This post was provoked by the many people who have asked me questions about authoring and publishing books over the years. So I thought I’d jot down my answers in one post for ease of future reference.
Presently, I’ve written over nine books published by five different publishers. And thankfully (surprisingly), each one has done well. So while I claim no expertise in this area, I can write from what I’ve experienced so far.
A few of the points below apply only to first-time authors. But most apply to all authors, aspiring and established.
Blogging Through Bonhoeffer: Part I
Loved the candid and frank way all this was put across. Those points are so meticulously culled out for us to learn at the click of the mouse.
I have some 800 pages of notes I had made for my weekly home bible study over the past 5 years. But they are verbose, written in my speaking style. I’d rather not try to publish them without “editing” them ruthlessly.
I salute you for the superb effort of seven books!
Frank, this is gold. Excellent thoughts and time-tested truth.
Frank, thank you for this. It was of great help.
With regards to #14… if you could do it again, would you have released Pagan with a different title?
My topic does challenge the ‘status quo’ and I am wrestling with a title that is someone controversial verses something a little ‘softer’ for our Christian crowd. I am also thinking of changing the way it is written (the tone) to be a little more ‘softer’ overall rather than challenging people beliefs and essentially saying that they are/could be wrong. Not because I don’t want to, but rather I am thinking the message might be missed by some if I come across to ‘hard’.
I know you had some challenges with that in Pagan, so was wondering your advise. Would you have done it differently, or was it worth the ‘headache’ to release the book in the way it came across?
Thanks for your help brother!
Nic: Great question. The publishers first wanted to change the title, but the more they thought about it, they came to the conclusion that they couldn’t improve upon it. In their words, “Pagan Christianity hit the ball out of the park.” They suggested putting a question mark at the end of the title, to which I agreed. But no, I wouldn’t change the title. I think it’s perfect for the book. The only thing I would have done differently is put in the beginning of the book that it isn’t a stand alone volume, but it’s the first part of a discussion . . . the deconstructive part only. And the sequels must be read to get the whole argument. The paperback version comes out next month, and that point is stated clearly in the first few pages.
One thing to keep in mind is that if a message is watered down, it makes no impact. It will certainly get more head-nods from people, but it will change little. This has been the problem with most church renewal books. They simply tweak the system without going to the roots. While “Pagan Christianity” created no small stir when it released, the impact its had has been tremendous, especially among those who have read the companion volumes (http://www.ReimaginingChurch.org).
Thank you Frank.
Brilliant advice on all fronts and really helps me out tons! Even the question mark suggestion.
Thanks for all you do Frank.
This blog post itself was worth more to me than many other books read on the topic. Appreciate it and hope to meet you one day in person.
Thanks again.
Thanks Frank. That was very helpful advice. So far I’ve only self-published a few books, but as a slow-starter, maybe I’ll really get moving shortly.
Frank,
Thank you for your 25 pointers. Very helpful and generous of you. I wonder how to find a writer partner to help me with my manuscript. I am in process of rewriting now. Probably take me another couple months to have it ready to share.
Thanks Frank,
I was wondering how long you spend on a book in total? Also what place do you see for books that are simply an extension of a preaching or teaching ministry without necessary being unique? People will buy a book often because they know the preacher even if he is saying the same as another preacher/author they never heard of. Is this what John meant about the whole world not being able to contain all the books that could be written about what Jesus did?
On the first question, it depends on the book. For some, a few months. For others, years. I plan to write a post on my writing process in the future as many have asked me about it. Second, I do not see any reason why a book should exist if it’s not unique in some way. Better to just point to someone else’s work if it’s already been done. I do that often. I’m happy that others have written about various subjects or covered them in unique ways so that I don’t have to.
Frank, I think #1 and #2 are the most broken rules. Many people think because they have accomplished a little and read books on what they are doing, they are qualified to write. They are writing the same things they are reading without changing the material any more than enough to keep them from getting sued.
This post has been encouraging to me in my pursuit of writing. I turn 40 next year, but I have not reached five years experience at what I am writing about. I think I will learn more and just keep blogging.
