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Writing Your Author Bio? Here Are 20 Great Examples. (Plus a Checklist!)

October 15, 2020 by Diana Urban

Writing your author bio can be a daunting task, but a well-crafted bio can help readers learn more about what makes you and your books so interesting. You should regularly maintain your bio on places like your BookBub Author Profile so fans and potential readers seeking you out can learn more about you and why they should pick up your latest book.

Stuck on what to include? While there is no one-size-fits-all formula, here are some examples of author bios we love so you can get some inspiration when crafting your own bio. We’ve also created an Author Biography Checklist with recommendations on what to include, as well as where to keep your author bio up to date online.

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1. Ramona Emerson

Ramona Emerson is a Diné writer and filmmaker originally from Tohatchi, New Mexico. She has a bachelor’s in Media Arts from the University of New Mexico and an MFA in Creative Writing from the Institute of American Indian Arts. After starting in forensic videography, she embarked upon a career as a photographer, writer, and editor. She is an Emmy nominee, a Sundance Native Lab Fellow, a Time-Warner Storyteller Fellow, a Tribeca All-Access Grantee and a WGBH Producer Fellow. In 2020, Emerson was appointed to the Governor’s Council on Film and Media Industries for the State of New Mexico. She currently resides in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where she and her husband, the producer Kelly Byars, run their production company Reel Indian Pictures. Shutter is her first novel.

Why we love it: Ramona makes a splash as a new author by detailing her extensive experience in both writing and filmmaking. Her background makes an effective setup for her debut novel about a forensic photographer.

2. Courtney Milan

Courtney Milan writes books about carriages, corsets, and smartwatches. Her books have received starred reviews in Publishers Weekly , Library Journal , and Booklist . She is a New York Times and a USA Today Bestseller. Courtney pens a weekly newsletter about tea, books, and basically anything and everything else. Sign up for it here: https://bit.ly/CourtneysTea Before she started writing romance, Courtney got a graduate degree in theoretical physical chemistry from UC Berkeley. After that, just to shake things up, she went to law school at the University of Michigan and graduated summa cum laude. Then she did a handful of clerkships. She was a law professor for a while. She now writes full-time. Courtney is represented by Kristin Nelson of the Nelson Literary Agency.

Why we love it: Courtney concisely leads with her accolades and bestseller status before diving into more personal information with a witty tone. She also includes a call-to-action for readers to sign up to Weekly Tea, one of her mailing lists.

3. Adam Silvera

Adam Silvera is the number one New York Times bestselling author of More Happy Than Not , History Is All You Left Me , They Both Die at the End , Infinity Son , Infinity Reaper , and—with Becky Albertalli— What If It’s Us . He was named a Publishers Weekly Flying Start for his debut. Adam was born and raised in the Bronx. He was a bookseller before shifting to children’s publishing and has worked at a literary development company and a creative writing website for teens and as a book reviewer of children’s and young adult novels. He is tall for no reason and lives in Los Angeles. Visit him online at www.adamsilvera.com .

Why we love it: Adam begins his bio with his bestseller accolades and a list of his popular titles. But we especially love how he also includes his previous experience in children’s literature. It’s a fantastic way an author can craft a unique and credible bio using information besides accolades or bestseller status.

4. Farrah Rochon

USA Today Bestselling author Farrah Rochon hails from a small town just west of New Orleans. She has garnered much acclaim for her Crescent City-set Holmes Brothers series and her Moments in Maplesville small town series. Farrah is a two-time finalist for the prestigious RITA Award from the Romance Writers of America and has been nominated for an RT BOOKReviews Reviewers Choice Award. In 2015, she received the Emma Award for Author of the Year. When she is not writing in her favorite coffee shop, Farrah spends most of her time reading, cooking, traveling the world, visiting Walt Disney World, and catching her favorite Broadway shows. An admitted sports fanatic, she feeds her addiction to football by watching New Orleans Saints games on Sunday afternoons. Keep in touch with Farrah via the web: Website: https://www.farrahrochon.com/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/farrahrochonauthor Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/FarrahRochon Instagram: https://instagram.com/farrahrochon/ Newsletter: http://bit.ly/2povjuZ Join my online Fan Club, the Rochonettes! https://www.facebook.com/groups/FarrahRochon/ Farrah’s Books In Order: The Holmes Brothers Deliver Me (Mar. 2007) Release Me (May 2008) Rescue Me (Jan. 2009) Chase Me (Jan. 2017) Trust Me (May 2017) Awaken Me (Jan. 2018) Cherish Me (Jun. 2018) Return To Me (Aug. 2019) New York Sabers Huddle With Me Tonight (Sept. 2010) I’ll Catch You (Mar. 2011) Field of Pleasure (Sept. 2011) Pleasure Rush (Mar. 2012) Bayou Dreams A Forever Kind of Love (Aug. 2012) Always and Forever (Jan. 2013) Yours Forever (Mar. 2014) Forever’s Promise (Apr. 2014) Forever With You (Feb. 2015) Stay With Me Forever (Aug. 2015) Moments in Maplesville A Perfect Holiday Fling (Nov. 2012) A Little Bit Naughty (Mar. 2013) Just A Little Taste (Jan. 2014) I Dare You! (Nov. 2014) All You Can Handle (June 2015) Any Way You Want It (Feb. 2016) Any Time You Need Me (June 2016) Standalones In Her Wildest Dreams (Jan. 2012) The Rebound Guy (July 2012) Delectable Desire (Apr. 2013) Runaway Attraction (Nov. 2013) A Mistletoe Affari (Nov. 2014) Passion’s Song (Feb. 2016) Mr. Right Next Door (Sept. 2016) Anthologies A Change of Heart (The Holiday Inn Anthology – Sept. 2008) No Ordinary Gift (Holiday Brides Anthology – Oct. 2009) Holiday Spice (Holiday Temptation Anthology – Sept. 2016) Christmas Kisses (Reissue–Contains Tuscan Nights and Second-Chance Christmas previously published by Harlequin Kimani

Why we love it: Farrah packs a lot of information into that first paragraph, elegantly describing the awards she’s received and has been nominated for. We also love how she makes it easy for readers to find her on whichever social media platform they prefer and to discover which book to start with for each series.

5. Angie Fox

New York Times bestselling author Angie Fox writes sweet, fun, action-packed mysteries. Her characters are clever and fearless, but in real life, Angie is afraid of basements, bees, and going up stairs when it is dark behind her. Let’s face it. Angie wouldn’t last five minutes in one of her books. Angie is best known for her Southern Ghost Hunter mysteries and for her Accidental Demon Slayer books. Visit her at www.angiefox.com

Why we love it: We love how Angie distinguishes herself from her characters, making herself relatable to readers. She also mentions her bestseller status and best-known works in a humble way.

6. Tiffany D. Jackson

Tiffany D. Jackson is the critically acclaimed author of Allegedly , Monday’s Not Coming , and Let Me Hear a Rhyme . A Walter Dean Myers Honor Book and Coretta Scott King–John Steptoe New Talent Award winner, she received her bachelor of arts in film from Howard University, earned her master of arts in media studies from the New School, and has over a decade in TV and film experience. The Brooklyn native still resides in the borough she loves. You can visit her at www.writeinbk.com .

Why we love it: This is an excellent example of a short, concise bio — a perfect snippet for journalists, bloggers, or event coordinators who need to grab Tiffany’s bio for their article or programming.

7. Kwame Alexander

Kwame Alexander is the New York Times Bestselling author of 32 books, including The Undefeated ; How to Read a Book ; Solo ; Swing ; Rebound , which was shortlisted for prestigious Carnegie Medal; and his Newbery medal-winning middle grade novel, The Crossover . He’s also the founding editor of Versify, an imprint that aims to Change the World One Word at a Time. Visit him at KwameAlexander.com

Why we love it: We adore how Kwame calls out his aim to “change the world one word at a time” along with a handful of his best-known books. Short and sweet!

8. Glynnis Campbell

For deals, steals, and new releases from Glynnis, click FOLLOW on this BookBub page! Glynnis Campbell is a USA Today bestselling author of over two dozen swashbuckling action-adventure historical romances, mostly set in Scotland, and a charter member of The Jewels of Historical Romance — 12 internationally beloved authors. She’s the wife of a rock star and the mother of two young adults, but she’s also been a ballerina, a typographer, a film composer, a piano player, a singer in an all-girl rock band, and a voice in those violent video games you won’t let your kids play. Doing her best writing on cruise ships, in Scottish castles, on her husband’s tour bus, and at home in her sunny southern California garden, Glynnis loves to play medieval matchmaker… transporting readers to a place where the bold heroes have endearing flaws, the women are stronger than they look, the land is lush and untamed, and chivalry is alive and well! Want a FREE BOOK? Sign up for her newsletter at https://www.glynnis.net Tag along on her latest adventures here: Website: https://www.glynnis.net Facebook: bit.ly/GCReadersClan Goodreads: bit.ly/GlynnisGoodreads Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/GlynnisCampbell Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/GlynnisCampbell Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/GlynnisCampbell BOOK LIST: The Warrior Maids of Rivenloch: THE SHIPWRECK A YULETIDE KISS LADY DANGER CAPTIVE HEART KNIGHT’S PRIZE The Warrior Daughters of Rivenloch: THE STORMING A RIVENLOCH CHRISTMAS BRIDE OF FIRE BRIDE OF ICE BRIDE OF MIST The Knights of de Ware: THE HANDFASTING MY CHAMPION MY WARRIOR MY HERO Medieval Outlaws: THE REIVER DANGER’S KISS PASSION’S EXILE DESIRE’S RANSOM Scottish Lasses: THE OUTCAST MacFARLAND’S LASS MacADAM’S LASS MacKENZIE’S LASS California Legends: THE STOWAWAY NATIVE GOLD NATIVE WOLF NATIVE HAWK

Why we love it: Like other authors, Glynnis leads with her bestseller status, but not before making sure readers know to follow her on BookBub! We like how her personality shines through in her all-caps calls to action and that she includes the characteristics of her books in a fun way so readers will know what to expect from her work.

9. Laurelin Paige

Laurelin Paige is the NY Times , Wall Street Journal , and USA Today bestselling author of the Fixed Trilogy . She’s a sucker for a good romance and gets giddy anytime there’s kissing, much to the embarrassment of her three daughters. Her husband doesn’t seem to complain, however. When she isn’t reading or writing sexy stories, she’s probably singing, watching edgy black comedy on Netflix or dreaming of Michael Fassbender. She’s also a proud member of Mensa International though she doesn’t do anything with the organization except use it as material for her bio. You can connect with Laurelin on Facebook at facebook.com/LaurelinPaige or on twitter @laurelinpaige. You can also visit her website, laurelinpaige.com , to sign up for emails about new releases. Subscribers also receive a free book from a different bestselling author every month.

Why we love it: We love Laurelin’s bio because she lets her fun personality shine through! She also includes information about a monthly giveaway she runs through her mailing list, which is enticing and unique.

10. Mia Sosa

Mia Sosa is a USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance and romantic comedies. Her books have received starred reviews from Publishers Weekly , Kirkus Reviews , Booklist , and Library Journal , and have been praised by Cosmopolitan , The Washington Post , Buzzfeed , Entertainment Weekly , and more. Book Riot included her debut, Unbuttoning the CEO , in its list of 100 Must-Read Romantic Comedies, and Booklist recently called her “the new go-to author for fans of sassy and sexy contemporary romances.” A former First Amendment and media lawyer, Mia practiced for more than a decade before trading her suits for loungewear (okay, okay, they’re sweatpants). Now she strives to write fun and flirty stories about imperfect characters finding their perfect match. Mia lives in Maryland with her husband, their two daughters, and an adorable dog that rules them all. For more information about Mia and her books, visit www.miasosa.com .

Why we love it: This is such a well-constructed bio, with a paragraph for each (1) listing accolades and praise from trade reviews, (2) including a blurb about Mia’s overall author brand, (3) describing her previous work experience and how she became an author, and (4) sharing personal information and directing readers to where they could learn more.

11. Aiden Thomas

Aiden Thomas is a trans, Latinx, New York Times Bestselling Author with an MFA in Creative Writing from Mills College. Originally from Oakland, California, they now make their home in Portland, OR. Aiden is notorious for not being able to guess the endings of books and movies, and organizes their bookshelves by color. Their books include Cemetery Boys and Lost in the Never Woods .

Why we love it: A well-known advocate of diverse books, Aiden leads with their identity markers to connect right away with readers of similar identities. The rest of their concise bio fits information about their bestseller status, education, location, personality, and popular titles into just a few short sentences!

12. Wayne Stinnett

Wayne Stinnett is an American novelist and Veteran of the United States Marine Corps. Between those careers, he’s worked as a deckhand, commercial fisherman, divemaster, taxi driver, construction manager, and over the road truck driver, among many other things. He now lives on a sea island, in the South Carolina Lowcountry, with his wife and youngest daughter. They also have three grown children, five grand children, three dogs and a whole flock of parakeets. Stinnett grew up in Melbourne, Florida and has also lived in the Florida Keys, the Bahamas, and Cozumel, Mexico. His next dream is to one day visit and dive Cuba.

Why we love it: What better way to introduce an author of novels about travel, seafaring, and military adventures than to share his first-hand experiences! By weaving in relevant professional background and a glimpse of his home life by the sea, Wayne demonstrates deep knowledge of his subjects to his readers, as well as connecting with them on a personal level by describing his family and goals for the future.

13. June Hur

June Hur was born in South Korea and raised in Canada, except for the time when she moved back to Korea and attended high school there. She studied History and Literature at the University of Toronto. She began writing her debut novel after obsessing over books about Joseon Korea. When she’s not writing, she can be found wandering through nature or journaling at a coffee shop. June is the bestselling author of The Silence of Bones , The Forest of Stolen Girls , and The Red Palace , and currently lives in Toronto with her husband and daughter.

Why we love it: We love how June includes her background and what inspired her writing. Sharing a story’s origins is a wonderful way to meaningfully connect with readers.

14. Claire Delacroix

Bestselling author Claire Delacroix published her first medieval romance in 1993. Since then, she has published over seventy romance novels and numerous novellas, including time travel romances, contemporary romances and paranormal romances. The Beauty , part of her successful Bride Quest series, was her first book to land on the New York Times list of bestselling books. Claire has written under the name Claire Cross and continues to write as Deborah Cooke as well as Claire Delacroix. Claire makes her home in Canada with her family, a large undisciplined garden and a growing number of incomplete knitting projects. Sign up for Claire’s monthly medieval romance newsletter at: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/622ca9849b7136a9e313df83 Visit Claire’s website to find out more about her books at http://delacroix.net

Why we love it: While Claire has an extensive backlist, she succinctly describes her publishing success and subgenres. She also includes all of her pen names so readers can easily find her, no matter which name they’re looking for.

15. Vanessa Riley

Vanessa Riley writes Historical Fiction and Historical Romance (Georgian, Regency, & Victorian) featuring hidden histories, dazzling multi-culture communities, and strong sisterhoods. She promises to pull heart strings, offer a few laughs, and share tidbits of tantalizing history. This Southern, Irish, Trini (West Indies) girl holds a doctorate in mechanical engineering and a MS in industrial engineering and engineering management from Stanford University. She also earned a BS and MS in mechanical engineering from Penn State University. Yet, her love of history and lattes have overwhelmed her passion for math, leading to the publication of over 20+ titles. She loves writing on her southern porch with proper caffeine.

Why we love it: Vanessa launches into her bio by sharing the specific time periods she writes in, as well as the diverse characters and emotions her readers can look forward to, appealing directly to her ideal audience . She then shares a bit of personal info, leaving readers with an image of her in her element: writing on a porch while sipping tea.

16. April White

April White has been a film producer, private investigator, bouncer, teacher and screenwriter. She has climbed in the Himalayas, survived a shipwreck, and lived on a gold mine in the Yukon. She and her husband share their home in Southern California with two extraordinary boys and a lifetime collection of books. Her first novel, Marking Time , is the 2016 winner of the Library Journal Indie E-Book Award for YA Literature, and her contemporary romantic suspense, Code of Conduct , was a Next Generation Indie Award and RONE Award Finalist. All five books in the Immortal Descendants series are on the Amazon Top 100 lists in Time Travel Romance and Historical Fantasy. More information and her blog can be found at www.aprilwhitebooks.com .

Why we love it: April’s bio is short and sweet, but is packed with interesting information. She was a private investigator and survived a shipwreck? How can you not want to learn more about this author? She also elegantly includes her books’ status and subgenre in the last paragraph, along with a call-to-action for readers to learn more.

17. Julia Quinn

#1 New York Times bestselling author Julia Quinn loves to dispel the myth that smart women don’t read (or write) romance, and if you watch reruns of the game show The Weakest Link you might just catch her winning the $79,000 jackpot. She displayed a decided lack of knowledge about baseball, country music, and plush toys, but she is proud to say that she aced all things British and literary, answered all of her history and geography questions correctly, and knew that there was a Da Vinci long before there was a code. On December 25, 2020, Netflix premiered Bridgerton , based on her popular series of novels about the Bridgerton family. Find her on the web at www.juliaquinn.com .

Why we love it: Julia takes a unique approach, making her bio more voicey and focused on her interests. Yet she keeps it up to date, including her latest news in the last sentence (above the call-to-action).

18. Rick Mofina

USA Today bestselling author Rick Mofina is a former journalist who has interviewed murderers on death row, flown over L.A. with the LAPD and patrolled with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police near the Arctic. He’s also reported from the Caribbean, Africa and Kuwait’s border with Iraq. His books have been published in nearly 30 countries, including an illegal translation produced in Iran. His work has been praised by James Patterson, Dean Koontz, Michael Connelly, Lee Child, Tess Gerritsen, Jeffery Deaver, Sandra Brown, James Rollins, Brad Thor, Nick Stone, David Morrell, Allison Brennan, Heather Graham, Linwood Barclay, Peter Robinson, Håkan Nesser and Kay Hooper. The Crime Writers of Canada, The International Thriller Writers and The Private Eye Writers of America have listed his titles among the best in crime fiction. As a two-time winner of Canada’s Arthur Ellis Award, a four-time Thriller Award finalist and a two-time Shamus Award finalist, the Library Journal calls him, “One of the best thriller writers in the business.” Join Rick Mofina’s newsletter from his website and receive a free eBook! You can also find Rick Mofina’s new exclusive serialized thriller, The Dying Light , by subscribing to Radish Fiction com For more information please visit www.rickmofina.com https://www.facebook.com/rickmofina or follow Rick on Twitter @Rick Mofina

Why we love it: Including Rick’s first-hand experiences as a journalist lends him credibility in his genres of Crime Fiction and Thrillers. He also includes a list of well-known authors who have praised his work, and these endorsements may encourage those authors’ fans to give Rick a try. The free ebook offer effectively sweetens the deal!

19. J.T. Ellison

J.T. Ellison is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than 25 novels, and the EMMY® award winning co-host of the literary TV show A Word on Words . She also writes urban fantasy under the pen name Joss Walker. With millions of books in print, her work has won critical acclaim, prestigious awards, been optioned for television, and has been published in 28 countries. J.T. lives in Nashville with her husband and twin kittens, where she is hard at work on her next novel.

Why we love it: This is a great example of a concise bio suitable for use in any blog or publication. J.T. keeps to just the essential ingredients of a professional author bio: accolades, genres, experience, and a bit of what she’s up to today for a personal touch.

20. James S.A. Corey

James S.A. Corey is the pen name for a collaboration between Daniel Abraham and Ty Franck. James is Daniel’s middle name, Corey is Ty’s middle name, and S.A. are Daniel’s daughter’s initials. James’ current project is a series of science fiction novels called The Expanse Series. They are also the authors of Honor Among Thieves: Star Wars (Empire and Rebellion).

Why we love it: We love co-author bios that reveal how the duo came up with their pseudonym as a fun fact for readers! We also like that the reminder of this bio simply points readers straight to their buzziest works.

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Click to tweet: If you’re writing your author bio, these examples are so helpful! #writetip #pubtip http://bit.ly/1OSBcDO

Click to tweet: Make sure to keep your author bio updated! Here are some great bio examples, PLUS a printable checklist of what to include and where to keep it up to date. #amwriting http://bit.ly/1OSBcDO

This post was originally published on October 15 2015 and has been updated with new examples and a PDF checklist!

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Blog • Book Marketing , Perfecting your Craft

Last updated on Feb 24, 2022

How to Write a Killer Author Bio (With Template)

About the author.

Reedsy's editorial team is a diverse group of industry experts devoted to helping authors write and publish beautiful books.

About Martin Cavannagh

Head of Content at Reedsy, Martin has spent over eight years helping writers turn their ambitions into reality. As a voice in the indie publishing space, he has written for a number of outlets and spoken at conferences, including the 2024 Writers Summit at the London Book Fair.

An author bio is a brief passage that introduces a writer and sums up their work, their authorly credentials, and anything else their readers might need to know about them. 

While author bios may seem like an afterthought, or something to  fill up the backmatter  of your book, it’s actually an unassuming but valuable piece of copy. If done well, an author bio can give you credibility and introduce your readers to your other works.

It can also be used in other promotional or publishing materials, as former Penguin Random House marketer  Rachel Cone-Gorham explains:

“An author bio is something that will let readers get a sense of who you are, and is an important part for pitching media and book proposals.” 

For this reason, it’s important to get your bio right. Here is a 4-step process for writing your author bio:

1. Start with the facts readers need to know

2. open up with relevant biographical details, 3. wow them with your credentials, 4. finish it off with a personal touch.

Start your bio with an opening byline that quickly summarizes your profile, plus your most recent release. In a world full of skimmers, some readers may not get past the first couple of lines of your bio, so it’s important to frontload the essentials. 

For instance, a byline might read:

“Jane Doe is a Professor of Anthropology at UCLA and author of Insights Into Our Past: Tracing the Legacy of Intergenerational Trauma in 19th Century America .”

“Jane Doe is a poet, teacher, and author of the new novel  We Were Already There .”

If your work has won any prestigious awards or earned bestseller status, make sure to mention that here as well.

The great part about writing a one-liner as your opener is that it can double as a short bio for guest articles, social media, etc. — all of which can serve as a valuable part of your book publicity plan. 

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Example: An attention-grabbing intro

Novelist and short story writer Brandon Taylor's whole bio is great, but check out his heavy-hitting first sentence that instantly tells you everything you really need to know:

If you’re stuck for words, you can use his bio and those of other writers  for inspiration. 

RESOURCE: Your free author bio template

FREE RESOURCE

Grab our Author Bio Template

Use this to write an awesome “about me” in less than 5 minutes.

Your author bio is, naturally, a chance for you to introduce yourself, but it’s also an opportunity for you to introduce readers to your body of work, and share a little about your writing history. If you have other titles that you’ve released previously, now’s the time to mention them.

You may also want to include any personal connections to your work, and signpost why they’re relevant. For instance:

With over a decade of writing obituaries for the local paper, Jane has a uniquely wry voice that shines through in her newest collection of essays, which explore the importance we place on legacy.

A professionally trained electrician, Jane has spent the last decade reading and writing romance novels giving her characters a palpable spark! Her latest work is the sequel to her debut novel, In the Arms of a Stranger .

Have an author bio already, but want a second opinion on it? Take our quick quiz to see if it checks off all of the boxes.

Let us grade your author bio

Find out if your author bio is a 10/10. Takes one minute.

Top Tip: Write in the third person

Despite the fact that an author often writes or approves their own bio, it should be written in the third person — ‘they’ rather than ‘I’. Not only is this the industry standard, it also makes it easier to toot your own horn, which you should definitely be doing here.

Example: An author’s lived experience

One great example of a bio that shares biographical details is author Niyati Tamaskar , whose memoir Unafraid draws on her own experiences of cancer and the cultural baggage surrounding it. You can learn more about Niyati and her publishing story here .

Niyati Tamaskar is a mother, engineer, entrepreneur, public speaker, and author. She speaks on issues of cultural bias, the stigma of cancer, and more. Her speaking and media appearances include her signature TEDx talk, a cover and feature spread in Columbus magazine on her journey and message of destigmatizing cancer, and a video created by Breastcancer.org on “How Niyati Tamaskar Overcame Cultural Cancer Stigma to Become an Advocate”—aimed at highlighting the minority experience while facing cancer.

An important job of an “About the Author” section is to boost your credentials, says editor Rachel: “You want to show your qualifications and credibility so that a reader will feel validated in choosing your book to read.”

That being said, it’s not a good idea to start listing every softball trophy you won in middle school. Only stick to credentials that directly relate to the content of your book. According to Rachel, “Qualifications can include writing courses, college degrees, awards, bestseller lists, and accolades or, for fiction authors, even a lifetime of interest.” Here are a few of her examples:

Jane has an MFA in creative writing from Vermont College, and was the recipient of the Vermont College creative writing award.

Jane is a historian at Vermont College and has spent over a decade researching World War 2.

Jane has traveled extensively around Eastern Europe, learning about the history of the region and walking the paths of her characters.

For non-fiction authors, your credentials are incredibly relevant as readers are far more likely to trust an authority on a subject, while fiction authors can focus more on why they write in a specific genre.

Book marketing consultant Rob Eagar suggests that another way to boost your credibility is to “to weave in any endorsements you may have received from well-known outlets… Readers pay more attention to authors with a proven track record.”

For example:

[Famous author] says Jane Doe is a unique new voice in the thriller genre.

