Join Patricia Fry, the former Executive Director of SPAWN in a webinar with Brian Jud October 8 at 3:pm, PST (6:pm Eastern).
Title: How to Craft a Persuasive Book Proposal For Any Genre or Topic.
The webinar will be based on the content of Patricia’s latest book, Propose Your Book, How to Craft a Persuasive Proposal for Nonfiction, Fiction, and Children’s Books.
Sign up here: http://tinyurl.com/ov6bv2w
Learn more about Patricia Fry and her career here:
Is this something you’ve heard from friends, colleagues, family members? Probably it’s because these people believe you’ve lived an interesting life and they’d like to see you document it or share it.
Some of you have written or are writing your memoir, but you might be doing it for all of the wrong reasons. I’ve worked with many memoir writers. A large number of them never made it into print. Most of those who did, sold very few books. Their books were not well received. And that was mainly because they and their books were not well known. Those authors who did well kept their audience in mind while writing, they understood their responsibility to promote their books, and they took it upon themselves to strengthen the skills and obtain the tools they needed to do so. Before setting out to become the next Frank McCourt or Anne Frank, consider this:
Here’s what I want you to consider if you yearn to write a memoir. If you aren’t a seasoned writer and/or you’ve never written a book or story in the style of the book you wish to write, get help.
One book you should read right off the bat is Propose Your Book, How to Craft Persuasive Proposals for Nonfiction, Fiction, and Children’s Books.
If you borrow the book from your library or a friend, at least read the first 50 pages so you understand more about publishing and the value in preparing a book proposal before you ever put pen to paper or fingers to keyboard. Then read the chapter on preparing a book proposal for your memoir—pages 107-120.
http://www.amazon.com/Propose-Your-Book-Persuasive-Nonfiction/dp/1621534677
http://www.allworth.com/book/?GCOI=58115104137700
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.
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
I’ve been talking about my new book–Propose Your Book, How to Craft Persuasive Proposals for Nonfiction, Fiction and Children’s Books. Well, here’s the proof in the pudding showing what’s actually included in this book–the Table of Contents. As you can see, it’s got it all. Wouldn’t you agree? Order your copy of the ebook or print book at amazon. http://www.amazon.com/Propose-Your-Book-Persuasive-Nonfiction/dp/1621534677
Propose Your Book
How to Craft Persuasive Proposals for Nonfiction,
Fiction, and Children’s Books
By Patricia Fry
Introduction
Part One—The Book Proposal Explained
Chapter 1—What is a Book Proposal and Why do You Need One?
Chapter 2—The Psychology of a Book Proposal From the Publisher’s POV
Chapter 3—Elements of a Successful Book Proposal—Editorial Portion
Chapter 4—Elements of a Successful Book Proposal—Marketing Portion
Part Two—The Nonfiction Book Proposal
Chapter 5—Sell Your How-to or Self-help Book
Chapter 6—How to Represent Your Business Book Through a Book Proposal
Chapter 7—Pitch Your Cookbook Through a Hot Book Proposal
Part Three—The Personal Book Proposal
Chapter 8—How to Write a Book Proposal for Your Memoir
Chapter 9—Your Travel Book Proposal
Chapter 10—How to Best Represent Your Inspirational/Spiritual Book
Part Four—Book Proposals for Fiction
Chapter 11—Sell Your Novel Through a Fab Book Proposal
Chapter 12—Novel Ways to Promote Your Novel
Part Five—Pitch Your Children’s Book
Chapter 13—Yes, Your Children’s Book May Require a Book Proposal
Chapter 14—The Young Adult Book Proposal
Part Six—It’s Time to Submit Your Amazing Proposal
Chapter 15—How to Locate and Approach a Literary Agent
Chapter 16—How to Land a Publisher for Your Amazing Book
Chapter 17—Tips For Surviving the Dreaded Rejection
Part Seven—Resources for Authors
Sample Book Proposals
At some point during the process of writing a book, you may realize that you need a book proposal. Maybe you’ve finished writing your memoir, travel guide, business book, cookbook, mystery, or historical novel and you’re seeking publication. You approach a publisher or an agent who says, “Please submit a complete book proposal.”
Perhaps you’re just thinking about writing a children’s book, a how-to, or an inspirational book and you’ve recently join a local writers’ group or attended a writers’ conference. Surely, during a workshop, a presentation, or even casual networking, the term book proposal will come up.
You wonder, “What is this thing called a book proposal?” And some of you will resist finding out for as long as you can. You’ll go ahead and write your book to please yourself. When you start receiving rejection slips from publishing houses every time you submit the finished manuscript, you may realize that you should have written a book proposal. You eventually learn that, in some cases, this formality can make the difference between a publishing contract and that dreaded rejection letter.
Not only is a book proposal required by most publishers of fiction, nonfiction, and children’s books today, you (the author) should consider it a mandatory part of the book writing/publishing process. Why? A complete book proposal can help you to make better decisions on behalf of your book project, thus experience greater success.
If you’ve resisted the task of writing a book proposal or if those you’ve submitted have been rejected, this book is for you. If you’ve just entered into the world of authorship and you’re faced with the prospect of writing a book proposal, keep reading.
Propose Your Book is designed to take the mystery out of the book proposal. I know how overwhelming writing that first one can be. I was introduced to the book proposal over three decades ago and I didn’t take too kindly to the idea. After dodging the bullet for as long as I could, there came a time when it was inevitable. I had to bite that very same bullet and write my first book proposal. I’ve since written dozens of my own book proposals and I’ve coached many other authors through the process of writing theirs.
