Show Notes:19. Mick Silva — Evaluating Your Book Idea
As a long time editor and writing coach, Mick knows how to spot a good idea, and he knows how to help clarify your idea into a book project worth working on. Mick joins me to share his questions of evaluation.
Mick’s Vision Questions:
- 1. What is the 30-word summary of the one thing your book is about—the unique, compelling appeal? (Why would anyone read it over other books?)
- 2. What is the specific demographic and psychographic of the book’s audience? (35-to-50-year-old working mom with degree who wants solutions for balancing discipline and love in parenting.)
- 3. What is your reader’s felt need, i.e. the big problem? Also define the size of the need.
- 4. How will your book meet your readers’ felt need? What is your solution to their problem? Be specific. (Where are they mentally, emotionally and spiritually, and where will they be afterward?)
- 5. What support helps prove your market exists? (stats, research, trends, reports, etc.)
- 6. Survey the competition and compare the content of the significant competition in print. Find at least 3 similar titles and how yours is different.
- 7. Outline your writing experience and annual sales of your previously published works.
- 8. Summarize your education, experience and career background.
- 9. Explain your qualifications to write on this topic and your platform (speaking, ministry, affiliations, churches, groups, endorsers, friends/influencers in the industry, etc.). Provide endorsements and/or a foreword, and share how you will promote.
- 10. In 100 words, share why you wrote this book. What does it mean to you personally?
