A book proposal does more than simply pitch your idea to an agent or publisher—it is the beginning of a business relationship with a publisher. It should answer several questions, including:
- Why should a publisher invest in this project?
- Why are you the right person to write the book: what’s your authority and expertise on the subject?
- How will you, as an author, help to sell books? What’s your “author platform” and book marketing plan?
For many authors, writing a proposal is an entirely foreign challenge.
Using my research into nonfiction techniques and a marketing background, I help authors position their books to make a larger impact and attract publishing partners and agents.
Book Proposal Development
Have an idea for a book and are ready to work on the proposal? I can coach you to write a proposal that makes the strongest case for your book. Our work together includes:
- Exploring publication options and paths
- Envisioning and clarifying the book you plan to write
- Exploring related books, audience, and market
- Describing why you are the person to write this book
- Developing a book marketing plan
- Creating a strong hook and overview
- Strengthening the chapter overview and sample chapters
We will work together during weekly calls, usually over a two-month period, to get your proposal together and decide on your next steps.
Book Proposal Critique
If you already have a proposal in the works or drafted, I can identify ways that you can make your proposal stronger and more appealing.
You’ll send me the proposal draft and we’ll book a consultation call to discuss what works and your next steps. The cost of the critique and consultation is $600.
To get started with either service, send an email to anne [at] annejanzer.com.
I feel so very fortunate to have had Anne’s guidance in developing my book proposal! As a first-time author, I had no clue what a viable nonfiction book proposal should look like and initially consulted someone who was, honestly, not helpful. I was discouraged but decided to take another chance after reading Anne’s description of herself as an ‘armchair cognitive science geek, nonfiction author coach…’ In our first zoom meeting, Anne succinctly walked me through what worked and what didn’t in my proposal, gave me insight into what agents were looking for, and offered to do further follow-up with me. She did all this with a warm and encouraging tone that put me at ease and gave me renewed confidence in the importance of my work. Lovely person, shrewd insight, grammar mastery. If you are looking for a supportive expert for your book proposal, your search ends here.
