Before a new book is published, a whole process takes place behind closed doors. It all starts with a blank page. A team of people reviews the book before it hits the store shelves. Ever wonder what this process looks like? Here's how it works:
The first step is determining which book to translate. The team considers potential topics and looks at authors and titles to ensure the book is reliable. The translator and reviser are consulted in the selection process.
Once a book has been chosen, the translator gets to work. They translate the book from the source text into Dutch,English or German, using reference materials to ensure accuracy and a top-quality translation. When the translation is complete, the translator reviews their work to ensure it meets their standards. At this point, the next person in the process takes over.
The next person to review the book is the proofreader. The proofreader has a high level of Dutch,English or German and is experienced in the world of Islamic books. They carefully review the book, looking for linguistic errors, ensuring that the grammar is correct, the spelling is accurate, and there are no confusing passages in the text. Once the book has been thoroughly proofread, it goes back to the translator, who reviews the corrections and gives feedback. This feedback helps the translator become more aware of what they are doing well and what they could improve.
After the translator has incorporated the linguistic feedback, the book goes to the next department, which is the reviser or the shari'ah checker. The reviser has an important task: to review the translation in light of the original text and to ensure that the book is accurate. This is not an easy task, as the reviser must consult a range of reference materials to ensure that the Dutch, English or German accurately conveys the meaning of the original author's words. This work is not for anyone, but only for someone who has experience in this field and a deep knowledge of both the language which is translated to and Arabic. In addition, this person must have the proper methodology and a wealth of related islamic knowledge.
Once the reviser has reviewed the book, the file goes back to the translator. The translator reviews the feedback and corrections from the reviewer and incorporates them into the file.
At this point, the book has been checked for linguistic errors and for developed meaning. It's time to prepare the file for the printing press.
The Chief editor's team takes over the file now. They give the book a final review, correcting any remaining errors. If the final editor is concerned that something might be misunderstood, they may work with the reviser to determine if footnotes or other interventions, such as explaining certain things in parentheses, are necessary. The final editor may also write a foreword.
Finally, the layout of the book is completed. The copyright page is included in the file, along with a title page, glossary of terms, and table of contents. The fonts may be adjusted to make them more legible for readers. The file is further developed to meet the requirements of the printing company.
Now that the inside of the book is completely finished, it's time to focus on the cover. A designer creates several cover designs, and the management of IBB selects the most beautiful one. The cover will also include a back cover text and an ISBN. The cover design is then adapted to meet the printing company's requirements. The final editors check the information about the management, and if it has been approved, the file is ready for printing.
Both the inside and outside of the book are now complete. It's time to involve the printing company. We discuss which materials will be used for the inside and outside of the book, always selecting the highest quality options. A price is agreed upon, and the files are sent to the printing company. The printing company creates a digital proof and identifies any necessary changes to the cover or the inside of the book. The proof is reviewed by the management, final editors, and designer of IBB. There are often small issues that need to be addressed by the designer, editors, and/or printing company in order to get the book printed. This may involve several rounds of communication between the parties involved and sometimes requires outside help to fix problems in the files. When all parties are satisfied with the files, the book is ready to be printed.
The printing of the books typically takes several weeks. Once the books are printed, they are sent to our storage location for a quick review to ensure that everything looks correct. The books are then counted at the fulfillment center. Printed copies are also sent to the editors and designer for review. If everything is in order, the books are made available for purchase online and promoted on social media. The social media team works to bring the books to the attention of potential buyers and answer any questions.
Finally, the book is available for purchase in our online store. We pack it neatly and send it out via the postal service. You should receive the book within a few days.
It may be small in size, but it takes a lot of work to get a book like this into your hands!
