For a Thriller/Mystery:
* Image: A shadowy figure, a menacing object, or a close-up of a terrified face.
* Text: "The Secret's Out. [Book Title]" or "[Book Title]: You won't sleep."
For a Romance:
* Image: A silhouetted couple embracing against a beautiful sunset.
* Text: "Find Your Forever. [Book Title]" or "[Book Title]: Love is in the air."
For a Self-Help/Inspirational Book:
* Image: A person reaching for the sky or looking empowered.
* Text: "[Book Title]: Unlock Your Potential" or "Find Your [Desired Outcome]. [Book Title]"
For a Fantasy/Sci-Fi Book:
* Image: A striking visual from the book cover, or a compelling scene created specifically for the billboard.
* Text: "[Book Title]: Epic Adventure Begins" or "[Book Title]: Enter Another World."
General Tips for ALL genres:
* Keep it short and memorable: Use as few words as possible.
* Use strong verbs and impactful words.
* Include the book title prominently.
* Use a high-quality, eye-catching image.
* Consider a QR code linking to your website or purchase page. (Although QR codes can be tricky to read from a distance.)
* Target your audience: The design and message should resonate with the readers most likely to buy your book.
* Test different options: If possible, test several different billboard designs to see which performs best.
Things to avoid:
* Too much text: People won't read long sentences on a billboard.
* Poor quality images: A blurry or unappealing image will turn people off.
* Complicated fonts: Choose clear, easy-to-read fonts.
* Generic messaging: Stand out from the crowd!
Remember to consider your budget. A prime location will cost more, but a well-placed billboard in the right area can significantly boost book sales.