“Which book should I write?” I hear this question often and happen to have just received an email asking for advice on the topic.
In today’s post I offer several ways to examine and explore the question of which book to write.
A Markets View of “Which Book Should I Write?”
In the case of the author who wrote me this morning, the three books were for three very different audiences. I advised the aspiring author to think about the future with each book. Imagine yourself connecting with each of those audiences (so answer these questions for each separate audience):
- How you would reach these readers?
- How well do you imagine enjoying this group of people and the type of work you might do to reach them?
- Would you be able to make a living working with this audience on this—or a related—problem, challenge or goal?
For example, I had not fully imagined what it would be like to teach anger workshops when I had the original idea for the book that became The Ultimate Guide to Transforming Anger. Once the book was published, I taught anger workshops with one of my co-authors. I realized, instead, that I wanted to work with people who want to enhance their creative process and their writing, rather than work with their anger. Over time, that led to becoming a book coach!
In my case, it wasn’t a bad thing to have published the anger book, since it resulted in a new career as a book coach. However, it was a long, circuitous path, rather than a quick one. And I don’t use the book in my current line of work at all. The book, however, did provide credibility as a book coach and helped me discover what I loved to do once I realized what I didn’t love!
So, do your best to anticipate but also trust in the process.
A Marketability View of “Which Book Should I Write?”
Another perspective to look at is comparing the marketability of each of the books you are considering.
- Who would this book be for (what markets or audiences)?
- Are you already reaching this market or do you need to start from scratch to build a following or tribe?
- How easy would it be to reach this market?
If you already work with a specific market or audience, then it may be easiest to write a book for them. If you’re starting from scratch you’ll want to think about how you can reach them. As a book coach, I have worked with clients on both ends of the spectrum. It can certainly work if you are new to this audience, but be prepared for some serious work in creating a community and mailing list.
Your answers to these questions (and many that follow) will also help you if you decide to write a book proposal.
A Visionary View of “Which Book Should I Write?”
Next, let’s look at your big picture vision.
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Pat Hastings’ vision involved exotic travel and speaking! She didn’t know that teaching workshops in Hawaii would lead her to move there–an exciting surprise! How does writing this book and getting it into the hands of future readers fit with a bigger picture vision of your future lifestyle and career plans?
- Can you describe your vision of what each book would create in the world and which vision is the best current fit?
- How would you describe the business model?
- What services might the book help you sell, beyond the book?
- What products might the book help you sell, beyond the book?
- How sustainable is the business model?
- Would the book writing, publishing and promotion resources needed for the book pay for themselves (by supporting additional business) and then some?
I almost always have my book coaching clients and course participants start by creating a vision statement for their book, so they can consistently make decisions from the perspective of the big picture view and where they see themselves going. Consider creating your own vision statement.
An Ease and Grace View of “Which Book Should I Write?”
There’s something to be said for making it easy on yourself. In fact, an easier book often gets completed over a very hard one to write!
- How much work would it be to write this book?
- How much do I already know on this subject?
- What is my estimate for the number of hours of research it would take and:
- Do I have time for the research?
- Would I enjoy doing the research?
If this is your first book, you may want to start with an easy book to write. I often advise new authors to consider the book that requires less research and is based on what they already know. Consider this view when you ask, “Which book should I write?”
In addition, you may want to return to the question asked earlier about which audience(s) would be easiest for you to reach.
A Passion View of “Which Book Should I Write?”
Let’s not forget the importance of passion! Here are some questions to ask yourself about writing this book from the perspective of excitement, joy and fulfillment:
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Victoria Dunckley continues to be passionate about helping parents understand the effects of electronics on children’s brains. She enjoys providing a systematic, supportive, proven approach to addressing it. Good thing, since she is often asked to serve on panels or summits on the subject. How passionate am I about this topic (and the audience)?
- Can I see myself enjoying writing and promoting this book—and staying passionate about it for several years, at least?
- Does writing, publishing and promoting this book feel like a calling?
Most of the authors I work with are pretty darn excited to spread their message and share their wisdom when their books come out. They enjoy teaching classes or webinars, appearing on podcasts, TV, radio and in news articles. However, I have met authors who publish a book and are on to the next thing, losing interest in the message of their book before they’ve even launched it. While rare, it’s worth considering whether this topic can hold your interest and passion for several years, so that all the work you put into it can reap rewards and create a fulfilling experience for you and your readers.
Have a question? “Ask the book coach” below. You may also enjoy this post on How to Choose a Book Idea.