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Example: Amanda Ripley’s expert qualifications

One author using their credentials to their best advantage is non-fiction author Amanda Ripley. Check out her “About the Author”: 

Top tip: Keep it short

A good author bio is efficient beyond just the first line, as book launch specialist Joel Pitney suggests:

“People don't want to read long bios! Keep it under 300 words. Only include relevant materials and be as succinct as possible. If you've won a lot of awards, for example, only include the most impressive ones. Same goes if you’ve published a couple of books; only include your most successful three.”

Author bios are not a place for you to delve into a lengthy explanation of your history. However, you also don’t want your bio to be devoid of any personality. Adding a bit of color to your bio helps readers imagine who you are. Plus, if they can relate to you, it might be an extra push for them to buy your book. 

That’s why Joel Pitney suggests: “If there's room, and it's relevant, you can add some color, like where you live or something interesting that might not obviously relate to your writing career, but that makes you a more interesting person.”

This can be done subtly, like by referring to your location in your byline: 

“New-York based psychologist, Jane Doe…”

Or you can include a brief illustration of your lifestyle, says Rachel: “Jane lives and works out of her home at the base of Mount Washington in New Hampshire, and spends her summers hiking and camping with her two children and husband.”

Finally, marketing consultant Rob suggests closing out with a quippy-one liner that illustrates what kind of writer you are. “If your writing is known for its humor, let it show in your bio.” For example:

Jane hopes to write her next novel soon, if she can stop reading other people's novels instead.

Example: Natalie Barelli’s chatty tone

Check out fiction writer Natalie Barelli’s bio for an example of personalization done right: 

Natalie Barelli can usually be found reading a book, and that book will more likely than not be a psychological thriller. Writing a novel was always on her bucket list, and eventually, with Until I Met Her, it became a reality. After He Killed Me is the second and final book in her Emma Fern Series. When not absorbed in the latest gripping page-turner, Natalie loves cooking, knits very badly, enjoys riding her Vespa around town, and otherwise spends far too much time at the computer. She lives in Australia, with her husband and extended family.

An author bio is unique to the writer, so everyone’s will look different — but by following our 4-step process and using the author bio template, you’ll include everything you need to maximize your chances of winning over readers.

8 responses

Diane says:

07/06/2018 – 09:10

Excellent post! I really liked the way explained each point with examples. Author can write a big book but broke into sweat when it comes to write a bio about themselves. Sometimes they also need paper writing help. It have to be short and interesting, not boring. In that case your article will help them to write a killer one.

Nancy Man says:

20/06/2018 – 00:10

This was super helpful -- thanks! Sticking to these four elements worked great for me. I've finally got a bio that I'm not rolling my eyes at. :)

Antigone Blackwell says:

08/12/2018 – 19:01

If someone is reading this article, it is highly unlikely that they can boast being bestselling authors or share that they are on the third book of a highly successful series. More examples with start up authors would be great.

India Government Schemes says:

12/03/2019 – 11:42

This is awesome, but i am seeing in this days mostly hide there Bio in Blogs, But they don't know In The Blog Author Bio is also a Ranking Factor in the Google Search Ranking.

Joe Robinson says:

08/05/2019 – 12:28

Very helpful article that has helped me write my author bio for my upcoming book "Move Your Marriage to Greatness" a Marriage Replenishment Work designed to help couple achieve extraordinary accomplishments that are uncommon in many marriages today. I appreciate you making this article available.

Jitender Sharma says:

10/09/2019 – 05:00

Thanks for your post

Mike aantonio says:

14/11/2019 – 10:06

After reading the bio. samples mentioned above. Is it really necessary to introduce the author as a third party. Can't we directly say " Hi I am a blogger from so and so ......."

↪️ Martin Cavannagh replied:

15/11/2019 – 09:15

You can do... but it's not standard practice.

Comments are currently closed.

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Table of Contents

• Why Your Author Bio Is So Important

How To Write Your Author Bio

Template for author bio info.

• Author Bio Examples
• Your Bio Grows as You Grow

More Ways to Read

• Download a PDF

How To Write An About The Author (With Examples)

Don’t Have Time Right Now?

Unless you’re a household name author (Steven King, JK Rowling, Malcolm Gladwell), most people buying your book won’t know who you are.

So how will they learn about you?

And why is this even important?

That’s what this blog post will explain: how to properly write it, and why your author bio matters.

Why Your About The Author Is So Important

Even though very few authors think about it, and even fewer publishing guides talk about it, the “Author Bio” section impacts sales, reputation, book marketing and social media.

“Author reputation” is consistently cited as one of the main factors that influence a book buying decision. If you’re seen as an authority on your book topic, readers will buy your book and read it. One of the best ways to be seen as an authority is to have a great Author Bio.

For business the short bio can sometimes be more important than what’s actually in the book—the sad but true reality is that more people will read your author bio than your actual book.

It takes a long time to read a book, but it’s very easy to make a snap judgment based on a short paragraph, and most people do that.

This is doubly true for media and social media. Most people in media work very hard under tight deadlines and don’t have time to read long books or even pitch emails. But a good author bio cuts right to the point by saying: this is an important person I need to pay attention to.

Writing about yourself is a task that many even full time writers shy away from. Don’t make this mistake. A few simple steps can get an effective bio that will impress interested readers and help sell your book:

Step 1. Mention your credentials on your book subject:

It’s important to establish your credentials in your book’s topic area.

For example, if you’re writing a diet book, mention things like professional degrees, nutrition training or accomplishments, places you’ve worked, awards you’ve won, etc. Any credential that clearly signals your authority and credibility in your space works.

If you struggle with what to say about yourself, remember the idea is to make it clear why the reader should listen to you. What credential do you have–if any–that signals seriousness to the reader?

For some types of books and authors, this is harder to do. If there’s no clear way to signal direct authority or credentials—for example, you wrote a thriller or a romance novel—then don’t make up things or try to “invent” authority. Focus on the other parts of the author bio.

Step 2. Include achievements that build credibility or are interesting to the reader (without going overboard)

You’ll also want to include things you’ve accomplished in your life, especially if you don’t have direct credentials and authority in the book subject matter. This will help your audience understand why they should spend their time and money reading what you’ve got to say.

If you have something about you or your life that is unusual, even if it’s not totally relevant, you should still consider putting it in your bio.

For example, if you were a Rhodes Scholar, or you started a major national organization, or won a national championship in ping-pong—whatever. The point is to show the reader that you have done things that matter, even if they don’t matter to the book.

If you’re lacking on credentials or exciting things, you can always put in your passions and interests. Anything that you enjoy doing, writing about or consider a hobby, especially if they are relevant to the book topic.

That being said, do NOT ramble on and on about things that reader doesn’t care about. Put yourself in your readers shoes, and ask yourself, “Does this fact really matter to anyone but me?”

Step 3. Mention any books you’ve written, and your website (but don’t oversell them)

If you’ve written other books, especially on that subject, make sure to mention them. If you’re a bestselling author (New York Times, Wall Street Journal, USA Today or even Amazon) or won awards, even better.

If you’ve won multiple accolades and listing them all is becoming tedious, aim for brevity instead. Simply writing “John Smith is an award winning author whose works include …..” is more than enough to show your readers you know what you’re doing.

If you have an author website , an author page ( on Amazon or another 3rd party site) or anything else that helps promote your brand then you should make sure you include it at the bottom of your bio (assuming this meets your goals).

Again, you don’t want to brag here so just be humble and simply put something like “Find out more about John at www.johnsmithwriter.com”. It should be simple and have a clear call to action.

Step 4. Drop some relevant names, if they’re appropriate (without being crass)

Yes, name dropping can put off readers if it’s done wrong. But there’s a right way to do it.

For example, if you are relatively unknown, you can say something like, “The woman that Seth Godin called “the most important writer of our time” reveals to you the secrets of…” This way you are trading on Seth Godin’s reputation, and establishing your credentials at the same time (assuming he said this).

Also, if you’ve worked for or with very well-known people, name dropping is not seen as bad; it’s seen as an effective signal to the reader of your importance and ability. What matters is that there is a reason that you are using someone else’s name that makes sense, and is not just a gratuitous name drop.

Step 5. Keep short and interesting (without leaving anything important out)

While your readers are interested in finding out more about you, they don’t want to get bored, or listen to arrogant bragging about how great you are. If your bio is too long, or too full of overstated accomplishments and awards, it will turn your readers off and actually make you look less credible.

Typically, if you keep your word count around 100 words you’re ok. Anything longer than that means you’ve gone on too long about your accomplishments, your personal life or both. Cut it down to the most important things.

Step 6. Always Write in Third Person, Never First Person

Third person is “She is.” First person is “I am.” This is a small thing, but if you write in first person, it is a major sign of first-time amateurism.

This is a template to write your author bio. I’m not saying it’s the very best way to write an author bio, in fact, many of the best examples below do NOT fit this template. But, many people asked for an easy to follow template, and this is what we use with our authors.

• First sentence: “[Author] is [statement to establish credibility on this subject and / or authorship of previous books]”
• Second sentence(s): Statement(s) further establishing credibility or qualifications of author to write the book.
• Third sentence (optional): Historical “before that” information that is at least tangentially relevant to the book, or very compelling in another way.
• Fourth sentence: Endorsement of author’s credibility by others, awards, or some other social proof, if available.
• Fifth sentence: Tidbit of personal information or insight into life experience.
• Sixth sentence: Link to website or other resource (if relevant).

Here is how that looks in practice:

Will Leach is the founder of TriggerPoint Design, a leading behavior research and design consultancy specializing in using behavior economics and decision design to drive consumer decision making. He is a behavior design instructor at the Cox School of Business at Southern Methodist University and has more than twenty years of behavior insights experience working with Fortune 50 companies to solve their most important behavior challenges. Will is the only two-time winner of the EXPLOR Award for his work in behavior design and is known as America’s foremost authority in applying behavior science to marketing. Will lives in Dallas with his wife and family.

If You Can’t Write About Yourself, Have Friends Help You

People, especially writers, have a hard time writing about themselves. Often, the Author Bio is the most difficult part of the marketing process for an author to write effectively.

If you are unsure about whether your author bio seems either incomplete, or too arrogant, run it by a few friends for feedback.

For example, when I was doing my first bio, I made all the mistakes I outlined above. I eventually had to have my friend Nils Parker write my bio for me. It’s always easier for your friends to praise you and see the amazing things you do.

If you don’t have writer friends, then hire a freelance writer to help you. It won’t cost much, but their creative writing know how will pay big dividends for you.

Examples of Author Bios

I’m going to show you a lot of different bios. Some are the best author bios I’ve read, whereas some feel like they were written by cheap self-publishing companies. The point is to give you an idea of how many different authors did them, so you can find your own author bio writing style:

Example 1 – High Status And Short: Lynn Vincent

This bio is the perfect “less is more” for an author with a lot of credentials. When you have done what Lynn has done, you can just say it quickly and succinctly.

Lynn Vincent is the New York Times best-selling writer of Heaven Is for Real and Same Kind of Different As Me. The author or coauthor of ten books, Lynn has sold 12 million copies since 2006. She worked for eleven years as a writer and editor at the national news biweekly WORLD magazine and is a U.S. Navy veteran.

Example 2 – High Status But Undersells: Michael Lewis

Contrast this to Michael Lewis, who is a very well known author, but still leaves quite a bit out of his bio that would help many readers understand who he is and why they should care (even Michael Lewis is not famous enough to assume people know him).

Michael Lewis, the author of Boomerang, Liar’s Poker, The New New Thing, Moneyball, The Blind Side, Panic, Home Game and The Big Short, among other works, lives in Berkeley, California, with his wife, Tabitha Soren, and their three children.

Example 3 – Bad Amanda Ripley

Many authors have different bios on different books (because they leave the bio writing to their publisher, which is a huge mistake). You can see the difference in the author Amanda Ripley.

Her bad bio is strangely both boring and overselling:

Amanda Ripley is a literary journalist whose stories on human behavior and public policy have appeared in Time, The Atlantic, and Slate and helped Time win two National Magazine Awards. To discuss her work, she has appeared on ABC, NBC, CNN, FOX News, and NPR. Ripley’s first book, The Unthinkable, was published in fifteen countries and turned into a PBS documentary.

Example 4 – Good Amanda Ripley

Contrast that to this good bio, where she comes off as much more of an authority—mainly because her other books are mentioned, as were her awards.

Amanda Ripley is an investigative journalist for Time, The Atlantic and other magazines. She is the author, most recently, of THE SMARTEST KIDS IN THE WORLD—and How They Got That Way. Her first book, THE UNTHINKABLE: Who Survives When Disaster Strikes–and Why, was published in 15 countries and turned into a PBS documentary. Her work has helped Time win two National Magazine Awards.

Example 5 – Bad Doctor Bio: Dr. David Perlmutter

This is a long, uninterrupted string of hard to process things. Dr. Perlmutter is very qualified, but mentions everything (including medical school awards) which detracts from the overall effect.

David Perlmutter, MD, FACN, ABIHM is a Board-Certified Neurologist and Fellow of the American College of Nutrition who received his M.D. degree from the University of Miami School of Medicine where he won the research award. Dr. Perlmutter is a frequent lecturer at symposia sponsored by such medical institutions as Columbia University, the University of Arizona, Scripps Institute, and Harvard University. He has contributed extensively to the world medical literature with publications appearing in The Journal of Neurosurgery, The Southern Medical Journal, Journal of Applied Nutrition, and Archives of Neurology. He is the author of: The Better Brain Book and the #1 New York Times Bestseller, Grain Brain. He is recognized internationally as a leader in the field of nutritional influences in neurological disorders. Dr. Perlmutter has been interviewed on many nationally syndicated radio and television programs including 20/20, Larry King Live, CNN, Fox News, Fox and Friends, The Today Show, Oprah, Dr. Oz, and The CBS Early Show. In 2002 Dr. Perlmutter was the recipient of the Linus Pauling Award for his innovative approaches to neurological disorders and in addition was awarded the Denham Harmon Award for his pioneering work in the application of free radical science to clinical medicine. He is the recipient of the 2006 National Nutritional Foods Association Clinician of the Year Award. Dr. Perlmutter serves as Medical Advisor for The Dr. Oz Show.

Example 6 – Good Doctor Bio: Dr. Benjamin Carson

Contrast this to Dr. Carson, who focuses only on the credentials and status signifiers that the reader would care about and understand, like his specialties and companies he works for.

Dr. Benjamin Carson is a Professor of Neurosurgery, Plastic Surgery, Oncology, and Pediatrics, and the Director of Pediatric Neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions. He is also the author of four bestselling books—Gifted Hands, Think Big, The Big Picture, and Take the Risk. He serves on the boards of the Kellogg Company, Costco, and the Academy of Achievement, among others, and is an Emeritus Fellow of the Yale Corporation.

He and his wife, Candy, co-founded the Carson Scholars Fund (www.carsonscholars.org), a 501(c)3 established to counteract America’s crisis in education by identifying and rewarding academic role models in the fourth through eleventh grades, regardless of race, creed, religion and socio-economic status, who also demonstrate humanitarian qualities. There are over 4800 scholars in forty-five states. Ben and Candy are the parents of three grown sons and reside in Baltimore County, Maryland.

Example 7 – Good Balance: Tim Ferriss

Tim does lean aggressively into the idea of listing all the cool things he’s done and noteworthy outlets that have talked about him, but still makes his bio interesting and relevant to the reader of his books:

Timothy Ferriss is a serial entrepreneur, #1 New York Times best- selling author, and angel investor/advisor (Facebook, Twitter, Evernote, Uber, and 20+ more). Best known for his rapid-learning techniques, Tim’s books — The 4-Hour Workweek, The 4-Hour Body, and The 4-Hour Chef — have been published in 30+ languages. The 4-Hour Workweek has spent seven years on The New York Times bestseller list.

Tim has been featured by more than 100 media outlets including The New York Times, The Economist, TIME, Forbes, Fortune, Outside, NBC, CBS, ABC, Fox and CNN. He has guest lectured in entrepreneurship at Princeton University since 2003. His popular blog www.fourhourblog. com has 1M+ monthly readers, and his Twitter account @tferriss was selected by Mashable as one of only five “Must-Follow” accounts for entrepreneurs. Tim’s primetime TV show, The Tim Ferriss Experiment (www.upwave.com/tfx), teaches rapid-learning techniques for helping viewers to produce seemingly superhuman results in minimum time.

Example 8 – Out of Balance (Confusing & Overselling): Cheryl Strayed

Cheryl is similar to Tim, but runs several unrelated things together in a confusing way, and mentions things that no reader would ever care about (e.g., the director of a movie based on her book). This same bio could be 25% shorter and much stronger.

Cheryl Strayed is the author of #1 New York Times bestseller WILD, the New York Times bestseller TINY BEAUTIFUL THINGS, and the novel TORCH. WILD was chosen by Oprah Winfrey as her first selection for Oprah’s Book Club 2.0. WILD won a Barnes & Noble Discover Award, an Indie Choice Award, an Oregon Book Award, a Pacific Northwest Booksellers Award, and a Midwest Booksellers Choice Award among others. The movie adaptation of WILD will be released by Fox Searchlight in December 2014. The film is directed by Jean-Marc Vallée and stars Reese Witherspoon, with a screenplay by Nick Hornby. Strayed’s writing has appeared in THE BEST AMERICAN ESSAYS, the New York Times Magazine, the Washington Post Magazine, Vogue, Salon, The Missouri Review, The Sun, Tin House, The Rumpus–where she wrote the popular “Dear Sugar” advice column–and elsewhere. Strayed was the guest editor of BEST AMERICAN ESSAYS 2013 and has contributed to many anthologies. Her books have been translated into more than thirty languages around the world. She holds an MFA in fiction writing from Syracuse University and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota. She lives in Portland, Oregon with her husband and their two children.

Remember: Your Bio Grows as You Grow

Treat your author’s bio as a living document. Just because you’ve written it once, doesn’t mean it’s finished. As you grow and change as a writer so should your bio, and the best part is that it’s easy to change a byline.

Also, remember that if you are writing for different genres or different topics that some of your accomplishments and past works will be more relevant to your readers than others. It’s a good idea to tweak your author bio for the next book you release.

Getting your author bio right is an important task. In fact, this small section is usually the ONLY source of information potential readers have about you (except maybe Google), and that’s why it is one of the most important pieces of marketing material you write for your book.

Take it seriously, get it right, and it will help you sell books.

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Home / Book Publishing / How to Write an Author Bio [With Examples and Templates]

How to Write an Author Bio [With Examples and Templates]

To write a great author bio, you need to know your target audience, cater to your genre, brag (but not too much), keep it brief, and call the reader to action.

When you’re self-publishing on Amazon , you need to put some serious thought into the author bio on your Amazon book page. Don’t haphazardly throw together some sentences and hit the publish button.

The author bio isn’t your most important tool. (The most essential tools are the book reviews , book cover , and synopsis/blurb .) But the author bio is another critical tool that you shouldn’t leave out.

Can I just leave my author bio out? No, you cannot just leave out your author bio, even if you wrote a short story or novella. It looks unprofessional, scares away potential readers, foregoes an opportunity to connect with your target audience, and leads to fewer book sales.

Plus, writing a good author bio doesn’t take that long.

If you’re not Grisham, or Godin, or Ferriss, or Fleming, very few people will buy a novel by you purely based on name recognition. So put a little work into your bio, and you won’t regret it.

Note: The Author Bio is just one of many parts of a book. I have a whole series of posts on the subject, and I highly recommend you check those out as well!

• What is an author bio?
• Examples of phenomenal author bios
• Tips on making a persuasive, engaging author bio
• How to add the bio to your book page
• An author bio template checklist

Table of contents

• What should an author's bio include?
• Is an author bio actually important?
• What’s your book about?
• Who are you writing for?
• 4 Writing Tips For Creating an Author Bio:
• Step 3: Add the Bio to Your Book Page
• Podcast Episode: The Perfect Picture For Your Author Bio
• 6 Examples of Phenomenal Author Bios
• Can you hire a freelancer to write your author bio?
• How to Write a Bio for Your Author Website
• Author Bio Template
• Where does your author bio go?
• How often should you update your “About the Author” page?

For clarification, on Amazon, there are 2 kinds of bio:

• The generic bio on your “ Author Page ”
• Separate bios for each of your books

The advice in this post is aimed at your bio on your individual book pages, although much of it will still be relevant to your main Author Page.

Why Should You Trust Me?

I've actually been writing and formatting books for a long time. Over 10 years so far, and counting.

But that's not the real reason, because there are plenty of authors who have lots of experience, but know next to nothing about the different parts of a book, or book formatting in general.

The real reason you should trust me is because I actually created my own formatting software that solved all my problems. I called it Atticus.

But this isn't meant to be a sales pitch. I just want to make sure it's clear that I know what I'm talking about. The amount of research that went into not only formatting my own books, but also creating a formatting software is huge.

I researched everything, which led me to learn all about every. single. part. of. a. book. And there were a lot more than I realized.

And of course, that includes the Author Bio.

So if all that makes sense, hopefully you'll come along with me as show you everything I've learned.

Also called “About the Author,” an author bio is:

• A paragraph about you as a writer
• Your credentials
• Your interests
• A call to action
• Other relevant information you want to share with your target audience

An author biography is your chance to connect with readers beyond just a byline.

Everyone needs a stellar front cover design, an attention-grabbing book title , and a sophisticated keyword strategy . But those book marketing musts simply draw users to see your book’s product page.

A good author bio (and book reviews and book description ) compels them to actually buy the book.

The author bio establishes you as the kind of writer whom your target market ought to read. It’s where you forge a connection with potential readers and get them to trust you. Readers should want to know what you have to say based on your author bio.

If you take the author bio seriously and get it right, you’ll sell more books.

You should include your name, relevant accomplishments, and a call to action in your author’s bio. Aim for a bio of 60-90 words in length.

If your book is humorous, inject humor. If your book is melodramatic, add a little melodrama. Tailor your bio to your genre, target audience, and the individual book it’s for.

If possible, include links to your website or social media , so people can find out more about you.

Include a picture when possible. This picture should be a professional headshot of you smiling or looking serious, depending on your genre. Do not skimp on the headshot. An unprofessional author headshot screams low-quality content.

Yes, a good author bio is actually important because:

• It builds credibility
• It affirms whether what you have to say is worth reading
• It tells your target audience that you have written a book for them
• Readers may relate to your personal story
• You will sell more books

“No one reads the author bio,” I hear you say. But you’re wrong. While not everyone cares about the author’s bio, some care a lot.

First of all, unless you’re a household name, you must build credibility with the reader. If a reader doesn’t think you’re credible, they will read your book with a cynical eye and judge every mistake they find. Or worse, they won’t buy your book in the first place.

Second of all, more than ever, consumers are buying books from writers they want to support. If someone learns more about and relates to the author, they are much more likely to buy.

Increase Your Book Marketing

See the Publisher Rocket effect, when you use the right keywords and categories to help get your book seen more on Amazon.

How to Write a Powerful Author Bio for Your Book

Here are 3 steps to write an awesome author bio (About the Author) and upload it onto Amazon:

• Figure out your genre and target audience
• Write the bio
• Add the bio to your book page

How do you write a bio for a first-time author? First-time authors might not be able to include any literary accomplishments, like other best-selling books and prestigious awards. But first-time writers can include relevant expertise that pertains to your book. Also, any author can inject personality and a call to action, no matter if this is their first book.

Step 1 : Figure Out Your Genre and Target Audience

Answer these 2 crucial questions to understand your genre and target audience:

Your author bio needs to compliment the genre and subject matter of your book. Bios irrelevant to the book confuse potential readers.

While this may seem like obvious advice, a lot of irrelevant content finds its way into many author bios. Consider:

• If your nightmare-inducing horror novel contains a perky and cheerful author description about your love for puppies and former career as a glassblower, you forfeit an opportunity to connect readers with your writing.
• If your middle-grade comedy has an author bio that reads like a middle school textbook , your audience may be confused whether you’re able to write comedy.
• If your book is a contemporary romance novel with a middle-aged female protagonist, your author bio’s personality and content should relate to the right target audience.
• If you’re writing about tax-deduction strategies for real estate investors, your bio should present your expertise — why anyone should listen to you on the subject.
• If your book is a spiritual guide to personal growth, some life-affirming positivity will improve your bio.

You need to think about your target reader. Hopefully, you had a type of reader in mind when writing the book . You always need to know who would want to buy and read your book.

Figure out your target reader, then write your author bio for that person.

For non-fiction authors, your ideal reader probably wants to read your credentials, your life experience, and what qualifies you to speak on a particular topic.

For fiction writers, your ideal reader may be looking for a unique, exciting personality to come out through the bio. You may briefly include credibility-building credentials, such as if you earned an MFA in Creative Writing.

In many cases, creating an “avatar” of your customer — with a name, location, and personality — is a valuable way to both develop your author bio and strategically target your book marketing efforts. Check out this guide on how to create a customer avatar.

Don’t add information “just in case” a different kind of reader might appreciate it. You end up with a behemoth of a bio that no one reads because it’s too daunting and unfocused.

Step 2 : Write the Bio

Now you need to write the actual words of the bio. Stick to this checklist on how to write an author bio:

• Begin with a punchy, impactful first sentence.
• Introduce your area of expertise or your unique personality, depending on the genre.
• Build credibility without overly bragging.
• Add a personal touch, such as a relatable profession or quirky hobby.
• Finish on a call to action (check out the new book, follow you on social media, etc.).

