Most authors, as they strain and stress through their proposal will wonder, Where should I put the most effort?
I’m the author of two books on book proposal-writing. And a couple of my other books have sections on the all-important book proposal. I’ve also written numerous articles on aspects of the book proposal and I’ve devised several of these daunting documents myself. So what is the most important part of a book proposal? Which section is most instrumental in swaying an agent or publisher? Which aspect of the book proposal will help the author experience publishing success? Well that all depends.
Not the answer you wanted from me, is it? But if you hang with me, you might discover the keys to your publishing success.
First, the fact that you’re interested in writing a book proposal is an excellent first step. The book proposal is to an author what a business plan is to an entrepreneur. And it’s just as important. But you already know that. And there may be a section in your book proposal that is more critical or significant, but it may not be the same for all authors and it might not even be what you think it is. Here are a few examples that might help you strengthen your proposal.
- The most important part of a book proposal that’s been requested by a publisher is the part he asks for. Not all publishers require a complete or formal proposal—there’s certain information they want and I suggest the author put a lot of energy into that particular material.
- If you are a professional related to the theme of your book, then the proposal would lean heavily toward your platform—what you can bring to the table in terms of book sales.
- If you’re a first-time author of a novel, the story must shine above all else. But you’d better also be able to convince a publisher (and yourself) that you understand marketing and you have the time, willingness, and know-how to promote this book far and wide.
For more about how to write a book proposal for your memoir, your book of poetry, a novel, children’s book, how-to, inspirational book and so forth, read my new book, “Propose Your Book, How to Craft Persuasive Proposals for Nonfiction, Fiction, and Children’s Books.”
http://www.amazon.com/Propose-Your-Book-Persuasive-Nonfiction/dp/1621534677
http://www.allworth.com/book/?GCOI=58115104137700