Author’s Advocate: I’ve written a book. Now what?

In this new monthly column for The Independent, I will share insights and information for all aspiring authors. From the uninitiated to the seasoned writer, this column is designed to help make writing dreams become publishing realities and will address most issues that arise when one takes on the goal of writing a book.

As a publisher and author, I hear the same question almost daily: “I’ve written a book. Now what?”

The inference, of course, is “How do I make what I’ve written become a sellable book?”

“Sellable” and “book” are really two very distinctive concepts that come with a plethora of to-do lists to make each one a reality as well as a success. There are a number of factors that play into the writing of a “readable” book that is well-written enough that interested people want to read it, producing the book (from the printed form, e-book form, hard or softbound covers, binding type, format, text size, etc.), and ultimately marketing and selling the finished product.

Each time I address writing groups, either as a keynote speaker or as a lecturer, the majority of authors and aspiring authors have similar questions and similar needs to complete their projects.

Today, I want to address a very simple topic: research—not the necessary research to write a compelling and authentic book, be it fiction or nonfiction. No, I’m talking about making sure that you have explored what other published authors have done. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel even as you are perhaps inventing something within what you are writing.

Take a notepad to your local book store. Visit books in the genre that you are writing about. Look at the format size, text size, layout, cover, back cover, chapter headings, and margins. Peruse the inside material: the title page, copyright page, table of contents, acknowledgements, dedication, foreword, preface, introduction, prologue, about the author, epilogue, and other possible sections you might want to include in your book. Most authors have not thought about these possibilities for their own books. Write down what you like or don’t like about certain books and what catches your eye.

This process will help guide you in developing your own book successfully.

Next month, I’ll talk about the various publishing options, their pros and cons, and what to look out for.