While you’re writing, always ask yourself, “Is this relevant to my reader?”

Most readers won’t care where you were born (unless it’s a book about where you live), what high school you went to, or that you always wanted to become a full-time writer.

This isn’t to say that your bio should be impersonal. On the contrary! This is your opportunity to make readers feel like they know you. Your personality and/or expertise should make them want to read what you wrote.

• Write in the third person. “About the author” demands the third person. While it may feel a bit weird to write “he” or “she” rather than “I” in the first person, there’s one significant benefit: Your relevant accomplishments and accolades will sound far less boastful.
• Don’t brag too much . Don't go overboard showing off because everyone knows you wrote it. Even if the author bio is in the third person, state your achievements, but don’t become a braggart. Sprinkle in a bit of humility and modesty as well.
• Keep your author bio short. The faster they can read about you, the faster they can buy your book. Aim for 60-90 words and don’t go above 150. It takes effort and practice to distill everything into such a short space. Once you’ve nailed it, you can fit a great deal of personality and information into those 60-90 words.
• Use the bio like a business card . Give readers a way to interact with you by adding your website or social media info. At the very least, they’ll be able to find out more about you and explore your other works. Adding this info at the end is the most common call to action in author bios.

Step 3 : Add the Bio to Your Book Page

You can add your author bio to your Amazon book page by visiting Amazon Author Central , select your book, and add it in the “About the Author” section.

You can add the “About the Author” page into your back matter for a physical book. On most word processors like Scrivener or Vellum, you should be able to generate the author bio into your print-ready file.

But one really annoying bit about adding an author bio to most books is that you have to copy and paste it for every book. This gets cumbersome when you have ten books and need to make one tiny change in each of them.

Unfortunately, most programs like Vellum and Scrivener do not have a way to do “templates” where you update a single Author Bio page, and it gets updated across all your books.

But Atticus can.

In Atticus you can save as a template and then reuse that template wherever you want. And the best part is, if you change the template, it will change it for all your books. Check it out!

Here are some real-life author bios from Amazon or on a back cover that combine most or all of the tips above:

Forgotten Legacy : Robin Perini, the Publisher’s Weekly and internationally bestselling author of Forgotten Secrets, is devoted to giving her readers fast-paced, high-stakes adventures with a love story sure to melt their hearts. A RITA Award finalist and winner of the prestigious Romance Writers of America Golden Heart Award in 2011, she is also a nationally acclaimed writing instructor. By day, she’s an analyst for an advanced technology corporation, but in honor of her mother, Robin has become a passionate advocate for those who battle Alzheimer’s disease. She loves to hear from readers. Visit her web­site at www.robinperini.com.

[Length: 97 words]

D a mn Delicious Meal Prep: 115 Easy Recipes for Low-Calories, High-Energy Living : Chungah Rhee is the founder, recipe developer, and photographer of Damn Delicious. What began as a grad school hobby is now a top food blog, with millions of readers coming to her site for easy weeknight recipes and simplified gourmet meals. She lives and continues to cook non-stop in Los Angeles, with her corgi, Butters. Her first cookbook was published in 2016 by Oxmoor House. Visit her at damndelicious.net.

[Length: 70 words]

Long Range Shooting Handbook: Complete Beginner's Guide to Long Range Shooting : “Ryan Cleckner served as a special operations sniper team leader with the U.S. Army's elite 1st Ranger Bn. on multiple combat deployments. He is a graduate of the premier Special Operations Target Interdiction Course (SOTIC), among other military training courses, and has taught snipers and police sharpshooters from around the world. Ryan has a series of online instructional videos known for their ability to explain complex topics in a simple and digestible way. Ryan is currently a firearms industry professional and an attorney.”

[Length: 83 words]

Diary of a Farting Creeper: Why Does the Creeper Fart When He Should Explode? (Volume 1) : Who is Wimpy Fart? Wimpy Fart loves Minecraft and writes awesome Minecraft books for YOU because you are the best Minecraft fans in the world. You can email Wimpy Fart to tell him about your favorite Minecraft books, or to talk about really loud farts. [email protected] Oh – Wimpy Fart reads all your awesome Amazon reviews and likes to know what you want to read about in Minecraft books!

[Length: 68 words]

Joanna Penn writes non-fiction books for authors and is an award-nominated, New York Times and USA Today bestselling thriller author as J.F. Penn. She’s a podcaster and an award-winning creative entrepreneur. Her site, TheCreativePenn.com has been voted in the Top 100 sites for writers by Writer's Digest.

[Length: 49 words]

John Scalzi writes books, which, considering where you’re reading this, makes perfect sense. He’s best known for writing science fiction, including the New York Times bestseller Redshirts, which won the Hugo Award for Best Novel. He also writes non-fiction, on subjects ranging from personal finance to astronomy to film, was the Creative Consultant for the Stargate: Universe television series. He enjoys pie, as should all right thinking people. You can get to his blog by typing the word “Whatever” into Google. No, seriously, try it.

[Length: 85 words]

If you're looking for author bio perfection, Scalzi’s is as close as you're gonna find. His bio lends himself credibility, demonstrates his personality, and has one of the most unique calls to action you'll ever read. How many of you actually googled “whatever” just now?

Yes, you can hire a freelance writer or a ghostwriter to write your author bio to make sure it’s as amazing as it should be. Their creative writing know-how can produce a bio worthy of a good read and help you better connect with your audience if you’re having a hard time with the bio.

Hopefully, because you’re a writer, you’re able to follow the steps in this article to create your own bio. But in many cases, writing about yourself is more challenging than writing any other prose. (No shame, I promise!)

To write an author bio for your website, follow these 8 tips and tricks:

• Determine what your book’s about, and tailor your bio to compliment the style and tone.
• Determine your target audience, and tailor your bio to attract those specific readers.
• Begin your bio with a punchy first sentence.
• Build credibility by demonstrating your accomplishments, but don’t brag too much.
• Add links to relevant interviews (on NPR or PBS, for example), news articles (ever been featured in The Wall Street Journal ?), and Amazon sales pages.
• Finish with a call to action — perhaps a link to your sales page.
• Make sure your word count is 60-90 words.
• When you review it, take out all irrelevant words. Will your target audience care about each word? If not, take that word out.

On an author’s website , you can go into more detail, list more important works or achievements, and link to other pages on your website to find more info.

Also, an author website bio lends itself more to the first-person than a book page bio. Feel free to use first person or third person, as long as you stick to one or the other.

There's no one-size-fits-all approach, but the following checklist provides a structure you can use as an author bio template:

• Add a personal touch, such as a hobby or favorite TV show.
• Finish on a call to action (check out the new book, follow on social media, etc.).

If you browse bestselling author bios, you'll notice they tend to follow this sequence.

The content and tone you include in your author bio will depend on several factors:

• Content and tone of your book
• Genre (or multiple genres)
• Previous works
• Previous achievements
• Personal preference
• Medium (eBook only, literary magazine, etc.)

In a print book, your author bio should go in the back matter of your book or on the dust jacket sleeve.

You should also place an author bio on your website that goes into a little more detail than the bio in your book.

For an eBook on Amazon, your author bio goes below the suggested books. Here are the headings that appear before the “About the Author” section:

You should update your “About the Author” page or individual author bios any time something significant changes in your life or career, especially honors and awards or when your next book comes out.

Publish a new book? Update all your old bios.

Win an award? Update all your old bios.

Featured on a famous talk show? You may want to update all your old bios.

Going through a divorce or other major family issues? If you mention your spouse or now-estranged children in your bio, you may want to change that. (I know that’s dark, but it happens and is worth considering.)

Earn a prestigious honor or academic position? You know what you should do.

I’ll show you mine…

In summary, the steps in this post take you through everything you need when writing your own author bio. Refer to them when you start writing – and you’ll have an engaging author bio that should easily sell more books.

My own author bio is listed just below for reference (and ridicule, if you like).

I don't have to tell you, I'm pretty much a techy goofball. Hopefully, my bio does a great job of conveying just that. Using humor and an upbeat tone, I want to let Kindlepreneur readers know exactly who I am as a content writer in 34 words.

Special thanks to John Scalzi for inspiring me to write this specific type of bio.

Dave Chesson

When I’m not sipping tea with princesses or lightsaber dueling with little Jedi, I’m a book marketing nut. Having consulted multiple publishing companies and NYT best-selling authors, I created Kindlepreneur to help authors sell more books. I’ve even been called “The Kindlepreneur” by Amazon publicly, and I’m here to help you with your author journey.

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67 thoughts on “ How to Write an Author Bio [With Examples and Templates] ”

After one year locked at home because of COVID-19, I decided to have as much fun as I had when teaching at school. That’s how “A Modern Superhero” was born. I enjoy good food, that’s why I need to do some exercise. By the way, run to my social media for some free perks.

Should I or should I not say what my day job is? Yes it has and no it hasn’t to do with my books. As I am an architect, I have well-structured novels! Lol. But is that boring? As I am not a van driver or pizza delivery girl, why would it interest anyone. I don’t know what’s boring anymore. Please help! Thanks.

Depending on your niche or subject, not sure. I’ll guess that you’re writing some sort of fiction. If that is the case, a mention of something that is important to you is fine, but don’t drag it on and focus on it. If you’ve used levity in your writing, then you can say something like “Architect by day, crime novelist by night.”

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10 Great Author Bio Examples and Tips to Write One for Yourself

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A great author bio is essential for any published writer. It’s how a reader gets to know the person behind the pages of a book, and done well, it can help you grow your fan base and sell more books. If you’re a  new author  and unsure where to begin with your author bio, this article is here to help. 

Table of Contents

What is An Author Bio?

An author bio is a few short paragraphs that introduce you to your readers. It doesn’t need to only focus on your professional writing career; the best bios throw in a personal touch too. You can mention your home life, your hobbies, or include a couple of interesting facts about yourself. It’s all about engaging your readers with relevant and interesting information that helps you stand out from the crowd. 

In this article, I’ll show you ten great examples of top-notch author bios from bestselling writers, and I’ll also provide you with some actionable tips to help you write your own.

10 Examples of Great Author Bios

1. farrah rochon.

USA Today bestselling author Farrah Rochon hails from a small town just west of New Orleans. She has garnered much acclaim for her Crescent City-set Holmes Brothers series and her Moments in Maplesville small town series. Farrah is a two-time finalist for the prestigious RITA Award from the Romance Writers of America and has been nominated for an RT BOOKReviews Reviewers Choice Award. In 2015, she received the Emma Award for Author of the Year. When she is not writing in her favorite coffee shop, Farrah spends most of her time reading, cooking, traveling the world, visiting Walt Disney World, and catching her favorite Broadway shows. An admitted sports fanatic, she feeds her addiction to football by watching New Orleans Saints games on Sunday afternoons. Keep in touch with Farrah via the web: Website: https://www.farrahrochon.com/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/farrahrochonauthor Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/FarrahRochon

2. Michael Siemsen

Michael Siemsen grew up in Venice, California, the second son of a Vietnam veteran turned policeman. Initially focusing on performing arts, Michael attended the prestigious Alexander Hamilton Academy in Los Angeles. After serving in the U.S. Army as a tracked vehicle operator, he returned to civilian life and began writing short stories and screenplays, and directing short films and music videos. Moving to Northern California in the late 90s, Michael met his future wife, Ana. The two now live near the San Joaquin River Delta with their equally adventurous children, as well as “the dogs,” “that cat,” and a fish or two. A USA Today and Amazon Bestselling Author, Michael has released six novels selling over 200,000 copies, as well as audiobooks , short stories contributed to anthologies, and has won several awards, including the “Sundance of Books,” the Next Generation Indie Book Awards. Michael’s latest release is RETURN, book three in his popular Matt Turner series.

3. Glynnis Campbell

Glynnis Campbell is a USA Today bestselling author of over two dozen swashbuckling action-adventure historical romances, mostly set in Scotland, and a charter member of The Jewels of Historical Romance — 12 internationally beloved authors. She’s the wife of a rock star and the mother of two young adults, but she’s also been a ballerina, a typographer, a film composer, a piano player, a singer in an all-girl rock band, and a voice in those violent video games you won’t let your kids play. Doing her best writing on cruise ships, in Scottish castles, on her husband’s tour bus, and at home in her sunny southern California garden, Glynnis loves to play medieval matchmaker… transporting readers to a place where the bold heroes have endearing flaws, the women are stronger than they look, the land is lush and untamed, and chivalry is alive and well! Want a FREE BOOK? Sign up for her newsletter at  https://www.glynnis.net

4. Courtney Milan

Courtney Milan’s books have received starred reviews in Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, and Booklist. She is a New York Times and a USA Today bestseller and a RITA® winner. Courtney lives in the Rocky Mountains with her husband, an exceptionally perfect dog, and an attack cat. Before she started writing historical romance, Courtney got a graduate degree in theoretical physical chemistry from UC Berkeley. After that, just to shake things up, she went to law school at the University of Michigan and graduated summa cum laude. Then she did a handful of clerkships with some really important people who are way too dignified to be named here. She was a law professor for a while. She now writes full-time. If you want to know when Courtney’s next book will come out, please visit her website at http://www.courtneymilan.com , where you can sign up to receive an email when she has her next release.

5. Kwame Alexander

Kwame Alexander is a poet, an educator, and the New York Times bestselling author of twenty-nine books, including Rebound, the follow-up to his Newbery Medal–winning novel, The Crossover. Kwame writes for children of all ages. His other picture books include Undefeated, Animal Ark, and Out of Wonder.  A regular contributor to NPR’s Morning Edition, Kwame is the recipient of several awards, including the Coretta Scott King Author Honor, the Lee Bennett Hopkins Poetry Award, three NAACP Image Award nominations, and the 2018 inaugural Conroy Legacy Award.  He believes that poetry can change the world, and he uses it to inspire and empower young people through his writing workshop, the Write Thing. Kwame is also the host and producer of the literary variety/talk show Bookish. You can visit him at  www.kwamealexander.com .

6. Tiffany D. Jackson

Tiffany D. Jackson is the NYT Bestselling author of YA novels including the Coretta Scott King — John Steptoe New Talent Award-winning Monday’s Not Coming, the NAACP Image Award-nominated Allegedly, Let Me Hear A Rhyme, GROWN, and her forthcoming 2021 titles BLACKOUT, WHITE SMOKE, and SANTA IN THE CITY. She received her bachelor of arts in film from Howard University, her master of arts in media studies from the New School, and has over a decade in TV/Film experience. The Brooklyn native is a lover of naps, cookie dough, and beaches, currently residing in the borough she loves, most likely multitasking. Tiffany grew up in Brooklyn Heights but also count places like Fort Greene, Far Rockaway, East New York, and Kingston, Jamaica as her home. She attended Hendrick Hudson High School in Montrose, NY, she received her bachelor of arts in film from Howard University, and her master of arts in media studies from the New School University.  She has over a decade of experience in the television industry, working for various networks and media companies including National Geographic (focused on documentaries such as Lockdown, a prison subculture series) Roc Nation, BET, FUSE, BBC AMERICA, and EPIX. From managing live events, concerts, festival showcases such as BET AWARDS and SXSW Music Show Case, to TV series, specials, and pilots such as FUSE: TOP 20 Countdown, Trending 10, The Hustle: After Party Live and in-studio concert series to producing hip-hop documentaries and artist promotional spots. In 2009, she wrote and directed the short horror film, The Field Trip, receiving praise in the film festival circuit. WANT TO KNOW MORE?  GO HERE →

7. J.T. Ellison

J.T. Ellison began her career as a presidential appointee in the White House, where a nuclear physicist taught her how to obsess over travel itineraries and make a seriously good pot of Earl Grey, spawning both her love of loose leaf and a desire for control of her own destiny. Jaded by the political climate in D.C., she made her way back to her first love, creative writing. More than 20 novels later, she is an award-winning New York Times and USA Today bestselling author with thrillers published in 27 countries and 15 languages. She is also the Emmy Award-winning cohost of A Word on Words, a literary interview television show.  She lives in Nashville with her husband and two small gray minions, known as cats in some cultures. She thinks they’re furry aliens. Visit www.jtellison.com or @thrillerchick for more. ***Psst, J.T. here. Want a FREE ebook ? Visit www.jtellison.com/subscribe and sign up for my newsletter. Along with your free ebook, you’ll get my latest news and updates, insider exclusives, plus awesome recipes and book recommendations. It’s a lot of fun! Happy reading, y’all.

8. Vanessa Riley

Vanessa Riley writes Historical Fiction and Historical Romance (Georgian, Regency, & Victorian) featuring hidden histories, dazzling multi-culture communities, and strong sisterhoods. She promises to pull heart strings, offer a few laughs, and share tidbits of tantalizing history.  This Southern, Irish, Trini girl holds a doctorate in mechanical engineering and a MS in industrial engineering and engineering management from Stanford University. She also earned a BS and MS in mechanical engineering from Penn State University. Yet, her love of history and lattes have overwhelmed her passion for math, leading to the publication of over 20+ titles. She loves writing on her southern porch with proper caffeine.  Vanessa has a very diverse background. She has been a radio anchorwoman and church announcer. She is a member of Romance Writers of America and President-Elect of The Beau Monde, a specialty RWA Chapter. She is also a member of Georgia Romance Writers, NINC, and Historical Novel Society. She is on the Board of Directors of Christian Book Lovers Retreat where readers escape for a weekend of fun, faith and connection to the author community.  Her latest release, A Duke, The Lady, and A Baby is an Amazon Best of the Month Selection and a Publishers Weekly Summer Reads 2020 Editors’ Pick. A Duke, The Lady, and A Baby has been reviewed by Entertainment Weekly, NPR, Library Journal, and the New York Times and received a starred review in Publishers Weekly.  She’s currently working on Island Queen for William Morrow, a novel centering on Dorothy Kirwan Thomas, a formerly enslaved person who becomes one of the wealthiest women in the Caribbean.   Vanessa loves cooking her Trinidadian grandma’s cake recipes and collecting Irish crochet lace and writing on her southern porch with proper caffeination.  Sarah Younger of the Nancy Yost Literary Agency represents Vanessa.

9. Rick Mofina

USA Today bestselling author Rick Mofina is a former journalist who has interviewed murderers on death row, flown over L.A. with the LAPD and patrolled with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police near the Arctic. He’s also reported from the Caribbean, Africa and Kuwait’s border with Iraq. His books have been published in nearly 30 countries, including an illegal translation produced in Iran. His work has been praised by James Patterson, Dean Koontz, Michael Connelly, Lee Child, Tess Gerritsen, Jeffery Deaver, Sandra Brown, James Rollins, Brad Thor, Nick Stone, David Morrell, Allison Brennan, Heather Graham, Linwood Barclay, Peter Robinson, Håkan Nesser and Kay Hooper. The Crime Writers of Canada, The International Thriller Writers, and The Private Eye Writers of America have listed his titles among the best in crime fiction. As a two-time winner of Canada’s Arthur Ellis Award, a four-time Thriller Award finalist and a two-time Shamus Award finalist, the Library Journal calls him, “One of the best thriller writers in the business.”

10. April White

April White has been a film producer, private investigator, bouncer, teacher and screenwriter. She has climbed in the Himalayas, lived on a gold mine in the Yukon, and survived a shipwreck. She and her husband live in Southern California with their two sons, dog, various chickens, and a lifetime collection of books.   Facebook is a solid source of distraction for her, and therefore, her Facebook page, April White Books, is usually the first place to find news, teasers, quotes, and excerpts from her books. She also has a secret reader group on Facebook, called “Kick-Ass Heroines.” If you’d like to get in on some of those conversations, you can request an add here: Kick-Ass Heroines. Sometimes that news links to Twitter, but she hasn’t mastered the art of the pithy tweet, and therefore often avoids the medium for fear of sounding boring. Goodreads is another place to find her lurking around the stacks and spying on her friends’ reading habits. Become her Goodreads friend so she can see what you’re reading, too. ​Marking Time was the 2016 Library Journal Indie e-book winner for Young Adult books, and was chosen by Library Journal for national inclusion on both the fantasy and young adult SELF-e Library Select lists on Biblioboard, The whole series is also available for libraries nationwide through Overdrive, and April is very happy to participate in any library (or bookish) events to which she’s invited.

7 Tips for Writing Your Own Author Bio

Your author bio might only be a few short paragraphs in length, but every word counts. This is your opportunity to make a great first impression with your readership, so it’s important to take some time penning your bio in order to put your best foot forward. 

Here are 7 important tips to consider when writing your author bio.

1. Write in the Third Person

Even though you are writing these words about yourself, never use the words like “I” or “my.” Instead, write from the third person point of view, referencing yourself by your first or second name. 

2. Keep it Short

Your bio is about quality, not quantity. Keep it to under 300 words, and make sure that every sentence adds value. It might be tempting to list out all of your achievements but stick to the big stuff that will make the most impact. You can always include a section on your website where readers can view your full list of accolades, but they don’t need to be featured on the back of your new book under your author bio. 

3. Know Your Audience

Get to know your readers so you can understand how best to speak to them in your author bio. A great way to do this is to hang out with your readers on Twitter or other social media platforms. Interacting with your readership builds a mutual bond and gives you much more insight into who they are and what makes them tick.

A good rule of thumb to  engage your readers  is to stick to the same writing style you use in your published work to talk to your audience in your author bio.

I’d also advise that you assemble a small group of readers who are willing to read your draft and provide feedback and ideas on how to improve it. And consider asking those closest to you to check whether they think it’s a good representation of who you are and what you’re all about. 

4. Include Career Highlights

Note the word “highlights”; this is not the place to list every college course you ever completed and every short story you’ve ever published (see Tip #2) but be sure to include the most prominent relevant parts of your background in writing. 

Higher education diplomas beyond college level are worth including, and of course, list a short selection of your previously published works if you have any. 

If your work has been nominated for an award, but it didn’t quite make the cut, it could still be worth including. The “…. Award-nominated author…” has a great ring to it; it almost doesn’t matter that you didn’t win!

5. Let Your Personality Shine Through

This is  your  author bio, so your personality should shine through in every sentence. This really helps to create a rapport with your readership and give them a better picture of the person behind the words on the page. Done well, this can help you create a loyal fan base and a dedicated readership. 

You can show your personality in your author bio by getting creative with how you present your information. You might want to tell your life story in an inventive way, linking events to each other to create a picture of who you are and how you got here. You can make it fun (see author J.T. Ellison’s example in the list above) and add a well-placed joke in there too. 

6. Include Some Personal Information

A great way to connect with your audience is to show them that you’re not all business; you have a personal life with family, friends, pets, passions, and hobbies too. Readers want to know the human being behind the pages of the book, and this is a great opportunity to give them a little taster of who you really are. 

Most authors choose to include where they live and where they grew up, plus a little bit about their family life too. 

You might also want to include a major life event that has shaped who you are today. 

Just remember to keep it relevant. If you write self-help books about quitting smoking, then a little bit about your struggle with addiction might be the perfect addition to your bio. But if your genre is historical fiction, then it’s best to leave this out. 

7. Create a Basic Verison that can be Tweaked

Your author bio will primarily contain the same information wherever you use it, be it on the insert of your latest book, on your website, or promotional material for an upcoming book tour. But you can also tweak it a little to suit the situation and the audience. 

These tips are designed to help you write a basic author bio, but you can spice it up or remove elements to create a more serious tone depending on the application.

I hope these examples and tips help you to write your own engaging author bio to share wherever you promote your work. Remember to keep it short and to the point, and add a little flair and personality so that your readers can get to know the person behind the pen. 

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How To Write An Author Bio (With Examples And Templates)

So you've written a book or started a blog and now need to craft an author bio to help readers get to know you. An author bio is one of the most important parts of establishing your writing platform, but it can also be one of the hardest to write. How do you condense your life's story and writing experience into a few short paragraphs? How do you make yourself sound accomplished yet approachable?

Don't worry, we've got you covered. In this article, we'll walk you through how to write an engaging author bio from scratch. We'll provide examples and templates to get you started, tips for choosing the right tone and perspective, and advice for including the key details that help connect you to your readers. By the end, you'll have all the tools you need to craft an author bio you can be proud to share. Writing about yourself doesn't have to be awkward or intimidating. With the right mindset and approach, you can make it fun and help your unique author voice shine through.

What Is an Author Bio and Why Is It Important?

An author bio is a short biography of yourself that accompanies your written work. Whether you're publishing a book, starting a blog, or pitching to media, an author bio helps establish your credibility and connect with your audience.

As an author, your bio is one of the first things people will read to get a sense of who you are. It should highlight your relevant experience, accomplishments, and qualifications in an authentic yet compelling way.

An author bio is an important part of your platform as a writer. It helps build credibility with your readers and establishes you as an authority in your niche. Keep your bio concise yet compelling, focusing on your most significant accomplishments and credentials. Use an authentic and friendly tone to connect with your audience on a personal level. Update your bio regularly to keep it current. With a strong author bio, you'll make a great first impression on anyone who reads your work.

Elements to Include in Your Author Bio

An author bio allows readers to quickly glimpse who you are and your background. The elements you include can help establish your credibility and connect with your audience. Here are some of the key things you’ll want to incorporate into your author bio:

1. Your name

Include your full name so readers know exactly who you are. You can also include any credentials or titles you may have. For example, “John Doe, Ph.D.”

