Metadata Error Troubleshooting

Fixing validation and submission errors.

Common Metadata Errors

"Title required"

Title field cannot be empty. Enter your book's main title. Subtitle is optional.

"Author name required"

Enter author name (real or pen name) in "First Last" format.

"Description too short"

Write at least 50 words. Provide a compelling book blurb describing conflict, stakes, and genre.

"Invalid ISBN"

• Use 13-digit ISBN format
• Remove hyphens or spaces
• If no ISBN, leave field blank
• Don't reuse ISBNs from other editions

"Category required"

Select at least one BISAC category. Choose the most specific category that fits. Up to 3 recommended.

"Title doesn't match cover"

Ensure title in Basic Info exactly matches cover text. Check spelling, capitalization, and subtitle.

Pricing Errors

"Price required"

• Enter Base Price
• Library Price required if distributing to OverDrive
• Direct-to-Reader price required if enabling that channel

"Invalid price format"

Use format: 4.99 (not $4.99). No currency symbols. Maximum two decimal places.

Distribution Errors

"No distribution channels selected"

Go to Distribution tab, select at least one retailer or library, and save.

"Library price required for OverDrive"

Go to Pricing tab and enter Library Price (recommended 2x Base Price), or remove OverDrive from distribution.

Fixing Errors After Submission

1. Check email for rejection details
2. Go to My Shelf and click on your book
3. Navigate to the tab with the error
4. Correct the issue
5. Click Update/Save
6. Book will be resubmitted automatically