DAY 4: CRAFTING YOUR KICKSTARTER STORY PAGE
The story page is your sales pitch, your book's showcase, and your chance to build trust with potential backers. Let's break down each section to create a page that converts browsers into backers.
OPENING VISUAL
Your campaign needs a strong visual opener - either a video or a compelling header image. Don't feel pressured to create a video if that's not your strength. A well-designed header image showing your special edition features can be just as effective.
If you choose video:
• Keep it under 2 minutes
• Focus on the book's special features
• Use stock footage from Deposit Photos or Canva if needed
• Simple phone recording is fine - authenticity matters more than production value
If you choose static images:
• Use a hook. Your header image is still going to be visible so having a repeat of that stuff will feel unprofessional. But using a hook and turning it into a visual is a good way to go. Keep it short and use a large font. Also, setting it up in the same framing as your other section headers will help it feel branded.
An example of using a hook at the top. This is for a fantasy romcom where the villain disguises herself as a maid to sneak into the hero prince's palace.
THE CRUCIAL FIRST SCROLL
This is where you win or lose backers. Your opening section needs to immediately communicate why this project is special. Break up your text with strategic formatting - mix short paragraphs with bullet points highlighting key features. Don't dump your full blurb here; instead, give them the sizzle that makes your edition unique.
Think of this section as your elevator pitch:
• What makes this edition special?
• Who is it perfect for?
• Why back it now?
CONTENT FLOW
Moving down your page, each section should build on the last:
Tropes & Themes
Create a clean, readable graphic showcasing what readers love. This is especially important for romance, fantasy, and genre fiction where readers have specific expectations.
Story Setup
Now you can include your full blurb and sample chapter link. Keep the formatting clean and ensure all links open in new tabs. As tempting as it may be to skip the step of having this be a link, it really does keep things simpler on your page. This is also a good opportunity to work smarter and not harder. I suggest to make your scene sample a newsletter optional item. I actually make all of mine newsletter optional, but we can talk more about that in another post. Making it newsletter optional gives the chance of them deciding to stick around to find out about other releases later while giving them the opportunity to check out your writing style.
If you have a short story prequel to your kickstarter book this is a good place to use it. You can also have this short story going into the book be a stretch goal!
Character Introductions
You've introduced your pretties and the story itself, now is time to get them invested in the main characters.
No character art? No problem. Stock photos work well, but remember:
• Keep text separate from images for mobile readability. Otherwise it gets too small on a phone to read the text
• Use consistent formatting
• Make sure names and descriptions are easily scannable
REWARD TIERS
This section needs to be crystal clear. While you have a rewards section on the side of the page, it gets confusing and is tiny. This is your opportunity for them to really see visually what is going in each tier. For you to add in reasons why tiers may have specific things.
If your Kickstarter is books only you can get away with a simple grouped image, but in the text you still need to present each tier as a story itself - what journey does the backer get to experience? Mix visuals with clear descriptions, but avoid embedding text in graphics.
Use images with text under them to clarify what is actually coming in the kickstarter.
Don't be afraid to keep it simple. White with the 3d mock ups and images of what you are doing for the tier with text under it is completely acceptable. The most important part is that you show what is happening in that tier.
THE FINISHING TOUCHES
Your author bio, timeline, disclaimer and credits should be concise but complete. Include a realistic delivery timeline and be transparent about potential challenges. This is the only part of the Kickstarter where you should make it about you. I also suggest to make your estimated delivery longer than you think you need it to be. What if your books show up damaged? What if you get sick? What if there are printing delays or shipping delays? What if they try to deliver your books during a hurricane while you are being evacuated because the dam you live next to is near breach? (Yes, that actually happened to me for my Kickstarter.)
DYNAMIC ELEMENTS
If you're planning a 24-hour special offer:
• Create a removable graphic for the top of your page
• Track your "First 24 Hours" backer numbers
• Have your replacement graphic ready to go before you launch if you plan on having any
Stretch Goals
Think of these as your campaign's story arc. Start them at the bottom of your page and move them up as you hit each goal. Don't set dollar amounts until you see your campaign's momentum.