2. A brief bio

Give readers a short 1-2 sentence bio summing up who you are and what you do. For example, “John Doe is a freelance writer and marketing consultant.” Keep this high level without too many details.

3. Your areas of expertise

Mention 1-3 areas you have expertise or experience in. For example, “John Doe specializes in content marketing, email marketing, and social media strategy.” This helps establish your credibility and lets readers know what topics you can knowledgeably write about.

4. A personal detail

Adding a personal detail or fun fact can help humanize you and connect with readers. But keep it light and avoid anything too controversial. For example, “When he's not writing, John enjoys hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family.”

5. Social media links

If you have social media profiles related to your writing or area of expertise, include links to them in your bio. For example:

Twitter: @johndoe

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/johndoe

An author bio is a key part of your online presence as a writer. Keep it concise yet compelling, highlight your experience and expertise, and make a personal connection with readers. Follow these tips and you'll be crafting an author bio that represents you well in no time!

How to Write an Author Bio in 5 Easy Steps

Writing an author bio is an important way to connect with your readers and build your credibility as a writer. Here are five easy steps to craft an engaging author bio:

Step #1 Choose a Style and Perspective

Decide if you want to write your bio in first or third person. First person (“I have been writing for 10 years”) tends to be more personal while third person (“John Doe has been writing for 10 years”) sounds more professional. Think about your audience and writing style to determine which perspective fits best.

Step #2 Share Some Background

Give the reader a sense of your background and qualifications. Mention your areas of expertise, degrees or certifications, and years of experience. Keep this high-level without too many specific details. For example, “Jane Doe has over 20 years of experience as a content writer and has developed expertise in health and wellness topics.”

Step #3 Discuss Your Writing

Talk about your writing experience, style, and any publications or accomplishments. For example, “John Doe has published over 200 articles on Medium covering a range of productivity and lifestyle topics. His writing is known for its simple yet engaging style and actionable advice.” You can also mention any awards or recognition you’ve received.

Step #4 Share Some Personal Interests (Optional)

Include some of your personal interests and pursuits to give readers a more well-rounded sense of who you are. For example, “When not writing, Jane enjoys yoga, cooking, and spending time with family.” This part of the bio is optional but helps to humanize you and build a personal connection with readers.

Step #5 Review and Refine

Read through your draft bio and look for any areas that could be improved. Get feedback from others as well. Refine and edit your bio to ensure the tone and content are aligned with your brand and goals. Keep your bio to 2-3 short paragraphs for the best results.

With these steps, you'll be able to craft an author bio that highlights your experience, expertise, and personality. Your bio is a key part of your online presence as an author, so take the time to get it right!

Dos and Don'ts for Your Author Bio

When crafting your author bio, there are a few dos and don'ts to keep in mind:

• Do keep it short and sweet. Your bio should be 3 to 4 sentences at most. Any longer and readers may lose interest. Stick to the essentials about your background and experience.
• Do focus on your credentials and qualifications. Mention any relevant degrees, certifications or areas of expertise that make you an authority on your subject matter. For example, “John Doe has a PhD in Psychology from Harvard University and over 10 years of experience as a practicing therapist.”
• Do include a fun fact. Adding an interesting personal detail helps to humanize you and build a connection with readers. For instance, “When he’s not writing, John enjoys hiking with his two dogs and learning to cook Indian cuisine.”
• Don’t exaggerate or misrepresent yourself. Be authentic and honest. Lying or stretching the truth will only damage your credibility and reputation in the long run.
• Don’t get too personal. While a fun fact is fine, avoid oversharing details about your family life, health issues, religious views or other topics that don’t relate directly to your work. Your bio should maintain a sense of professionalism.
• Don’t use clichés or meaningless adjectives. Phrases like “passion for writing” or “expert communicator” are overused and ineffective. Show your expertise through concrete facts and examples instead.

Author Bio Examples

Writing an engaging author bio can be challenging. Here are 10 examples to model your own after:

1. The Humble Expert

"John Smith has over 20 years of experience as a business consultant. He has helped over 500 companies improve efficiency and increase profits. Outside of work, John enjoys hiking, reading, and spending time with family."

This bio highlights the author's experience and expertise while remaining humble and personable. The details about hobbies and family make him relatable.

2. The Aspiring Authority

"Jane Doe is the founder of ABC Company and an aspiring authority on leadership and management. She frequently blogs and speaks on topics like improving company culture, effective communication, and the habits of high-performance teams."

This bio establishes the author as an aspiring expert in her field who is actively working to build her authority through content creation and public speaking.

3. The Lifelong Learner

"Mike Johnson has been a lifelong learner and educator. He has degrees in Psychology, Education, and Leadership. Mike has spent over 15 years teaching personal development skills to students around the world. He writes to share the life lessons and wisdom gained from his diverse experiences, adventures, failures, and continued learning."

This bio highlights the author's passion for continuous self-improvement and sharing knowledge with others. The tone is inspiring and reflective.

4. The Relatable Role Model

"Sara Williams is a mother of three, marathon runner, and health coach. She knows firsthand the challenges of balancing family, fitness, and a career. Through her writing and coaching, Sara aims to motivate and inspire women to pursue their goals and dreams despite obstacles or setbacks."

This bio establishes the author as a relatable role model for readers by highlighting shared life experiences and values. The uplifting and empowering tone is appealing.

5. The Quirky Character

"When Jack isn't writing or daydreaming up his next story, he enjoys woodworking, stargazing, and birdwatching—though not usually at the same time. Jack lives with his wife, two kids, and an energetic border collie in the Pacific Northwest. He likes pizza, craft beer, and all things retro."

This playful bio gives readers a glimpse into the author's quirky personality and varied interests with personable details. The lighthearted and humorous tone creates an instant connection with readers.

6. The Multifaceted Creative

"Emily Clark is a true creative at heart, with a passion for photography, painting, and writing. Her artistic endeavors serve as a means of self-expression and allow her to explore the world through different mediums. Emily's work often captures the beauty of everyday life, showcasing the extraordinary in the ordinary."

This bio introduces Emily as a versatile artist who finds inspiration in various forms of creativity. Her ability to capture the essence of everyday moments and transform them into art is a testament to her unique perspective and talent.

7. The Globetrotting Explorer

"Alex Rodriguez is an avid traveler and adventurer, always seeking new experiences and connections around the globe. From climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to diving in the Great Barrier Reef, Alex's wanderlust has taken him to breathtaking destinations. Through his writing, he shares captivating stories and insights gained from his journeys."

This bio showcases Alex as an intrepid explorer who embraces the thrill of discovering new cultures and landscapes. His travel experiences enrich his storytelling, offering readers a glimpse into the wonders of the world.

8. The Tech Guru

"Sarah Thompson is a tech enthusiast and expert, passionate about the latest advancements and their impact on society. With a background in computer science, Sarah has a deep understanding of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and blockchain. Through her writing, she simplifies complex concepts, making them accessible to readers of all backgrounds."

This bio positions Sarah as a knowledgeable authority in the ever-evolving world of technology. Her ability to bridge the gap between technical jargon and everyday readers makes her an invaluable resource for those seeking clarity in the digital age.

9. The Advocate for Change

"Michael Nguyen is a dedicated advocate for social justice and equality. Through his writing, he sheds light on pressing issues such as racial discrimination, gender inequality, and environmental sustainability. Michael's powerful words aim to inspire individuals to take action and create a more just and inclusive world."

This bio highlights Michael's commitment to raising awareness and driving positive change. His passion for justice resonates throughout his writing, empowering readers to become agents of transformation in their communities.

10. The Historical Storyteller

"Elizabeth Turner is a captivating historical storyteller, bringing the past to life with her vivid narratives and meticulous research. With a passion for uncovering forgotten tales and exploring different eras, Elizabeth transports readers to bygone worlds, immersing them in the rich tapestry of history."

This bio paints Elizabeth as a masterful weaver of stories, skillfully intertwining facts with imagination to create a mesmerizing journey through time. Her unwavering dedication to historical accuracy ensures that readers not only enjoy her narratives but also gain a deeper understanding of the past.

Author Bio Templates

Whether you're publishing a book or starting a blog, an author bio is an important way to connect with your readers and build your credibility as a writer. The good news is, author bios follow a pretty standard template you can use to craft your own.

Here are some examples to get you started:

Short Bio (50-100 words)

Use this for a quick intro on your blog, social media profiles, or the back of your book:

• [Your name] is a [your profession] and [other relevant info, e.g. award or accomplishment]. [He/She] lives in [location] with [his/her] [family member(s)]. [His/Her] [hobby or interest] include [activity 1], [activity 2], and [activity 3].

Medium Bio (100-150 words)

This provides a high-level overview of your background and credentials:

• [Your name] is a [your profession] and [other relevant info, e.g. award or accomplishment]. [He/She] has over [X] years of experience [in your field or relevant experience]. [His/Her] work has appeared in [publications or media outlets].
• Outside of work, [he/she] enjoys [hobby 1], [hobby 2], and [hobby 3]. [He/She] lives in [location] with [his/her] [family members]. [His/Her] latest [project or work] is [book title or blog name].

Longer Bio (200-500 words)

Use this on your website or in proposals to give readers a comprehensive sense of your experience and qualifications:

• [Your name] is a [your profession] and [other relevant info, e.g. award or accomplishment] with over [X] years of experience. [He/She] is passionate about [your work or area of expertise] because [reasons and motivations].
• [His/Her] work has appeared in [publications or media outlets]. [He/She] has written [X] books including [book title 1], [book title 2], and [book title 3]. [His/Her] latest [project or work] is [book title or blog name].
• Outside of work, [he/she] enjoys [hobby 1], [hobby 2], and [hobby 3]. [He/She] lives in [location] with [his/her] [family members].

Using these templates, you can craft an author bio that gives readers a well-rounded sense of who you are and builds your credibility.

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Hypotenuse AI's author bio generator is designed specifically to help authors craft compelling author bios. All you have to do is provide some basic details about yourself and your writing, and the AI will generate a draft bio for you. You can then easily review and revise the draft to ensure it captures your unique voice and story. Give it a try and let artificial intelligence help craft your compelling author bio!

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How to Write an Author Bio That Stands Out

• 19 September, 2024

If you’re like many authors, you can write a 100k+ word book no problem, but there are two short pieces you might face with dread: the book’s blurb and the author bio. Condensing a complex story into a couple of paragraphs can feel like torture, but most of us would still choose that over writing about ourselves . Ugh! Because it can feel like such a painful endeavor, here we focus on the latter: how to write an author bio and we include some author bio examples. Hopefully, this helps you avoid some of those pain points and inspires you to focus on yours.

First Off – What Is an Author Bio?

If you are new to publishing, you may be asking, “What even  is an author bio???” You may be more familiar with the phrase “About the Author,” which you see on the back cover or inside flap of some books or in the interior, usually at the back. It’s two to three paragraphs, 100-300 words, about you as an author and a person. Your bio provides facts and details that convince your target reader that they want to read your book. It’s too important than to simply drop a few lines to go on the “About the Author” page. That’s why you want to know how to write an author bio that stands out.

Why a Powerful Author Bio Matters

The author bio is part of your author branding and book marketing toolbox, an important piece in your author marketing strategy. It’s included with queries to agents and publishers, introducing you to potential industry contacts. It goes on your author profile pages on book retailer sites, on your own website, in press releases, and as part of your media kit. It gets attached to articles you write, is read or included in the description for podcasts you’re on as a guest, and is shared in many other ways throughout your author career. Especially for non-fiction, it answers the question: “Why should I trust this person with this topic?”

The author bio has two main audiences: professional and readers. Industry and other professional contacts want to know who you are as an “expert,” and a strong author bio focuses on the facts to show that you know what you’re talking about. This is especially true for non-fiction books, but applies to fiction authors, too.

As an obvious example, a proven track-record of writing bestselling and award-winning science fiction will convince an agent, publisher, media outlet, or reader that you can be trusted to deliver a compelling sci-fi story. What if you don’t have those credentials, though? Consider your work, educational background, and significant life experiences that contribute to your wealth of knowledge about the science and technology used in your book. As another example, for a romance writer, maybe it’s your understanding of human psychology and relationships, an unusual background or experience in regards to romance and love, or your personal familiarity with the setting. These kinds of details help show other professionals that you’re coming from a place of wisdom and experience.

An author bio written specifically for readers, especially for fiction authors, may be more personable and conversational than one for industry contacts. Readers also want to know that they can trust you to take them on an exciting adventure, and awards and bestseller letters may help convince them of that, but mostly they want to know you . Readers who feel like they can relate to you as a person are more likely to buy your books – now and in the future.

Bottom line: a strong author bio is part of your author brand and helps sell more books.

Tips for Writing an Author Bio That Stands Out

1. know your audience and write for the right one.

As stated above, your author bio will be read by both professional contacts and potential readers. Depending on your genre and how much connecting with industry professionals and the media you plan to do, you may want to write separate bios for each of these – or you may be fine with just one. This is part of knowing your audience and targeting it specifically.

The other part is your genre. Readers of self-help or a how-to instructional book want to know your professional credentials as much as an agent, publisher, or media outlet does to ensure you’re the right one to teach this subject. On the other hand, fantasy or young adult fiction readers, for example, tend to be more interested in knowing you as a person, someone they would want to be friends with, rather than your education and work background. Readers love a good story, and this one is about you. It’s important to know what your genre’s readers expect in an author bio and deliver that to them.

2. Write a Strong Hook & Frontload the Most Important Information

Introduce yourself with an intriguing hook that grabs the reader’s attention and keep it by including the most important and relevant details about you in the first few sentences. In today’s fast-paced world, this may be all that the reader sees before skimming the rest – or moving on to something else.  Knowing h ow to hook the reader and what is most important goes back to knowing your audience and targeting your bio to their needs and desires.

Put yourself in their shoes and ask yourself what they would find most interesting about you that also builds trust in you to deliver the book they want and need. A reader who’s searching for information about sustainable living may not care that you met the love of your life while following a rock band on a world tour, but a romance reader may be hooked by that fact. That same reader will care much less about your degree in science and engineering, but the former one might be sold by it.

Know what the reader of the bio is looking for and include that upfront.

3. Expand With Relevant Credentials

Once you’ve hooked the reader and pulled them in with the most relevant facts, expand on your writing and subject credentials. What other works have you written? Where have your writings been featured? Have you been honored with any awards or other recognition? Just be careful not to overload the reader. Even for the professional case use, you don’t need to list every single accomplishment you’ve achieved in your lifetime.

4. Get Personal

Be sure to include a few details about you as a person. It’s important that others know you as a real human being, not just a name and list of achievements. This can include a tidbit about your family, where you live, your upbringing, your favorite foods, your pets, your travels, your other interests besides writing or the topic you cover, weird quirks…the only limit is what you feel comfortable sharing. You can keep it vague (e.g., Jane Doe lives in the Pacific Northwest with her partner and a houseful of two- and four-legged children…) or make it specific (e.g., Growing up in Key West, Florida, as the only child of a fisherman and an exotic dancer…). You don’t have to give your entire life story, but just enough for readers to find interesting and connect with you as a human and not another name on the screen.

5. Mind Your Tone

Your author bio doesn’t have to be dry and monotone. In fact, the tone of your bio should reflect the tone of your writing. If your books include humor, be sure to inject some into your author bio. If you write romance, lead your readers into falling in love with you with romantic word choices. Don’t be afraid to use relevant jargon and vernacular –  as long as your readers will also know it. Being a little colorful with your verbiage also helps to make your author bio more personal.

6. Be Prepared With More Than One Version

As mentioned above, you will likely want more than one version of your author bio to target different audiences. You might also consider having different lengths available. About the Author pages in books and sections on most retailer sites may vary from 100-300 words. Media outlets, author conferences, and others might only allow 50-100 words, though. On the other end of the spectrum, you may want to go into more of your story on your own website’s About page to more deeply connect with your visitors, and here, the sky is the limit (as long as the bio remains engaging). At bare minimum, prepare a short version (under 100 words) in addition to your standard author bio to keep in your branding kit, so you’re ready at a moment’s notice to share it when requested.

Compelling Author Bio Examples

When learning how to write an author bio, compelling examples may help, so we’ve compiled a few. You can use these as inspiration, but be sure to make your author bio your own.

A.L. Knorr , Fantasy Fiction:

USA Today Bestselling Author, A.L. Knorr is an award-winning Canadian fantasy writer. Readers love her vivid characters and mesmerizing stories of elemental transformation, adventure, friendship, and love. The bestselling Elemental Origins Series can be read out of order, but if you want to read in the order they were written, they are listed below chronologically. Known for strong female protagonists, realistic magic, adventure and intrigue, sweet (clean) romance, and well-crafted plots that keep you turning pages late into the night, A.L. Knorr is a masterful storyteller. Abby’s books contain no strong language and no graphic violence.

J. T. Bishop , Mystery Thrillers Fiction:

J.T. Bishop writes mystery thrillers with a paranormal edge. Growing up, she read Stephen King, Mary Higgins Clark, and Dean Koontz, devoured every episode of the X-files and watched plenty of TV shows with great partnerships that leave you wanting more. She loves tangled relationships, unexpected twists and turns, heart-stopping love stories and the complications that come with all the above. Throw in a little supernatural fun and she’s hooked. Her evil plan is to hook you, too. She’s the author of the Red-Line Trilogy and the Fletcher Family Saga, which feature touches of urban fantasy, light sci-fi, and paranormal romance. She also writes mystery thrillers featuring two charismatic detectives who occasionally encounter a supernatural villain, and a crossover series which follows a gifted, but troubled, paranormal P.I. and his spunky sister. All the above keeps her busy, but in her spare time, she loves good movies, tasty food, an unfortunate sugar addiction, and traveling.

Samuel John , Children’s Books:

Samuel John is an award-winning educational Children’s book author. Having won numerous awards and titles such as The Literary Titan Gold Award, The Literary Titan Silver Award, the Winner of Best Children’s Book of Summer at the Outstanding Creator Awards, the Children’s Book International Awards, and so much more, it’s no secret that Samuel absolutely loves what he does. Growing up, he’s always had a passion for creating creative and interactive stories that really get your imagination going. Now, he’s published multiple 5-star Children’s books that are now also available in a variety of different languages. He hopes to continue inspiring children with his imaginative works while also entertaining them. The world is a colorful place full of adventures that are just waiting to happen.

Lynn Lok-Payne , Non-Fiction:

LYNN LOK-PAYNE is the award-winning author of Wake Up! Change Up! Rise Up!: Practical Tools for Personal Transformation, which won the prestigious 2022 IBPA Silver Award in Self-Help. As a former CEO and founder of a multi-million-dollar business turned author, Lynn motivates others to become the next chapter of who they are meant to be by creating a more empowering narrative for their life. When not writing, she can be found curled up with a good book, traveling to new locales, and attending concerts.

James Clear, Non-Fiction:

James Clear is a writer and speaker focused on habits, decision making, and continuous improvement. He is the author of the #1 New York Times bestseller, Atomic Habits. The book has sold over 20 million copies worldwide and has been translated into more than 60 languages. Clear is a regular speaker at Fortune 500 companies and his work has been featured in places like Time magazine, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal and on CBS This Morning. His popular “3-2-1” email newsletter is sent out each week to more than 3 million subscribers.

Now You Know How to Write an Author Bio

Your author bio plays an important role in your book marketing and author branding. While many of us would much rather have a root canal than write about ourselves, it’s not something to quickly pound out without thought and intention. If it helps, take the perspective of a reader who’s writing about a favorite author. Consider what’s most interesting about this person, add the relevant supporting details, and write it in third person, keeping it short and poignant. Voila! You now know how to write an author bio. Finally, be sure to keep your bio updated when you have something new to add or change.

So now…tell us about yourself.

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How to write your author bio

Your author bio is SO IMPORTANT if you’re pitching to a publisher or editor or trying to get yourself a literary agent. I’ve seen some agonising author bios and the biggest problem is that there’s too much (irrelevant) information and not enough of the good stuff. Why are we so quick to doubt our amazing achievements?!

Imagine sitting in solitary confinement for months in order to finish your book and then having to write a short, sharp, highlight reel of your life from a marketing perspective in order to pitch your book. Eek! Read on for what to include in your author bio as well as where you will use it. I’ve also included a fill-in-the-blanks template to make it easy for you!

Nothing confounds an author emerging from a long manuscript draft more than having to construct a short, sharp, pithy bio. It’s no wonder. From the creative brain to the sales and marketing brain, you need to really switch from humility and confusion and messy drafting creative flow to throwing those writing pyjamas off and pulling on your glamour outfit to put yourself out in the world. Read on for exactly how to do this!

Your author bio should be the ultimate highlight reel of your writing life.

A good bio will also help you get freelance writing assignments and could nab you a literary agent.

Read on for three steps to crafting a killer bio (and what to avoid!). I can’t tell you how many author bios I’ve read, and then questioned the author on their experience only to find they have the most incredible media experience, marketing know-how or global connections they just “didn’t think” to include because they didn’t know how. It can be hard to know how to pitch ourselves.

STEP 1: Think of your target audience and start with your BEST writing experience

• Where have you been published? Use the top tier places over the less relevant (eg. The Paris Review trumps Take Five magazine if you’re pitching to a literary agent. If you’re hoping to write an excerpt for an online magazine, find similar journals to the one you’re pitching.)
• Have you won any writing awards, fellowships, or even been nominated for something? Include the best of this, too.

2: Keep it short, sharp, third person and objective

• An author bio (as part of your book proposal) should be 150 words maximum. I prefer them to be under 100 words. You want it to be your absolute highlight reel. Your author bio should get an agent or publisher curious enough to want to know more and see more, you want them suitably impressed, sure that you can handle yourself ‘in the ring’ so-to-speak. You don’t want them to feel like they’re stuck in a corner with someone going on and on about themselves at a party or worse, telling a story that has no relevance to their wants and needs as professionals.

3: Don’t give TMI (too much information)

• Most good author bios have a few words about what the author personally does or enjoys (eg. Drinks too much tea / coffee or lives in the Scottish Highlands with her Basset Hound) but don’t go overboard. A sentence is plenty, include a quirky aspect, but nothing too intensely personal.
• As above do NOT include deeply personal information about your private life (eg. has been married five times, doesn’t like anchovies, etc – unless the book is about anchovies, of course).
• Don’t talk about writing awards you got in school – or anything from school years, in fact. (I have seen this done. Horrifying.)
• Try to keep any extra information relevant to the genre you’re writing in. So, for example, if you’re pitching a memoir about running, you’d include a sentence around your experience in that area – for example, you’ve run three Boston marathons or you particularly love trail-running.

Your author bio template (just fill in the XX sections with your personal details!):

XXX ( name ) is a XXX( insert country/town of residence )-based XXX ( insert genre, awards ) writer who has XXXX ( been nominated for / published in / writing about ) for XXX ( years) . Her piece, XXX, about XXX was nominated for/published in / chronicled her experience with XXXX. XXX is fascinated by the XXX (insert niche or topic of memoir) and worked with (highlight anyone incredible you’ve worked with or something unsual or amazing related to your book.) When not writing, XXX can be found curled up in her favourite bookstore (insert cute and pithy but not too personal info about what you like to do in your spare time.) XXX is XXXs first/second/third book. OR XXX is about the two years when XXX did this (use your memoir focus sentence for this).   You’ll need a longer bio with more information on your platform for your book proposal, but the shorter one will be used in your queries, social media profiles, and publicity material.

YOU’LL ALSO LOVE: Find your memoir hook

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Very helpful, thank you! The template is fab.

Thank you so much. I am finding this all so helpful, am on my second biro and well over half-way through my exercise book. There’s one thing I would like to ask you. You tell us to write two pages a day, and I am averaging five or six. Should I stick to the two pages or keep on until I run out of steam as I am doing now? Thanks again, Gill

Hi Gill, sorry for my late reply, I’ve only just seen this! That’s SO GREAT you’re onto your second biro already!! Ha. In terms of the page numbers, I set 2 pages as a minimum guideline, because sometimes if we overestimate we can set ourselves up for disappointment. I also like to end each journalling session on a ‘high’ ie. wanting to write more. BUT that said, please don’t question it, or stop the writing flowing. I’m so happy it’s producing so much creative flow for you!

Thanks! Finally I have a bio thanks to this page!

Great to hear!

Dear Louisa,

I’m about to pitch my first book. Thank you SO much for all this great information.

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BRYN DONOVAN

tell your stories, love your life

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11 Good Author Bio Examples

It’s funny that one of the hardest things for some writers to write is a paragraph about themselves! Many writers—especially unpublished writers and first-time authors—aren’t sure how to write a short author bio or a longer introductory one. So today, I’m sharing what I think are some great author bio examples.

Sooner or later, we all have to write one. Some agents and editors ask for biographical information as part of a query or submission. Publishers usually ask their authors for them for their website and the back of the book. Most authors want to set up profiles on platforms like Amazon, Goodreads, and BookBub, and some writers want a short author bio for Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or other social media accounts. And when writers set up a website, an “about the author” paragraph or statement is often front and center.

(By the way, if you’re interested in setting up a website, be sure to check out my post on author website examples !)

I’m including author bio examples from several different kinds of writers here. A couple of them haven’t yet published anything yet. The right approach for you will depend on your goals, your personality, where you are on your writing journey, and where the biographical information will appear, so I’ve tried to include several approaches.

