In this case, when metadata fails, it’s good to put the info into your description. Optimizing for AI also would say to write something like: “Middle-grade fantasy for ages 8-12, with XXX(main character’s name) (Plot summary in 1-2 sentences). For readers of XXX (list a couple comparable titles and/or authors).” The AI-experts say that kind of summary at the top will help the story be found in AI searches. And it will also help with this kind of metadata confusion.
AZ has the first two books with the wrong grade levels and the others with no grades, even though the ages in years are correct. The helpdesk told me the data was coming from Ingram, but I didn't see errors in my dashboard and Ingram help didn't either. Google has the series with a keyword "Beginner" that looks like too young books, but I'm also direct with them, so it's odd. Not sure who else has it wrong yet. I should check Apple. That's why I'm thinking about trying to keep the codes much tighter for every book in the series--less variation.
Thanks for this post, Darcy! I’m studying the codes on my series, because at least two retailers decided my 300 pg middle grades were for preschool to grade 1. Off to check the Thema codes. Maybe they changed.
Do you have a different strategy for each retailer for codes (for those that accept) or do you pick a direction for all retailers and formats and hold that course until you revisit codes?
Hi Darcy, I wonder do you know what about TCs for audiobook versions of children’s picture books? They’re digital but no longer pictorial, so the YB usage doesn’t seem to apply - do you know of the correct approach there? Thanks in advance!
For audiobook, I just use the same BISAC categories. I checked the Findaway dashboard, where I sell the most audiobooks, and they only want BISAC, not Thema. I just use the same BISAC as the book. If you hear different, though, let me know!
Oh wow!! This is so practical and helpful!
Oh, thanks! That's what I always hope.
In this case, when metadata fails, it’s good to put the info into your description. Optimizing for AI also would say to write something like: “Middle-grade fantasy for ages 8-12, with XXX(main character’s name) (Plot summary in 1-2 sentences). For readers of XXX (list a couple comparable titles and/or authors).” The AI-experts say that kind of summary at the top will help the story be found in AI searches. And it will also help with this kind of metadata confusion.
AZ has the first two books with the wrong grade levels and the others with no grades, even though the ages in years are correct. The helpdesk told me the data was coming from Ingram, but I didn't see errors in my dashboard and Ingram help didn't either. Google has the series with a keyword "Beginner" that looks like too young books, but I'm also direct with them, so it's odd. Not sure who else has it wrong yet. I should check Apple. That's why I'm thinking about trying to keep the codes much tighter for every book in the series--less variation.
Thanks for this post, Darcy! I’m studying the codes on my series, because at least two retailers decided my 300 pg middle grades were for preschool to grade 1. Off to check the Thema codes. Maybe they changed.
Do you have a different strategy for each retailer for codes (for those that accept) or do you pick a direction for all retailers and formats and hold that course until you revisit codes?
Well, that's frustrating to have the age range so far off! That's why you have to check and recheck all your metadats. What retailers had it wrong?
I just do one set of metadata because there are too many retailers and platforms to cater to each. I'm just surprised yours are so far off.
Hi Darcy, I wonder do you know what about TCs for audiobook versions of children’s picture books? They’re digital but no longer pictorial, so the YB usage doesn’t seem to apply - do you know of the correct approach there? Thanks in advance!
For audiobook, I just use the same BISAC categories. I checked the Findaway dashboard, where I sell the most audiobooks, and they only want BISAC, not Thema. I just use the same BISAC as the book. If you hear different, though, let me know!
Thanks so much for your time, Darcy!
Darcy, thank you so much for digging into this topic for us! Much appreciated!