Book Review - How To Write A Book Proposal

How to Write a Book Proposal, by Michael Larsen; 280 pgs. published by Writer's Digest Books 2003

Went to an Exposure Group, black photographer's group, meeting here in D.C. a few years ago and heard Jason Miccolo Johnson speak about how he prepared his book Soul Sanctuary for publication. And he said one of his first resources was this book on how to get a book published. I picked up both "Soul Sanctuary" and this book, read both and shelved them.

Recently I got serious about getting a book of photography published, so I went into my library and pulled this joint off the shelf. Luckily I'd already highlighted and dog-eared the most important parts. Upon reading the book again, I found new wisdom I hadn't noticed before. What struck me most about this book, was how damn thorough it was. Basically the author takes you by the hand and leads you with gentle authority through the process.

His prose is open, optimistic, but also realistic. He says in no uncertain terms - if you want to successfully publish and promote your book you will need to do a real work. Quite possibly more work than it took to write or compile the book in the first place. Prepare yourself for rejection and to jump through hoops.

I found this challenge refreshing. It's an easy read. Very well laid out in small chapter chunks so not to overwhelm you.

If you're looking to have a book published by a publishing house, you will find no better than this one.