If you’ve ever been intimidated by author bios that are basically a long list of publishing credentials and awards, let me share a little secret. Readers may not connect with those bios as much as they connect with yours! Serious and academic authors often have professional reasons to have author bios that function as resumes. However…

Readers respond to honesty, simplicity, originality, and sometimes, a sense of humor.

I do think it helps to have some personal information in an author bio, but don’t share anything about your personal life that you don’t feel 100% comfortable putting out there.

But first, let’s talk about:

How Long Should an Author Bio Be?

Short author bios are very versatile. In my day job in publishing, when I ask authors for bios, I ask for 100 words or less . This ensures some consistency on our publisher website and in our “About the Author” pages, plus the shorter length also forces a person to make some smart decisions and keeps them from rambling. This means the bio will probably make a better impression. I think it’s a great length for the inside of a book.

If you’re writing an “About Me” on your blog or website, however, it may be quite a bit longer! It can become more of an introductory blog post…and it can serve other purposes as well (as you’ll see in a couple of the examples below.)

I’ll note the word count on all of the examples below so you get a feel for length!

Author Bio Examples

1. an unpublished middle grade author bio.

This first one is a Twitter bio, and I should note here that the author, Liz Hanson, has rewritten her name on Twitter to “Liz Hanson is querying her MG novel in verse.” This is so smart: if she participates in Twitter pitch events or if an agent looks her up on Twitter, she looks serious about her writing career.

Her short Twitter bio continues that same impression.

Inspired by young minds and wise words. ELD teacher, mother, MG writer. Member of SCBWI. (15 words)

SCBWI is the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, and being part of a professional organization suggests that you’re taking the time to learn all about a writing career and the industry.

2. A Bestselling Fantasy Author Bio

Emily R. King shares her favorite snack and her interest in wildlife (I think?) in her bio.

Emily R. King is the author of the Hundredth Queen series, as well as Before the Broken Star, Into the Hourglass, and Everafter Song in the Evermore Chronicles. Born in Canada and raised in the United States, she is a shark advocate, a consumer of gummy bears, and an islander at heart, but her greatest interests are her children and their three cats. (63 words)

3. A Bio From an Author Who Writes In More Than One Genre

Multiple pen names aren’t unusual for authors, and Patricia Sargaent has three of them because she writes in different genres. I work with her as Olivia Matthews (cozy mystery), and I didn’t realize for quite a while that I had enjoyed one of her books that she published as Regina Hart!

This can be tricky to wrangle in a website presence. Patricia has one author bio to cover all of them. Notice that the bio is doing much more than just introducing her: it’s also inviting you to follow her on social media, hire her as a speaker or teacher, and sign up for her newsletter. Many authors use the “about me” section on their website to do this, and it’s smart.

Patricia Sargeant is the national best-selling, award-winning author of more than 20 novels. Her work has been featured in national publications such as Publishers Weekly, USA Today, Kirkus Reviews, Suspense Magazine, Mystery Scene Magazine, Library Journal and RT Book Reviews. She’s also been interviewed on podcasts including Destination Mystery with Laura Brennan, Conversations LIVE! with Cyrus Webb, Read You Later with Lasheera Lee and Katara’s Café with Katara Johnson.

Patricia has been a keynote speaker and presenter at various events. She’s conducted numerous writing craft workshops for writers groups and book conferences, and offers online fiction writing courses. Visit her  The Write Spot website for details. To contact Patricia about attending your event, email her at [email protected].

Patricia loves to hear from readers. You can email her at [email protected] Other ways to stay in touch with Patricia: Enewsletter Facebook Twitter YouTube channel: BooksByPatricia

Click here to watch  her author brand video. (151 words)

4. A Self-Published Romance Author Bio

Lucy Score is an exceptionally successful self-published romance author. Her bio on her website focuses on her personal background and her development as a writer.

Lucy grew up in rural Pennsylvania with a lot of time on her hands and a big imagination. She was the oldest of three in a literary household. Dinners were often spent in silence while family members had their noses buried in books. A passion for writing took hold at five when she taught her brother to write his name on the bathroom door.

She started writing (on paper) in the second grade, first about pilgrims on the Mayflower and over the years graduated to essays, articles, blogs, and finally books.

Before becoming a full-time writer, Lucy pretended to be a normal adult by holding down jobs that included event planner, bartender, newspaper lackey, and yoga instructor.

Lucy and Mr. Lucy, enjoy spending time with their ten nieces and nephews and are determined to learn to sail so they can live on a sailboat in the Caribbean someday. (148 words)

5. A Bio of an Unpublished Author Who Also Offers Other Services

Joanne Machin does other things besides write, and that’s true of a lot of writers. (Lots of them are also visual artists, for instance!) You can definitely combine the two in a bio for a website. Here’s how Joanne handled it in her sassy, fun, but informational author bio.

Joanne Machin is an author of flirty, nerdy, feminist contemporary adult #ownvoices romance. She also runs her own business as a freelance editor and virtual assistant for other business owners. In her free time, she likes to find new coffee shops and restaurants, obsess over stationery and all things planner-related, read, practice hot yoga, and play video games.  Joanne Machin resides in the Pacific Northwest with her husband, Thomas, and their Welsh terrier, Oliver. She received her Bachelor’s degree in English Language and Literature from the University of Washington . (89 words)

6. A Bestselling Young Adult Author Bio

Adam Silvera’s bio is short and focuses on his publications, but he throws in something at the end to make you smile.

Adam Silvera is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of THEY BOTH DIE AT THE END, MORE HAPPY THAN NOT, HISTORY IS ALL YOU LEFT ME, INFINITY SON and INFINITY REAPER. He has also co-written WHAT IF IT’S US and HERE’S TO US with Becky Albertalli. He was born and raised in the Bronx and now lives in Los Angeles. He is tall for no reason. (67 words)

7. A Bestselling Children’s Author Bio

Adam Wallace writes this short bio in the first person, which is unusual and feels more friendly—as if he’s personally introducing himself to you. Again, there’s a bit of humor, and the bio also explains what he hopes to do for his readers. Authors of books for adults can do this, too! I personally think that if you’ve hit the NYT and the USA Today , saying you’re also an Amazon bestselling author is a bit beside the point, but it’s no big deal!

I am a New York Times , Amazon and USA Today bestselling author who loves writing stories that make children laugh and get excited about reading and drawing and writing. I also love taking naps and listening to music. Not at the same time. (43 words)

8. A Bestselling Romance Author Bio

Helen Hoang has a really endearing “about the author.” Notice that she also uses the bio to establish that she brought personal experience to the writing of her breakout mega-bestseller, The Kiss Quotient , which features a heroine on the autism spectrum.

Helen Hoang is that shy person who never talks. Until she does. And the worst things fly out of her mouth. She read her first romance novel in eighth grade and has been addicted ever since. In 2016, she was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder in line with what was previously known as Asperger’s Syndrome. Her journey inspired THE KISS QUOTIENT. She currently lives in San Diego, California with her husband, two kids, and pet fish. (76 words)

9. Social Media Author Bio With One-Word Sentences.

Delaney Williams packs a whole lot of information into a short Twitter bio using one-word sentences. She also conveys a certain attitude by adding “a mother****ing Unicorn” after her name. I’m actually not sure what SUP stands for, but I think this is a really effective approach for a social media site.

Author. Advocate. Artist. BLM. Pan. Wife. Mom. SUP. Kiowa. Story collector. Book lover. Tattoo fiend. Feminist hippie, ME/MS, cancer survivor, she/they. (21 words)

10. A Self-Published Author Bio That Uses Bullet Points

Christopher Lentz ‘s bio on his website is very long, which is fine, because it’s his website! What’s the point of having a website or blog if you don’t get to write whatever you want there?

What I find interesting is his use of bullet points in a bio. I hadn’t seen anyone else do this, and I’m stealing the idea from him, so credit where credit is due. I also love the opening sentence!

A man who writes romances, a self-starter who self-publishes and a dreamer who thinks growing old should take longer.

Christopher Lentz is the acclaimed author of  Opening Doors  (biography, 2019),  My Friend Marilyn  (historica l fiction, 2018) and  The Blossom Trilogy  (historical romance). His books are about hope, second chances and outcasts overcoming obstacles. But most of all, they’re about how love changes everything. Lentz made his mark as a corporate-marketing executive before becoming a full-time storyteller.

When asked to offer a dozen things people should know about him, Lentz says he:

• Is an author who gave Marilyn Monroe a second chance
• Kissed the love of his life atop the Eiffel Tower
• Lives in a haunted Victorian house
• Earned a paycheck dressing up as Winnie the Pooh at Disneyland
• Stands in awe of lightening, thunder and his wife’s from-scratch chocolate cake
• Was born on the 6th of July, but he’s a firecracker just the same
• Loves a book that reads like a movie
• Climbed the Great Wall of China…yes, climbed, one does not just walk on it
• Snorkeled the Great Barrier Reef
• Firmly believes it isn’t hoarding if your stuff’s cool
• Survived acupuncture, cupping (which is nothing like spooning) and a spinal tap
• Discovered that life’s second chapter is the sweetest

He resides in Southern California with his high-school-sweetheart wife and family. To learn more, please visit www.blossomtrilogy.com. (227 words)

11. An Unpublished YA Fantasy Writer Bio

Mia K Rose has another example with bullet points! She notes her pronouns, Myers-Briggs type, and zodiac sign under “Classifications,” which I think is fun, even if you believe in neither! (Personally, I kind of get into both.)

Mia K Rose is a statistics and data analyst who lives in Gold Coast and, though the job may be analytical, loves the realms of fantasy. She is a member of SCBWI, QWC and Brisbane Writer’s Festival. Mia has a degree in Masters of Letters (Creative Writing) from CQUniversity.

Classifications:

• She/Her (54 words)

Do you struggle with writing an author bio? Do you have questions about it? Share your thoughts in the comments section!

And if you’d like to share your own author bio in the comments section and link to your author page on Amazon or your website, go for it. Thanks so much for reading, and happy writing!

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15 thoughts on “ 11 good author bio examples ”.

Thank you Bryn for putting these excellent bio samples together for us. This has been really helpful.

Thanks for the kind words, Naomi! I appreciate it!

Thanks for sharing these great bios. All were engaging. I especially like the ones with a bit of humor. Thanks for letting us share our own bio. https://www.amazon.com/Judith-Gonda/e/B084KPD5D5?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1635362583&sr=1-1

Thanks, Judith—and thanks for sharing your own! I love the alliteration 🙂

I love reading BIOS and learn so much when I do. Here is mine:

Liz Boeger’s stint as a bikini model peaked in kindergarten. Her fallback career writing mysteries didn’t kick-in until she neared the mid-century mark. In between, she wrangled children, adults, and the occasional Florida panther as a teacher and school administrator. Don’t ask her about her work with the U.S. Secret Service, she’s sworn herself to secrecy.

She writes the Moccasin Cove Mystery series featuring a quirky amateur sleuth with too much empathy and wit for her own good. ChainLinked, Book1, misterio press. Book 2, AppleJacked was a 2021 Daphne du Maurier Mystery/Suspense finalist. Member of Florida Writers Association, Sisters in Crime, and Sisters in Crime Guppies. Read her writing-related rants and reflections on her Moccasin Cove Mysteries blog.

Liz, those two opening sentences are so good! This is such a great example of a bio. I’m jealous! Thanks for sharing.

Here’s the Bio from my web site.

My mother was a dragon slayer; my father, a dreamer of great dreams. I fall somewhere between, but Mama always thought I was more kin to Papa than to her.

Raised in the mountains of Colorado, I had the advantage of what some would call a disadvantaged childhood. We didn’t have a lot of what money could buy, but plenty of opportunity to develop our own ingenuity and creativity.

I studied human behavior in college right after high school, but didn’t really start to understand people or myself until I explored life with characters in my own fiction.

I eventually returned to college and earned a Bachelor’s degree from Marylhurst University.

I’ll never be a dragon slayer like my mother, but riding dragons is a different matter entirely and getting acquainted with them has led me on some amazing adventures. Want to come along?

Perhaps the first paragraph and the last would make a short bio.

I agree, the first + last would work for that! I love the invitation at the end. That’s original and so, well…inviting!

I did make an attempt to write a version of my bio in 3rd person for a query letter. It just didn’t work.

Jessie, this is awesome! I just love it. It’s entertaining and it suits you so well!

Thank you so much. I need to update mine.

The funny thing is, I need to update mine, too. 🙂

I always have a hard time writing my bio. After reading some of the examples, and stressing a lot, I came up with this.

Micheal is an eclectic minded writer. When he’s not writing, he can be found at a pool table calculating the next shot or the next story.

As an INFJ/INTJ, he has an insatiable curiosity about multiple topics including Mental Health and the surreal. He has written several articles on Medium as well as multiple fiction stories.

Thank you Micheal, this has given me inspiration after a long time of contemplation. Now my first book will soon be dressed with a bio!

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8 Great Author Bio Examples, Analyzed

There’s some awkwardness in composing an author bio, whether you’re an established author or a debut novelist. Its purpose is to concisely share any relevant qualifications or accolades you have, and perhaps show some personality if you feel like it and it’s genre-appropriate. The bio isn’t likely to be the deciding factor when it comes to someone choosing to buy a copy of your book (though it certainly matters more in nonfiction than fiction, where some level of expertise is expected), but it’s very much worth taking the time to write one thoughtfully, even if drawing attention to yourself makes you uncomfortable.

Since there isn’t a single right way to write a great author bio, I've collected 8 case studies that showcase the range you can work within.

1. Ruth Ozeki

“Ruth Ozeki is a novelist, filmmaker and Zen Buddhist priest. She is the author of three novels: My Year of Meats, All Over Creation and A Tale for the Time Being, which was shortlisted for the 2013 Man Booker Prize and translated into 28 languages. She has also written a short memoir, The Face: A Time Code. She is affiliated with the Everyday Zen Foundation and lives in Northampton, Massachusetts, where she teaches creative writing at Smith College and is the Grace Jarcho Ross 1933 Professor of Humanities.”

At this point in her career, Ozeki is a widely recognized writer, so her bio is less about ‘proving’ herself, and more about giving readers a sense of who she is and where her interests lie. She identifies as a filmmaker and Zen Buddhist priest, which reflects some of her passions, and prepares readers for the heartwarming, thoughtful storytelling they can find in her work.

2. Jessica Andrews

“Jessica Andrews writes fiction. Her debut novel, Saltwater, was published in 2019 and won the Portico Prize in 2020 and her second novel, Milk Teeth, was published in 2022. She is a Contributing Editor for ELLE magazine and she writes for the Guardian, the Independent, BBC Radio 4 and Stylist, among others. She was nominated for the ELLE List in 2020 and shortlisted for the Women's Prize for Fiction Futures in 2022. She co-runs literary and arts magazine, The Grapevine, and co-presents literary podcast, Tender Buttons. She is a Lecturer in Creative Writing at City University, London.”

Jessica Andrews is still at the start of a promising literary career, having very recently published two novels. The range of activities she lists in her bio show a writer who’s keeping busy, relevant in the media, and quickly gathering esteem in the literary community. Experience teaching creative writing is always a persuasive note to end on — if young writers are learning the ropes of the craft with your help, that’s something that will make your readers trust your work more.

3. Gretchen McCulloch

“Gretchen McCulloch is an internet linguist and the author of Because Internet: Understanding the New Rules of Language. She is the Resident Linguist at Wired and the co-creator of Lingthusiasm, a podcast that's enthusiastic about linguistics. She lives in Montreal, but also on the internet.”

This nonfiction bio keeps it simple: the author is a linguist whose life is all about linguistics: it’s her job, as well as her hobby podcast. With the short but intriguing note at the end (“She lives in Montreal, but also on the internet.”) McCulloch succinctly hints at the playfulness and sense of humor that pervades her writing about linguistics, efficiently giving readers an idea of what her writing is like.

4. Bryan Washington

“Bryan Washington is a writer from Houston. His fiction and essays have appeared in, among other publications, the New York Times, New York Times Magazine, the New Yorker, the BBC, Vulture and the Paris Review. He's also a National Book Foundation 5 Under 35 winner, the recipient of an Ernest J. Gaines Award, a PEN/Robert W. Bingham prize finalist, a National Book Critics Circle John Leonard Prize finalist, the recipient of an O. Henry Award and the winner of the 2020 International Dylan Thomas Prize.”

This example shows how little showmanship is required when you’ve got enough accolades to pack your bio. Washington sticks to the facts, which speak for themselves. He’s been published in every writer’s dream publications , and won a series of jaw-dropping awards. There’s really no need for him to try and do anything else in this bio. He’s also writing literary fiction, the genre where prestige is most important, so this summary of his career is ready to impress any intrigued lit fic readers.

5. Ayanna Lloyd Banwo

“Ayanna Lloyd Banwo is a writer from Trinidad & Tobago. She is a graduate of the University of the West Indies and holds an MA in Creative Writing from the University of East Anglia, where she is now a Creative and Critical Writing PhD candidate. Her work has been published in Moko Magazine, Small Axe and PREE, among others, and shortlisted for Small Axe Literary Competition and the Wasafiri New Writing Prize. When We Were Birds is her first novel; she is now working on her second. Ayanna lives with her husband in London.”

Ayanna Lloyd Banwo’s bio opens by stating where she’s from, namely Trinidad and Tobago. This isn’t obligatory for all non-US or UK authors at all, but it often feels like an important thing to say if your cultural background is important to you or your work (I do it too). Beyond that, she mentions her education, showing her longtime engagement with literary work. This is a common thing to mention for young or debut authors who haven’t yet amassed award nominations, and in this case it clearly signals that Lloyd Banwo has a strong educational background, a growing publication record, and much promise for the future.

6. Rainbow Rowell

“Rainbow Rowell writes all kinds of stuff. Sometimes she writes about adults (ATTACHMENTS, LANDLINE). Sometimes she writes about teenagers (ELEANOR & PARK, FANGIRL). Sometimes — actually, a lot of the time — she writes about lovesick vampires and guys with dragon wings (THE SIMON SNOW TRILOGY). Recently, she's been writing comics, including her first graphic novel, PUMPKINHEADS, and the monthly SHE-HULK comic for Marvel. She lives in Omaha, Nebraska.”

It’s interesting to see how genre affects bios — in more commercial genres, there’s more room for authors to be informal and playful in the way they describe themselves. Here, Rainbow Rowell humorously summarizes her wide range of interests in a friendly, chatty way that appeals best to the readers of her work, be they adult readers of romance, teenage or young adult readers of YA romance or fantasy, or comic fans. She’s clearly keeping busy, and any reader of her bio knows to expect energetic, irreverent writing.

7. Elizabeth Lilly

“Elizabeth Lilly is an author-illustrator, animator, and graphic designer. Elizabeth was a reading, doodling daydreamer in high school, and, unsure of her path, went to architecture school at Virginia Tech for college. Elizabeth graduated from college in May of 2014. She now makes her stories in a little old house in the little old city of Baltimore, Maryland. Geraldine is her debut picture book.”

Speaking of playful genres, children’s books are definitely the part of the literary world where whimsical bios are most tolerated (and encouraged). Here, personality matters more than accolades, as Elizabeth Lilly’s bio shows. Lilly quickly paints a picture of her character: a reader, daydreamer, a human being finding her path. In other words, very much the imaginative and playful company you might like your child to be in, if you’re going to read a picture book together. The “little old house in the little old city of Baltimore” detail captures a sense of what her work for children will feel like: cute, warm, and welcoming.

8. Chris Power

“Chris Power is the author of A Lonely Man and Mothers, which was shortlisted for the Edge Hill Short Story Prize. He lives in London.”

This example is a reminder that bios don’t need to be paragraph-long overtures to your personal accomplishments. If you feel more comfortable keeping your bio as short as possible, that’s absolutely fine — the only two ‘compulsory’ elements are any previously published books, and if you have them, at least one award nomination or win. That’s, essentially, what a bio boils down to: past publications and social validation. If taciturn is more your style, an author bio like Chris Power’s will do the job just fine.

This is a small sample, but on book jackets out there, you’ll find an even greater variety. For inspiration, look for bios in the same genre and career stage as you, but try not to obsess about bios if you can help it. It’s worthwhile trying to write one thoughtfully, but it’s not important enough to warrant an existential crisis!

Kleopatra Olympiou is a writer of literary fiction from Cyprus, and holds an MA in Creative Writing from Durham University. She’s previously written for Electric Literature, LitReactor, and Reedsy’s blog.

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The ultimate cheat sheet for writing an author bio.

I don’t think I’ve ever met a writer who enjoys writing an author bio.

Some of them feel like it’s bragging or that they don’t have enough accomplishments to make them worthy of having a bio. Others just don’t know how to do it.

Yet, it’s pretty much impossible to get away from. Most literary journals you might want to submit to require it. Want to promote your writing online? You have to do it. And of course, if you want to publish with a book—and be honest, who doesn’t want that?—you kind of need to tell people who you are.

So, let’s make this simple, shall we? Here’s a cheat sheet for writing your bio so you can quit being anxious about it and start learning to sell your work.

Writing in the Right Tone or Style

The voice of your author bio you use can make a big difference in how readers perceive you. It's important to strike the right balance between professionalism and personality. You want to showcase your writing skills and credentials, but also give readers a glimpse into your unique voice and style.

One tip is to think about who your target audience is and tailor your tone to resonate with them. If you write young adult fiction or kids’ books, for example, your bio might have a more casual and conversational tone. On the other hand, if you write literary fiction, biographies, or scholarly material, a more formal tone might be appropriate.

Ultimately, the goal is to find a tone and style that authentically represents you as an author and connects with your readers.

Use Third Person Point of View

Using the third-person point of view in your author bio is a widely accepted convention. By referring to yourself in the third person, you create a sense of professionalism and distance between you as the author and the content of your bio. This helps to establish credibility and allows readers to focus on your achievements and work rather than on you as an individual.

When writing in the third person, it's important to maintain consistency throughout your bio. This means using your full name instead of "I" or "me," and referring to yourself by your last name or pronouns. For example, instead of saying, "I have published several books," you would say, "Jane Smith has published several books." It’s easy to jump back and forth, so make sure to proofread your bio when you’re done to ensure that the point of view is consistent.

Using the third person also allows for a more objective tone, which can be beneficial when highlighting your accomplishments and credentials. It helps to create a sense of authority and professionalism, giving readers confidence in your abilities as a writer. By adopting the third-person perspective in your author bio, you can present yourself as a respected and established authority, ready to captivate and engage your readers with your unique storytelling abilities and insightful information.

Be Specific with Your Achievements

It's important to highlight your most notable achievements in your author bio. Instead of simply stating that you have published books, delve into the specifics.

How many books have you published? Have any of them won awards or been bestsellers? Mention any literary accolades or recognitions you have received, such as being a finalist for a prestigious writing competition or being featured in renowned publications.

Additionally, include any significant milestones or experiences that are relevant to your writing career. For example, if you have given TED Talks or have been invited to speak at conferences or book festivals, make sure to mention it. Being specific with your accomplishments not only demonstrates your credibility as an author but also shows potential readers that you are a reputable and respected figure in the writing world.

Similarly, avoid using any vague language. Please, please, PLEASE don’t say that you are a “passionate reader/writer” or “loves words.” That kind of language might fly on a personal ad, but you are looking for readers, not a hot date.

But What If I Don’t Have Any Accomplishments?

If you find yourself thinking, "But what if I don't have any accomplishments to showcase in my author bio,” don't worry—you're not alone. Many writers who are just starting out struggle with this. But here's the thing: everyone starts somewhere. Just because you haven't won any awards or published a bestseller yet doesn't mean you can’t share other details that will draw readers’ interest and trust.

Instead of focusing solely on external achievements, think about what sets you apart as a writer. Maybe you have a unique perspective or a fresh storytelling style. Perhaps you've overcome personal challenges that have shaped your writing. Or maybe you have a compelling backstory that gives readers insight into why you write what you do.

You can easily do this by thinking about the content of your writing. One thing I usually include in my bio for promotional events for The Goodbye-Love Generation is that I’m the daughter of a musician who was active in the Kent, Ohio music scene as well as a relative of a survivor of the Kent State shootings.

My book focuses on events that happened more than a decade before I was born, and many readers might look at my author photo and wonder why someone my age has the authority to write about the events that took place in Kent in the ‘70s. By sharing my connection to the events that inspired my book, readers immediately know that the Kent State shootings or the music scene aren’t a passing interest for me, but a serious part of what has shaped my work.

Also, you can mention your goals and aspirations in your author bio. Let readers know what you hope to achieve in your writing career or what you're currently working on. By showcasing your determination and passion for writing, you'll be able to engage readers and pique their curiosity about your work.

Remember, your author bio is a chance to connect with your readers on a personal level. Focus on your unique perspective and your dedication to improving as a writer.

Don’t Forget to Keep Your Author Bio Updated

Okay, so this is a really weak area for me. I’m terrible at keeping anything updated, and that includes my author bio as well as my resume. But reviewing your bio allows you to reflect on your recent accomplishments and add any new projects or achievements. By keeping your bio up to date, you show readers that you're an active and engaged author. Additionally, as you grow and evolve as a writer, your bio should reflect these changes.

Take the time to assess if your bio still accurately represents your unique voice and style. Remember, your author bio is your personal branding tool, so don't be afraid to adjust the content and keep it fresh. By regularly reviewing and updating your author bio, you'll continue to captivate and engage your audience for years to come.

Need Some More Author Bio Help?

