Book Proposal Book: A Guide for Scholarly Authors

The scholarly book proposal is a mysterious genre that most scholars receive no training on. The Book Proposal Book by Laura Portwood-Stacer guides prospective authors through the process of crafting a compelling proposal and pitching it to university presses. It features over fifty time-tested tips, sample prospectuses, a letter of inquiry, and a response to reader reports. It also provides advice on how to overcome common sticking points and get your book published.

Format: Hardback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 13 July 2021
Publisher: Princeton University Press

The scholarly book proposal holds a mysterious allure within academia, often leaving aspiring authors perplexed and lacking proper guidance. While it is a crucial requirement for publication, most scholars receive little to no training in crafting these proposals, leaving them at a significant disadvantage. The absence of exposure to proposals can further compound the challenge, as they are often expected to produce them without having seen examples beforehand.

To address this gap, The Book Proposal Book emerges as a comprehensive guide, offering a step-by-step roadmap for prospective authors. Authored by experienced developmental editor and publishing consultant, Laura Portwood-Stacer, the book empowers aspiring authors to navigate the complexities of the book proposal process with confidence.

Portwood-Stacer begins by guiding authors in selecting the appropriate presses to target, emphasizing the importance of identifying the right audience and competing titles. She breaks down the process into manageable tasks, providing clear instructions on how to craft a project description that captivates editors' attention. The book is packed with over fifty time-tested tips, sample prospectuses, letters of inquiry, and responses to reader reports from real authors, offering invaluable insights and practical guidance.

Furthermore, The Book Proposal Book includes optional worksheets and checklists to assist authors in organizing their ideas and tracking their progress. It answers dozens of the most commonly asked questions about the scholarly publishing process, providing clarity and reassurance throughout the journey. Whether authors are embarking on their first book or have an unfinished proposal languishing on their hard drives, this book offers honest, empathetic, and invaluable advice on overcoming common sticking points and securing publication.

Moreover, The Book Proposal Book underscores the significance of a well-conceived proposal beyond its mere function as a hurdle to clear. It demonstrates how a well-crafted proposal can serve as a catalyst for creating an outstanding book. By aligning the proposal with the author's vision and goals, authors can establish a strong foundation for their work and increase its chances of success in the competitive publishing landscape.

In conclusion, The Book Proposal Book is a indispensable resource for aspiring authors seeking to navigate the enigmatic world of scholarly book proposals. With its comprehensive guidance, practical tips, and valuable insights, this book empowers authors to craft compelling proposals, pitch them to university presses, and achieve their publishing aspirations. By embracing the power of a well-crafted proposal, authors can unlock the doors to their literary journeys and leave a lasting impact on the academic community.

Weight: 484g
Dimension: 162 x 241 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691215723