In my work as a publisher, I have the opportunity to read many manuscripts from new authors. Many are wonderful. Some unfortunately, are in need of a makeover.
Some books just feel 'off'. It's hard to identify the problem, but they just don't feel right.
After much study and comparison, I've identified a trend in the manuscripts that are not quite ready for publication. It's a very subtle but important distinction.
The best books are written FOR a reader.
Unsuccessful books are written TO a reader.
If your book feels preachy, arrogant, or judgmental, your reader will not benefit from your words.
For example, if you have strong feelings about teen drinking and write a 250-page book on how sinful and terrible teenage drinking is, how many teens do you think will read it?
On the other hand, if you wrote a funny, compassionate book about the struggles teens encounter with peer pressure, including the pressure to drink alcohol, and gave them easy strategies they could use to avoid alcohol and drugs, your book would be much more attractive to your readers. It would be even better if you had a teen-aged co-author who could speak
directly to his/her peers, using their language.
As your plan and write your book, use these questions to ensure that you are advocating for your reader in your book, instead of lecturing them:
- Who is my ideal reader?
- What problem does this book solve for my reader?
- What emotional impact does this problem cause for my reader?
- How can I demonstrate my understanding and compassion for my reader?
- Where can I praise my reader for seeking a new solution in this book?
- How can I encourage my reader that the solutions in the book will help?
- What stories can I tell that will show my reader that I understand this issue and demonstrate my own vulnerability?
- How can I make reading this book an enjoyable experience, even if it is about a difficult topic?
When you remember that as an author, you are an advocate for your readers, you will write a book that connects to the heads and the hearts of your audience.
'For' and 'to' are small words. Yet, they carry a powerful reminder for authors. I have them on a sticky note on my computer as a constant reminder.
Hope this article was helpful FOR you!
Author Resource:-
Need a book to build your business? Lynne Klippel is an author and publisher who specializes in helping entrepreneurs and aspiring authors write non-fiction books. For a free audio filled with publishing information, "How to Write Your Book the RIGHT Way," visit
www.LoveYourLifePublishing.com
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