Questions like these are exactly why I provide no-cost 30-minute Zoom consultations to any writer who needs a little help.

Schedule some time with me to talk about your writing, get some advice, and take advantage of the opportunity to connect with a professional writer for free.

Plus, I’ll give you a thank-you gift!

Here’s a link to my calendar. Find a time that works for you and let’s connect soon!

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How To Write An Author Bio – Ideas from Bestsellers

Your author bio is the perfect chance to let readers know more about you, your background, and why you’ve written your books.

But how do you make sure your bio engages people rather than repelling them?

What are the technical aspects of an author bio you need to know?

And what are some shining examples you can use to inform your own bio?

We’ve gathered together some examples to help you sell more books and turn your readers into fans. 

What is an author bio?

Where is an author bio used, what are the benefits of an author bio, how do you write an author bio.

• Author bio examples – Hal Elrod
• Author bio examples – Ramy Vance
• Author bio examples – Tony Robbins  

Action steps for your author bio

An author bio is a short piece of writing, usually between 150 and 300 words, that lets readers know more about the author whose book they are thinking of reading. 

A good author bio establishes not only who an author is, and a little bit about their life, but also why they have written the book and some of their professional achievements. 

It has similarities to a public speaker’s conference bio , however, there are some differences in exactly what should be included and where and how it will be used.

There are lots of places where an author bio can be featured. 

Some of the most common include:

• Books. It’s rare to find a book without some kind of author bio in. This helps both readers browsing in a bookstore to know if your book is right for them, as well as people who have read the book to learn more about you.
• Retailers. A lot of online book retailers allow you to upload a bio. Amazon Author Central is a great example, but it’s common to a lot of other bookstores as well. 
• Social media. You might feature your full bio on social media, or have extracts, for example in a Twitter bio. You can also use parts of your bio as visual content, for example on Pinterest or Instagram. 
• Author websites. For established authors, a full website is a must-have. Any good author website should have a bio section where interested people can find out more. 
• Blogging biographies. If you want to post on other authors’ blogs as a guest writer, a shortened version of your bio should feature at the end of your posts and contain links to your author platform. 

A version of your bio is useful anywhere and everywhere you can think of that potential readers might want to learn more about you.

So if you’re going to take the time to write a good author bio, how can you expect to benefit? What makes it worth taking the time to craft the best bio possible?

Here are four powerful benefits of a good author bio. 

• Differentiation. It’s unlikely that your book is unique among all the books out there. Hopefully, it has a unique and fresh angle, but there are probably similar books on offer. However, there’s only one you! Your author bio makes your book stand out from others like it.
• Credibility. Your bio is a chance to show exactly why you are qualified to write that book in particular. Have you won awards? Do you have a certain educational or professional background that makes you suitable? Don’t brag, but calmly and clearly state your relevant achievements. 
• Connection. You can also use your author bio as a way to offer a bit of flavor about your life and who you are. If you’re humorous, show it! You can form a sense of connection with readers by authentically expressing your personality and who you are.
• Platform. An author bio is also the perfect place to promote your wider platform. You can include links to your author website, social media handles, Goodreads page, or anywhere else that people can deepen their connection to you.

 Of course, you only get these benefits if you write your bio the right way. A bad or boring author bio only risks alienating readers and dissuading them from checking out your book further. 

Now that you know exactly what an author bio is, and how it can help you succeed, let’s check out exactly how to create one.

To write an author bio, simply follow these five simple steps.

Step 1 – Read relevant bios 

It’s difficult to get a feel for the type of content found in an author bio unless you read some relevant examples in a careful, considered way. 

Take the time to read five or ten bios of authors you admire who write the same type of book as you. 

What do you notice? Is there a particular tone they all seem to take? Are the bios structured similarly? Which strike a chord with you the most, and why is that?

This step isn’t about plagiarising or copying. 

Instead, it’s about finding the type of author bio you like and find effective and then creating your own authentic version of that.  

Step 2 – Brainstorm your key points

Before you write a draft of your bio, make a list of the must-have information it will contain. 

This could include your most pertinent biographical details, lists of your awards and achievements, and a few little flavorful details to show your personality and create some rapport with your reader.

Step 3 – Draft your bio 

Now that you’ve got the list of key points to include, it’s time to shape them into a readable draft of your bio. 

But what kind of structure should you use?

As a guideline, you might find this template to be a good starting point:

• Start with a powerful and gripping introductory sentence
• State your background and how it is relevant to the book you are writing
• Show your credibility by mentioning awards and other professional achievements 
• Sprinkle in a little flavor and personality 
• End your bio on a funny note or include a link to a part of your author platform 

After you’ve finished drafting, read back over your bio. Make sure it fits with the word count guidelines and includes all the key points you hoped for. 

Step 4 – Create alternative versions 

Because author bios are fairly short, you have the luxury of being able to create several alternative versions and deciding on the best. 

You can also have slightly different bios for different purposes, such as some that are more professional and others that lean into humor to a greater extent. 

If you don’t see any value in this step, feel free to skip it. 

Step 5 – Get feedback and refine

Now that you have a series of alternative reader bios, or even just a solid draft of a single version, it’s time to get some feedback and make improvements. 

If you already have people in your network you feel would be suitable to get feedback from, by all means reach out and ask them. But don’t take the feedback of just anyone. You want to avoid people who will sugarcoat or aim to please you, as well as those who don’t read the type of book you are working on. 

Step 6 – Update your bio as needed

Your author bio isn’t something you should write and forget about. Instead, be sure to update it over time as you achieve new things. This isn’t to say that you should constantly tweak it. That would be annoying. But give it a refresh from time to time, both in terms of its content, and also to make sure it still conveys the tone you want to get across. 

Author bio examples

While it’s one thing to read some best practice tips on writing your author bio, it’s another entirely to see some effective examples from the real world. 

To get your author bio juices flowing, here are some examples from bestselling authors. 

Hal Elrod 

Hal Elrod is one of the best-known modern motivational and self-help authors. Let’s take a look at Hal’s author bio. 

“Hal Elrod is on a mission to Elevate the Consciousness of Humanity, One Person at a Time. 

As the author of one of the highest rated books on Amazon, “The Miracle Morning” (which has been translated into 37 languages, has over 3,000 five-star reviews and has impacted the lives of over 2,000,000 people in more than 70 countries)… he is doing exactly that.

What’s incredible is that Hal literally died at age 20. His car was hit head-on by a drunk driver at 70 miles per hour, his heart stopped beating for 6 minutes, he broke 11 bones and woke up after being in a coma for 6 days to be told by his doctors that he would probably never walk again.

Not only did Hal walk, he ran a 52-mile ultra-marathon and went on to became a hall of fame business achiever, international keynote speaker, author, and grateful husband & father-all before he turned 30.

Then, in November of 2016, Hal nearly died again – his kidneys, lungs, and heart were failing, and he was diagnosed with a rare, and very aggressive form of cancer and given a 30% chance of living.

After enduring the most difficult year of his life, Hal is now cancer-free and furthering his mission as the founder of The Miracle Morning book series, host of the “Achieve Your Goals” podcast, creator of the Best Year Ever [Blueprint] LIVE event, and Executive Producer of The Miracle Morning MOVIE – a documentary that reveals the morning rituals of some of the world’s most successful people.

Hal is grateful to be alive and living his mission alongside his wife and their two young children in Austin, TX.

To contact Hal about media appearances, speaking at your event, or if you just want to receive free training videos and resources, visit www.HalElrod.com .”

As you can see, Hal Elrod’s bio touches on a lot of the ideas we found in this article. 

Some of the things we most liked about it include:

• First sentence. Hal Elrod’s bio has a first sentence that is concise and tells you everything you need to know about his personal mission. 
• Emotionally engaging. By sharing details of Hal’s life, his bio takes you on an emotional journey. This makes you admire Hal and feel inspired to learn from him. 
• Small personal touches. Aside from the deeper emotional aspects, the bio contains some of the more usual personal information, such as living in Austin with his wife and kids. 
• Call to action. This bio ends with a clear call to action to visit Hal’s author website.

Ramy Vance is a fiction book coach and self-publishing rockstar. Let’s take a look at his author bio. 

“Ramy Vance is the creator of the GoneGod World – a universe dedicated to myth, magic, mischief and mayhem. 

He lives in Edinburgh with his wife, demonic baby, monstrous 5-year old and imaginary dog.

Terrified, he pretty much stays in his office and writes.”

• Funny. This is a genuinely hilarious bio. It not only uses jokes but the humor ties in with his writing by using words like demonic and monstrous. 
• Punchy. Vance’s bio is one of the shortest on the list, clocking in at under 50 words. This is shorter than recommended, but it does a good job for a brief bio. 
• Light personal touches. You learn a little bit about Ramy’s life here, but it doesn’t bore you or give too many details. 

Tony Robbins

Tony Robbins is probably one of the best-known motivators and self-help gurus (although he doesn’t use that word) in the world. If you’ve read any Tony Robbins books or attended his events , you can likely attest to the profound impact he can have on people’s lives! Let’s see what his author bio contains. 

“Tony Robbins is a bestselling author, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. 

For more than thirty-nine years, millions of people have enjoyed the warmth, humor, and transformational power of Mr. Robbins’s business and personal development events. 

He is the nation’s #1 life and business strategist. He’s called upon to consult and coach some of the world’s finest athletes, entertainers, Fortune 500 CEOs, and even presidents of nations. 

Robbins is the chairman of a holding company comprised of more than a dozen businesses with combined sales exceeding five billion dollars a year. 

His philanthropic efforts helped provide more than 100 million meals in the last year alone. He lives in Palm Beach, Florida.”

• Credible. Tony Robbins’ bio drips with credibility. It makes big claims but backs them up with convincing justifications. 
• Quantified. Tony’s use of numbers is great here. Mentioning “five billion dollars” and “100 million meals” is very effective. 
• Tone. The tone of Robbins’ bio is professional and concise. It’s businesslike and straight to the point. 

Hopefully, you’ve taken a lot from this guide to crafting an effective author bio. 

If you’re ready to take action and start working on your own bio, follow these five simple steps:

• Identify 10 relevant bios to read and make notes on. 
• Combine and summarize your author bio notes, looking for commonalities. 
• Bullet point the essential info for your bio. 
• Draft a bio using the structure shown above.
• List 5 people in your network you will reach out to for feedback when you have a full bio ready.

After you’ve taken that initial action, you’ll have plenty of momentum to build upon to write the full thing.

An effective author bio really can help you sell more books, so why not get started right away?

Nathaniel Tower

Juggling writing and life

How to Write a Great Author Bio with Free Template

Last Updated on May 25, 2020 by Nathaniel Tower

The author bio is a highly important part of being published, right? Well, yes and no.

Yes because you usually need one, and you should make it good because anyone who reads your story will presumably see it.

On the other hand, the author bio almost never has any bearing on whether or not you get published. So in that regard, it’s not important at all. But before we dive too far into that, let’s go over exactly what you should include in your author bio. 

How to write your author bio

An author bio isn’t a complicated or elusive thing. It’s not something you need to rack your brain about for weeks or days or even hours. It doesn’t need to be super creative or catchy. It just needs to serve its purpose: to tell people who you are and how they can find out more about you.

It’s typically advised to keep your author bio short. Some publications will set the length for you (50 words or less seems to be the most common). If there are no maximum word counts, then I would recommend you keep it to under 100. If you get much longer, then readers will tend to gloss over it.

Here are the elements your author bio should typically include:

• A brief note about who you are, which could include where you’re from or what your day job is. 
• A mention of any awards, contests, or honors you’ve won. Stick to major accolades here. You don’t need to mention that you were a Pushcart nominee, but you should definitely mention if you were a Pushcart finalist.
• A short list  of your published novels or collections.
• A very brief list of any other publications where your work has appeared. Keep it to only 3 or 4 venues and always focus on your best publication credits. If you’ve never been published before, then you can skip this.
• A link to your website and/or social media profiles.
• Optional: a fun fact about you. If you do include this, make sure it’s something that’s actually fun.

That’s it. You don’t have to be cute or clever or funny. Pretty easy, right? Of course, that doesn’t mean you can’t have some personality in your bio. Just use your discretion and don’t overdo it.

Depending on how successful you are as a writer, you may not be able to include everything in your bio. It’s important to be selective. On the flip side, if you’re a new writer, you may need to pad your bio a little with stuff about your non-writing life.

Ask yourself this: What does my reader need to know about me to make them want to read more of my work? Ultimately, the story they’ve just read should make them want to learn more about you. Your bio is just a glimpse, not a life story. Make it informative so they know where to find you and your work. That’s really all there is to it.

Don’t over complicate things. If you can write a story that’s good enough to be published, creating an author bio should be a walk in the park.

How to write an author bio with no experience

If you’ve never been published before, you might think you have nothing to include in an author bio. You might also be worried this will impact your chances of publication. In most cases (as we’ll explore in just a minute), your author bio has no bearing on whether or not your work is selected for publication. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have one prepared. It’s always better to have an author bio with no experience than it is to have no bio at all.

If you have no experience, here’s what you should include in your author bio:

• A brief note about who you are and where you are from.
• A statement about your professional experience. If you are in school, be sure to state this fact.
• A fun fact about your life. This could be a hobby, a major accomplishment, or something else that shows your personality.
• A link to your website or social media profiles.

Even with no professional writing experience, you’ll still have a 3-4 sentence bio if you follow this format. In most cases, this is plenty long for an author bio.

Bonus tip: If you are asked to provide an author bio after the acceptance of your first publication, then end your bio with a short sentence that clearly indicates this is your first publication.

Author Bio Template

Still not sure how to write an author bio? Try using this template to get started:

FULL NAME is a writer and OTHER PROFESSION from LOCATION. His/her work has been published in UP TO FIVE EXAMPLES. When not writing, he/she enjoys INTERESTING HOBBY HERE.

Here’s how it would look:

Nathaniel Tower is a writer and marketing executive from Minnesota. His short fiction has appeared in over 250 publications, including The Doctor T. J. Eckleburg Review , Bourbon Penn , and  Drabblecast.  When he’s not writing, Nathaniel can be found running through the woods, sometimes while juggling.

Most of the time, that’s all you need. If a publication wants you to create something longer or more specific, they will ask for it.

Why your author bio doesn’t really matter before publication

The vast majority of editors and publishers don’t even read your author bio until after they’ve made the decision whether to accept or reject your story . The content of your submission should do all the talking. While some publications require an author bio as part of their guidelines, they are typically only doing this to save themselves the hassle of asking you for one later if they do choose to publish your work. Very few publications use an author bio as a factor when selecting the works they are going to publish, and the ones that do should generally be avoided because they don’t care about the quality of the work so much as they do about the credentials of the writer.

How a good author bio helps after publication

Almost every story that appears on a lit mag’s website ends with an author bio. It’s the last thing the reader sees. It’s a gateway to your other work. It could make the reader want to connect with you. Sometimes it even leads to other publishing opportunities. For example, if the reader also happens to be a publisher, they may use your author bio to find you online and solicit more of your work. Therefore, it’s important to get the author bio right. Luckily, it’s pretty darn easy.

In summary, the author bio is only important post-acceptance. So if you’re holding off on submitting your work because you’re trying to nail down the perfect bio, then you’re focusing on the wrong things. Instead, you should focus on perfecting your story and creating a rock-solid submission strategy that will almost always lead to an acceptance.

What does your author bio look like? Do you stress over what to include in your bio? Share your thoughts in the comments.

How to write an author bio FAQs

Do i need an author bio.

If you want to have your work published, you need to have an author bio. Some publications will require you to submit an author bio along with your manuscript for consideration. Other publications will ask for your bio after acceptance but before publication. Regardless, you'll eventually need an author bio before your work is published. It's best to write your bio before you submit your work.

How long should my author bio be?

It's best to keep your author bio relatively short. You want to show who you are without overwhelming the reader. It's a good idea to list your top credentials, but don't go overboard talking about everything you've ever written. A short paragraph or two is typically enough. Some publications will give you a maximum word count for your bio.

What if I don't have an author bio?

If you don't have an author bio, you should create one before you submit your writing or try to sell your writing services. Having an author bio adds legitimacy to your status as a writer.

Should I list all my awards and publications in my author bio?

It's common practice to list some awards and publications in an author bio, but don't overdo it. Only list your top credentials. Many people wonder whether or not they should list a Pushcart Prize nomination in their author bio. Because these nominations are so common these days, it's not necessary to put this in your author bio. However, if you are a finalist, you should definitely list that.

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3 thoughts on “ How to Write a Great Author Bio with Free Template ”

I’ve been unclear about what constitutes important information to share on a bio, and I have erred on the side of including perhaps more than I should. I will give these suggestions a shot…

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🤖 Free Author Bio Generator (AI-Powered)

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Crafting an author bio that captures your essence, achievements, and the quirks that make your writing unique can be challenging. It's a small space to convey your professional background, personality, and why readers should care about your work. As an author, your bio is critical to your branding and marketing efforts, serving as a bridge between you and your readers, publishers, or potential collaborators. An AI-powered author bio generator offers a streamlined solution to this challenge. It helps distil your professional journey, personal interests, and literary accomplishments into a concise, engaging bio. This tool can weave together a narrative highlighting your individuality and professional credentials by feeding it information about yourself. Let's explore how an AI bio generator can simplify the process, allowing you to introduce yourself to the literary world with confidence and flair.

What is an Author's Bio?

An author's bio is your sneak peek into a writer's world, showcasing their accomplishments, background, and the unique journey that led them to where they are today. This summary doesn't just introduce you to their realm; it establishes the credibility necessary to engage you and their audience and promote their work effectively. Crafting the perfect author bio involves a delicate balance of highlighting professional achievements and relevant experiences in a way that resonates with readers.

Your author bio should serve as a bridge, connecting you to your audience by weaving together your writing achievements, publications, and any experiences that add depth to your identity as an author. It's more than listing accolades; it's about telling a story and inviting readers into your world. Focusing on what's relevant to your readers ensures that every word in your bio contributes to building a robust and relatable author brand. Remember, the goal is to make a lasting impression that not only attracts publishers and boosts book sales but also cements your place in the hearts of your readers.

Importance of an Author's Bio

Understanding the importance of your author bio can significantly impact how readers perceive you and your work. It's not just a summary of your writing career but a bridge connecting you to your audience. Whether using an author bio generator or crafting one from scratch, remember that an engaging author's bio can significantly influence your readership and book sales.

• Establishes Credibility : Demonstrates your qualifications and achievements, making readers more likely to trust and invest in your work.
• Creates Connection : Allows readers to relate to you personally, fostering a loyal fan base.
• Boosts Sales : An engaging bio can intrigue readers and persuade them to purchase your books.
• Enhances Visibility : Essential elements of an author's bio can improve your visibility in the industry, attracting potential publishers or collaborators.
• Facilitates Updates : Regularly updating your author bio ensures that your achievements and milestones are current and reflect your growth in the writing community.

Essential Elements of an Author's Bio

As you craft your author bio, it's vital to pinpoint who you're writing for, tailoring your narrative to resonate with your intended audience. Highlighting your achievements, such as awards and notable publications, establishes your credibility in the literary world. Don't forget to weave in your interests and previous works, giving readers a glimpse into your unique journey and writing style.

Identifying Your Audience

Identifying your target audience's demographics, including age, gender, interests, and reading preferences, is crucial for crafting an author bio that resonates. You're not just listing facts about yourself but connecting with readers personally. Consider these key aspects:

• Tailor your writing style to match your audience's preferences.
• Share your background that relates to your readers.
• Link your social media profiles for readers seeking a deeper connection.
• Include personal anecdotes that mirror your audience's experiences or aspirations.
• Adjust your bio's tone to reflect your readers' expectations.

Highlighting Achievements

Showcase your writing achievements, including published works and awards, to highlight your professionalism and skill in your author bio. Don't avoid mentioning any literary prizes or notable publications you've contributed; these accolades serve as a testament to your expertise and success in writing. Incorporate quotes or testimonials from credible sources to validate your credentials further and entice readers. Remember, your achievements are not just a list but a narrative of your journey and hard work. Use this section as a call to action, inviting readers to explore your work and trust in your authority as an author. Highlighting your accomplishments effectively will establish credibility and increase interest in your books, boosting your sales and visibility in the literary community.

Writing Style and Genres

After highlighting your achievements, it's crucial to tailor your writing style and genre preferences in your author bio to connect more effectively with your intended audience. This ensures your bio resonates with the readers you aim to attract. Keep in mind:

• Tailor your bio to reflect the specific genres in which you excel, showcasing your expertise.
• Highlight writing achievements to establish credibility and showcase your skill set.
• Mention relevant publications where your work has been featured to enhance your professional image.
• Maintain a professional tone throughout, ensuring your bio reads well to a broad audience.
• While focusing on professional aspects, subtly weave in personal interests related to your writing to add a personal touch without deviating from the core message.

Personal Interests and Hobbies

Incorporating your interests and hobbies into your author bio can instantly make you more relatable and memorable to readers. Sharing bits about your love for painting, hiking, or cooking not only showcases your diverse interests but also adds a layer of depth to your personality. If your hobbies align with the themes or characters of your books, mentioning them can pique readers' curiosity and forge a stronger connection. Whether it's your passion for travel, an ear for music, or enthusiasm for sports, including these personal touches makes you more engaging to a broad audience. Highlighting your hobbies and passions makes your bio stand out and ensures you're not just another name on the shelf; you're a memorable presence in a competitive market.

Previous Works and Publications

While highlighting your interests adds depth to your bio, don't forget to list your previous works and publications, as they underscore your experience and expertise in writing. When crafting the perfect author's bio, consider these critical points:

• Highlight your previous works and publications to showcase your writing experience.
• Include details about published books, articles, or other writing projects.
• Mention any awards or recognition received for your previous works.
• Provide links to where readers can find and purchase your published works.
• Showcasing your previous works adds credibility and demonstrates your expertise in the writing field.

Call to Action

A compelling author bio always includes a clear call to action, inviting you to dive deeper into their literary world. Don't miss adding a direct invitation to visit your official website or follow you on social media. This simple step can significantly enhance your connection with readers. Offering tips for a memorable author bio, always emphasise tailoring your bio for different platforms; what works on your blog might not suit a professional networking site. Avoid common mistakes in author bios, such as neglecting to include a call to action. Encourage readers to sign up for your newsletter or buy your books, making your bio a summary of your career and a bridge to further engagement.

How to Write an Engaging Author's Bio

To make your author bio stand out, it's essential to kick things off with an eye-catching opening. You'll want to structure your bio to maximise its impact, ensuring readers remember you. Consider tailoring the tone to match your audience and including quotes or testimonials to add credibility and intrigue.

Starting with a Bang

Kicking off your author bio with a dynamic opening sentence can instantly capture your audience's attention, showcasing your latest work and defining achievements. When exploring how to write an engaging author bio, consider the steps to use the author bio generator effectively. This tool can streamline the process, highlighting your author's name and accomplishments.

• Begin with a compelling statement about your latest book or project.
• Highlight prestigious awards or bestseller status.
• Detail relevant biographical information, connecting your background to your writing.
• Emphasise professional credentials that speak to your expertise.
• Add a personal anecdote to foster a connection with your audience.

Structuring Your Bio for Impact

When crafting your author bio, start with your name to establish who you are, followed by your credentials to build authority. Incorporating personal anecdotes can add a unique flavour, making you more relatable to your readers. Ensure every detail you include is relevant to your writing journey, keeping the focus tight and engaging.

Opening with Your Name

Begin your author bio by stating your full name, establishing a personal connection with your readers immediately.

• Introduce yourself with your full name for immediate recognition.
• Use your name as the opening sentence to establish identity.
• Your name serves as an anchor for reader connection.
• Including your name first sets a personal and professional tone.
• Lead with your name for a robust and impactful beginning.

Stating Your Credentials

After introducing yourself by name, it's crucial to highlight your credentials to establish your authority and expertise in your field.

Adding Personal Anecdotes

Incorporating personal anecdotes into your author bio can significantly enhance its appeal, making you more relatable to your readers.

• Showcase your unique personality and experiences.
• Share a brief story or memory that highlights your writing journey.
• Connect with readers on a deeper level.
• Select anecdotes that align with your writing style or themes.
• Craft anecdotes that resonate with your target audience.

Making It Relevant

To make your author bio stand out, start by highlighting your most relevant professional achievements and writing milestones. Ensure that every word contributes to showcasing your expertise.

Tailoring the Tone

Matching the tone of your author bio to your genre or target audience can significantly enhance its appeal. Your bio's tone is a bridge connecting you and your readers. It's not just about listing accomplishments; it's about presenting your unique voice and personality in a way that resonates with your audience. Consider these points:

• Engage readers by weaving in a personal touch.
• Balance professionalism with a dash of creativity.
• Use language and humour appropriate to your genre.
• Ensure the tone reflects your authentic self.
• Aim for a tone that complements your writing style.

Crafting a bio that mirrors the essence of your work and your personality creates a memorable impression, making your readers more likely to dive into your books.

Including Quotes or Testimonials

After considering the tone of your author bio, it's also valuable to include quotes or testimonials to add a layer of credibility and connection with your audience. Testimonials can spotlight your writing style, expertise, or the impact you've had on readers, making your bio stand out. Whether it's praise from industry professionals, reviewers, or readers, these endorsements provide social proof and build trust. By strategically placing quotes or testimonials, you're not just listing achievements but highlighting what makes you unique. This approach differentiates your bio, making it more engaging and compelling. Remember, the correct quote can illuminate your achievements and paint a vivid picture of your contributions, drawing readers closer to your work.

