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Get ready to write a book proposal.

Most weeks I get a call or email from at least one author wanting me to work with them on their nonfiction book proposal. Sadly, I’d say...

Analyze your competition like a pro.

I’ve heard it said that every book has already been written at least once, and it’s somewhat true. Don’t let that discourage you. It...

Three ways to a literary agent’s heart.

In the past year, I’ve collaborated on three nonfiction book proposals. All three have been picked up by leading literary agents within a...

Literary agents hate manuscripts.

As a rule, if there’s one thing most publishers and literary agents really hate to see, it’s a manuscript. You’re probably surprised by...

Writing a book proposal for your memoir? Join me for a micro-retreat.

If you want to land a publishing deal for your memoir, there is one thing you need: a standout book proposal to submit to literary agents...

What’s in it for your readers?

When a reader picks up a nonfiction book, they expect to get something out of it—a solution to a problem, a way to improve their life, or...

What’s your message?

What IS a message (AKA proposition) for your book? And how the heck do you come up with one? I like the way industry guru Jane Friedman...

Get in touch with your readers.

In my last post, I talked about defining your target reader—who they are, what you know about their interests, their age, and other...

Who are you writing for?

You might be wondering why you need to be so specific about your target readers. Narrowing down your focus to a specific group will allow...

SALLY COLLINGS