Convert YouTube videos into Amazon KDP-ready paperbacks

The 4-step conversion

1. 1

   Paste the YouTube URL

   Drop any long-form YouTube URL into VidBook. We pull the transcript and analyze it for book potential — duration, structure, estimated page count.

2. 2

   Outline + chapter generation

   An architect agent builds the book outline. Each chapter is then written grounded in transcript chunks, with continuity summaries threading the chapters together so the book reads cohesively.

3. 3

   KDP-ready PDF renders

   We render the PDF at 6x9 with mirrored margins (so the gutter side is wider when bound) and gutter spacing for KDP's binding. Folios, chapter starts, and front matter are all correctly placed.

4. 4

   Upload to KDP

   Download the PDF from VidBook. Sign into your KDP dashboard, click Create paperback, upload the file, set your price, and submit. Amazon publishes within 72 hours.

convert YouTube to KDP — common questions

• Will the PDF actually pass KDP's print validation?+

  Yes. The render engine uses @react-pdf/renderer with exact 6x9 sizing, mirrored margins (inner gutter wider than outer edge), and print-safe layout. We do not use browser-print or HTML-to-PDF hacks that often fail KDP's validator. Chapters always start on a fresh page, folios are correctly placed.

• What if I want a different trim size like 5.5x8.5 or 6x9 hardcover?+

  Right now the default is 6x9 paperback, which is the most common KDP trim. Hardcover at 6x9 uses the same interior PDF — KDP handles the cover separately. Other trim sizes are on the roadmap; email support@vidbook.co if you need a specific size before they ship.

• Does VidBook also generate the cover?+

  Not yet. KDP provides a free Cover Creator with templates, and Canva has KDP-sized templates that work well. Most creators spend 30 minutes on the cover after the manuscript is done. AI cover generation is intentionally not in the MVP — we prioritized getting the interior right first.

• How much does Amazon take and what should I price the book at?+

  Amazon's royalty on KDP paperbacks is 60% of the list price minus printing cost (about $2.50 for a 100-page 6x9 book). A $14.99 paperback nets you roughly $6.50 per sale. Ebooks at $2.99-$9.99 earn 70% royalty. Most creators price the paperback at $14.99-$19.99 and the Kindle ebook at $4.99-$9.99.

• Can I publish on KDP without a US tax setup if I am outside the US?+

  Yes. KDP supports authors from most countries. You complete a brief tax interview (W-8BEN for non-US authors) inside KDP. Amazon then withholds the correct rate or, if your country has a treaty, the reduced rate. Your bank or PayPal receives the royalties monthly once your balance crosses the threshold.