The fact that you’re reading this article in this particular newsletter tells me two important things: you’ve written a book and you want people to read it. I don’t mean the family and friends who’ve already read it and most likely told you what they think you want to hear, but the real book-buying public. In other words, you want to be … [Read more...]
Go to the fiction section in the kids’ area of your local bookstore, and pick up any classic Picture Book or Young Reader. I don’t mean that flavor-of-the-week book, written by a Hollywood celebrity or famous musician, but a classic—something you know has been around for awhile, something your kids or grandkids love, or, best yet, something … [Read more...]
Nonfiction writers are justifiably concerned with how their voice and tone will affect the audience. They want to portray themselves as credible without coming across as a “know-it-all.” They want to seem authoritative on their topic but not “preachy.” While there are several techniques to accomplish this, some strategies may undermine your … [Read more...]
Have you ever considered that your story might be begging to be rewritten from a different point of view? That was the case in a recent manuscript I edited. Here’s what happened. I’ve seen a lot of manuscripts, and few of them move me to tears; but this one did. I attributed much of its appeal to the beautiful simplicity in the writer’s … [Read more...]
If you consider yourself a better speaker than writer, you would be wise to do some intentional thinking about how you will prepare your manuscript for publication. As you plan your book project, begin by considering your audience. Ask yourself some basic questions. Who is the audience of your book? Is it the same audience as the audience for … [Read more...]
Public speakers need to produce books that will sell. But before launching your book writing project, evaluate how your book will function within your total business model. Consider the objectives of your book. What role do you need it to play as a part of your overall goals? Write down your objectives for your book in terms of the role it will … [Read more...]
“I’ve got a book inside me and I can’t get it out!” I hear it all the time. I usually offer the typical solutions: stick two fingers down your throat. If that doesn’t work, hire an exorcist. If neither of these do the trick, there’s the standard third option—the old Nike credo: Just do it! Just sit down and write the darn … [Read more...]
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