Thanks,
Steve
Frank:
I respect this advice a lot, because frankly, you’re one of my all-time favorite authors. Waiting to read Revive Us Again…
But I guess I’m a little bummed about the age 40 idea you present. As you know, there has been a lot of great books (and great art for that matter) that has been published (or recorded, sang, drawn, created) by those under 40. I 100% get that age and experience and time are areas you can’t speed up. But I also believe there are people who can (and do) create amazing works despite lacking the age and experience you say is required.
Other than that one point (which I’m still wrestling with), I love all the advice and take it all to heart! Keep writing!
John: Thanks. See my Discography where I talk about the difference between music art and writing art. The best music work has been done by people in their 20s. The best writing work has been doing by those after 40. By I’m speaking of non-fiction spiritual books. Fiction and pop work is a different matter. When writing on spiritual matters, time, experience, and testing is worth it’s weight in gold. Just my opinion of course based on the observation of life. So I stand with G.H. Lang. Even so, human motivated ambition needs to be given to God so He can do the work. If it’s not of Him, it has no eternal value.
Great reply! Love the insights. Thanks for the response.
Wow…53 replies on this article! Interesting: “both of us” who read your blog have so many online identities. Great advice, Frank, but it really didn’t help my writers’ block. Which is not really writers’ block but a matter of deciding exactly which of the books I’ve considered writing or started writing is the one to finish. My computer is full of unfinished books just as my sewing closet is full of quilts “in progress”. You have said so much, so well, for all of us…perhaps I’ll finish a quilt instead of a book. I’m way past 40 and not getting any younger. 🙂
I started writing my life story before I was 40. I’m 65 now & it’s still not finished! Should one ask an agent to look at an unfinished book?
Dear Sir,
I have read a few of your books and very encouraged by what I read. It is good to know that what was living in my heart for many years is actually something has awakened in other peoples heart as well. And for this reason I am to you to find out weather it is possible to put some of your ideas into Arabic Language so some of my people looking for some thing different can benefit of the revelation of Organic Church.
Looking forward to hear from you.
Frank, I’ll be glad to let you know how my publishing goes! It’s all very terrifying and exciting. :o)
Thanks for he tips! I definitely needed this!
Great post, Frank! (Got here from Neil Cole’s blog)
Some simple thoughts on #1 (from a waaaay too young guy):
If people under 40 never publish stuff, the market would be narrowed down a whole lot. Established thoughts would not be as radically questioned – and we wouldn’t reach as broadly with out message (especially reaching the young readers). Some of the best and most challenging books I’ve read the last couple of years, are written by young guys. Though I understand the point behind this tip, I would say that it has the potential to rob us from great books from a new generation of writers, with a prophetic and new voice – now. (Even the non-fictional 😉
Blessings brother!
Per: Thanks for your comment. Truthfully, I’m not aware of any person under 40 who has written a book in our time that has said something new or radical that hasn’t been said by others. (I’m speaking of non-fiction work.) And I read a lot of books and often get the new releases that publishers send me. Click this link for some of the best books ever penned. The most savvy of young readers are familiar with them. But most aren’t. http://www.ptmin.org/library – btw/ I’m adding more books to the list which will total 100. Hopefully by the summer.
Your #1 made me laugh. I’m working on a women’s devotional to accompany the first book that’s being published this year, and I realize I could not have written it without having been “seasoned” a bit myself.
You said keep your expectations low…. done! However, yesterday, I had someone stop by my house and ask if my book was out yet because they wanted to buy one! I got the “let me know” person ready and waiting! It’s good to know word’s getting out!
My writing schedule is the hardest to maintain. I expect to much of myself in that area. Any suggests?
I’ve started a blog last month and interest is growing. I’ve gone international – 7 countries so far…. it impressed me anyway. 🙂 So, I’m working on it 3 or more times a week.
I have yet to tweet. Intimidated to say the least. To tweet or not to tweet… I can’t decide.
