08-Writing Nonfictions that Sells-Samm Sinclair Baker-Summary below

This can be used as a reminder for the improvement of your writing.

 

Reference: Writing Nonfiction that Sells – Samm Sinclair Baker (over 33 books published (fiction and nonfiction).

 Points from the book of interest…

 

Writing	“Would I, as an editor, buy what I, as writer, am offering?
Writing	“The only individuals who really count; are editors who can buy what you write?”
Writing	The first few words must grab the reader’s by the neck.
Writing	“Cut out all excess words.”
Writing	“Don’t try to impress; with sophisticated literary style.”

Editing	“Develop the basic theme cleanly, concisely, informatively.”
Editing	“After writing or rewriting intensively, back away.”
Editing	“Read your own writing again and again with a cold, clear, objective editorial eye.”
Editing	Be careful of “too much description involving unnecessary details.”
Editing	Be careful of “too many twists and turns veering away from the main points; the reader needs and wants to learn.”

 

Agents	“You generally waste time, money, and effort in seeking an agent.”
Agents	“Agents aren’t interested in one-shot authors.”
Agents	“No agent has a magic wand.”
Agents	“Most successful authors sold without an agent.”
Agents	“Don’t expect too much from an agent.”
Agents	“Make sure the agent is honest and reputable.”

 

Publishers	“The first few words must grab the editor’s attention.”
Publishers	“Think it through – Most presentations are not thought through; and the work ends its life in the slush pile.”
Publishers	“Think through the entire thrust of your offering before you approach a publisher. (research is the key to success)”
Publishers	“State the subject succinctly. (with emotion)”
Publishers	“Explain clearly and convincingly how the theme will be conveyed, point by point.”
Publishers	“We can usually count on finding enough people interested in a particular nonfiction subject; to see (ride) out the first printing, as least, as some profit. With most fiction, it’s a gamble.”
Publishers	“Focus on the you-you-you of the reader, not on your personal I-I-I.”

Facts	“Number of books published annually: About 80% to 90% of books published are nonfiction.”
Facts	“Magazine contents listing reveal that articles and features are also prevalently nonfiction.”
Facts	“Is this (offering) of high self-interest to enough readers?”
Facts	“Realize that, as the editor, you must attract enough readers that will (that will) purchase your work.”