While print books still have their charm, there’s no denying that ebooks have changed how we read and share information. If you’re looking to design ebooks, studying examples is a great way to see what works—from layout and typography to interactive elements that enhance the reading experience.
Ebooks offer creative freedom and a global audience, but designing them isn’t just about aesthetics. A well-structured ebook improves readability, engagement and accessibility.
To make the process easier, I’ve curated a selection of ebook examples that highlight smart design choices. And with Venngage’s easy-to-use tools, you’ll be able to create and publish your own professional-looking ebook in no time!
What is an ebook?
An ebook, short for “electronic book,” is a digital version of a printed book that can be read on devices like e-readers, tablets, computers and smartphones. It replicates the experience of a physical book while leveraging digital features.
Ebooks come in different formats, each with its perks:
- EPUB (reflowable) – My go-to format because it adjusts to any screen size, making it easy to read on different devices.
- PDF (fixed layout) – Great for visually rich content like textbooks or design-heavy books, but not always ideal for smaller screens.
- MOBI (legacy Kindle format) – I rarely use this one now, but it’s useful for older Kindle devices.
One thing I love about ebooks is the customization. I can tweak the font size, switch to night mode or even highlight passages without worrying about ruining a page. And if you’ve ever spent hours reading, you know how much of a lifesaver e-ink screens can be—they mimic real paper and reduce eye strain, making long reading sessions way more comfortable.
Of course, ebooks aren’t just about static text. Some come with interactive features like hyperlinks, embedded videos, and annotations, which make learning and research easier.
Whether you’re buying, borrowing, or downloading for free, there’s an endless selection of ebooks out there, and honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Ebook examples by type
Having a well-designed ebook holds immense importance as it directly impacts how your content is perceived, engaged with and remembered. The right layout, typography and formatting enhance readability while aesthetic design captures readers’ attention and sustains their interest.
Let’s take a look at my personal favorite ebook examples that can get your readers captivated and generate leads:
1. Travel guides
As someone who loves exploring new places, I rely on travel guide ebooks to plan my trips. The best ones don’t just give information—they pull me into the experience. A travel guide should feel like an invitation, not just a list of places to see.
Visual appeal is everything. I’m far more likely to dive into a guide that has stunning images of destinations rather than a wall of text. A well-organized layout with concise descriptions makes it easy to scan for key details without feeling overwhelmed.
One thing I really appreciate in a travel guide is a thoughtful color palette that reflects the mood of the destination. A Santorini guide with crisp blues and whites? Perfect. A jungle adventure guide with earthy greens and browns? Even better. It’s a small design choice that makes a big difference in setting the tone.
From an objective standpoint, interactive elements elevate the reading experience. I love when a guide includes clickable buttons that take me to maps, restaurant recommendations or even cultural insights. It turns a passive read into an interactive journey, making it feel more like an experience than just a book.
At the end of the day, the best travel guides don’t just tell you where to go—they make you feel like you’re already there.
2. Business manuals
I’ve read my fair share of business manuals, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that clarity is everything. There’s nothing worse than flipping through a cluttered document when all I need is a straightforward answer. The best manuals I’ve used have a clean layout, easy-to-read fonts and a clear hierarchy of headings that make navigation effortless, like this one below:
Personally, I love when a manual includes visual aids like charts, infographics, and diagrams—they simplify intricate processes and help me absorb information faster. Venngage’s library of professional templates makes this easy, giving you tools to create a guide that’s not only informative but also visually engaging.
If you’re looking to design a business manual that’s clear, professional, and user-friendly, here are some ebook templates you can start customizing right away:
3. Marketing guides
As a content marketer, I’ve read (and created) my fair share of marketing guides, and I can tell you—the best ones don’t just explain strategies, they show them in action. There’s nothing more frustrating than a vague, theory-heavy guide that leaves me wondering, but how does this actually work?
Personally, I love when a marketing guide balances creativity with practicality. A good one pairs visual examples with actionable advice, making it easy to see how a concept applies to real campaigns. Case studies and tips are especially valuable—they offer proof that a strategy isn’t just a buzzword, but something that actually delivers results.