Thanks for your post. Lots of information and encouragement. Your work appears quite purposed by Him. Blessings to you.
So much information in one article! Everything about publishing a Christian Book hits home for me. I’ve authored God’s Healing Plan and have just begun with the process. And you are right, I’m glad I waited until after the age of 40 to publish. I wouldn’t have been wise or skilled enough before that time! That’s great advice!
Lastly, one of my greatest disappointments are the reactions of Christians and their writings to Christian authors. I’m saddened by their anger and rage – over the smallest things, such as who is the publisher.
Thanks for writing this article. This is so helpful!
Janice: I lament with you. Surveys and studies keep showing that non-Christians aren’t interested in the faith mainly because Christian people are so mean, insensitive, unkind, and abusive toward their fellow Christians. This deeply hurts our Lord when His children treat one another so. His principal message, “Treat others the same way you want to be treated” is so often disregarded by His followers.
Great post!
Speaking of #22 why so many Christian blogs don’t allow comments?
They would probably learn something new.
Great article. I passed it on to the ACFW small critique group I lead.
I’m getting ready for some of the experiences you are talking about. My first novel, Burning Hearts, an arson/murder, historical suspense (WWII era) comes out in May 2011.
Thank you for taking the time to post this great information Nancy. It’s great information.
Thank you, Paulette. It’s nice seeing that people are finding it of help. Feel like it was worth the time.
Thanks for taking the time to write this, Frank.
I’m a new writer, 38—so not far off 40! I’ve started with a blog, and having read your advice, I think I’ve made the right decision. Getting feedback on my writing and building a readship before tackling a book sounds like a smart move.
I do think I have a book (or more) in me, but I’m in no hurry to go down that track. I’m just enjoying writing, and trying to get better at it.
I also suspect that, once I’ve blogged for a while, a theme will emerge that will be a solid idea for a book. Another good reason to blog!
Thanks for the challenge of point 4 (live it before you write it) and the warning of point 14 (expect opposition if you challenge the status quo); both very valuable pieces of advice.
Thanks for linking to my posts Frank and for compiling some great information for your readers. Great stuff here.
Frank,
Thanks so much for these tips. Great stuff. I need to file this away for future reference!
This is great stuff Frank! Thanks! I know I’ll have to revisit this a number of times for it to sink in.
Dear Frank,
Thank you so much for this blog. For me personally, it came at an opportune time. I’m in the process of publishing my first book, Viral Jesus. It has been accepted for publication by a major Christian publisher and has a release date of 2/2/12. I’m not completely through the entire publishing process yet but the experiences I have had, resonate with what you have said.
I have struggled with your second point: Be sure your book contains unique content. My struggle began long before you stated point #2 in this blog. So much has been said, over the years, that it is probably impossible to be completely unique in content. However, we can ask a fresh question, which will highlight a new perspective, on what many people are experiencing. That is what I hope to do with my upcoming book. I hope to answer the question, “What will it take to once again see a viral movement of the Spirit in the West.” Other than that, we can only write from passion and obedience to what we feel the Lord is asking us to write.
Finally, thanks for noting points #1 … a person shouldn’t publish a book before age 40, and #4, If you’re writing non-fiction, be sure that you’ve experienced what you’re writing about for at least 5 years. I’ve been planting simple churches among non-Christians, in both Spain and the US, since 2003. Yet, the learning curve is still steep. There are no greater lessons than mistakes and making fools of ourselves. Theory is great, but reality is never as pristine as the theory we cook up in our heads. Our assumptions need to be hammered out on the anvil of reality before they are worth sharing with the world.
This is fantastic. Thanks for sharing…
#15 is so true. I am amazed at how God loves to delight us when we just don’t stress over it. However, it is beneficial to have high expectations for your writing craft. Do your best and trust the One who controls the rest.
valuable words, and perhaps point 8 is the cogent argument for self-publishing–in certain niches…
Frank, thanks so much for sharing these insights! I’ll be publishing my first novel, in the Christian fantasy genre, in April or May. My publisher is a brand-new, indie publishing company — so for me, your point about self-promotion is especially valuable. I’m very clear on the fact that if I don’t talk about my book, nobody’s going to hear about it.
