underrated marketing tools for low-content books. Unlike social platforms where algorithms rule, email allows you to directly reach people who are genuinely interested in your content.
How to Grow an Email List
Building an email list takes effort, but here are some beginner-friendly methods:
- Offer a Free Download: Create a freebie like a printable coloring page, journal page, or weekly planner template. Ask for an email in exchange for the download.
- Promote on Social Media: Share your freebie or email sign-up link on your posts and profiles.
- Use a Landing Page: Design a simple landing page that explains the benefits of signing up and showcases your book. Tools like Mailchimp or ConvertKit make this easy.
Keeping Your List Engaged
Once people join your email list, you’ll need to keep them interested. Here’s how:
- Send a welcome email thanking them for signing up and introducing your book.
- Share exclusive content, such as insider tips, design inspirations, or upcoming book announcements.
- Offer discounts or bundle deals tailored to your email subscribers.
- Run polls or surveys asking for their opinions about future designs or themes.
Email campaigns work because they build relationships over time. When you launch a new book, you’ll have a loyal audience ready to buy.
Maximizing Sales and Reviews
Creating a fantastic low-content book is only half the battle. Selling your book and gathering reviews are just as critical to long-term success. Why? Because customer reviews influence buyers, and increased visibility drives more sales. Let’s tackle this process with actionable steps to encourage reviews and use ads effectively.
Encouraging Customer Reviews
If you’ve ever bought something based on glowing reviews, you understand their power. Reviews legitimize your product and build trust with new buyers. So, how can you motivate people to leave one for your book?
- Include a Call-to-Action in Your Book
Add a short, polite note at the end of your book thanking readers and inviting them to leave a review. Something as simple as, “If you enjoyed using this journal, a quick review would mean the world!” can encourage action. - Utilize Email Follow-Ups
If you’re driving traffic from your own email list, follow-up emails are a great way to ask for reviews. After someone purchases your book, send a friendly email a few days later to thank them and gently request feedback. - Engage Readers on Social Media
Use platforms where your audience hangs out. Share posts inviting readers to share their thoughts about the book. Offer prompts like, “How has this planner helped you stay organized? Let us know in a review!” - Offer Incentives (Legally!)
While it’s against Amazon’s policy to offer rewards for positive reviews, you can encourage honest ones. For example, run a generalized giveaway where participants share a photo of the book or their filled-out pages, promoting engagement without breaking the rules. - Remind Them Why Reviews Matter
Be transparent. Explain that reviews help small creators like you grow and design even better products. People are often willing to help if they see a personal appeal.
Lastly, be patient. Reviews may not pour in overnight, especially when you’re starting out. But consistent efforts, reminders, and appreciating readers who take the time will add up.
Using Ads Effectively
Your book won’t sell if no one sees it. Advertising plays a pivotal role in boosting visibility, especially when the market is crowded. Here’s how to use Amazon Ads and social media ads to propel your book sales.
Getting Started with Amazon Ads
Amazon Ads is one of the easiest ways to reach people already shopping for similar books. It’s a pay-per-click (PPC) platform, meaning you only pay when someone clicks your ad. Follow these basics to get started:
- Set a Budget: Start small. Allocate $5–$10 per day to test the waters without significant risk.
- Choose the Right Ad Type: For low-content books, Sponsored Product Ads work best. They appear directly in Amazon search results or on product pages.
- Target Keywords: Use tools like Publisher Rocket or even Amazon’s own search bar to find related keywords. For instance, if your book is a coloring journal, terms like “adult coloring book” and “calming journal” could be effective.
- Optimize Your Landing Page: Ensure your book’s product page is optimized with a compelling title, professional images, and detailed descriptions. Ads drive traffic, but the page must convert visitors into buyers.
Social Media Ads That Work
Social media platforms offer incredible customization when targeting users. While Amazon Ads focus on immediate shoppers, social media helps you build awareness. Here’s how to navigate these waters:
- Choose the Right Platform
- Use Facebook Ads and Instagram for targeted demographics. For example, if your planner targets busy moms, direct ads to women aged 25–40 with an interest in organization.
- Opt for platforms like TikTok if you’ve got a book aimed at younger audiences, such as activity or doodle books.
- Use Eye-Catching Visuals
Keep creative quality high. Share a quick video flipping through your book or feature an image of it in action. People want to know what they’re spending money on. - Test Multiple Campaigns
Run A/B tests with different ad visuals, copy, and audiences. For example, test whether “Stay Organized with Our Weekly Planner” outperforms “The Best Planner to Simplify Your Life.” Small tweaks often yield big results. - Track Your Metrics
Pay attention to click-through rates (CTR) and conversion rates on your ads. High CTR but low conversions? Your book’s landing page may need some work. Low CTR? Tweak your ad headline or imagery.
Pro Tip: Combine Both
A successful ad strategy often pairs Amazon ads with social media campaigns. Run Amazon Ads to capture immediate buyers and use social media for audience building. The two go hand in hand, strengthening your efforts.
Strategic ads and consistent pushes for reviews are the foundation of a successful marketing plan. With these tools, you’ll boost credibility and increase sales over time.
Final Thoughts
If you want to succeed with low-content books, it all starts with understanding the audience and delivering value. Research trends, create compelling designs, and optimize your product for platforms like Amazon KDP. But don’t stop there—marketing is essential. Use social media, email lists, and ads to get your book in front of the right crowd.
Remember, every successful publisher started with just one book. Take action now, learn as you go, and refine your approach. The potential to build a scalable, profitable business is within your reach.
What’s stopping you from publishing your first (or better) low-content book today?
