May 1, 2017:

How to write a back cover blurb: In researching this topic, I learned nothing is more important than the one hundred or so words on the back cover. According to my research, there should be three main parts: backstory to set up the plot, introduction to characters--keep it simple and only one or two sentences, and the “leave them wanting more” ending--the gist of the story without solving the mystery. If you’re like me, you might spend time mentally designing the cover picture (even though that’s not my job), but the blurb on the back cover, sells the book. That short paragraph should be mysterious, it should grab the reader’s attention, and it should introduce your main character(s) while telling just enough of the plot to pique their interest. The trick is to write a great teaser without giving away secrets. Three takeaways: it’s important to focus more on the characters and less on the setting; write the blurb before you write the story--it can serve as an outline; and lastly, read lots of back covers. If you find one that makes you want to read the book, you found the perfect example!

Blurb:

            For neighbors Erin and Elwood, danger lurks at every turn. Elwood sees secret codes everywhere he looks. Elwood picked up the stinks-like-something-dead coat and crammed his hand into a pocket. “I found something!” he whispered loudly. Inside his hand lay a crumpled piece of paper. “Might be a secret code.” Erin, however, only sees Elwood as a pain in the butt.

            When the unlikely duo stumbles upon a bank robbery, the only escape is through a scary tunnel where pythons lurk and a vicious dog races in hot pursuit. Crawling through a tiny ventilation shaft, Erin hopes to alert the police before the bank robbers overtake the others trapped inside the vault. With limited oxygen and cobwebs licking at her face, Erin pushes aside her own fears, knowing she has one chance for survival; she finally reaches the door to freedom only to find it locked!