Using an AI-Powered Author Bio Generator

If you're looking for an efficient way to craft your author bio, an author bio generator might be your answer. These tools offer templates and prompts, allowing you to create a professional and engaging bio easily. By inputting your details and achievements, you can quickly generate a customised bio that reflects your unique voice and expertise.

What is an Author Bio Generator?

An author bio generator is an AI-powered tool designed to help writers craft engaging and informative biographies for their book jackets, websites, or social media profiles. By inputting specific details such as the author's name, the genre in which they write, any notable past work or achievements, their unique writing style, personal interests, the desired tone of the bio, and any call to action, the tool can generate a personalised bio that highlights the author's background and appeal to readers. This tool is invaluable for authors looking to present themselves professionally and engagingly to their readers, publishers, or peers, without resorting to a salesy approach. By providing detailed and tailored biographies, an author bio generator helps in establishing a connection with the audience, promoting their work, and enhancing their visibility in the literary community. Here’s an outline of its operation:

• Collecting Inputs:  Start by entering your name to ensure the bio is personalized to reflect your identity as an author. Listing past works and notable achievements underscores your proven track record and establishes your authority in your field. Describing your unique writing style sets you apart, highlighting your distinct voice or approach to topics. Including personal interests adds a relatable touch, fostering a deeper connection with your readers. This comprehensive input ensures that the bio isn't just factual, but also engaging and reflective of your personal journey.
• AI Analysis and Processing: The AI tool analyses the provided information, using natural language processing (NLP) to understand the nuances of the author's inputs and how they should be woven together to form a cohesive narrative.
• Bio Generation:  Using these inputs, the AI constructs a bio that reflects the author's unique attributes, writing career, and personality. It integrates the genre, achievements, style, and interests in an engaging and informative manner. The bio is structured to first introduce the author, followed by their achievements and unique aspects of their writing style and personal interests to add depth, and concludes with a compelling call to action.

Benefits of Using an Author Bio Generator

In the literary world, where first impressions can significantly impact reader engagement and professional opportunities, an author bio generator offers a practical solution for crafting compelling biographies. Here are several benefits of using an author bio generator:

Streamlined Writing Process:  Creating the perfect author bio can be daunting, especially for those who might find it challenging to boast about their achievements or unsure what to include. An author bio generator simplifies this by:

• Providing Structure: It offers a clear framework, effectively helping you organise your thoughts and information.
• Saving Time: The quick generation process allows you to produce a polished bio in minutes, freeing time for your writing projects.

Consistency Across Platforms:  Authors often must present themselves across various platforms—social media, book covers, and personal websites—and maintaining consistency can be challenging. An author bio generator ensures:

• Uniform Tone and Style: Helps maintain a consistent voice across different platforms, reinforcing your brand.
• Adaptable Lengths: It generates bios of various lengths suitable for different purposes, from Twitter bios to more detailed about-the-author pages.

Enhanced Creativity and Inspiration:  Even the most experienced writers can hit a creative block when writing about themselves. An author bio generator provides:

• Creative Prompts: Offers innovative ways to talk about your life and achievements, sparking creativity.
• Inspiration: Seeing a variety of bio templates can inspire you to find unique ways to express your professional journey and personality.

Professionalism:  A well-crafted bio reflects professionalism and dedication to your craft, which is essential for attracting publishers, agents, and readers. An author bio generator helps ensure:

• Error-Free Writing: Reduces the likelihood of grammatical mistakes and typos that could detract from your credibility.
• Professional Tone: This guide will help you strike the right balance between personal and professional, making your bio appealing to a broad audience.

Accessibility for Emerging Writers: Creating a compelling bio can feel overwhelming for new authors, particularly if they have fewer publications or accolades to list. An author bio generator:

• Levels the Playing Field: It provides emerging writers with the tools to create compelling narratives regardless of their experience level.
• Highlights Potential: This helps focus on strengths and future aspirations, making even a brief bio engaging and impactful.

Customisation for Different Genres: Authors often write in multiple genres, each appealing to a distinct audience. An author bio generator can accommodate this diversity by:

• Genre-Specific Templates: Offers tailored suggestions that align with the conventions and expectations of different literary genres.
• Flexibility: Allows for easy adjustments to cater to the specific tone and style preferred by readers of each genre.

How to Use the Author Bio Generator?

Understanding how to effectively use the Author Bio Generator can make crafting a compelling author bio much easier. This tool is designed to help writers create a professional biography by just filling out a straightforward form. Here's a detailed breakdown of how to utilize this generator to its full potential:

• Enter the Author's Name:  Start by writing the complete name of the author. This is typically the name under which the author publishes their work. If the author uses a pen name or pseudonym, include that as it helps in establishing brand consistency.
• Specify the Main Genre or Field of Writing:  Identify the primary genre or field in which the author specializes. This could range from fiction genres like science fiction, romance, or mystery, to non-fiction fields such as history, business, or self-help. Being specific helps target the bio to the right audience.
• List Notable Works or Achievements:  Here, you'll want to list the most significant publications, awards, or recognitions the author has received. These can include best-selling books, notable articles, literary awards, or any other achievements that highlight the author’s credibility and success.
• Detail Educational Background or Qualifications:  Include relevant educational qualifications or certifications that enhance the author's authority in their field. For example, a degree in creative writing, history, or journalism can be pertinent depending on the author's genre.
• Mention Personal Interests or Hobbies:  Discuss any hobbies or personal interests that influence the author's writing. This could include anything from a passion for travel and culture to hobbies like gardening or photography. These details add a personal touch and can make the bio more relatable to readers.
• Click Generate:  Once all the fields are filled, the final step is to click the 'Generate' button. The tool will process the inputs and create a tailored author bio that encapsulates the writer’s professional persona, background, and unique attributes.

Diverse Use Cases of an Author's Bio

An author's bio is a versatile tool for various purposes across different platforms and mediums. It introduces the author to new readers, builds credibility, establishes authority in their field, and connects personally with the audience. Understanding where and how to use your author bio can amplify your visibility, engagement, and the impact of your work. Here’s a look at some critical use cases for an author's bio:

Book Jackets and E-Book Metadata

• Purpose : On book jackets, an author bio helps persuade readers to purchase the book. In e-books, it's part of the metadata that can affect searchability and sales.
• Content Focus : Brief but impactful; highlight awards, unique qualifications, and a personal touch that connects with the reader's interests.

Author Websites

• Purpose : Provides a more comprehensive view of the author, their work, and their journey.
• Content Focus : It can be longer and include detailed career achievements, personal stories, upcoming projects, and ways for readers to connect or subscribe to newsletters.

Social Media Profiles

• Purpose : Engages a casual audience and builds a community around the author’s work.
• Content Focus : Short and engaging, often with a more casual tone that reflects the author's personality and invites followers into their world.

Guest Blog Posts and Articles

• Purpose : Establishes authority and expertise in a subject area, often leading to increased interest in the author's work.
• Content Focus : Relevant professional achievements and expertise that lend credibility to the article or blog post, with a link to the author's website or main social media profiles.

Speaking Engagements and Conferences

• Purpose : Introduces the author to a new or targeted audience, often in a professional or academic setting.
• Content Focus : Highlights speaking experience, relevant expertise, and notable publications or contributions to the field.

Press Releases and Media Kits

• Purpose : Provides journalists and bloggers with essential background information for articles, interviews, and reviews.
• Content Focus : The focus is on newsworthy achievements, upcoming projects, and how the author’s work relates to current trends or events.

Podcasts and Video Interviews

• Purpose : This brief introduction to the author sets the stage for the interview.
• Content Focus : Engaging and concise, emphasising recent achievements or the themes of the author’s latest work.

Academic Submissions and Journal Articles

• Purpose : Establishes the author's scholarly credibility and situates their work within the broader academic community.
• Content Focus : Academic credentials, publications, research interests, and institutional affiliations.

Networking Events

• Purpose : Facilitates professional connections and opportunities for collaboration.
• Content Focus : Concise and professional, focusing on areas of expertise and current projects.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid in Your Author Bio

Creating an author bio that resonates with readers and publishers is crucial for establishing credibility and connection. However, crafting this small but significant text can sometimes lead to common pitfalls. Avoiding these mistakes can make your author bio more engaging and professional:

Oversharing Personal Details:  While personal touches can add warmth, oversharing or including irrelevant personal information can detract from your professional achievements. Focus on:

• Relevant Achievements: Highlight your writing credentials, awards, and publications.
• Professional Yet Personal Tone: Share just enough about your personal life to connect with readers without diverting focus from your professional persona.

Being Too Vague or Generic:  Generic statements like "loves to write" or "passionate about storytelling" don't distinguish you from countless other authors. Be specific by:

• Sharing Unique Qualities: What sets you apart from other writers in your genre? Mention specific themes, awards, or experiences unique to you.
• Providing Concrete Examples: Instead of vague statements, offer clear examples, such as the titles of your published works or notable milestones in your writing career.

Neglecting Your Target Audience:  An author bio should be tailored to the audience you wish to engage. A mismatch can lead to missed connections. Consider:

• Adjusting Tone and Content: The bio for a thriller novel might differ significantly from one intended for children's books. Match the tone and content to your readers' expectations.
• Highlighting Relevant Experience: Focus on experiences and achievements that resonate most with your target demographic.

Ignoring the Importance of a Professional Photo:  A professional author photo can significantly enhance your bio's impact. A poor-quality or inappropriate photo might undermine your professionalism. Remember to:

• Choose an Appropriate Image: Select a photo that presents you in a professional light and fits the genre you write in.
• Consider Quality: Ensure the photo is high-resolution and professionally taken, if possible.

Failing to Update Regularly:  An outdated bio can give the impression of stagnation. As your career progresses, so should your bio. Make sure to:

• Reflect Recent Achievements: Regularly update your bio to include your latest publications, awards, or relevant professional development.
• Adjust for Current Projects: If your focus shifts (e.g., from non-fiction to fiction), your bio should reflect these changes to remain relevant to your current work.

Overusing Jargon or Complex Language:  Using complex language or industry jargon can alienate readers unfamiliar with the terminology. Aim for:

• Clear and Accessible Language: Write in a way that's easy for all potential readers to understand, regardless of their familiarity with the writing industry.
• Engaging and Relatable Tone: Your bio should invite readers into your world, not put up barriers with overly complex language.

Forgetting to Include a Call to Action:  Your author bio is not just a summary of your career; it's also a marketing tool. Including a call to action can guide readers on what to do next, such as:

• Visiting Your Website: Direct readers to your website or blog for more information about your work.
• Following You on Social Media: Encourage readers to connect with you on social media platforms for updates and engagement.

Examples of Author's Bio

Crafting an author's bio that instantly connects with readers requires a blend of authenticity and intrigue, sprinkled with professional achievements and personal touches. Here are a few examples tailored to different genres and styles, ensuring they're relatable, memorable, and clear, without falling into the trap of overused phrases or complexity.

For a F iction Author

• "Meet Taylor Smith, a storyteller at heart and a weaver of worlds. With a penchant for the magical and the mysterious, Taylor has enchanted readers worldwide with their bestselling fantasy series, 'Shadows of Avalon.' But when they're not crafting battles between light and darkness, you might find Taylor in the quiet corners of old bookshops or lost in nature, gathering inspiration from the whispers of the wind. Taylor believes in the power of stories to unite us, and through their novels, they invite you on adventures that promise to stay with you long after you turn the last page."

For a Non-Fiction Author

• "Jordan Lee is not just an author; they're a journey guide for the curious and the courageous. With a background in psychology and a lifelong passion for understanding human behavior, Jordan has penned several groundbreaking books, including the critically acclaimed 'Mindscapes: Unlocking the Potential Within.' Beyond the pages, Jordan is a sought-after speaker and a relentless explorer of the human mind, always on a mission to discover what drives us forward. Their work is not just about presenting facts; it's an invitation to see the world through a different lens."

For a Cookbook Author

• "Alex Rivera is a chef, storyteller, and your friendly neighborhood food lover. With roots in Italian and Mexican cuisines, Alex brings a fusion of flavors to the table, delighting foodies and home cooks alike with their bestselling cookbook, 'Flavors Without Borders.' But Alex's journey began in the small, steamy kitchen of their grandmother, where they learned that food isn't just about sustenance; it's about stories, love, and the magic of bringing people together. Through their recipes, Alex invites you into a world where every meal is an adventure, and every dish tells a story."

For a Travel Writer

• "Samuel Chen has the spirit of an explorer and the soul of a poet. Having trekked across 80 countries and counting, Samuel shares their wanderlust-infused tales in the mesmerizing travelogue, 'Echoes of the Earth.' From the icy tundras of Antarctica to the lush jungles of the Amazon, Samuel's stories are more than just journeys; they're a celebration of the planet and its myriad cultures. With a knack for finding the extraordinary in the ordinary, Samuel invites you to strap on your boots and discover the wonders of the world through their eyes."

For a Business Author

• "Riley Morga n cuts through the noise of the business world with sharp insights and actionable advice. With a successful career as an entrepreneur and consultant to Fortune 500 companies, Riley has distilled decades of experience into the best-selling guide, 'Innovate or Stagnate: The Business Blueprint.' Beyond the boardroom, Riley is a mentor and a motivator, passionate about helping others achieve their potential. Their writing demystifies complex business concepts, making success accessible to everyone from budding entrepreneurs to seasoned executives."

Additional Tips for an Engaging Author Bio

Crafting an engaging author bio requires a balance between professionalism, personality, and relevance. The goal is to captivate your audience from the first line, encouraging them to explore your work further. Here are additional tips to ensure your author bio stands out and effectively connects with your readers:

Infuse Personality

• Be Yourself : Let your unique voice shine through. Whether witty, profound or somewhere in between, your bio should reflect the real you.
• Tell a Story : Instead of listing facts, weave them into a narrative. This makes your bio more relatable and memorable.

Show, Don't Just Tell

• Use Vivid Descriptions : Rather than simply stating your interests or achievements, describe them in a way that paints a picture for the reader.
• Highlight Milestones : Share milestones that are career highlights and personal achievements that have shaped you as a writer.

Engage with Your Audience

• Speak Directly to Readers : Use a conversational tone that makes readers feel you're talking to them, not at them.
• Invite Interaction : Encourage readers to connect with you on social media, sign up for your newsletter, or visit your website. Make sure they know how to keep the conversation going.

Be Relevant

• Tailor Your Bio : Adapt your bio to suit the platform and purpose. The bio on your book's back cover will differ from the one on a social media profile or a conference speaker introduction.
• Update Regularly : Keep your bio up-to-date with your latest publications, awards, and professional achievements.

Keep It Accessible

• Avoid Jargon : Unless you're writing for a strictly professional or academic audience, keep the language simple and accessible.
• Readability : Ensure your bio is easily read in content and format. Use short paragraphs and bullet points if necessary.

Optimis e for Search Engines

• Use Keywords : If your bio is online, consider incorporating keywords related to your work, genre, or expertise to improve search engine visibility.
• Link to Your Work : Where possible, include links to your published works, articles, or projects. This boosts SEO and provides readers with a direct path to explore your writing.

Include a Professional Photo

• A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words : A professional photo adds credibility and helps readers connect your name with your face, making your work more memorable.

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How to Write a Stand-Out Author Bio

Apr 17, 2019 | Book Publishing , Writing | 8 comments

Your author bio is a calling card and targeted marketing tool to promote you and your work wherever it appears. It establishes a relationship with the reader because they get to peek behind the curtain to see who you are, where you are, and what motivates you. A well-crafted bio showcases your talents and expertise and lines the path to the next opportunity on your author journey.

Because your bio appears nearly everywhere your writing takes you, take the time and effort to make it work for you. Even if this is your first publication and have no awards adorning your book, you can craft a bio to engage readers and attract attention.

Heather Hummel’s article on The Huffington Post websiteinstructs authors to write three bios. “Write an extended bio for your website, proposals, interview sheets and media kits; a medium length bio for queries, guest spots on other websites and shorter marketing material; and a brief bio as a byline or for limited character social media websites.”

Here are a few tips for shaping your bio into a fine-tuned marketing tool.

Third person

An author bio is always written in the third person. Give the reader a birds-eye view of your writing life or what led you to write your book(s). It’s written as if someone else is describing you and your work. If writing lavish praise makes you cringe, this viewpoint takes you outside of yourself to describe how someone else sees you, the author.

Opening summary

The opening line summarizes who you are and what you do. It also serves as your 11-second pitch, short bio, or byline.

Example: Mary Smith is a writer, speaker, and author of Sweet Dreams , a memoir detailing her traumatic childhood journey through war and famine.

Authority and/or purpose for writing the book

The next sentence speaks to what lead you to write the book and any authority you bring to the topic. If you’ve written other books or have been published in another form, you can add it here. If this is your first publication and have just started writing, share how you came to write this book and your passion for sharing your story, experience, or expertise. Words like “debut author” or “freelance writer” are good places to start.

What makes you unique/ interesting

If you are new to writing and don’t have awards or accolades to prop you up, share something that makes you unique or interesting. How does your hobby as a beekeeper inform your writing or your part-time job as a dance instructor give you insight into the human condition? In my case, I use my career as a professional juggler to make my bio jump from the page. It led me to write my first book and says something about my personality. But, mostly, it’s a little quirky and helps me to set myself apart from other authors.  

Use your “voice” to make it stand out

Your writing voice sang throughout your book making it unique and interesting. Don’t let it be silenced in your author bio. Voice is what makes the words of novelist Ernest Hemingway different from that of comedian Tina Fey. If the author name was hidden from view, you’d still have a sense of their personality. Whether you’re funny or inspirational, snarky or analytical, your bio still says something about who you are and what you contribute to the literary space.

Obviously, you’ll have less real estate to highlight your uniqueness if you’ve got nothing more than a sentence to tell the reader who you are. But, the About the Author page on your website or in your book plus on places like Amazon’s Author Central beg for longer biographies. If you don’t have the award-winning bling you want at this point in your writing career, write the one you aspire to be and hang it on your computer to inspire the next part of your journey. For now, stand in the light of being the author you have become.

Here are some examples of actual author bios posted on Amazon Central.

Matt Knee is the founder of MyCompanyWorks, Inc. (an INC5000 Company) which has helped over 50,000 entrepreneurs start and manage their business in all 50 states and DC.  He’s passionate about startups and has been helping entrepreneurs start and improve their companies since 2001. More importantly, Matt has seen (and made) every small business mistake in the book and is determined to make sure others don’t make the same mistakes.  He lives with his family in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Kimberly Rae Miller is a writer and actress living in New York City. Her writing on healthy living has been published on Conde Nast’s blog network, Social Workout, Yahoo’s women’s network Shine, and in various magazines. She also contributes entertainment news to CBS Radio and CBS New York. In 2010, Kim was featured in Katharine Sise’s breakthrough career guide, Creative Girl: The Ultimate Guide for Turning Talent and Creativity into a Real Career. You can read her personal blog at TheKimChallenge.com.

Amy Dresner is a former professional stand-up comic, having appeared at The Comedy Store, The Laugh Factory, and The Improv. Since 2012, she has been a contributing editor of the online addiction and recovery magazine TheFix.com. She’s also written for the Good Men Project, The Frisky, Refinery 29, and has been a regular contributor to Addiction.com and PsychologyToday.com, where she has her own addiction blog entitled “Coming Clean.” “My Fair Junkie” is her debut book. Visit her website: www.amydresner.com

Keele Burgin is an entrepreneur, activist, mother of three, author, and filmmaker. Her story of survival and self-discovery has inspired a life dedicated to impacting tens of thousands of women across the globe. She has served in leadership roles on the boards of multiple nonprofit organizations that empower women. Keele made her mark in the business world by cofounding two companies, taking her first one public. Her second, a venture out of her hometown of Boulder, Colorado, is designed to help women rearchitect their lives by relinquishing the patterns of behavior that hold them back. For more information, visit www.keeleburgin.com .

Vanessa McGrady is a writer who spends a lot of time thinking about feminist parenting, food, and ways to do things better. She wonders why people aren’t more freaked out about all the plastic in the oceans. She considers herself lucky to call several places home: New York, the Pacific Northwest, and since 2005, Glendale, Calif. She is immensely lucky to be a mom to a magical fairy sprite child named Grace and their weird little schnoodle, Manuka.

AMANDA COOK is a digital marketer, health coach, herbalist, author, and host of “The Wellpreneur Podcast.” She has interviewed more than 120 successful wellness entrepreneurs about how they built healthy businesses online and has spoken at events on five continents.  Her work has appeared in The Huffington Post UK, The Sunday Telegraph, Natural Health Magazine, MindBodyGreen, TinyBuddha, and Copyblogger.  Amanda teaches health coaches, yoga teachers, personal trainers, nutritionists and other wellness business owners around the world to grow through digital marketing in her Marketing Bootcamp Program. She lives in London, where she forages for wild plants along the Thames.

Post your author bio here so we can see how you’ve crafted your uniqueness. Thanks for sharing!

Very helpful! Thanks so much! You are a wonderful resource and I love that you’re my friend, too.

Thank, Susan! I’m glad you found it valuable (and I’m glad you’re my friend, too)!

Lois — this is a great post — so helpful! Here’s what I wrote for an upcoming book about PAWS for People — please feel free to critique:

Rachel Brown is a freelance writer with more than 25 years’ experience. She lives in Newark, Del., with her husband, Tom; her son, Joe; and her emotional support staff, consisting of a beagle and two cats.

Rachel, Thanks for sharing! Tell me more about your writing experience. …25 years of experience as a ghostwriter, content creator, journalist, and editor of books, blogs, (and whatever else you’ve done). Make me curious about your work and want to seek you out for future work. Ok?

An author bio should describe the complete and accurate information about the author. You mention some important points to write an author bio which can be very helpful for new authors. Thanks for sharing such important content.

An author bio is important to provide a potential reader to know the author more precisely before looking at his work. This is used for promoting the author and his work. Few of the authors not well aware, how to design his/her author bio but you write it very clearly and in an understandable manner that how important it is to write correctly and professionally. Thanks for sharing it.

The community on this blog never ceases to amaze me.

Firstly and fore mostly… THANK YOU! Thank you a million times for doing what you do. Thank you for sharing with us this important and special time of your life – for talking openly and honestly

Trackbacks/Pingbacks

• Self-Publishing: Carnival of the Indies Issue #114 – affpaypaid - […] Hoffman presents How to Write a Stand-Out Author Bio posted at The Happy Self-Publisher, saying, “Your author bio is…
• The 4 Ps of Book Marketing - Happy Self-Publisher - […] and trust the author. If they like the front cover, they’ll check out your book description, author bio, and…
• How to Build an Author Brand - Happy Self-Publisher - […] author bio is often found on the back of a book, on your Amazon Author Central page, and as…
• How to Design an Author One-Sheet - Happy Self-Publisher - […] you. Some features, like the ISBN, are essential pieces of information. Other features like your author bio, book description,…

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Question: How do I write a great author bio for my book cover and website?

Your author biography or “About the Author” is your chance to let the reader know a little bit about you and any relevant information or credentials that support your ability to write the book they are considering purchasing. Think of it as your calling card.

It’s important to have several different versions of your biography including shorter versions for social media profiles or article mentions, and longer versions for your book’s cover, author website, author sales sheet, and more.

Key Elements of a Great Author Biography

Your author biography should accompany any mention of your work. It is a valuable tool in your book marketing kit that helps agents, publishers, media outlets, or potential readers get a sense of who you are and why your book will be a great read. New authors have the opportunity to introduce themselves, while more established authors have the opportunity to mention any accolades for previously published work.

Whether a debut or more experienced author, there are four main things you should try to accomplish with your author biography that will make it more effective:

1.  Establish your authority – share any credentials, areas of expertise, or awards that validate your ability to write on the topic or tell the story.

2.  Reveal your “why” – let readers know why you chose this topic or story, and why your perspective on it matters.

3.  Share something personal – are there interesting or relevant aspects of your background that might be intriguing to readers? Or, do you have hobbies or passions you want readers to know about? Sharing something personal allows readers to connect with you.

4.  Point to where they can find out more – if you have an online presence – and we highly recommend you do – include your author website address or a couple of your social media handles at the end. This important “call to action” will hopefully entice readers to learn more.

Some authors include information on where they grew up and where they currently live. You don’t have to share this type of personal information if you are not comfortable, but you could miss out on some local or regional opportunities if you don’t. For example, many media outlets like to support local authors and if you don’t include your location in your biography, you won’t show up in their research for potential interviews. Readers also love supporting local authors so you could miss out on some book sales as well.

If you’re writing under a pen name or pseudonym and wish to remain anonymous, don’t include any identifiable information in your biography. Instead, focus on establishing your authority as a writer and how your writer voice is unique.

Author biographies should always be written in 3rd person, which is the “he/she” voice. It can be strange to write about yourself in this way, so try drafting your biography in the 1st person “I” voice to start, and then convert it to 3rd when finalizing. When written in 3rd person, your author biography appears more professional and trustworthy.

Author Biography Tips for Nonfiction Authors

When writing in nonfiction categories such as business, how-to, self-help, or travel, it’s important to quickly establish why you are qualified to write on the topic. This can include relevant work or travel experience, degrees, or certifications. Readers want to know why they can trust the information or solutions you are presenting in your book. Here are some additional tips for nonfiction authors:         

•  Include any services you offer that are relevant to the topic. •   Mention any speaking experience if you are available to speak on the topic. •   Include a professional headshot when there is room. •   When writing memoir , it’s important to include any personal information that is relevant to the experience or life event about which you are writing.