Two years, ago, I would’ve been shocked and horrified at the risk I’m taking with this experiment! But with the advent of Kindle and other e-readers, as well as the increase of social media networking, I’m amazed at the possibilities we writers have for spreading the word about our works. We have so many more advantages now than writers did ten, even five years ago!
It’s all terribly exciting to me — even as my more practical side counsels caution. After all, I’m not 40 yet. ; ) But over the past two years, God has crossed my path with too many opportunities and too many fantastic people for me not to take the risk. If nothing else, it’s going to be a terrific learning experience!
Courtney: Sounds great. Let us know how it all goes. Btw/ I think Lang’s advice regarding age has to do with non-fiction works. Hemingway wrote his first book in his 20s. A novel of course.
Great advice, Frank. I’ve been pondering a lot of this lately. I really appreciated your perspective, as you’re someone who has definitely lived what you teach.
I have a collection of prose and poetry centered in Christ. I realize there is little to no interest by the publishing world for writings of this nature. I plan to self publish of course, since there is no other publishing method available for the poetic verse. The way I see it is that if the writings I have been given are to be shared, then they will be published. I don’t worry about all the proper ways of the publishing world. My goal is not money, but to share what is given to me to share. Will it be a best seller? I don’t think so, not by a long shot. I am confident it will be in the hands in which it is intended. I have never liked poetry before, I always thought it to be a frivolous thing. Then one day I had the notion to go sit at the pc and just write. That day the words just flowed out of me and has continued to this day. Anyway, I would say that some of your suggestions would not apply to my type of book, the demand is just not there in the publishing world. Self publishing is the only alternative in my case, I would think.
Thanks Kat. Go with your passion! Sounds like a great project.
Fantastic post Frank. Thanks for sharing. I will not be publishing for 15 more years.
Good stuff here that rings true to my own experience. Working with an agent–if you can find one–and a publisher have problems of their own. Pay attention to points 11 and 12.
Great article, Frank! Thanks for the tips.
Regarding point number 6, I think this is great advice because I think a lot of first time writers make the following mistakes:
1. Writing the book/proposal before they’ve tested the concept with other readers.
2. Fear someone stealing their idea.
I remember reading that author David Sedaris does public readings of his material and gauges what works based on the reaction of his audience. That is invaluable feedback. There is a lot of content out there, and one should only be so lucky to write something so good that someone wants to steal it! I think it’s far more important to get your ideas out there, let others discuss it, and learn what needs to change in order for it to be more effective.
Thanks for this Frank. I think a lot of writers will benefit from it. It matches my own experiences in publishing.
This is great. It confirms some suspicions I’ve had. I’ve felt something ruminating but it’s not time and here are concrete reasons why it’s not time.
Thanks a whole lot Frank. I was considering writing a book until I read this piece 🙂
Is #2 possible?
What is it about #14? Why are status-quo professing christians on a par with the most evangelistic of atheists with attacks? I encounter this on blogs and debate sites.
On #16 how much of Pagan Christianity and Reimagining Church was “Holy Retribution” directed towards the institutional system 🙂 I with great glee detected a note here and there 🙂
And thank you for it!
This is a great help I may just venture out into the water.
Michael O: Thanks. Yes on #2. Not every word of course, but too many books that cross my desk just repeat what others have said the same exactly way. And often, repeat things that aren’t true (like the clergy/laity class division/assumption). #14, humans are the same as they were when prophets of old were killed. I can’t explain it beyond that. #16, not a single word. Those books, as stated in the beginning and end, have one job. To clear away the clutter so that Jesus Christ can be seen, glorified, embodied, and known in His fullness. And for His magnificent Bride to be restored again wherever possible. Unfortunately, some people will project what’s in them onto a book. Whether that be anger, bitterness, etc.
Excellent. I especially like #3.