Thu 29 Jan 2009
I’d like to start an inspirational book but unsure how to start or how to go about it?
Posted by echan76 under Books & Authors
Elizabeth asked:
I want to write a book that would be inspirational and like a self-help kind of thing on people with disabiltiies and their attitudes, having positive attitudes on life and things around you, no matter how ill or disabled you are. But I’m not sure how to go about it or start though I have ideas but not sure how to make it into a book. Anyone have any tips?
I want to write a book that would be inspirational and like a self-help kind of thing on people with disabiltiies and their attitudes, having positive attitudes on life and things around you, no matter how ill or disabled you are. But I’m not sure how to go about it or start though I have ideas but not sure how to make it into a book. Anyone have any tips?
A book like that simply demands a good solid outline. You would have to break down your ideas into sections and then the sections into chapters and outline exactly what information you want your book to include. The concept is good, but you need a strong, organized outline. Pax - C
The Bible 2 “JC’s life after the crucificion” as told to George Burns.
If you’re that unsure of how to structure a book, I’d suggest starting a journal instead, to record your thoughts and inspirations on the subject as they occur to you. Having that written record, even if it’s in an unorganized manner, will be a big help and something solid to refer to when you feel you ARE ready to write an organized, structured book.
I think you should to be a professional health expert to in order to write something like that. Also, it should be peer reviewed. If it isn’t peer reviewed, then you should state whether or not you’re a licensed professional in order for your book to be ethical. These books can be damaging to vulnerable people who put their trust in the author who, sometimes, does not have any business giving advice.
I hope this does not seem harsh, but these rules are necessary. Ask yourself if you would seriously go to a stranger, without professional experience, for help with life’s difficulties. This is not a knock on your advice or experiences, but you should go through the proper channels first.
I applaud your wish to help people, but please fulfill your wish correctly because those who read your book could be inadvertently hurt. If you are qualified to write this book then, by all means, find an editor and possibly a collegue to assist you.
Don’t be afraid to start. Just because you start writing things down doesn’t mean that it’s the beginning of the book. You might find later on that you want it to be, or you write something more worthwhile.
Write down a list of everything you believe in and that you want to include in your novel. Take each as a heading, and go with it. Study, research, and write everything you know.
One day you will come and see your novel and realize that it’s done.
And then the real work begins, trying to sell it. Man, that’s the hard part, the writing is easy.
For a book like that I recommend starting with the book Writing Successful Self-Help and How-To Books by Jean Marie Stein.
Her process teaches you to first “sell” the book, then write it. That way you have a support system through which to outline, develop, edit, and promote it. This support system can also help provide a ghostwriter or content editor, as well as access to professionals for testimonials and content quotes.
Good luck with your venture!
You need to get inspirational stories from people who are dealing with illness and recovery. There are many people out there who would like to tell their story to help others. Let them do the inspiring for you!
First off get very familiar with the science of deliberate creation. Everything else will fall into place after that.