Author Biography Tips for Fiction Authors

For fiction authors, you want to be clear about the genres and subgenres you write in and the themes about which you enjoy writing. Fiction readers tend to gravitate toward specific categories of books because they enjoy the elements, tropes, and themes that are present. Including this information in your biography helps readers make an informed decision about the books they buy, and enables you to build a loyal readership. Here are some additional tips for fiction authors:

•  The tone of your biography should complement the tone of your writing. If your books are humorous, for example, include some humor in your biography. •   Mention any accolades related to writing craft or bestseller status. •   Share any awards or nominations you’ve received , even for short work. •   If you’ve created a memorable author brand or have become known for a certain style of writing, be sure to include it. •   Share what inspires your writing or ideas if relevant.

The Benefits of Preparing Multiple Author Biographies

It’s important to prepare at least three versions of your author biography that address different media and marketing needs. You’ll want a short and snappy version that can be plugged into your social media profile or added to any articles you publish. This version should be around 50 words or less and typically includes a couple of sentences that focus on your writing credentials, what you write, and where readers can find out more about you. While this may not seem like many words, you can see below that it provides ample space to include the key elements:

Before you start writing your author biography, make a list of everything you can potentially include. As you draft and revise, focus on the most pertinent pieces of information and cut the rest. Along with your book description and quotes from reviews or testimonials, your author biography should be a quick read that entices readers to learn more and buy your book.

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How to Write An Author Bio That Attracts Readers 

Has a stranger ever asked you, “What can you tell me about yourself?”

And did you feel all the blood drain from your face as you thought, “Who even am I?!”?

Pretty much everyone can relate to that feeling…but it’s even worse for authors.

Because a reader is not just trying to get to know you. They’re trying to figure out if they want to buy your books.

Calling this a daunting task is an understatement…so we’re going to walk you through writing an author bio that grabs attention. And we’ve included over 20 unique examples because seeing them in action is the best way to learn!

What is An Author Bio

An author biography briefly tells the reader everything they need to know about the author’s credentials, writer journey, and previous works.

It’s not just a simple overview, it’s a book marketing tool used to summarize who you are while convincing them that your books are worth buying.

Do You Need An Author Bio?

With 99.9% confidence, we can say that most readers don’t know who you are. Your author biography will be the first contact for them. You need one because:

• It helps build trust with the reader.
• It allows the reader to relate to you.
• It promotes your books and other work.
• It increases book sales.

The biography of an author carries the same essence as their books. Therefore, if a reader likes yours, they’ll feel more confident that they’ll like your books too.

How to Write an Author Bio

A successful author bio will paint yourself as interesting and your books as worthwhile. These tips will help you create one that fits you best:

Aim for the target audience

You can only nail your author bio if you’ve considered who you’re writing it for. If it helps, you can create an image in your head about who this reader could be. Use these to help you form that picture:

• Their age group,
• Their hobbies and lifestyle,
• Where they are from, etc.

Then you need to write what this type of reader wants to get out of reading your bio.

For example, if you’ve written cookbooks about quick meals for busy parents, it would be worth mentioning that you’re also a parent and how many kids you have so the reader can build trust in your brand.

How long should it be?

It can be anywhere from 60-150 words, but never over (unless you’re doing a tasteful ‘About’ page on your website).

If you’re using it for your book, we suggest 60-90 words, but you could do much less if it suits you.

The length will be determined by a few factors:

• How much privacy would you like to maintain about your personal life
• What else would you like to promote, for example, a podcast or your organization
• How many awards have you won
• How many quotes or endorsements would you like to share
• What perception of your brand do you want to create

Want To Give Your Readers An Engaging Online Experience?

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Write in the Third Person

Why does it have to be in the third person, you ask?

It’s a tale as old as time. Or in other words, it’s industry standard.

You come off as professional if it’s in the third person and it can be used anywhere.

Speaking of…

Where will you use it?

You’ll have to write a few variations of your author bio so you’re prepared for every situation. 

You’ll need:

• A longer one for your author website ,
• A punchy one for social media,
• A captivating one for your book’s product page (for example your Amazon book page – you can use Amazon Author Central to do this),
• A compelling one to go alongside a book blurb
• A convincing one for book proposals  
• An informative one for book signings , interviews, speaking engagements articles, book press releases , etc.

Balance facts with personality

Let the readers into your world with some cool facts about you, whether it’s awards you’ve won or accomplishments of the company you’re a part of – if it relates to your work. This creates an outline for your professional prowess.

Without professionalism, readers may be tempted to run for the hills. But that doesn’t mean your author bio can’t have personality.

As a matter of fact, when you add some personal details that’s your chance to reel them in.

With personal details, you can color in that outline to form a fuller, beautiful image for readers to have in their minds when they think of you.

Author Bio Example: Christopher Paolini

Check out this example:

Christopher Paolini is the creator of the World of Eragon and the Fractalverse. Holder of the Guinness World Record for youngest author of a bestselling series. Qualified for marksman in the Australian army. Scottish laird. Dodged gunfire . . . more than once. As a child was chased by a moose in Alaska. Has his name inscribed on Mars. Firstborn of Kenneth and Talita. Husband. Father. Asker of questions and teller of stories. His latest novel, Fractal Noise, will be published on May 16th, 2023.

Why it works

The biography of this author has many personal tidbits but the one that may appeal the most to a reader is near the top of the paragraph.

Keep it concise and relevant

An author bio includes a magnitude of information, and you are tasked with keeping all of it concise and to the point.

To do this you have to share your accolades and achievements with caution. If you add too much then you’ll likely leave the reader snoring. And if there’s irrelevant information, the reader will just be confused.

An author bio is about saying a lot in a few words.

Include contact links

There’s nothing wrong with plugging your social media and author website links at the bottom of your author bio.

It’s a great way to get your readers to stay connected with you and it serves as a neat CTA (call-to-action).

And that leads us to…

Call them to action

If the reader is interested after reading your author bio, you’ll want to have a CTA that tells them what to do next.

It could be as simple as asking the reader to follow you on your social media profiles or to check out your latest book release.

If they’ve made it to the end of your biography, you might as well try and keep that momentum going!

Author Bio Example: Suzanne Leonhard

Check out the CTA in this author bio for example:

Suzanne Leonhard is an award-winning novelist and screenwriter. Formerly published with Harper Collins, she now writes post apocalyptic thrillers to satisfy her love for end times fiction. She lives on the beautiful Florida coast with her husband and a whole lotta cats. You can email Suzanne at [email protected], visit her website at suzanneleonhard.com, or join her on her Facebook page @TheGoliathCode.

Suzanne’s bio briefly shares what she’s comfortable with and effectively ends off with a few CTAs that encourage her fans and newcomers to keep in touch.

19 Inspiring Author Bio Examples

Authors are not just limited to the words they write on the page, and no one author is the same as another.

So, to make sure you write the best author bio you can, we’ve included 20 examples that highlight a different element. You have the pick of the bunch!

1. Fantasy author bio

Author Bio Example: Chloe Gong

Check out this Fantasy author bio:

Chloe Gong is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the critically acclaimed Secret Shanghai novels, as well as the Flesh and False Gods trilogy. Her books have been published in over twenty countries and have been featured in The New York Times, People, Forbes, and more. She is a recent graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, where she double-majored in English and international relations. Born in Shanghai and raised in Auckland, New Zealand, Chloe is now located in New York City, pretending to be a real adult. You can find her on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok under @thechloegong, or visit her website at www.thechloegong.com.

Chloe’s author bio is classy and shares just the right amount. Her accoladed books followed by her reach to twenty countries show off her worldwide appeal and her writing ability. Fantasy readers will be intrigued by the book names and have more trust in her after seeing her many achievements. Her last line does all the heavy lifting on her personality. Her target readers will definitely relate to her.

2. Romance author bio

Author Bio Example: Maggie Carpenter

Check out this Romance author bio:

International and Amazon Best-Selling Author Maggie Carpenter, pens thrilling, romantic tales starring Rope Wrangling Cowboys, Motorcycle Bad Boys, Mafia Masters, Amorous Aliens, and Sexy Shifters. Regardless of love’s challenges, her books always end in a heart warming HEA. For her daily brain break, she heads off to a barn where she spends time with her beautiful, smart, dark bay mare, Miss Bonny.  Social Media Links. Newsletter: https://tinyurl.com/MaggieNL (Free book at sign up) https://www.MaggieCarpenter.com https://www.facebook.com/MaggieCarpenterWriter/ https://www.facebook.com/MaggieCarpenterWriter/ (Friends Page) https://tinyurl.com/MaggiesGroup (Facebook Group) https://www.instagram.com/maggiesub/ https://twitter.com/magcarpenter2 https://tinyurl.com/MaggiesAmazonPage https://www.bookbub.com/profile/maggie-carpenter Email: [email protected]

Maggie’s author bio has all the markings to get romance readers’ eyes widened. It cleverly mentions the types of tales you may encounter in her novels while using a well-known acronym in the community (HEA – Happily Ever After). This actively engages the target reader along with the backing in the first-line hook: “International and Amazon Best-Selling Author.” We then get to peek inside her life as she ends the paragraph with a personal anecdote.  Don’t forget the plentiful links she’s shared – endless possibilities to connect with her!

3. Thriller Adventure author bio

Author Bio Example: Andrew Clawson

Check out this Thriller Adventure author bio:

Andrew Clawson writes thriller and adventure novels that make readers think and keep them turning pages long into the night, blurring the line between fact and fiction.  He is the Amazon best-selling author of multiple series, including the Parker Chase thrillers, all of which have been #1 Amazon category best-sellers. ​His other series include the TURN novels and the Harry Fox adventures. Andrew’s books are action-packed journeys blending fact and fiction, often taking a wild ride through the past to reveal mysteries and conspiracies that threaten the world today in stories where the action never stops and each page turns faster than the last. Andrew lives in Pittsburgh with his family and their rescued black cat, a wonderful little guy who thinks he’s a dog. To learn more, please visit his website at andrewclawson.com.

We like Andrew’s author bio because the purpose is clear: convince the reader to buy the book. The first sentences describe how readers experience his book. Then he backs that up with past work done and a notable accolade.  He sells the themes inside his books with a pacey middle paragraph that again hints at what to expect. 

4. Sci-Fi author bio

Author Bio Example: Andy Weir

Check out this Sci-Fi author bio:

ANDY WEIR built a two-decade career as a software engineer until the success of his first published novel, The Martian, allowed him to live out his dream of writing full-time.  He is a lifelong space nerd and a devoted hobbyist of such subjects as relativistic physics, orbital mechanics, and the history of manned spaceflight. He also mixes a mean cocktail. He lives in California.

Which Sci-FI reader wouldn’t want to read Sci-Fi from a nerd with experience in software and knowledge of physics?  This author’s biography says so much in very little time, expanding on both his personal and writing life in a concise manner.

5. Children’s author bio

Author Bio Example: Tonya Flores’s

Check out this Children’s author bio:

Children’s author Tonya Flores is an outgoing, energetic, busy mom of two who believes in real life superheroes! Passionate about child development, Tonya is thrilled to now be able to dedicate her time to pursue a long-time dream of helping children grow to become the best version of themselves. Known for her dedication in the pursuit of goals, Tonya is committed to helping children around the world recognize their unique abilities and grow up to be happy, confident, and fulfilled. 

Tonya’s author bio does less to sell her books and more her background. This will instill confidence in the parents who are looking to read books to their children which will impact them positively while entertaining them.

6. Non-fiction author bio

Author Bio Example: Robert M. Sapolsky

Check out this Non-Fiction author bio:

Robert M. Sapolsky is the author of several works of nonfiction, including A Primate’s Memoir, The Trouble with Testosterone, and Why Zebras Don’t Get Ulcers. He is a professor of biology and neurology at Stanford University and the recipient of a MacArthur Foundation genius grant. He lives in San Francisco.

This author bio screams non-fiction with a sophisticated voice.  This short piece manages to list a few past books, an accolade, and share Robert’s field of knowledge. This biography’s main purpose is to show the link between the author’s expertise to the books written.

7. Multiple genres author bio

Author Bio Example: Macy Blake

Check out this Multi-genre author bio:

Macy Blake believes in unicorns and fairies, in moonbeams and stardust, and that happily ever after comes in all colors of the rainbow. She loves to lose herself in paranormal romance, living vicariously through her favorite sexy fictional heroes. These days you can often find her lost in her imagination, trying to capture the magic of her own worlds. When she’s not writing, she’s busy arguing with her feisty German Shepherd, Minerva, and attempting to train her adorable pound puppies, Pomona and Severus.

Macy’s bio skillfully expands upon the themes and genres of her work in the first sentence, leaving the rest of her bio the responsibility of laying out her personal side. This author bio is full of personality, giving the reader an idea of the writing style inside her many genres.

8. Achievements

Author Bio Example: Fonda Lee

See how this author bio displays achievements:

Fonda Lee is the World Fantasy Award-winning author of the Green Bone Saga, beginning with Jade City and continuing in Jade War and Jade Legacy. She is also the author of the acclaimed young adult science fiction novels Zeroboxer, Exo and Cross Fire, and has written comics for Marvel. Fonda is a three-time winner of the Aurora Award, and a multiple finalist for the Nebula and Locus Awards. Fonda is a recovering corporate strategist, black belt martial artist, Eggs Benedict enthusiast, and action movie aficionado. Born and raised in Canada, she now resides in Portland, Oregon. Follow Fonda online at www.fondalee.com and on Twitter @fondajlee.

We’re hit immediately with an achievement to grab our attention in this author bio. Some of Fonda’s popular work is sprinkled in and a coating of wonderful accolades solidifies the author’s impressive CV.  The end of the paragraph lets us get to know Fonda in a way that intrigues and makes the reader relate.

9. Experience & Expertise

Author Bio Example: Brit Bennett

See how this author bio provides proof of expertise:

Born and raised in Southern California, Brit Bennett graduated from Stanford University and earned her MFA in fiction at the University of Michigan, where she won a Hopwood Award in Graduate Short Fiction as well as the 2014 Hurston/Wright Award for College Writers. She is a National Book Foundation “5 under 35” honoree, and her essays are featured in The New Yorker, The New York Times Magazine, The Paris Review, and Jezebel.

This author bio example is packed with lines that explain the author’s experience and expertise. Although it can seem harder to show expertise in fiction writing, Brit has represented it well here.  Her work with the publications will go a long way to bolster her author brand for readers and industry professionals.

10. A nice picture

Author Bio Example: Angie Thomas

Check out the headshot to the left and the author bio below:

Angie Thomas was born, raised, and still resides in Jackson, Mississippi as indicated by her accent. She is a former teen rapper whose greatest accomplishment was an article about her in Right-On Magazine with a picture included. She holds a BFA in Creative Writing from Belhaven University and an unofficial degree in Hip Hop. She can also still rap if needed. She is an inaugural winner of the Walter Dean Myers Grant 2015, awarded by We Need Diverse Books. Her debut novel, The Hate U Give, was acquired by Balzer + Bray/HarperCollins in a 13-house auction. Film rights have been optioned by Fox 2000 with George Tillman attached to direct and Hunger Games actress Amandla Stenberg set to star.

This author bio example is all about the headshot.  Picking the right picture to go alongside your bio is vital. It needs to suit the text next to it while corresponding to your brand. We love Angie’s picture because it conveys personality while being very welcoming. With some good lighting and camera work, you can do your headshot that hits all the checkmarks.

11. Past jobs

Author Bio Example: J. Z. York

Check out how this author bio reveals past jobs:

J Z York is new to fiction writing, with Pulse her debut novel.  An Air Force Veteran, she enthusiastically accepted assignment as a first woman in an all-male career field.  She’s been a professional photographer, cat rancher, dog magnet, miniature horse breeder, and unlucky guinea pig grandmother (sorry Jenniva). Working in several aspects of the film and television industry, she enjoyed collecting anecdotes while crashing numerous Cannes and Telluride Film Festivals, and L.A. gold statue award events.  She loves things that zoom, above, or over the ground. This week she’s living in Southern California.

As a new author, you may want to share your past jobs to either show how interesting a life you’ve led or how your experiences relate to your writing.  This a fun way to provide an overview while engaging the target reader with your personality and your life pre-writing career.

12. Endorsements

Author Bio Example: Katherine Center

See how this author bio displays endorsements:

BookPage calls Katherine Center “the reigning queen of comfort reads.” She’s the New York Times bestselling author of ten novels, including How to Walk Away, Things You Save in a Fire, The Bodyguard, and her newest, Hello Stranger. Katherine writes laugh-and-cry books about how life knocks us down—and how we get back up. She’s been compared to both Jane Austen and Nora Ephron, and the Dallas Morning News calls her stories, “satisfying in the most soul-nourishing way.” The movie adaptation of her novel The Lost Husband (starring Josh Duhamel) hit #1 on Netflix, and the movie of her novel Happiness for Beginners, starring Ellie Kemper and Luke Grimes, opens July 27 on Netflix. Katherine’s summer 2022 book, The Bodyguard, was an instant New York Times bestseller, a People Best New Books pick, and nominated for Book of the Year by Book of the Month Club. Bestselling author Emily Henry calls The Bodyguard “a shot of pure joy,” and bestselling author Helen Hoang calls it “a perfect feel-good rom-com.” Katherine lives in her hometown of Houston, Texas, with her husband, two kids, and their fluffy-but-fierce dog.

You could either pick one stellar review or decorate your bio with a few. This author bio example uses endorsements to further expand on Katherine’s branding as well as the themes of her books. Sometimes it’s overkill to go all in on so many aspects in a bio, other times, like in Katherine’s case, it’s the right amount to attract your ideal reader.

13. First-Time Author

Author Bio Example: Jennifer Ballow

This is how you do an author bio if you’re a first-time author:

Jennifer Ballow is a licensed master-level social worker & holds a degree from the University of Texas at Austin. She is a devoted mother to twin girls and a passionate advocate for children, people with disabilities, and older adults. As a children’s book author, Jennifer hopes to inspire children and their caregivers to connect through reading, imagination, and creative writing activities.

When you’ve just put out a debut novel, you need to immediately build trust with your audience and appeal to their needs. Jennifer Ballow’s author bio takes into account her branding and her personal life to provide a mixture just perfect for a newcomer’s bio.

14. Keeping it short

Author Bio Example: Veronica Rossi

Here’s how you keep an author bio short and sweet:

VERONICA ROSSI is the NY Times and USA Today Best Selling author of the UNDER THE NEVER SKY series for young adults. She was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, grew up in California and graduated from UCLA. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and two sons, one of whom just surpassed her in height.

Veronica’s author bio is short, concise, and informative. She includes her past work, her genre, and some personal elements from her life. However, the personal element that stands out is her cultural background. It’s subtle yet effective at representing what is important to her – where she came from.

15. Your image and brand

Author Bio Example: Marie Forleo

This is how you let your brand shine:

A born-and-raised Jersey girl with nothing more than passion, a laptop, and a dream, Marie Forleo has created a socially conscious digital empire that inspires millions across the globe. Named by Oprah as a thought leader for the next generation, she’s the star of the award-winning show MarieTV, with over 52 million views, and host of The Marie Forleo Podcast, with almost twelve million downloads. Marie has taught entrepreneurs, artists, and multipassionate go-getters from all walks of life how to dream big and back it up with daily action to create results. She runs the acclaimed business training program B-School and the writing program The Copy Cure. Her latest book, Everything is Figureoutable, was an instant #1 New York Times bestseller. Learn more at www.MarieForleo.com.

This author bio is more focused on branding than the book itself – which is fine given this author’s goal! Marie name-drops and showcases her main cause. It all supports her image and gives the reader justification for why she was equipped to write her book.  The lesson is if you have statistics and endorsements to work with, let them speak for themselves. 

16. Pen names

Author Bio Example: Lily Menon

This is how you reveal your pen name:

Lily Menon has always been enamored of romantic comedies and happily-ever-afters in all shapes and sizes. Her very first love story, written at age nine, was about a handsome young boy who wooed the heroine with books, chocolates, and a very fat puppy. Now Lily lives with her own handsome boy (who indeed wooed her with books, chocolates, and fat puppies) in the mountains of Colorado, where she spends her days dreaming up kissing scenes and meet-cutes. When she’s bored, Lily also masquerades as New York Times bestselling YA author Sandhya Menon. MAKE UP BREAK UP is her first adult romance. Visit her online at www.lilymenon.com.

By day you may be an author, and by night you may be…a different author. And you can share that in your author biography too! Just in case your ideal target may be interested in other genres, you leave the door open for them to discover your pseudonym’s work. Lily (or Sandhya) does this well. She’s curated an engaging author bio with her books’ themes and personal aspects. She finally caps it off with a clever line leading to her pen name’s work.

17. Author website

Author Bio Example: maggiecarpenter.com

Check out this ‘About The Author’ Page example:

WHO IS MAGGIE CARPENTER? The Answer May Surprise You. Yes, she is prolific author, penning over a hundred published titles, with heroes ranging from hunky cowboys, Harley-riding bikers and handsome billionaires, to brawny barbarians and amorous aliens. She’s known for page turning, nail biting suspense, steamy scenes and dreamy HEA’s. But Maggie has a history as colorful as one of her characters.  Hailing from a tiny town in New Zealand, her first taste of notoriety came as a Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader. Then it was off to Los Angeles where she was picked up by a modeling agency, and went on to star in film and episodic television. But her foray into the entertainment world didn’t stop there. She launched a highly successful live show as a stage hypnotist. Known as Sonjia: The Mistress of Mesmerism, she performed for the boys in uniform at Camp Pendleton, thrilled crowds in L.A. nightclubs, flew down to Sydney, where she incorporated illusions into her act, then returned to her homeland and wowed the audiences across the country. Now she works late into the night writing sexy, intriguing stories. Always at her side is her adorable terrier mix rescued from a junk yard in Tijuana, and she never misses a day riding her beloved dark bay mare .

The limit on word count kind of goes out the window on an author website – which, if used well, can really pull in your ideal audience. Maggie Carpenter has a colorful background matched with a conversational tone that can grab the reader’s attention. She starts by describing themes and then she gives some context to her personal life, intertwined with her writing life.

18. Your book’s themes 

Author Bio Example: Lauren Eckhardt

Check out this example on how to use themes:

Lauren Eckhardt is an award-winning Young Adult and Women’s Fiction author, who has a particular love of writing stories centered around second chances in life and the self-strengthening journeys of the characters through them. She currently lives in Illinois with her husband and two boys, happily surrounded by books . www.AuthorLaurenEckhardt.com

In the first line, the genre and the author’s accolades are planted as hooks. Lauren understands her target readers and what they’re looking for so she displays her genre’s themes in a conversational tone. 

19. Social media bio

Author Bio Example: Susan Dennard – @stdennard

Check out this Instagram author bio:

✍️ NYT bestselling author. 🎮 Come for the #ChooseWithSooz… 📚 Stay for the awesome books. 🌙 Next up: #TheHuntingMoon, in stores Nov 7! 🔗 linktr.ee/stdennard

Susan’s Instagram bio is excellent for the fast-paced social media world. It’s laid out in a bullet point format with appropriate emojis. It’s catchy and straight to the point while clearly aiming at the target audience.

A Simple Author Bio Template

You can be creative with your author bio while still being concise and brief. But if you’re stuck and you need an outline, we’ve got you covered with this author bio template:

• Credibility: Establish the author’s credibility with accolades, popular books published, experience and expertise, etc.
• Endorsements (if none, leave out): Add Endorsements that back up the credibility well.
• Other Work: Include other works like podcasts, TV shows, pen name’s works, or any other ventures the target reader would find of interest.
• Personal Touch: 1-2 lines of personal information that add flare and color to the author bio – only add what you are comfortable with.
• Call To Action: Include a call to action (CTA) and links to social media profiles, newsletters, new book releases, etc.

Remember to keep your author bio between 60-150 words and only include what you think readers would want to know!

Author Bio Mistakes To Avoid

Avoid these common author bio mistakes if you don’t want readers rolling their eyes or falling off to sleep:

• Qualification overload: Please refrain from adding your irrelevant qualifications and awards – but if you have a lot of relevant ones (good for you!), keep them to the headliners.
• The salesman: Your readers shouldn’t feel like they’re avoiding eye contact with the Mall kiosk employees selling samples when they read your bio – keep the sales talk to a minimum 
• Missing the target: Make your genres’, themes, and selling points clear, so you don’t make your target reader feel like they’re in the wrong place.
• The time-traveler: Some phrasing may have worked back in the day but it’s outdated now, so steer clear of cliches and putting dates in your bio that will make it very clear when you haven’t updated it in a while.

Where You Can Put Your First Author Bio

It’s easy for a reader to find an author on the all-knowing online oracle (Google!), so an author bio is an essential part of building an online presence. This is how readers will learn about you and your work, so you must make sure it’s as appealing as possible.

That means the words you use and the style in which it’s delivered. While you can’t exactly make your Amazon book page any color you like, you can do that on your author website.

Unlike social media, with an author website , you get to set the rules. And it’s a great place to put your first author bio too.

You’re just one inquiry form away from a stunning online presence that represents your brand. If you’re interested, get in touch!

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