‘HOW TO BOOK IN JAPAN’ PRESENTS FACETS OF THE BOOK PUBLISHING PROCESS WITH JAPANESE CONTEXT TO AN INTERNATIONAL AUDIENCE, SERVING AS A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE FOR THOSE INTERESTED IN THE ART OF BOOK PUBLISHING
TEXT: PANYAPORN SANPRADIT
PHOTO: KETSIREE WONGWAN
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How to Book in Japan English Edition
NEUTRAL COLORS, 2024
215 x 140 x 4 mm
44 pages
Saddle stitched
This publication is the English translation of the Japanese edition of ‘How to Book,’ a zine creatively produced by Small Editions, an independent New York-based publishing house. This edition follows ‘How to Book in Berlin’ by einBuch.haus as the third installment in the series. It was inspired by a 2022 studio visit to NEUTRAL COLORS in Yokohama, and it achieved success following its debut at the TOKYO ART BOOK FAIR in November 2023. In response to the high demand from non-Japanese readers, Small Editions and NEUTRAL COLORS collaborated to develop ‘How to Book in Japan.’
Launched at the 2024 NY Art Book Fair, this edition is a production by NEUTRAL COLORS designed to present insights from leading figures in the Japanese publishing scene to an international audience. It includes contributions from 20 independent publishers, bookstores, and artists from various regions across Japan, serving as a comprehensive guide for those interested in the art of book publishing, whether it involves art books, compilations of artworks, or other formats.
This compact, 44-page book is structured in a straightforward and informal manner, making it engaging and easy to follow. Each chapter explores different facets of the book publishing process, from understanding traditional publishing to self-distribution and publication in Japan. The content is presented in three main formats: the first provides foundational information about bookmaking, including vocabulary and basic printing techniques; the second offers insights from 20 bookmakers; and the third features concise question-and-answer sessions. These elements are interwoven across six major chapters: Research, Funding, Production, Glossary of Common Terms, Distribution, and Resource Guide.
In the Research chapter, an interesting question is posed regarding the sources of inspiration for bookmakers. The responses commonly reflect influences from daily life experiences, personal interests, other books, or inspiring exhibitions they have visited. The Funding section addresses a significant challenge for every independent bookmaker by exploring the diverse strategies they employ to secure funding, acknowledging that there is no universal solution. Other engaging topics discussed include pricing strategies, profit sharing with writers or artists, non-profit publishing, and the nuances of selling books in traditional bookstores versus online platforms.
‘Although the majority of the content in ‘How to Book in Japan’ is specific to the context of bookmaking in Japan, many parts offer universally applicable and useful insights. This makes it an excellent resource for anyone interested in the field, whether they are novice writers, experienced designers, or enthusiasts passionate about book production. However, after absorbing diverse perspectives from experienced professionals in the industry, readers should thoughtfully consider these insights and tailor them appropriately to their own projects.’
For those who are interested in ‘How to Book in Japan English Edition’, purchase at Spacebar Zine