Strong stretch goal ideas:
Interior formatting upgrades
Custom endpapers
Additional short stories printed in the book
Character art reveals (you can have a single piece done by an artist before and share that more will be made)
Upgraded printing features
Add recipes from the story itself into the back
Add merch add ons they can grab (this helps with slumps)
Digital bonuses (wallpapers, phone backgrounds)
Remember: Every stretch goal should enhance the book or reader experience without breaking your budget.
MOBILE OPTIMIZATION
Your page needs to work flawlessly on both desktop and mobile. Test everything on multiple devices, paying special attention to:
• Text readability
• Image loading times
• Button and link accessibility
• Overall flow and scroll experience
Think of your Kickstarter page as a book itself - it needs good pacing, clear chapters (sections), and a compelling reason to keep scrolling. Every element should serve your main goal: convincing backers this is the special edition they've been waiting for. These also need to be clearly labeled with graphics of some sort. While text can work, it also doesn't feel as professional or branded. This is an audience who is here for the visual pretties.
Use your story section headers to help speak to your audience specially. Remember that tropes are more than what happens to your characters in the book.
Art style, fonts, colors... are all visual tropes that can help attract and close the deal for people backing your kickstarter.
These all speak to completely different audiences but make it easy as a visual guide and check point for readers as they navigate through your text.
While this is set as a single day, this part realistically will probably be something that takes several days to build as you get things. You will more than likely be tweaking things as you get stuff from artists and designers. But you can build your text and add graphics over time. I highly suggest once this page is as complete as you think you can get it to post it in the Kickstarter for Authors facebook group for feedback. You only get to do this once in the group so have this as good as you can get it.
Before posting in the group realistically look at your Kickstarter and ask yourself:
-Is it readable on a phone and a computer?
-Is it focusing on you or what your backers will get?
-Is it clear what they will get?
-Are your graphics clear and focusing on the book and items themselves?
-Are all fonts on graphics (if you have any) big enough to read on a phone?
How this fits into Author Archetypes
I feel like this is a good time to talk about what author archetypes will have an easier time with specific parts of kickstarter and which ones will have more trouble. Anyone can make Kickstarter work for them and be successful. But maybe graphics aren't your strength or you are worried about how to do it with a pen name.
If you don't know your author archetypes (because most people are more than one!) you can find that here.
NINJA
IMMEDIATE CHALLENGES:• Kickstarter requires real name verification for the account
Solution: Create an LLC or business entity to run the campaign under
Have proper business banking already set up
Use business entity for all Kickstarter verification
• Updates during campaign require careful planning
Can't do impromptu live videos
Need structured way to show progress
Must plan all communication formats ahead
• Backer communication system
Need dedicated email that doesn't reveal identity
Plan how to handle direct messages
Create templates for common questions
STRENGTHS FOR KICKSTARTER: Often already have systems for:
Secure shipping address is usually established already
If it's not, remember that your newsletter also requires an address so look at getting a PO Box or a virtual PO Box to keep your address private .This is honestly smart for all authors
Privacy-maintaining communication
Professional business presence
Kickstarter already handles payments discreetly
• Can focus story page entirely on the product without personal elements
• Usually experienced in creating marketing without personal presence
• Often good at creating mystery/intrigue in marketing
Tips:
• Use a spokesperson or hired voice actor for videos
• Focus author bio on writing credentials only
• Consider using an author logo instead of photo
• Use a business email/PO box for communications
INVESTIGATOR
Your deep research skills and attention to detail can create exceptionally well-planned campaigns - when you focus on what matters most to backers.
STRENGTHS FOR KICKSTARTER:
• Exceptional at explaining product value through details
• Natural talent for anticipating and answering backer questions
• Strong ability to research and plan production processes
• Skilled at creating comprehensive project timelines
• Excel at developing detailed stretch goal plans
MAKING RESEARCH WORK:
Channel Your Skills Into:
• Clear tier comparisons that highlight key differences
• Focused FAQ sections that address major concerns
• Production updates that emphasize relevant details
• Choosing printers and products by solid research
• Campaign pages that guide rather than overwhelm
Turn Research Into Benefits:
Instead of: "We're using 120gsm cream paper with a specific opacity rating..."
