Kindle Create

Kindle Create is an eBook publishing management utility that can help users of all knowledge levels to easily adapt and prepare their text projects into Kindle-compatible eBooks ready for publishing on the Amazon marketplace.

This practical and streamlined app is especially useful for users who do not have previous experience in preparing books for online publishing, with all editing tools and services present in one streamlined package ready to be used by anyone.

While the entire process of eBook publishing is much more streamlined today than it was a decade ago, this app can streamline this entire experience and enable authors, teachers, and students to quickly produce a viable eBook that can be reproduced with 100% accuracy on any modern Kindle device.

Kindle Create was developed from the ground up by Amazon.com, Inc. to empower its users to prepare their projects to be fully compatible with this eBook publishing platform.

The app is distributed as an automated installer that is a bit larger than a quarter of a gigabyte, bringing with itself everything PC user needs to modify and make their books Kindle-friendly. This procedure starts with the importing of PDF, DOC, or DOCX files (which can be text-only or also feature various image and photo elements).

Overview

Kindle Create is a free desktop application developed by Amazon to streamline the process of formatting eBooks for publication on the Kindle platform. It is designed to help authors and publishers convert their manuscripts into well-formatted Kindle eBooks with ease, without requiring extensive knowledge of HTML or CSS.

It supports various formats, including DOC, DOCX, and PDF, making it accessible for a wide range of users. The software focuses on creating a visually appealing and consistent layout, ensuring that the final product meets Kindle's technical specifications.

Explore

Reflowable
Mostly used for novels, essays, poetry, biography, and memoirs

Comics
A fixed layout mostly used for graphic novels

Print Replica
A fixed layout mostly used for textbooks, cookbooks, magazines, and other image-heavy books

Then, users are required to check and fill out all the required fields that are necessary to make the eBook ready for sale and reproduction by eBook viewer hardware and apps.

This includes inputting the basic metadata information (book name, subtitle, author name, publisher, adding a cover image and thumbnail), setting up a table of contents, verifying page elements and formatting options, and various details about the author and attributions, and more).

Kindle Create even provide users access to stylish templates, that can dramatically transform plain-looking books into eye-catching eBooks. Of course, users also have the option to tweak every element of the page and preview how the final product will look on a wide variety of emulated screen sizes (smartphone, tablet, etc.). When all is done, users are encouraged to export their content into Kindle-friendly KCB/KPF formats.

Main Features

Automated Formatting
It simplifies the formatting process by automatically applying styles to your manuscript. It detects chapter titles, paragraphs, and headings, allowing you to focus on the content rather than the technical details.

Pre-Designed Themes
The software offers several pre-designed themes that can be applied to your eBook. These themes include various font styles, chapter heading designs, and paragraph formatting options, ensuring a professional look for your eBook.

Table of Contents Generation
The app automatically generates a clickable table of contents (TOC) based on your chapter headings. This feature enhances the navigation experience for readers.

Preview Tool
The built-in preview tool allows you to see how your eBook will appear on different Kindle devices, including eReaders, tablets, and smartphones. This feature is essential for ensuring that your eBook looks good across all platforms.

Export Options
Once you have formatted your eBook, it allows you to export it in the Kindle Package Format (KPF), which is ready for upload to Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP). This format ensures that your eBook maintains its layout and design when published.

Image and Media Handling
It supports the insertion of images, tables, and media into your eBook, making it suitable for complex documents such as cookbooks, textbooks, and manuals.

User Interface

It features a clean and user-friendly interface, designed to be accessible even to those who are new to eBook publishing. The main workspace is divided into three sections: the manuscript editor, the style and formatting panel, and the preview window.

Manuscript Editor: This central area is where you edit and format your content. The editor displays your text with applied formatting, making it easy to see how the final product will look.

Style and Formatting Panel: Located on the right side, this panel provides quick access to various formatting options, including themes, heading styles, and paragraph alignment. Users can easily switch between different styles with just a few clicks.

Preview Window: The preview window is integrated into the interface, allowing you to view how your eBook will appear on different devices. This real-time preview helps you catch any formatting issues before publishing.

Installation and Setup

Download the Installer: Visit the official page on Amazon’s website or FileHorse and download the installer for your operating system.

Install the Software: Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation. The process typically takes a few minutes.

Open: After installation, launch the software. You will be greeted with a welcome screen where you can start a new project or open an existing one.

Import Your Manuscript: To begin formatting, import your manuscript by selecting the appropriate file (DOC, DOCX, or PDF). It will automatically process the document and prepare it for formatting.

How to Use

Start a New Project: Open this program and select “New Project from File.” Choose your manuscript file, and Kindle Create will automatically detect chapters and apply basic formatting.

Apply a Theme: Browse through the available themes and choose one that fits the tone of your book. The theme will be applied to your entire manuscript, updating the fonts, headings, and other stylistic elements.

Edit and Format: Use the Style and Formatting Panel to fine-tune your document. You can adjust headings, insert images, and format paragraphs as needed.

Generate a Table of Contents: It will automatically generate a TOC based on your chapter titles. You can manually adjust the TOC if necessary.

Preview Your eBook: Use the preview tool to see how your eBook will look on different Kindle devices. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure consistency across platforms.

Export Your eBook: Once you’re satisfied with the formatting, export your eBook as a KPF file. This file is ready for upload to KDP.

FAQ

Can I edit the KPF file after exporting?
No, the KPF file is final and cannot be edited. You must return to your Kindle Create project to make changes and then re-export.

Does Kindle Create support non-English languages?
Yes, it supports multiple languages, allowing you to publish books in various languages.

Can I use Kindle Create for print books?
This software is primarily designed for eBooks. However, you can format a manuscript for print, but more advanced tools might be needed for complex print layouts.

What formats can I import into Kindle Create?
It supports DOC, DOCX, and PDF formats.

Is Kindle Create compatible with all Kindle devices?
Yes, it ensures that your eBook is compatible with all Kindle devices and apps.

Alternatives

Scrivener: A writing tool with extensive formatting capabilities, especially for complex projects. Scrivener is more versatile but has a steeper learning curve.

Calibre: A free and open-source eBook management PC software that includes basic formatting tools.

Pricing

This program is completely FREE to use, making it an attractive option for independent authors and small publishers looking to publish on the Kindle platform.

System Requirements

• Operating System: Windows 11, 10, 8 or 7
• Processor: 1 GHz or faster
• RAM: 1 GB or more
• Disk Space: 200 MB free space
• Internet: Required for downloading and updates

PROS

• Free to use
• Easy to use with automated formatting
• Compatible with multiple formats
• Built-in preview tool for multiple devices

CONS

• Limited to Kindle eBooks
• Basic design themes
• No support for editing after exporting

Conclusion

Kindle Create is a valuable tool for authors looking to publish their work on the Kindle platform. Its simplicity and automation make it accessible to users of all skill levels, while its robust features ensure that your eBook will look professional on any Kindle device.

While it may lack the advanced customization options of other formatting tools, its ease of use and seamless integration with Kindle Direct Publishing make it an excellent choice for most authors.