Diamond Author
I'm a methodical writer. Before I start a book I identify a need, research the topic, determine chapter topics, check the chapter flow, and add extras, such as a resource list. Thanks to this advance planning, writing a book is a breeze. To make the book more marketable, I get back cover reviews and ask a graphic designer to create the cover. Then I start work on my book proposal.
All of these actions are in my favor, but one thing isn't, and it is the economy. "Not accepting new work" is the phrase I see most often on agents' websites. Agents and publishers are swamped with author inquiries, yet I hope my track record will get someone's attention.
Since my younger daughter is always interested in what I'm writing, I told her about my latest book. She liked the concept, but questioned the title, and thought it sounded a bit negative. My daughter even gave me some title suggestions and none of them seemed right. You may be struggling with your book title. If so, consider these questions.
Is the title clear? Internet searchers should be able to get an instant idea of your book from the title. Though I like my title, I think it could be improved, and am giving myself time to come up with alternatives. Who knows, I may think of a dynamite title in my sleep.
Does it have attention-getting words? Author Joe Sabah lists his title rules on the Frugal Marketing website. Rule number to two is to create a title "that sizzles and sells." Brainstorming with friends will help you find the right title, according to Sabah. You should be able to think of 5-10 possible titles for your book.
Can you upgrade the title? Sabah uses one of his own titles as an example. He added the word REALLY in caps and the difference between his first and second titles is startling. Adding a word or changing a word may make your existing title more appealing.
Are your words Amazon-friendly? According to freelancer Paul Lima, most readers look for books on Amazon. "Make sure you use words and phrases that relate to what your book is about," he advises. The same is true of chapter titles, since many Amazon books have a "look inside" feature.
What are the book's benefits? Though the benefits may be listed on the back cover, your title should state or imply them. Readers look at the front cover first, the back cover, the front cover again, and turn to the contents page. To make the benefits of my book clear, I listed topics under each chapter. A potential buyer may scan this list in a minute or so.
Does your book answer a question? Author Joel Orr makes this point on his blog. Your question should be memorable, Orr notes, and create "open loops" in the reader's mind. In short, your title should get potential buyers thinking. Your title may also answer a need.
After lots of thought, I decided to keep my original title as the working title of my book and list a second potential title as well. The publisher can decide which one to use. This is also an option for you. Make your title a grabber. When you go to sleep at night you should be pleased with your title.
Copyright 2012 by Harriet Hodgson
Harriet Hodgson has been an independent journalist for 35+ years and is the author of 30 published books. She has written six grief resources, "Smiling Through Your Tears: Anticipating Grief," Lois Krahn, MD, co-author, "Writing to Recover: The Journey from Loss and Grief to a New Life," "Writing to Recover Journal," "101 Affirmations to Ease Your Grief Journey," "The Spiritual Woman: Quotes to Refresh and Sustain Your Soul," and "Happy Again! Your New and Meaningful Life After Loss." Please visit Hodgson's website and learn more about this busy author and grandmother.
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