A printed book combines physical components with editorial sections. The cover protects the page block, while the interior contains the text, images and organising elements. Knowing the correct terms makes it easier to request quotations and prepare layouts and binding without confusing the front cover with the title page.
The outer cover and the internal title page are not the same: the former is a physical external component, while the latter is a page in the book block containing the title and publication details.
Exterior parts of a book
Depending on its construction, the cover comprises a front, spine and back. Some designs also have flaps. Hardback books include covering materials and boards.
What is the front cover?
In everyday language, “cover” often means the front face of the outer cover. In bibliography and editorial composition, the title page is the internal page showing the title, author and publisher. Clarify which part is meant when preparing files.
Spine and back cover
The spine visually and physically connects the book block and cover, depending on the binding. The back cover may carry a synopsis, commercial details and a barcode where applicable. Spine width depends on the paper’s actual caliper.
Endpapers and blank leaves
In certain bindings, endpapers attach the book block to the boards. Some publications include blank leaves for editorial or construction purposes. Not every book needs the same components.
What is a book block?
The book block or interior contains all the pages. It can include preliminary matter, contents, a foreword, chapters, notes, bibliography and appendices. Its structure depends on the work.
Preliminary and copyright pages
The copyright page may include publication data, edition, rights, ISBN and legal-deposit information where applicable. Exact positions can be adapted to the design and publishing requirements.
Epilogue, appendices and colophon
An epilogue follows the main body to conclude or extend a narrative or essay. Appendices supply complementary information. A colophon may record details of the edition and its manufacture.
When planning the final pages, decide whether each of these sections genuinely serves the work and include it in the pagination before approving the files.
Table of book parts
| Part | Function |
|---|---|
| Cover | External protection and presentation |
| Spine | Joining and titling area |
| Endpapers | Attachment in certain structures |
| Book block | Interior pages |
| Colophon | Final edition details, if included |
How to prepare a book for printing
- Define the closed size and pagination.
- Select the text paper.
- Choose the binding.
- Confirm the cover and spine dimensions.
- Review preliminary matter and credits.
- Validate the PDF and a physical proof.
Before designing the cover, calculate its complete flat size from the front, back, spine and any flaps, using the printer’s final spine measurement.
It is also useful to distinguish editorial content from the book’s physical construction before beginning the layout.
Frequently asked questions
Do all books have endpapers?
No.
Are the book block and cover the same?
No. They are separate components.
Where is the ISBN placed?
Usually on the copyright page and, where appropriate, in a barcode on the outside.
Do you need to print a book or catalogue? Send us the page count, dimensions, material and binding requirements.
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