Many of us entertain the idea of writing a book. If only we had the time, the knowledge, or experience in the publishing industry, we might be able to organize a selling idea.
But anyone can put together a book proposal. Although there are slight differences between fiction and non-fiction book publishing plans, they are similar. Below are the main points to cover for a non-fiction prospectus, or plan for publishing a book based on real life rather than imaginary characters.
1. Title and description. Give your project a catchy name that will attract readers. If you can't think of one, make up something temporarily, since titles can be changed later. Summarize the main idea of the book in a paragraph or two. You can single-space each section of the proposal, double-spacing between, or simply double-space throughout.
2. Author credentials. Outline the ways in which you are the best person to write this book. Experience, training, certifications, and speaking venues help to create a "platform" of public exposure and awareness that may help to sell your book. It will help to identify your "platform" to the publisher for credibility.
3. Readership. Explain the types of people you think might be interested. A travel book, for instance, might attract career persons looking for interesting vacation spots, retirees, travel guides, and even teachers who might want to share your experiences with their students. A book about romantic Paris in the spring might appeal to young people (especially women), travel planners, Europe fans, and French students. Estimate the gender, age groups, and socio-economic status of all potentially interested groups.
4. Genres. Describe which shelf your book might fit on at the book store. Self-help, adventure, autobiography, travel, or other topical areas might all be logical locations. List as many as logically fit the theme of your work.
5. Competition. Browsing book lists, catalogs, library shelves, and other locations, determine which three or four books yours will mostly likely compete with. Cite each by title and author, adding a sentence of two of description. Then briefly state how your book differs and will attract that segment of readers. You also may want to indicate how your book is similar: "It's a combination of SKY KINGS and ON THE TRAIL."
6. Marketing plan. Suggest ways of getting your book to the masses, along with the role you are willing to play to get it there. Press releases, book signings, articles, presentations, interviews, and other media contacts can help to get your book noticed. All but the most famous authors typically do things like this to help market their book. Publishers appreciate the help of authors who have time to take an active role in launching a publishing project.
7. Choose a publisher. Check publishers' listings (several are in print or can be found on the Web) to find one or more that handle the type of writing you are doing. Write an efficient cover letter detailing the proposal's high points, attach the proposal, and consider sending a sample chapter. Unlike a fiction proposal, you need not have completed the book when you send a proposal, but a sample may help give the publisher an idea of your style and the book's scope.
Writing a proposal can help you understand the shape of your project and the market to which it is geared. So get started in preparing yours so the next best seller can be launched!
