“I have a great idea for a book, but I don’t know where to begin.”
Does this statement apply to you? Do you have a book that you’d love to write and see published, but don’t know how to proceed? Answer these questions to get your book project off to a good start.
1. Can you describe your book in one sentence?
Your one-sentence summary puts things in focus for your editor, your publisher, and your reader. But perhaps most important, it puts things in focus for you, the writer.
For example: “My book is about cooking vegetarian dishes using quick, easy-to-follow recipes.”
2. Can you describe the intended readers for your book?
Knowing your reader is crucial to creating a book that meets his or her needs. Think about the reader’s background and interests. A vegetarian might not be interested in learning to cook meat dishes.
For example: “My book is meant for general readers who want quick, easy-to-follow recipes for delicious vegetarian meals.”
3. Can you describe the benefits a reader will get from reading your book?
When you look at the back cover of a nonfiction book, you’ll see sales copy that is written to entice the reader to read the book. This sales copy enhances the one-sentence summary described earlier and guides the writing and selling of the book. Try to think of at least three benefits the reader will get from reading your book.
For example: “By following these recipes, readers will 1) Learn how to create quick, easy-to-fix vegetarian meals that will be both delicious and nutritious, 2) Learn new recipes not shared in other vegetarian cookbooks, and 3) Save money on their grocery bills.”
4. Can you describe what sets your book apart from similar books?
Review your one-sentence summary, your audience description, and the benefits of reading your book. Also, review other books on your topic. From this information, can you tell what makes your book different/better than its competitors?
For example: “My book is about cooking vegetarian meals using quick, easy-to-follow recipes. Unlike similar books, my book includes recipes not shared in other books, and provides tips for saving money on your grocery bills.”
Answering these questions will help you get your book project in focus and help ensure its success.
For a more complete discussion of the points raised here, be sure to see my forthcoming book, A Guide to Writing Books.