If you’re looking to create a marketing guide that’s both insightful and practical, these ebook templates are a great place to start:
4. Social media toolkits
Creating a social media toolkit that’s both practical and brand-friendly can make all the difference in content marketing. I’ve seen toolkits that look great but lack usability, leaving marketers like me to figure out the details ourselves.
One thing I always look for is proper formatting for different platforms. Each social media channel has its own design specifications, and a one-size-fits-all approach just doesn’t work. A well-structured toolkit includes templates for posts, stories, banners and profile images, ensuring visuals look polished and professional everywhere.
This example below focuses on growing audiences on YouTube:
Beyond just templates, guidelines on best practices elevate a toolkit’s effectiveness. Clear instructions on text-to-image ratios, image optimization, and mobile readability empower users to create engaging content that aligns with branding.
A strong toolkit isn’t just a collection of assets—it’s a system that helps teams produce consistent, high-quality social media content with ease.
You can always browse and customize Venngage’s selection of social media templates to include in your ebook as examples for better comprehension but here are some of my favorites:
5. Brand style guides
A well-crafted brand style guide is like a roadmap for consistency—it ensures that every visual and written element aligns with the brand’s identity. I’ve worked with style guides that were incredibly detailed and easy to follow, and others that left me guessing. The difference? Clarity and visual examples.
From experience, visual examples of dos and don’ts are game-changers. Seeing how a logo should (and shouldn’t) be used makes it much easier to apply the guidelines correctly. Without them, there’s always that nagging doubt—am I using this the right way? A strong guide eliminates that uncertainty.
One thing I always appreciate is precise details on color codes, fonts, logo usage and spacing. A slight variation in hex codes or improper logo placement might seem minor, but over time, these inconsistencies can dilute a brand’s identity. The best guides leave no room for interpretation, making it easy for designers and marketers to stay on track.
6. Simple ebooks
Simplicity is elegance when it comes to your ebook’s design.
Personally, I prefer simple ebooks with legible fonts and generous white space—nothing pulls me out of the content faster than cramped text or hard-to-read typography. A limited color palette also makes a huge difference. When colors are used thoughtfully, they subtly guide attention rather than overwhelm the design.
One thing I always check for is mobile compatibility. An ebook might look great on a desktop, but if I have to pinch and zoom on my phone, it’s frustrating. The best ebooks are responsive, ensuring a seamless experience across devices.
If you’re designing an ebook, these ebook templates can help you create something simple, elegant and reader-friendly.
7. Ebook covers
Ebook covers are a glimpse into the content’s soul, so crafting a compelling design is crucial. Choose a captivating image that encapsulates the ebook’s essence and intrigues potential readers.
If you don’t know where to start, research the visual styles of successful books in your genre. While maintaining uniqueness, draw inspiration from design trends that resonate with your target audience.
Opt for bold, easily readable fonts for the title and author’s name and ensure a strong color contrast between the text and background. This enhances the readability of texts even in thumbnail sizes.
Remember this — your cover design should offer a snapshot of what readers can expect within the ebook’s pages.
Not the ebook cover you’re looking for? Browse our collection of ebook cover templates to find one that fits!
5 Real-life self-published ebook examples
Self-publishing has empowered countless writers to bring their stories to the world without the need for intermediaries. Here are five inspiring real-life ebook creators who achieved remarkable success, proving that with determination, creativity and strategic marketing, creating ebooks can also fulfill your literary dreams.
1. The Martian by Andy Weir
Originally self-published as an ebook in 2011, “The Martian” gained popularity for its gripping story of an astronaut stranded on Mars. Its success led to a traditional publishing deal and eventually an adaptation into a major motion picture.
The book’s initial success highlights the power of word-of-mouth marketing and reader engagement. Its clean, simple ebook formatting ensured accessibility, proving that compelling content matters more than flashy design in certain genres.
2. Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James
The erotic romance novel that hit the big screens in 2015 started as a self-published ebook on platforms like Kindle Direct Publishing. Its immense popularity led to a traditional publishing deal and a successful trilogy that captivated readers worldwide.
The book’s rise to fame underscores the importance of leveraging digital platforms for visibility. Its simple, mobile-friendly format made it easy to consume, while strategic marketing and online buzz fueled its rapid success.
3. Wool by Hugh Howey
A great ebook example is Hugh Howey’s self-published post-apocalyptic sci-fi novella “Wool” in 2011. The ebook gained a dedicated following, which resulted in a multi-book series and print editions that were later picked up by major publishers.
Wool demonstrates the power of serial storytelling in digital publishing. Releasing shorter works first can build an audience and create demand for a full series. Its minimalist formatting kept the focus on the story, proving that content-driven ebooks can thrive without elaborate design.
4. The Easy Way to Stop Smoking by Allen Carr
This self-help ebook that has helped millions quit smoking was self-published by Allen Carr after using his own method to quit smoking. To his surprise, the ebook then became a global success which led to numerous translations and editions.
The book’s success highlights the power of niche expertise and a clear, actionable message. Its straightforward formatting and easy-to-follow structure made it highly accessible, proving that practical, solution-driven content resonates across cultures and formats.
5. The 4-Hour Workweek by Timothy Ferriss
Timothy Ferriss’ “The 4-Hour Workweek” offers advice on lifestyle design and entrepreneurship. The ebook’s popularity led to widespread recognition, speaking engagements and traditional publishing success.
This book showcases the impact of strong branding and a compelling hook. Its structured layout with bold headings, bullet points and actionable takeaways enhances readability, making complex ideas easier to digest for busy readers.
Inspired to create your own ebooks? Kickstart your ebook publishing journey with Venngage’s ebook maker with ease today!
How to design a great ebook?
Creating an ebook demands thoughtful consideration of various elements to ensure an enriching reading experience. Designing an ebook? Here are a few quick tips to help you get started:
Content structure and organization
A well-organized ebook begins with a clear structure. Strategically plan headings, chapters and sections to facilitate effortless navigation and understanding. A logical flow guides readers through the content, enhancing their comprehension and engagement.
Typography and formatting
Opt for fonts that are easy on the eyes, maintain consistent font sizes and ensure appropriate line spacing. Proper formatting techniques such as indentation and alignment contribute to a polished and professional presentation, elevating the overall reading experience.
Venngage’s drag-and-drop interface makes it easy to experiment with various fonts and formats to see which fits best for your ebook design. You can also customize one of our professionally designed ebook templates to get started with ease.
Images and graphics
Integrate high-quality images and graphics that complement the written content and provide context. It’s crucial to strike a balance between relevance and visual appeal. Optimize image sizes to prevent lag during digital rendering, ensuring a seamless transition across devices.
With Venngage, you can pick from thousands of high-quality and engaging stock photography options with our Unsplash integration. High-quality images with sharp details and vibrant colors make the ebook visually appealing and inviting.
Color scheme
Colors influence mood and readability — choose a harmonious color palette that resonates with the content’s tone and purpose. High contrast between text and background ensures legibility, particularly on digital screens, enhancing the user’s ability to engage with the material.
Responsive design
Readers access ebooks across a spectrum of devices so ensure your ebook is responsive, and adapting to different screen sizes and orientations. A well-executed responsive design helps readers enjoy your content without compromise, whether on a smartphone, tablet or computer.
Navigational aids are integral to a user-friendly ebook. Incorporate a clickable table of contents that provides quick access to different sections. Internal hyperlinks foster a seamless reading experience, allowing readers to jump between chapters or related content, enhancing engagement easily.
It doesn’t have to be complicated — Venngage’s user friendly editor allows you to easily add clickable buttons and links to enhance interactivity and navigation for your ebook with ease.
User experience (UX)
Prioritizing user experience is paramount so craft your ebook with the reader in mind, focusing on accessibility, simplicity and an intuitive layout. A design that’s easy to navigate enriches the overall reading journey and encourages prolonged engagement.
