One lesson per video
One principle, one example, one action — 20 seconds.
Example hook: “Lesson 1: make the first step embarrassingly small.”
Myth vs fact
Correct a common misconception your book addresses (with sources).
Example hook: “Myth: you need motivation to start.”
Mini exercise
Give viewers a 30-second exercise from the book.
Example hook: “Try this 3-question journal prompt tonight.”
Chapter summary
Summarise one chapter in three bullets.
Example hook: “Chapter 4 in 30 seconds.”
Your story
Explain why you're qualified, honestly.
Example hook: “Why I wrote a book about burnout.”
Before / after (process, not results)
Show the process a reader follows — avoid promising results.
Example hook: “What the 7-day plan looks like.”
Reader question
Answer a common question.
Example hook: “Replying to: 'does this work for night-shift workers?'”
Quote card
Your most shareable line.
Example hook: “'Rest is not a reward.'”
Checklist
A screenshot-able checklist.
Example hook: “Screenshot this checklist.”
Series
Number your lessons so viewers follow along.
Example hook: “Day 3 of 30: boundaries.”
Tips that apply to every idea
- Put the hook on screen in the first second — many people watch with the sound off.
- Keep one idea per video; 15–30 seconds is plenty for most of these formats.
- End with one clear action: 'link in bio', 'comment your pick', or 'follow for part 2'.
- Batch-make a week of clips in one sitting, then post on a schedule you can keep.
For a full posting plan, read How to promote your book on BookTok and Reels.
Don't want to film yourself?
xBookvideo turns your manuscript into narrated, illustrated vertical episodes with subtitles — and the Marketing Pack adds 5 hook clips and a 30-day posting calendar. This sample was made from The Great Gatsby.
More for self-help and nonfiction authors
Self-Help book trailer guide · How to make a book trailer · Classic books as videos