The text written before the main content of a book is often referred to as the front matter. It includes various sections, depending on the book, such as:

  1. Title Page: Contains the title, author, and publisher information.
  2. Copyright Page: Includes copyright details, publication information, and sometimes disclaimers.
  3. Dedication: A short note from the author dedicating the book to someone.
  4. Epigraph: A quote or excerpt relevant to the book’s theme.
  5. Preface: Written by the author, explaining the purpose or background of the book.
  6. Foreword: Written by someone other than the author, providing context or praise for the book.
  7. Acknowledgments: A section where the author thanks individuals or organizations.
  8. Introduction: Sets the stage for the main content, often providing context or explaining the structure of the book.

Each of these elements serves a specific purpose and varies depending on the type of book.