Incorporating these factors throughout your ebook design enhances its value, making it an enjoyable and informative experience for readers.
Responsive and accessible design
Ebooks are consumed across various devices, so a mobile-first, responsive layout ensures readability on smartphones, tablets and desktops.
Accessibility is just as important—following WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) helps make your ebook usable for all readers. Use alt text for images, resizable text and sufficient color contrast to support those with visual impairments.
If designing an interactive PDF, ensure features like clickable links, text-to-speech compatibility and adjustable font sizes enhance the reading experience.
How to create an ebook that sells with Venngage
Creating an ebook that sells requires creativity, strategic thinking and a deep understanding of your audience. When done right, an ebook offers a unique opportunity for ebook creators, experts and entrepreneurs to reach a global audience, share their knowledge and generate revenue.
So you have your ebook content ready but not sure where to start with the design? That’s what Venngage is here for! Our vast selection of carefully curated templates and user-friendly drag-and-drop editor makes customizing your ebook design a breeze. The best part? No design experience required.
Ready? Follow the steps below to create an ebook that sells with the help of Venngage:
1. Choose a profitable niche: Begin by selecting an ebook idea that aligns with your expertise and has a demand in the market. Your ebook should provide valuable solutions to a specific audience’s pain points.
2. Plan and outline: Outline your ebook’s purpose and structure using clear chapter breakdowns. Venngage’s vast collection of ebook templates can act as a roadmap that will guide your content creation process and ensure a coherent flow of information.
3. Create your ebook: Develop engaging and valuable content for each chapter. Address your target audience’s pain points and offer solutions that showcase your expertise.
4. Design and format: Design an attention-grabbing ebook cover that reflects your content’s essence. Venngage’s drag-and-drop interface makes it a breeze to customize your design with images, icons and infographics that’ll enhance reader’s experience. Additionally, ensure your content is formatted for optimal readability.
5. Convert to ebook format: For premium and business users, Venngage allows downloads in PDF format which ensures your ebook is accessible and compatible with various devices.
6. Distribution: Once your ebook is ready, set up a seamless distribution process. Offer the ebook for download after successful payment, making the user experience smooth and efficient.
7. Marketing: Maximize your ebook’s visibility by implementing a robust marketing strategy. Leverage Venngage’s social media templates, harness the power of email marketing and consider collaborations to reach a wider audience and boost sales.
So, whether you’re ready to embark on your own ebook-making adventure or just itching to dive into one, remember that the world of ebooks is bursting with untapped creativity.
Let these examples be your guide to navigating this brave new world, where storytelling and design come together in ways that light up our screens and fire up our imagination.
Ebook examples FAQs
What are some popular eBook formats?
Popular eBook formats include EPUB (Electronic Publication), PDF (Portable Document Format) and MOBI (Mobipocket eBook format). EPUB is widely used for its versatility and compatibility across various devices, while PDF maintains fixed formatting and is suitable for documents with complex layouts.
How do I publish my ebook?
You can use a publishing platform like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) or Smashwords for broader distribution. Otherwise, consider selling your ebook online through your own website.
Prepare your manuscript, format it according to the chosen platform’s guidelines, design a compelling cover, set a price (or make it free) and follow the platform’s steps to upload and publish your ebook.
Should I offer my ebook for free?
Offering your ebook for free can help build a readership, generate buzz, and attract reviews. With free ebooks, however, you should consider the potential impact on perceived value and your ability to sustain your writing efforts. If you choose to publish a free ebook, have a clear plan for promotion and engagement to maximize its benefits.
What are the best tools for designing an ebook?
There are several tools available, depending on your needs:
- Venngage – Ideal for beginners and professionals looking for customizable ebook templates, interactive elements and a drag-and-drop editor.
- Adobe InDesign – A professional tool for creating highly customized layouts with advanced design features.
- Microsoft Word or Google Docs – Great for simple text-based ebooks, with easy export to PDF.
- Scrivener – Designed for long-form content, ideal for writers working on extensive ebooks.