Try: "Pages that are easy on your eyes and prevent bleed-through"
AVOID COMMON PITFALLS:
Don't:
Include every technical detail you've discovered
Let research delay your launch indefinitely
Overwhelm backers with production specifics
Hide the story behind technical details
Do:
Focus research on what impacts backers
Transform technical knowledge into clear value
Keep main campaign page focused and scannable
Use your research skills to study and learn patterns or things that worked for other campaigns
Save detailed explanations for updates or FAQs
Your investigative nature is perfect for creating well-planned campaigns and anticipating problems. Channel this strength into creating clear, confident campaigns that make backers feel secure in their support.
BARD
Your natural storytelling abilities and charismatic energy can create captivating campaigns that turn backers into devoted fans.
STRENGTHS FOR KICKSTARTER:
• Excellent at crafting compelling campaign narratives
• Natural talent for creating buzz and excitement
• Strong ability to engage audiences across platforms
• Skilled at making rewards sound irresistible
• Excel at maintaining campaign momentum through storytelling
CHANNELING YOUR STORY MAGIC:
Turn Standard Elements Into Stories:
• Transform tier descriptions into enticing narratives
• Create anticipation for stretch goal reveals
• Craft engaging project updates
• Make production delays into interesting behind-the-scenes peeks
• Build narrative momentum throughout the campaign
Example:
Instead of: "Hardcover with ribbon bookmark"
Your Style: "A tome worthy of your collection, complete with silken ribbon to mark your journey through these pages..."
AVOID COMMON PITFALLS:
Don't:
Let storytelling overshadow essential details
Skip practical information in favor of narrative
Write overly long campaign descriptions
Promise features that sound good but aren't practical
Do:
Balance story with clear product information
Keep key details easily scannable
Channel creativity into marketing rather than extras
Let your personality shine while staying professional
MARKETING MAGIC:
Pre-Launch:
• Create anticipation through story snippets
• Build engaging social media presence as you create your campaign
• Develop teaser content
• Plan exciting launch day events
• Connect with other authors and offer your strengths in swaps. A swap with you may be more valuable because you excell in marketing
• Craft shareable campaign previews
During Campaign:
• Keep updates engaging and regular
• Transform milestones into celebrations
• Create buzz around stretch goals
• Maintain community excitement
• Turn challenges into interesting plot twists
Remember: Your natural marketing instincts and ability to create compelling narratives can transform a standard campaign into an event. Use these skills to build and maintain momentum while ensuring all essential information remains clear and accessible.
HERMIT
Kickstarter offers a perfect publishing path for Hermit authors because it provides a structured, time-limited way to share your work with a specific audience. Unlike ongoing marketing demands of traditional publishing, Kickstarter has a clear beginning and end. Your readers come to you, drawn by genuine interest in your specific project.
NATURAL STRENGTHS FOR KICKSTARTER:
• Meticulous attention to detail in planning. You know your world usually better than most authors and can build a true deluxe experience for top tiers.
• Strong written communication skills
• Focus on product quality over self-promotion
• Usually thorough in research and preparation
MAKING IT COMFORTABLE:
Pre-Campaign Preparation:
Create all graphics ahead of time
Write update posts in advance
Plan stretch goals completely
Set up all reward tiers with precise details
Prepare FAQ responses
Have sample responses ready for comments
This advance preparation means if anxiety hits during the campaign, everything important is already in place.
Campaign Structure Tips:
• Use static images instead of video (no pressure to appear on camera)
• Focus on showing the book's features through pictures and graphics
• Set specific times to check and respond to comments
• Use scheduled posts for updates on social media
• Have a support person to help during high-anxiety moments
PERFECT FOR HERMITS BECAUSE:
Limited engagement timeline
No spot for reviews to pop up about the book so you get to focus on getting the book out there without stressing about what people may think about it
Can prepare everything ahead
Clear beginning and end dates
No ongoing marketing required outside of the campaign run time and marketing such as swaps can be done without having to actually connect with other authors in a personal way.
Can focus on the book rather than author platform
Remember: Your strength is in the quality of your work and careful planning. Kickstarter lets you showcase these strengths while providing a structured, predictable way to share your book with readers who specifically want it.
