You may have discovered that a book idea and a book are two different things. In fact, for many people there is a huge gap between the two. Some hopeful authors never expand their ideas into actual books. They just can’t figure out how to develop the idea and put it on paper.
The thing is, an idea doesn’t become a book until the research is done and the writing is completed and contains all of the elements of a viable book. What are some of these elements? For a nonfiction how-to or informative/educational book it is:
• A purpose—what is the book’s primary purpose?
• Substance—significant and generous measures of pertinent information, tips, instructions, resources and so forth.
• Credibility—material and results based on careful and thorough research.
• Usefulness—the material is presented in an easy-to-follow style.
• Entertainment value—the book is attractive and enjoyable to read.
How to tell when you don’t have a book:
• You lack clarity about your audience and your purpose.
• Your table of contents has fewer than 8 items or chapters.
• You hate doing research and want to use just one or two sources in writing your book.
• You can’t figure out how to put your material together.
• Your editor quits.
You may have tons of knowhow and experience on a certain subject or in a specific profession, but this doesn’t mean that you have a book inside. In order to create a book from your knowledge bank, you must be able to bring that information out, conduct adequate research, appropriately organize the material and present it with clarity.
Several people this month have taken my advice and ordered my book, The Right Way to Write, Publish and Sell Your Book, in order to read more extensive information on the subjects posted here at my blog. You might consider following suit. If you are a hopeful or struggling author who is serious about becoming a successful author, you won’t be disappointed in this book. http://www.matilijapress.com/rightway.html
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