Keep in mind that today’s book proposal is not the same document required by publishers in the 1980s and ’90s. Over the years, as the publishing industry has changed, the book proposal has taken on a new significance and form. The online courses I taught throughout the early 2000s, and the subsequent book I wrote featuring tips for writing a book proposal (2004), are no longer in alignment with industry standards.
While there are hundreds more publishing options and opportunities for authors today, there is also an enormous increase in competition. What does this mean for you, the hopeful author? It means that you need all of the ammunition you can muster in order to succeed with your project. Educate yourself about the publishing industry and enter into it only after you are entirely and completely prepared.
In order to succeed in the highly competitive publishing business, it’s imperative that you strive to keep up with the trends and requirements of the industry. Part of that requirement for most authors involves writing a book proposal.
If you’re stressed just thinking about this daunting task, the information and suggestions in this book may provide the antidote you need. Herein, you’ll learn to successfully meet the challenges of writing the all important and necessary book proposal with elevated understanding and purpose. Order your copy here:
I’m busy promoting three books this week. I’m sending out press-releases and notices to my email list, writing articles for key publications, setting up presentations, and I’ll try to keep up with my blogs (one for authors and one for readers of cozy mysteries with cats).
If you’re not on my emailing list and would like to be, please send me your email address: PLFry620@yahoo.com.
In the meantime, I’d like to point you in the direction of Carolyn Howard Johnson’s blog. She’s featuring my latest book for authors—Propose Your Book, How to Craft Persuasive Proposals for Nonfiction, Fiction, and Children’s Books. (Allworth Press) http://sharingwithwriters.blogspot.com/2015/09/book-proposal-reading-for-success-of.html
It’s here! My brand new book for authors launched yesterday. Propose Your Book, How to Craft Persuasive Proposals for Nonfiction, Fiction, and Children’s Books (Allworth Press).
Propose Your Book provides all the basics of crafting a successful book proposal from a fresh, yet professional perspective, but it delivers more—much more. This is the only book proposal book I’m aware of that speaks specifically to each author no matter your book’s genre or topic. I’ve included chapters for authors of fiction, nonfiction, and children’s books as well as several specific genres and topics: memoirs, young adult books, travel books, inspirational, how-to, self-help, cookbooks, and more.
Are book proposals still necessary? Yes! As an author, you are the CEO of your book, and the book proposal is your business plan. A book proposal is a crucial element to getting published. Most agents and publishers require a proposal before they will ever set eyes on a manuscript. Writing a proposal can help you to more successfully pitch your book to the right agent or publisher and it can ensure that you write the right book for the right audience. A book well-thought out proposal also guides you in devising a smart marketing plan for promoting your book to your audience. Don’t be fooled. No matter which publishing option you choose, it is up to you to promote your book.
Propose Your Book offers a clear understanding of the book proposal process in today’s fiercely competitive publishing climate. It includes:
What are the experts saying?
“Patricia Fry’s book on how to craft persuasive proposals is the first I have seen that tailors ideas for specific genres—travel books to young adult novels—in very specific ways! And the chapter on ‘The Psychology of a Book Proposal from the Publisher’s POV!’ is absolutely breathtaking! After reading this book, authors everywhere will suddenly start taking the writing of a proposal more seriously!”
~ Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning Frugal Book Promoter and Frugal Editor
“To learn a skill like book proposal creation, I want to turn to someone like Patricia Fry who is aware of the current market needs, authoritative, detailed and honest. Read this book and follow the instructions, then an editor or literary agent will want to champion and sell your submission.”
–W. Terry Whalin, bestselling author of more than 60 books including Jumpstart Your Publishing Dreams
“A valuable ‘how-to’ book filled with practical, uncomplicated information that will transform an ordinary proposal into a powerful, persuasive document. This is a must read for any author who is serious about getting published.”
–Brian Jud, author of Beyond the Bookstore and How to Make Real Money Selling Books
Order your print or e-copy now!
http://www.amazon.com/Propose-Your-Book-Persuasive-Nonfiction/dp/1621534677
http://www.allworth.com/book/?GCOI=58115104137700
I’m purging. It’s time to do an upgrade in my office—new paint, new flooring, new look. Ever try to move an office? It’s not an easy task. You probably accumulate more stuff in a home office than in any other room in the house. We stripped the kitchen and service porch a few years ago, repainted and added new cabinets. That was a huge job. But I’m afraid the office remodel will be even larger.
There’s a lot of stuff in here that no longer relates to the work I’m doing. And with technology, there are mountains of material I no longer need to hold onto. So, little by little, in preparation for the renovation, I’m purging. And I have to tell you, it feels good. Out with the old and in with what’s left and what’s still relevant to my current work.
Any tips for me and others who are considering such a project? Have you been there, done that? What did you learn from the process?
In the meantime, I’m now the proud author of my 12th Klepto Cat Mystery. The Purrfect Lie is now available for your Kindle.
Description: When the Iveys and the Sheridans find a deathbed confession letter, Savannah and her Aunt Margaret spring into action. Is Savannah’s imagination playing tricks on her or has she stumbled upon the unaware kidnap victim mentioned in the letter? In the meantime, there’s trouble at the Sheridans’ cat shelter and Rags, the kleptomaniac cat, leaps right into the middle of the tangled mess. Only the cat knows who’s putting his feline friends in danger. Meet some interesting new characters in this story and be prepared to laugh and to cry. The feel-good ending is worth the admission price of this book.
Order your copy now here:
Bonus Offer: Purchase a print copy of any one of the first 7 books and receive a set of note cards as a gift. (US residents only.) Order the book from http://www.matilijapress.com or email me a copy of your receipt from Amazon.com dated with today’s date or later. PLFry620@yahoo.com To order any of the Klepto Cat Books at Amazon, use this link: http://amzn.to/1kAI8I2