What are Book Sizes Called?
Books come in all shapes and sizes, and each size has its own specific name. Whether you’re a publisher, a bookseller, or a book lover, understanding the different book sizes and their names can be useful. In this article, we’ll cover the standard book sizes, non-standard book sizes, book sizes by type, and international book sizes.
The most common book sizes are the standard sizes, which are based on the international standard ISO 216. This standard defines the specific sizes of books, including the names of the sizes. The most common standard book sizes are A4, A5, and A6. A4 is the largest of the three and measures 210 x 297mm. A5 is slightly smaller and measures 148 x 210mm, and A6 is the smallest and measures 105 x 148mm.
In addition to the standard book sizes, there are also non-standard book sizes. These are usually larger than the standard sizes and are usually used for special editions or collectible books. Some of the most common non-standard book sizes are Imperial Quarto (229 x 305mm), Imperial Folio (330 x 483mm), and Crown Quarto (203 x 254mm).
Book sizes also vary by type. For example, hardback books are usually larger than paperback books, and textbooks are usually larger than fiction books. Hardback books are usually between A4 and A5, while paperback books are usually between A5 and A6. Textbooks are usually larger than A4, while fiction books are usually smaller than A5.
Finally, there are international book sizes. These sizes vary from country to country and are based on the specific measurements of each country. For example, in the United States, the standard book size is 8.5 x 11 inches, while in the United Kingdom, the standard book size is A4.
Understanding the different book sizes and their names can be useful for publishers, booksellers, and book lovers alike. There are standard book sizes, non-standard book sizes, book sizes by type, and international book sizes. Knowing the different book sizes and their names can help you choose the right size for your project.
1. Introduction
Book sizes vary widely, from tiny pocket books to large hardcovers. While it may seem like a simple topic, the world of book sizes is actually quite complex. There are standard sizes, non-standard sizes, sizes that vary by type, and even international sizes. In this article, we’ll explore the various book sizes and what they’re called. We’ll look at standard book sizes, non-standard sizes, sizes by type, and international book sizes. We’ll also discuss the factors that influence book size and how to choose the right size for your project. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of book sizes and what they’re called.
2. Standard Book Sizes
Book sizes vary greatly, but the most common sizes are known as “standard” book sizes. These sizes are based on the traditional sizes used in bookbinding, and they are intended to make books easier to handle and store.
The most common standard book size is the “octavo” size, which is 8” x 10”. This size is often used for novels, textbooks, and other similar books. The next most common size is the “quarto” size, which is 9” x 11”. This size is often used for children’s books, cookbooks, and other similar books.
The next size up is the “folio” size, which is 10” x 13”. This size is often used for large books such as encyclopedias, dictionaries, and atlases. The largest standard book size is the “imperial” size, which is 11” x 14”. This size is often used for large books such as reference books, photo books, and art books.
In addition to these standard book sizes, there are also “non-standard” book sizes. These sizes are typically larger than the standard sizes and are often used for books that are intended to be displayed or used in a particular way. For example, a book may be printed in a “landscape” size, which is 12” x 15”, or a “panoramic” size, which is 13” x 20”.
When selecting a book size, it is important to consider the type of book and the intended use. For example, a book intended to be read in a classroom may require a larger size, while a book intended to be carried around may require a smaller size. It is also important to consider the cost of printing in different sizes, as larger sizes may require more ink and paper.
Standard book sizes are an important part of bookbinding and printing, and they are used to ensure that books are easy to handle and store. Non-standard book sizes are also available, and they are often used for books that are intended to be displayed or used in a particular way. When selecting a book size, it is important to consider the type of book and the intended use, as well as the cost of printing in different sizes.
3. Non-Standard Book Sizes
When it comes to book sizes, there are a variety of sizes that don’t fit into the standard categories. These non-standard book sizes are often used for special projects such as photo books, scrapbooks, magazines, and more.
The most common non-standard book sizes are:
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Oversized Books: Oversized books are larger than standard sizes and can range from 11 x 14 inches to 15 x 20 inches or larger. These books are typically used for coffee table books, art books, and other large-format books.
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Square Books: Square books are usually 8 x 8 inches or 10 x 10 inches and are often used for scrapbooks, photo books, and children’s books.
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Landscape Books: Landscape books are wider than they are tall, usually 8.5 x 11 inches or 11 x 8.5 inches. They are often used for cookbooks, magazines, and other books that need more horizontal space.
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Pocket Books: Pocket books are smaller than standard sizes and can range from 4 x 6 inches to 5 x 8 inches. These books are often used for novels, travel guides, and other books that need to be portable.
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Mini Books: Mini books are even smaller than pocket books, usually 3.5 x 5 inches or 4 x 4 inches. These books are often used for business cards, promotional materials, and other items that need to be small and portable.
