What Should an Author Media Kit Include?

Last updated: October 18, 2026

An author media kit is a ready-made package of information about you and your book that makes it easy for journalists, bloggers, podcasters and event organizers to feature you. It usually includes a short and long bio, book details and description, high-resolution images, sample interview questions and contact information. Everything in it should be accurate and easy to copy.

Key takeaways

• A media kit saves busy people time, which makes them more likely to feature you.
• Include bios in several lengths, book details, images and contact info.
• Only include accurate, supportable claims and metrics.
• Keep it on your website and as a downloadable PDF.

Why does a media kit matter?

Publicity is part of an author's wider platform, and Jane Friedman's The Business of Being a Writer treats visibility with media and audiences as something authors build steadily over time (Friedman, 2018). A media kit makes each of those opportunities easier to say yes to.

What belongs in a media kit?

Here is a template you can copy:

1. Author bios
   • Short (about 50 words), for event programs and social posts.
   • Medium (about 100 words), for blogs and podcasts.
   • Long (about 250 words), for features.
2. Author photo: high-resolution headshot, with photographer credit if required.
3. Book information
   • Title, subtitle and series.
   • Genre and age category.
   • Publication date, publisher or imprint.
   • Formats, ISBNs and price.
   • Page count or word count.
   • Where to buy.
4. Book description: short and long versions.
5. Cover images: flat front cover and 3D mockup, high resolution.
6. Review quotes and praise, with sources.
7. Sample interview questions and short answers.
8. Talking points: topics you can speak about, such as themes, research or craft.
9. Past media, if you have any.
10. Contact information: email, website, social handles and agent or publicist if applicable.

Should you include sales figures?

Only if they are accurate and help your pitch. A milestone like a bestseller list placement, an award or a significant number of copies sold can add credibility, but only if you can support it. Never round up, guess or imply achievements you do not have. If your numbers are modest, leave them out and focus on the book's hook, your story and why it is relevant now. Honesty protects your reputation with media.

How do you prepare images?

• Headshot: at least 1,500 pixels on the shortest side, in good light and in focus.
• Cover: the same high-resolution file you use for retailers.
• Mockups: 3D book images and lifestyle shots for social media.
• Formats: JPEG or PNG, named clearly, such as "AuthorName_Headshot.jpg."
• Rights: make sure you have permission to share the photos and that credit lines are included.

Keep the visuals consistent with your brand. See author brand visual identity.

How should you tailor a pitch?

The media kit is the same for everyone. The pitch is not. When you reach out:

• Address the person by name and show you know their outlet.
• Lead with a hook that fits their audience.
• Suggest a specific angle, like a guest post topic, an interview theme or a tie-in to current events.
• Keep the email short and link to your media kit instead of attaching everything.
• Follow their submission guidelines.

See how to get your book featured in publications for more.

Where should you host it?

Create a "Press" or "Media" page on your author website with everything visible and downloadable, plus a single PDF version. Update it with each new book.

A media kit is a key part of a launch. See the book launch timeline and author branding for writers. Cihaiyura's Author Brand Package gives you one consistent presence across your website and social profiles, and our Author Launch Package plans your launch from cover reveal to release week. Book a free consultation.

References

Friedman, J. (2018). The business of being a writer. University of Chicago Press.