Judging criteria

Author credibility

• Is the author’s expertise clearly demonstrated in the content of the book?

• Has the author added anything new to the field – new research or thinking (not simply summarised or discussed existing ideas)?

• Does the author blurb convey credibility and relevant expertise?

Suitability for target audience

• Are the title and subtitle appropriate for the subject?

• Does the book deliver on the promise made in the title and blurb?

• Is the language appropriate for the audience (e.g. not too academic for a general market, or too casual for a serious topic)?

• Is the author’s voice appropriate for the target reader (e.g. not condescending, not overly complex, and not assuming too much prior knowledge)?

Quality of writing

• Is the writing engaging and easy to read?

• Is the information well communicated?

• Does the writing feel thoughtful and well developed (rather than formulaic or dry)?

• Are external sources and research used to provide depth to the discussion?

Editing and proofreading

• Is the text free from significant or repeated errors?

• Are sources properly referenced?

• If there is an index or glossary, is it useful and well compiled?

• Is the writing style consistent, with a clear flow and information that is easy to absorb?

Book structure

• Is there a logical flow of ideas and a clear reader journey?

• Do the chapters and parts make sense in terms of structure and length?

• Is there a clear beginning, middle and end – both overall and within each chapter or part?

Originality of thought

• Is the book largely or entirely based on the author’s own content or research?

• Does the book feel refreshing and distinct compared to others on a similar topic?

• Is the book one you would confidently recommend to a friend or colleague?

Production

Internal formatting and layout

• Is the typesetting clear, readable and consistent?

Print quality

• Is the ink consistent throughout, the paper stock appropriate, the binding secure, and the cover finish high quality?

Illustrations and graphics

• If included, are graphics and illustrations well designed, relevant, and helpful to the reader’s understanding?

Cover design

• Is the cover design attractive, original and appropriate to the book’s subject matter?

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