For many first-time self-published authors, there’s a critical yet often overlooked element awaiting your attention: disclaimers for books.
Use of official statements like the one above are intended to release the author/publisher (you) of legal responsibility for any outcomes resulting from the reader’s actions after reading your book. The right disclaimer guides readers about the nature of the book’s content, reduces misunderstandings, and protects the author in the event of a lawsuit.
Looking for disclaimer for books examples to guide you in writing the perfect statement for your next nonfiction book? Continue reading!
In this article we’ll cover:
- examples of disclaimers for common genres of nonfiction books found in the health and wellness industry
- 3 tips for writing an effective book disclaimer
- where to place the disclaimer in a book
Examples of Disclaimers for Books
While including a disclaimer is optional, it is considered best practice to include one, especially for nonfiction books. In this section we’ll go over disclaimer examples for some of the 6 most common book genres that dietitians and other health professionals self-publish books in.
Health and Wellness Guides:
Book Disclaimer Example 1
Book Disclaimer Example 2
Please note that the suggestions and practices outlined in this guide are based on general principles and may not be suitable for every individual. Personalized advice from a qualified healthcare professional is recommended.
Book Disclaimer Example 3
Consult a physician before performing any exercise program. It is your responsibility to evaluate your own medical and physical condition, or that of your clients, and to independently determine whether to perform, use or adapt any of the information or content in this book. Any exercise program may result in injury. By voluntarily undertaking any exercise displayed in this book, you assume the risk of any resulting injury.
Memoirs or Personal Stories
Book Disclaimer Example 1
Book Disclaimer Example 2
While these accounts are true to the best of my knowledge, names and identifying details have been altered to protect patient confidentiality.
Cookbooks or Nutrition Guides
Book Disclaimer Example 1
Book Disclaimer Example 2
Allergen information and nutritional values provided herein are approximations and may vary based on ingredients used. Readers with dietary restrictions are advised to verify information with appropriate experts.
Medical Literature and Research-Based Books
Book Disclaimer Example 1
Book Disclaimer Example 2
The information provided is based on scientific studies available up to the publication date and may not reflect the most current research. Please verify with updated sources or healthcare professionals.
Book Disclaimer Example 3
Although the author has made every effort to ensure that the information in this book was correct at press time, the author does not assume and hereby disclaims any liability to any party for any loss, damage, or disruption caused by errors or omissions, whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause.
Self-Help or Advice Books
Book Disclaimer Example 1
Book Disclaimer Example 2
While every effort has been made to offer accurate advice, the content is meant to provide general guidance. Individual circumstances may require tailored approaches from healthcare or mental health professionals.
Book Disclaimer Example 3
The publisher and the author make no guarantees concerning the level of success you may experience by following the advice and strategies contained in this book, and you accept the risk that results will differ for each individual. The testimonials and examples provided in this book show exceptional results, which may not apply to the average reader, and are not intended to represent or guarantee that you will achieve the same or similar results.
Healthcare Policy and Advocacy
Book Disclaimer Example 1
Book Disclaimer Example 2
The views expressed in this book are those of the author and do not represent the entirety of healthcare opinions. Consult multiple sources and professionals for a comprehensive understanding of healthcare policies.
Book Disclaimer Example 3
This book presents a critical analysis and discussion of healthcare policies from a specific perspective. The content herein does not constitute official policy recommendations or legal counsel. Readers are encouraged to verify information with reputable sources and consult professionals for personalized advice on policy matters.
How to Write Disclaimers for Books [Nonfiction]
By sharing these examples with you I am not suggesting you copy and paste them into your book. Rather use them as inspiration. Depending on the nature of the book, some authors even get creative, adding their personal touch and humor to the statement.
After reviewing the examples above, you’ll notice some common traits about all of them that you’ll want to keep in mind when writing your book disclaimer.
3 Takeaways for Writing Disclaimers for Books
- Keep it short – A disclaimer with 2 sentences, up to a paragraph is ideal.
- Tailor to your book’s genre – Use the right phrases that address the unique aspects of your content. (i.e., health & wellness, food & nutrition, fitness & exercise)
- Include appropriate language – Use straightforward language your target audience can understand. Use phrases to clarify the intent of the content like “for informational purposes only,” “not a substitute for professional advice,” or “results may vary.”
Where to Place Disclaimers for Books
Typically, disclaimers for books are found on the copyright page, in the front matter of the book. The image below shows an example of a manuscript template from the self-publishing platform, Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing. On the right is a basic copyright page, showing one possible spot to place the disclaimer.
When the disclaimer is on the copyright page, it usually appears after the copyright and printing information, like in the example. However, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to the placement of these disclaimer statements. Take a glance at books around your house and you may see the disclaimer in the beginning or middle of all the other information on the copyright page.
Final Thoughts
Including a disclaimer in your books is a harmless yet invaluable practice. Honestly for nonfiction authors, it just makes sense to use one. This statement helps offer clarity to the reader and protection for you, without taking away from your core message or the reader’s experience.
Using the examples in this article as your jumping off point, you can decide how to write your own. You can also flip through some books on your bookshelf to view other disclaimers from similar books for more ideas.
Disclaimer: I am not an attorney. The information provided in this blog post is for educational purposes only. Consult with a qualified lawyer for all legal opinions on your specific situation as it relates to adding disclaimers to your self-published book.
Interested in Learning More About Self-Publishing on Amazon KDP?
Are you a dietitian that has self-publishing on your bucket list? Join the Click to Publish course today and make your dream a reality.
📖Looking for Additional Reading?
- IngramSpark Vs KDP: What Are The Key Differences?
- 21+ Amazon KDP Low-Content Book Ideas
- BISAC Codes And Amazon KDP
- 11 Reasons Why RDNs Need To Self-Publish On Amazon KDP
- All About Low Content Books [Amazon KDP]
- How To Create Amazon A+ Content For Books
- Understanding KDP Book Printing Costs
- KDP Book Sizes: How To Select The Right One
- ISBNs For eBooks: Do You Need One?
- How To Gift An eBook On Amazon
- What Is Amazon KDP Expanded Distribution?
- How To Get Your Book Noticed On Amazon
- Understanding Amazon KDP Select – Pros And Cons
0 Comments