To write a book is the dream of many people, but the overwhelming majority don’t follow through on the idea. If you’ve been toying with the idea of writing a book, you no doubt wonder if your idea is worth writing. There are several things to consider when deciding whether your book idea is worth writing. They probably aren’t what you think.

Does the Topic or Theme Have an Audience?

Check the bookstores and library shelves to see if there are other books out there about your topic. If you’re writing non-fiction, consider how many people are interested in the topic. If your topic is too narrow, the niche market will be so small you may not find your audience. If your topic is too broad, you’ll find the market may already be saturated by your topic. If you have new insights or a fresh perspective on a popular topic, you need to write your book.

If you’re writing fiction, you have a broader range of possibilities. Many different fiction genres are popular, including sci-fi, uplifting fiction, romance, historical, fantasy, and more. Remember that a truly unique storyline may cross several genres rather than fitting neatly into just one. For instance, a sci-fi fantasy with elements of suspense and romance could be marketing across multiple genres, propelling sales.

Can You Write a Book with Compelling Story?

One of the most potent forms of writing is the Memoir. If you feel strongly that your personal story or memories need to be shared with others, a memoir is one way to do this. Memoirs are incredibly popular. Readers enjoy stories they can be inspired by or recognize themselves in. If you have a deeply personal account that you feel compelled to write, you will discover a lot about yourself along the way. Writing is rewarding for some people simply because it clarifies their thoughts and feelings about their own lives. For others, it is a way to form connections with their friends and families, clarifying issues and uncovering truths. If you have a story that you feel you have to share, write a book, even if the audience is small and personal.

Are You Passionate About It?

Writing a book for the sake of writing a book is a plodding venture. Writing a book because you’re passionate about the topic will make your efforts worthwhile and lead to a better manuscript. Write because you feel you have to get your words on paper or because you have something you absolutely must share (whether it’s a beautiful story or valuable information that helps others).

Will You Make It a Priority to Write a Book?

Some authors took years to finish their first title. Margaret Mitchell spent over a decade writing Gone With the Wind, so don’t think you have to crank out your book in six months or less. However,  you do have to make writing a priority. It might be just a few hours each week because you have a job and family, but you have to be willing to put in the time and keep the momentum going. If not, your writing will soon become less and less a priority, languishing on your computer while you vow to “get back to it someday.” Be sure you prioritize your writing if you want to finish and publish your book.

Can You Handle Criticism (and Praise)?

Taking a book from manuscript to publication requires editing, proofing, and sometimes significant rewrites. No one writes a book that is perfect in the first draft. Be willing to let others read it, critique it, and ask questions. Writing a book requires that you accept criticism to write a finished product that is as powerful as possible. Yes, your book is your “baby,” but even the most seasoned parent is willing to take advice from the experts.

Dudley Court Press

Dudley Court Press works with writers like you every day. As a contemporary publishing company, we help thoughtful people write and publish books for all sorts of reasons. For more information about our Developmental Editing, Coaching, Consulting and Professional Self-Publishing options, please reach us at +1-520-329-2729 or Info@DudleyCourtPress.com.

We’ve recently launched our latest program, Memoir Writing for Non-Writers. This comprehensive ten-week course helps you turn your memories into a compelling memoir.

– Gail Woodard