How to Add Back Matter to Your Illustrated Book

Overview: Back matter refers to the content that appears at the end of your book, after the main story has concluded. This optional content can add depth and context to your illustrated book and provide readers with additional information or bonus material. Common elements of back matter include an author or illustrator note, an “about the author” section, or any bonus content you want to include, such as discussion questions or fun facts related to the story. In this article, we’ll explore how to add back matter to your book and what types of content you might consider including.

What Is Back Matter?

Back matter is an optional section at the end of a book that provides additional information or supplementary content. It often includes the following elements:

1. Author or Illustrator Note – A personal note from the author or illustrator can provide insight into the creation of the book, the inspiration behind the story, or the message they hope to convey.
2. About the Author Section – An “About the Author” section allows readers to learn more about the person who created the book. This can include details about the author’s background, interests, or previous works.
3. Bonus Content – Additional content, such as discussion questions, fun facts, or activities, can provide readers with more ways to engage with the book.
4. Acknowledgments or Dedications – Acknowledgments or dedications allow authors to thank people who contributed to the book’s creation or to dedicate the book to someone special.

Types of Back Matter to Consider Adding

The type of back matter you choose to include will depend on your goals and the overall tone of your book. Here are some common types of back matter and tips for adding them to your illustrated book:

1. Author or Illustrator Note

An author or illustrator note offers a behind-the-scenes look at the book’s creation:

• Personal Reflections: Share personal reflections on the themes of the book, the writing or illustrating process, or any challenges you faced.
• Inspiration Behind the Story: Explain what inspired you to write or illustrate the book. This could include a personal experience, a conversation, or a particular topic you’re passionate about.
• Message for Readers: Use this space to share any messages or lessons you hope readers take away from the book.

2. About the Author

The “About the Author” section introduces readers to the person behind the book:

• Author Biography: Include a short biography that highlights your background, previous works, or any awards you’ve received. Use third-person language for a more professional tone.
• Personal Interests: Share personal interests or hobbies that connect with the book’s themes or story.
• Contact Information or Website: Provide contact information or a link to your website or social media profiles so readers can connect with you.

3. Bonus Content

Bonus content provides readers with more ways to interact with the book:

• Discussion Questions: Include a few discussion questions to encourage readers to think more deeply about the book’s themes or characters.
• Activities or Games: Create activities or games related to the book’s content, such as word searches, mazes, or drawing prompts.
• Fun Facts: Share fun facts related to the story or characters. For example, if your book is about animals, include interesting facts about the animals featured in the story.

4. Acknowledgments and Dedications

Acknowledgments and dedications allow you to thank those who helped you create the book or to dedicate the book to someone special:

• Acknowledgments: List the names of people or organizations who supported you during the creation of the book, such as editors, family members, or mentors.
• Dedication Page: Write a short dedication to someone special, such as a family member, friend, or anyone who inspired the book.

Tips for Adding Back Matter to Your Book

1. Keep It Concise – Back matter should be concise and focused. Avoid overwhelming readers with too much information. Keep each section brief and to the point.
2. Use a Consistent Style and Tone – Maintain a consistent style and tone that matches the rest of the book. This creates a cohesive reading experience from start to finish.
3. Include Visual Elements – Consider adding visual elements, such as illustrations or decorative borders, to the back matter to make it visually appealing and engaging.
4. Consider Your Target Audience – Think about what your target audience would find interesting or valuable. For example, young readers might enjoy a drawing prompt, while older readers might appreciate a more detailed author note.
5. Review and Revise – Review your back matter for accuracy and clarity. Make any necessary revisions to ensure it enhances the overall book without detracting from the main story.

Final Notes: Adding back matter to your illustrated book is an excellent way to provide readers with additional information and bonus content. Use this guide to decide which elements to include and how to structure your back matter for a more engaging and comprehensive reading experience.