A preview or early review copy of a book that is usually sent to book buyers, reviewers, booksellers, book clubs, and/or publisher sales representatives before the book is published. It could be in a different format, uncorrected, not bound, and/or have a different cover design than the publication issue. The typical publishing process is proof, advance reading copy, and publication.
An advance reading copy (ARC) is a version of a book that is distributed to potential reviewers, media, booksellers and others in advance of the book’s publication. Arcs are usually sent out several months before the book’s publication date.
Arcs are usually printed on 8.5″ x 11″ (or A4) paper, and have a different cover from the final book. The text of the book is usually identical to the final version, although there may be some differences such as typos or missing images.
The purpose of an ARC is to generate advance buzz for a book and to get reviewers to read and comment on it before it is published. Arcs can also be used to gauge interest in a book from booksellers and the media.
If you are a book reviewer, blogger or journalist, you may be able to get your hands on an ARC by contacting the publisher or publicist for a particular book. Some publishers also make ARCs available to the general public through contests or giveaways.
If you receive an ARC, it is considered a courtesy to finish reading the book and to write a review or post about it before the book’s publication date. However, you are under no obligation to do so.
The Advance Reading Copy (ARC) is an important tool for publishers and authors. It allows them to get feedback from early readers on the quality of the book and how well it is written. This feedback can be invaluable in making sure that the final product is the best it can be.