ASTRONAUT
Your genre-hopping superpower can make Kickstarter exciting - but needs focus to succeed. Here's how to make your creative flexibility work for you:
CORE STRENGTHS:• Natural ability to create innovative special editions• Deep knowledge of multiple genres helps create unique combinations• Understanding of different reader expectations across genres• Skilled at seeing creative stretch goal possibilities• Expert at spotting cross-genre appeal opportunities
MAKING IT WORK:
Pick Your Primary GenreChoose ONE main genre for this campaign. This doesn't limit your creativity - it gives it direction. Your cross-genre knowledge will help you create something unique within those boundaries.
Example: If your book is primarily fantasy with romance elements:
Market it as Fantasy first
Use romance as a special appeal point
Target fantasy readers who enjoy romantic subplots
Harness Your Genre Knowledge:
• Use your multi-genre experience to create special features fantasy readers don't usually see
• Draw inspiration from romance special editions for unique stretch goals
• Create add-ons that appeal to both genre readers
AVOID COMMON PITFALLS:
Don't:
Try to target every genre reader
Create too many different reward options
Let your creativity scatter the focus
Mix too many genre expectations
Do:
Choose one clear primary audience
Keep reward tiers focused
Use your cross-genre knowledge strategically
Create clear, genre-appropriate branding
PROFESSOR
Your deep knowledge of your world and attention to detail can create an incredible Kickstarter campaign - when focused correctly.
STRENGTHS FOR KICKSTARTER:
• Excellent at creating rich bonus content that enhances the reading experience
• Strong understanding of world details that can become special features
• Natural ability to develop cohesive branding
• Skilled at researching market trends and audience preferences
• Can create compelling stretch goals from existing world elements
KEEPING IT FOCUSED:
Remember the Reader:Instead of: "I need this Kickstarter to fund the elaborate magic system guide..."Focus on: "Discover the secrets of the magic system in this exclusive illustrated companion guide"
You also need to keep in mind that Kickstarters own eco system generally sells better if the book itself is the main focus.
Channel Your Research Powers:
• Study successful campaigns in your genre
• Research what special editions your target readers already love
• Understand current production costs and limitations
• Look at art styles that resonate with your audience
• Analyze what bonus content similar books offer
AVOID COMMON PITFALLS:
Don't:
Let production costs spiral with too many special features
Focus only on the readers you originally wrote for
Get caught up in technical details of production
Make the campaign about your creative process
Do:
Keep special features focused on enhancing reader experience
Research broader market appeal for your world
Use your knowledge to create achievable stretch goals
Let your passion show through reader benefits
USING YOUR RESEARCH SUPERPOWER:
• Study successful Kickstarter page layouts
• Research similar special editions' price points
• Understand what artwork styles work for your genre
• Know what special features actually excite readers
• Create bonus content that adds value without breaking the budget
Remember: Your thorough research and world knowledge are tools to create an amazing reader experience, not to showcase everything you know. Use these skills to create a focused, appealing campaign that readers can't resist.
NOMAD
Your creative spontaneity can make for an exciting campaign - but needs structure to succeed without spiraling out of control.
STRENGTHS FOR KICKSTARTER:
• Natural ability to pivot when opportunities arise
• Creative solutions to campaign challenges
• Excellent at generating unique stretch goal ideas
• Can create exciting, story-driven updates
• Skilled at seeing unexpected marketing angles
HARNESSING THE CREATIVITY:
Before Launch:
• Write down EVERY idea you have - no matter how wild. You can even use these ideas as teasers to gain followers on your campaign before you launch. Trying to decide between two things (or maybe you have a way you are leaning and know your answer but want easy social media content) then tease the options in a vote way. Just remember you may not be being seen by Kickstarter regulars and YOU are making the final decision.
• Create a "future campaigns" file for ideas that don't fit this one
• Set firm budget limits for each tier BEFORE getting quotes
• Have a practical friend review your plans for feasibility
Essential Pre-Campaign Steps:
• Get ALL quotes before setting prices
• Add 50% buffer to every cost estimate. Honestly, it's best to just double it
• Create firm "no-go" boundaries for add-ons
• Plan stretch goals that excite without exploding costs
• Have backup plans for production issues
Use Your Strengths For:
• Creating exciting update content
• Finding unique marketing angles
• Developing engaging social media content
• Writing compelling project descriptions
• Crafting story-driven stretch goals
Remember: Your creative energy is a superpower, but Kickstarter needs boundaries. Create a solid structure first, then let your creativity flow within those limits. Your spontaneity will keep the campaign exciting without risking its success.
