How to Publish a Non-Fiction Book Traditionally

Bursting the Bubble

Writing a book is similar to birthing a baby—it’s hard work and you bring it into this world. I wrote both of my books while pregnant with a child and let’s just say they were both memorable experiences!

Many people have a desire to write a book but don’t know where to start. I hear you—I’ve been there. Oftentimes the presumption is that you write a full book, send it to some publishers, and voila, a book with your name on it is out there in the world for all to read.

If you’ve thought this, caution: that’s not how it works.

Getting your book traditionally published is a long journey filled with ups and downs, sideways and byways, both terrifying and exhilarating. I’m here to help. In 2016 I signed a two-book deal with a major Christian publisher and both books have now been published. I’m here to share what I learned and along the way, hope it helps you in your own journey.

Write a Book Proposal

Remember when I said you don’t write the whole book? Instead, you write a proposal. What’s that? you might ask? Well, it’s essentially a pitch…a sell. Your pitching your book idea, and perhaps more importantly, YOU. A publisher wants to know that you're both talented and sellable.

The proposal should include your main idea, a pitch on you and your platform, a chapter summary for the book, and 2 sample chapters. I used resources from Michael Hyatt to learn how to do this. He has an e-course on how to do this, along with some helpful articles. There are also other great resources out there you can find with a simple google search.

Also, consider attending a writer’s conference. I never did but I have friends who have found them incredibly helpful. Many of these conferences will have industry professionals who will look at your proposal and give you feedback. In the least, have someone good with grammar edit your proposal before all of this as well.

Get an Agent

Once your proposal is finished it’s important to find an agent. A literary agent has the relationships to find you a book deal with a publisher, help you refine your proposal, and navigate the publishing journey with you. I have found mine to be incredibly helpful in learning the ropes, what’s normal and what’s not, and how to foster a publisher relationship. Think of them as your guide, advocate, and cheerleader.

A literary agent shouldn’t ask for money upfront, however, they do take a percentage of everything you earn.

Here’s a list from Micahel Hyatt of Christian literary agents. You can also google search the term and find agents you're interested in submitting your proposal to.

Find a Publisher

Once you have signed with an agent, that person will work to get you a deal with a publisher. The goal is to get you the best deal possible!

I will say, don’t be afraid to ask questions or say no. I was so eager to get a deal that I didn’t interview the publisher or leave room for someone to have a better offer. I said yes to the first offer I got and wish I would have been more cautious. In contrast, a friend of mine interviewed a potential publisher to see if the fit was mutual and it worked out great in finding the right fit!

Once you have signed with an agent, that person will work to get you a deal with a publisher. The goal is to get you the best deal possible!

Write the Book

Once you have signed a book deal with a publisher, it’s time to get to work again! They will give you a timeline, ranging from a few months to a year. Try to opt for a longer timeline so you have room to write. So important!

You’ll send your first draft in and they will assign an editor to you to work out the kinks and polish for print! Lean into this person. Writers can be defensive of their work but know that an editor’s job is to make your book the best version it can be. Hear them out; be open to their feedback. I loved that both of my editors made my books better!

Marketing 101

I learned the hard way my first time around that an author needs to go the extra mile in marketing. I assumed the publisher would do all the work for me and while they did help with a launch strategy and got me some interviews, there was so much more that could have been done.

The second time around I sent out my own press inquiries and booked multiple podcast interviews. I saw a notable difference in my book sales as a result. I found Author Media to be a great resource for learning how to market a book.

A Little Encouragement

The path to publishing will likely be hard. There’s rejection involved. A lot of “no” before you get that life-changing “yes.” But it’s all worth it! If this is truly your dream, don’t stop. Persevere until the end! Most authors face rejection often in their pursuit—I and so many of my author friends did—so don’t think you’re the only one. Learn from the no’s and keep going.

If you have any questions about the process, feel free to contact me. I’m happy to help!