Non-standard book sizes are great for projects that require something unique or special. They are also great for books that need to be portable or that need to fit into a certain space.
When it comes to printing non-standard book sizes, it’s important to make sure that the printer you use is capable of printing the size you need. Many printers have limitations on the sizes they can handle, so it’s important to do your research before ordering your book.
Non-standard book sizes can be a great way to make your project stand out from the crowd. Whether you’re creating a photo book, scrapbook, magazine, or something else, non-standard book sizes can be the perfect way to make your project unique.
4. Book Sizes by Type
When it comes to book sizes, there are several different types that can be used. Each type of book size has its own unique characteristics and advantages. Here is an overview of the most common book sizes by type.
Trade Paperback
Trade paperback books are the most common type of book size, and are typically 6 x 9 inches. This size is great for novels and non-fiction books, as it is easy to hold and read. Trade paperbacks are also often sold at bookstores and online retailers.
Mass Market Paperback
Mass market paperbacks are smaller than trade paperbacks, measuring 4.25 x 6.75 inches. This book size is ideal for light reading, such as mystery and romance novels. Mass market paperbacks are often found in drugstores and grocery stores.
Pocket Books
Pocket books are even smaller than mass market paperbacks, measuring 4 x 6.75 inches. This book size is perfect for carrying in a purse or pocket, and is often used for novels and short stories.
Hardcover
Hardcover books are larger than trade paperbacks, measuring 6.25 x 9.5 inches. This size is perfect for books that require a more sturdy binding, such as reference books and textbooks. Hardcover books are typically more expensive than paperbacks, and are often found in libraries and bookstores.
Oversized
Oversized books are larger than standard book sizes, and can range from 7 x 10 inches to 11 x 14 inches. This book size is great for art books, coffee table books, and other books that require more room for artwork or photographs. Oversized books are usually more expensive than standard book sizes, and are often found in specialty stores.
Miniature
Miniature books are much smaller than standard book sizes, measuring 2 x 3 inches or smaller. This book size is perfect for pocket-sized novels, gift books, and other small books. Miniature books are often found in gift shops and online retailers.
Book sizes are an important factor to consider when selecting a book. Different book sizes can be used for different types of books, and each size has its own unique advantages. Be sure to choose the right size for your book to ensure that it looks and feels just right.
5. International Book Sizes
When it comes to book sizes, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Different countries have their own standards, and even within the same country, there can be slight variations. International book sizes are the standard sizes used for books in various countries around the world.
The most common international book sizes are A-format and B-format. A-format books are generally 8.25” x 5.5” and are the standard size for mass-market paperbacks. B-format books are slightly larger, measuring 9.5” x 6.5” and are typically used for trade paperbacks.
In the United Kingdom, the Royal Stationery Standard (RSS) is used for book sizes. The standard sizes are A4 (8.27” x 11.69”), A5 (5.83” x 8.27”), A6 (4.13” x 5.83”), and B4 (9.84” x 13.90”).
In Japan, the JIS (Japanese Industrial Standard) is used for book sizes. The standard sizes are B5 (6.93” x 9.84”), B6 (4.92” x 6.93”), and A5 (5.83” x 8.27”).
In Australia, the AUS (Australian Standard) is used for book sizes. The standard sizes are A4 (8.27” x 11.69”), A5 (5.83” x 8.27”), and A6 (4.13” x 5.83”).
In India, the ISO (International Organization for Standardization) is used for book sizes. The standard sizes are A4 (8.27” x 11.69”), A5 (5.83” x 8.27”), A6 (4.13” x 5.83”), B4 (9.84” x 13.90”), and B5 (6.93” x 9.84”).
In Canada, the CSA (Canadian Standards Association) is used for book sizes. The standard sizes are A4 (8.27” x 11.69”) and B4 (9.84” x 13.90”).
In Europe, the DIN (Deutsches Institut für Normung) is used for book sizes. The standard sizes are A4 (8.27” x 11.69”), A5 (5.83” x 8.27”), and B5 (6.93” x 9.84”).
The standard book sizes used in various countries around the world may vary slightly, but they all follow the same basic principles. Knowing the standard sizes used in different countries can help you decide which size to use for your book.
6. Conclusion
Book sizes come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from the standard sizes to the non-standard sizes and even international sizes. No matter what kind of book you are looking for, there is sure to be a size that will fit your needs. Standard book sizes are the most common and widely used sizes, while non-standard book sizes are often used for specialty books such as art books or photo books. Book sizes by type are often determined by the type of binding used, and international book sizes are determined by the country in which the book is printed.
No matter what type of book you need, understanding book sizes is an important part of the publishing process. Knowing the different sizes and types of books can help you make the right decision when it comes to selecting the right size and format for your book. With a variety of sizes and types to choose from, you can be sure to find the perfect size for your book and your readers.