For a quick reference, before reading this article, you might peruse our section on "What's in a Book?"

Traditionally in print layout, certain page types appear on certain pages.  For example, the title page and half-title page, if used, always appear on a right-hand page. The copyright page always appears on the back of a title page, its "verso" page (the reverse side, or left-hand page, is a "verso" page.  A right-hand page is a "recto" page.)  Here's a page from our production of Terence Stamp's Rare Stamps, to demonstrate how the Title Page and Copyright page work:

 

The first page of the first chapter of a book, is always on a recto page (right-hand page), which is always an odd-numbered page.  That's typically page 1, in fact, with roman numerals being used for the front-matter pages.  Oftentimes, publishers will choose to have every new chapter start on a new recto page.  To do that, we sometimes need to insert what we call "push pages," or blank pages.  Think of it this way—if Chapter 3 ends on a right-hand page, how can Chapter 4 start a new page there, as well?  Obviously, it can't.  So, we insert a new blank page, on the back—the verso—of the last page of Chapter 3, and then a fresh new page for Chapter 4 to start.  

Again, here's an example from Rare Stamps:

 

 

Most blanks in a print book are intentional, if you're using an experienced, professional bookmaker.  If you're not, well, then, I can't speak to how those blanks got there or why they are there—but in a professional shop, there is typically a good reason. Just ask!