WIZARD
Your ability to generate enthusiasm and maintain momentum can create standout campaigns - while building lasting community engagement.
STRENGTHS FOR KICKSTARTER:
• Natural talent for creating campaign buzz
• Excellent at building and energizing online communities
• Skilled at maintaining momentum through the mid-campaign slump. Especially with keeping your own attitude positive
• Creative approach to digital marketing and PR
• Strong ability to pivot and problem-solve on the fly
CAMPAIGN MAGIC:
Social Media & PR:
• Build a street team for your Kickstarter. Use your manifesting ability to help get people who want to share the incredible book you have on Kickstarter. Some of them may back it too
• Coordinate digital PR efforts with swaps. If you are positive and your campaign has that kind of vibe authors are more likely to agree to do swaps
AVOID COMMON PITFALLS:
Don't:
Create overly complex special editions
Promise features beyond production capacity or your own budget capacity
Let enthusiasm override practical limits
Try to do everything in your first campaign
Do:
Focus energy on building genuine community
Keep core products achievable
Channel creativity into marketing
Save ambitious ideas for future campaigns
Remember: Your ability to generate excitement and coordinate digital PR is powerful. Focus this energy on building community and maintaining momentum while keeping your product offerings grounded and achievable.
APPRENTICE
Your fresh perspective and genuine enthusiasm can create an authentic campaign that connects with readers - especially other newcomers to special editions.
STRENGTHS FOR KICKSTARTER:
• Authentic excitement that resonates with first-time backers
• Fresh take on special editions without preconceptions
• Relatable journey that engages readers
• Good at asking questions others might be afraid to ask
MAKING IT WORK:
Build From Basics:
Instead of: Trying to include every special edition feature you've seen
Try: Focus on 2-3 special elements that excite you and your readers
Channel Your Newness:
• Share your genuine discovery process. This can help create engaging social media content which can help you build a following for your Kickstarter as you learn the process
• Connect with other backers. Getting involved as you ask questions can create opportunities for cross promo. It shows more experienced Kickstarter authors how seriously you take your campaign.
AVOID COMMON PITFALLS:
Don't:
Try to copy complex campaigns
Undersell your project out of uncertainty
Add features just because others have them
Hide your newcomer status
Do:
Keep your first campaign straightforward
Research prices of similar projects
Get feedback from experienced creators
Own your fresh perspective
Remember: Being new means you can see opportunities others might miss. Use your fresh perspective and willingness to learn to create an authentic campaign that connects with readers. Your newcomer status isn't a weakness - it's an opportunity to create something genuine and accessible that speaks directly to readers who might be intimidated by more complex campaigns.
ARCHIVEST
Your deep appreciation for traditional book crafting and thorough planning can create stunning special editions - especially when you selectively embrace innovation.
STRENGTHS FOR KICKSTARTER:
• Excellence in traditional book production elements
• Deep understanding of what makes special editions valuable
• Strong attention to printing and binding details
• Skilled at creating professional, polished items
• Natural talent for thorough production planning
SPECIAL EDITION FOCUS:
Traditional Elements You'll Excel At:
• Selecting quality binding materials
• Planning foil stamping and embossing
• Coordinating with printers
• Creating collector-worthy editions
AVOID COMMON PITFALLS:
Don't:
Stick only to basic hardcover options
Overlook modern campaign presentation styles
Miss opportunities for unique touches
Get too formal in campaign communication
Do:
Add one innovative element to traditional features
Study successful campaign layouts and see how to make it work for your audience
Balance classic quality with fresh appeal
Keep communication warm while professional
MAKING IT WORK:
Leverage Your Strengths:
• Use your knowledge to explain value
• Create detailed updates
• Show behind-the-scenes of your process. This will be great social media content for you as well as updated and can help both gather followers before you launch as well as while your campaign runs
• Document quality control process
• Share your enthusiasm for craftsmanship
Remember: Your love of proven quality and methods is invaluable in special editions. Use this knowledge while staying open to select modern touches that can enhance your campaign's appeal. Your attention to detail and appreciation for craftsmanship can create stunning special editions that collectors will treasure. Focus on highlighting these qualities while keeping your campaign presentation fresh and engaging.
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