What Does a Book Doula Do?
Writing the manuscript is one journey.
Turning it into a book is another.
Suddenly, there are decisions about trim sizes, margins, typography, paper, binding, ISBNs, cover dimensions, print specifications and publishing platforms.
It can be a lot to navigate when all you really wanted to do was write the damn book.
You don't have to become an expert in all of it.
As your Book Doula, I bring my background in graphic design, proofreading and print production to the process, helping you navigate the decisions and technical pieces involved in transforming your manuscript into a finished book.
You remain the author, the decision-maker and the owner of your work.
Your story stays yours. I'm here to help you give it physical form.
Manuscript to Book
For completed manuscripts ready to become books.
You’ve written the words.
Now we begin the process of turning your manuscript into a thoughtfully designed, print-ready book.
As your Book Doula, I walk alongside you through the production process — helping you make the decisions, navigate the technical pieces, and bring
all the elements together.
Your project may include:
Proofreading & Consistency Editing
Grammar, spelling, punctuation and editing for consistency throughout
your manuscript.
Images & Artwork
Placement and basic preparation of photographs, illustrations or artwork
you provide.
Interior Book Design
Page layout, typography, chapter styling and the thoughtful placement of
your words on the page.
Cover Design
A cover designed to suit your book, its format and its story.
Self-Publishing
Support
Guidance in choosing a suitable publishing or printing platform, navigating specifications and templates, ISBNs, uploads and the proofing process.
Print Preparation
Preparing your interior and cover files to meet the technical requirements of your chosen printer or
self-publishing platform.
Proof Copy Review
Reviewing the physical proof together and making necessary production corrections before you
give final approval.
Starting at $1,500 CAD
Every book is different.
Final pricing is based on manuscript length, number of images, layout complexity, cover requirements and the overall scope of your project.
Once I’ve learned about your book and reviewed what your project requires, I’ll provide you with a custom
scope and quote before we begin.
The Kind of Books I Especially Love to Help Bring to Life
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Memoirs and personal stories.
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Family histories told through story.
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Collections of memories and experiences.
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Legacy books created for children, grandchildren and future generations.
Books don't have to be written for a large commercial audience to deserve thoughtful design and
beautiful production.
Sometimes a book exists because
a story is worth keeping.
What I Do & What I Don't
My role as your Book Doula is focused on bringing your
completed manuscript into physical form.
I can help with:
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Proofreading and consistency editing
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Interior book design and layout
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Basic preparation and placement of supplied images
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Cover design
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Print preparation
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Self-publishing and printing guidance
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ISBN guidance
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Proof-copy review and production corrections
My role doesn't include:
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Developmental editing or major rewriting
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Ghostwriting
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Fact-checking
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Historical or genealogical research
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Family-tree creation
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Photo restoration or advanced image retouching
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Marketing, publicity or book promotion
My editing focuses on grammar, spelling, punctuation and consistency rather than restructuring or rewriting your manuscript.
You are responsible for the accuracy of your book's content and for ensuring you have permission to use any photographs, artwork or other material you provide.
I help produce the book. You remain responsible for its story and content.
Still Writing?
Not every book arrives on my desk as a completed manuscript.
In some circumstances, I offer ongoing proofreading and consistency editing while a book is still being written — allowing you to receive support chapter by chapter before moving into book production once the manuscript is complete.
This kind of support is offered on a limited basis and is quoted separately from Manuscript to Book.
Book Launch Design
Your book is finished. Now you may want a few beautiful ways to share it. Book Launch Design is available as a separate service for Book Doula clients who would like thoughtfully designed materials for a book signing, launch event or release.
Depending on your project, this might include:
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Bookmarks
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Book signing banners
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Event posters or invitations
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Other book-related design pieces
Book Launch Design is quoted separately and is not included in
Manuscript to Book projects.
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Book design and launch materials created for author Nicole Doucet. Used with permission.
