Turning an Idea Into Something Coherent
Turning something internal and undefined into a clear, structured narrative over time.
This episode begins a series on writing a book, starting with the part that’s often the least clear.
Not structure. Not formatting.
What you’re actually trying to say.
Writing a book is a different kind of problem.
The material is internal. The direction isn’t obvious.
The challenge is turning something loosely formed into something coherent over time.
In this episode, I walk through:
- How to set the intention behind the book
- Finding your voice and point of view
- Shaping an initial idea into something you can begin working on
This is about more than writing. It's taking something undefined and making it real. One step at a time.
If you've ever dreamed of writing a book but didn’t know where to begin, in this ongoing series, I’ll guide you through the creative and journey of bringing your book to life. This episode lays the foundation.
Listen on:-
Resources
Images
https://www.istockphoto.com
https://www.pexels.com
"Book Doctors" and “line” Editors
Have a Manuscript Critique done on your draft or idea by SCRIBENDI before you write the entire manuscript.
I also have them do a line-edit for me to proof read the layout before giving it to my publisher.
Note: the cost to edit is based on word count. Cost for an initial “critique” is less. Both of these services are critical if you want to not just have a good book - you want a great book. Repeat as needed. I sometimes have 3 edits done before I publish and I ask for a fresh sight of eyes and different viewpoint by requesting a different editor each pass.
https://www.scribendi.com
Self- publishing
You can self publish via PRINT ON DEMAND. The two big ones are Create Space by Amazon and Ingram Spark. Note Amazon actually uses Ingram to print and distribute. So if you want long term stability you might put in the extra work and use Ingram Spark. Ingram has made this experience easier and similar to the simpler system Amazon uses. You'll make more money if you go direct to Ingram vs publishing with Amazon. That's the topic for another podcast, as many who use Amazon don't read the fine print and understand the difference between distribution and printing.
INGRAM SPARK→https://www.ingramspark.com
AMAZON CREATE SPACE → https://kdp.amazon.com/en_US/create
ISBNs
You will need an ISBN. Amazon and Ingram will sell you one. If you're going to write a few books you might get your own set of ISBNs that you own. ISBN numbers are all sold and managed by Bowker. Purchase your own ISBN from Bowker.
Copyright
Copyright your manuscript. You can’t copywriter a book title. Go to the US trademark and patents office website, create an account, pay a small fee, upload your manuscript, and done!
Trademarks
Few book authors need to apply for a trademark. if you have something special you want to mark, you will need to have more than one book (a series) before you can claim trade mark. Unlike the simple one-step process of submitting a copyright (registering your work), obtaining a trademark is a long and expensive process and not worth it unless you also have the money to defend the mark should it be compromised.
The above links go to the first podcast episode on writing a publishing a book. There are a few additional ones that eventually cover covers, design, layouyt, publishing, marketing, etc. The following audio files are provided to make it easier for you to complete the task of learning how to write and publish your first book. There are 4 episodes total.
Congrats on starting your journey.
Good luck!