Delving into the Core Issue for Writers: Defining the Central Theme?
In the world of publishing, having a captivating and concise pitch for your book is crucial. Whether you're publishing on platforms like Smashwords or trying to catch the eye of an agent or publisher, a well-crafted summary can make all the difference.
In this article, we're joined by Doug Lewars, a seasoned author with 13 books published on Smashwords.com. Doug shares his insights on the art of the elevator pitch, a brief summary used to impress someone with a casual interest in your work.
When it comes to publishing, an author will need at least one short and one longer blurb for their book. For online publishing on Smashwords, for instance, two blurbs are required—a long one and a short one. The short blurb serves as a quick idea of the book's interest, providing a starting point for answering questions about the book. The long blurb, on the other hand, can make or break a sale if the book gets into a prospective reader's hands.
Doug suggests that an elevator pitch in a literary context could consist of a one-sentence positioning statement, a few plot points, and an indication of the book's genre. He recommends practicing this pitch in front of a mirror for a smooth delivery. To gauge the length, Doug suggests setting a timer for 30 seconds and counting words.
However, writing blurbs is not an easy task. They require careful thought and consideration to encapsulate the essence of your book in a few words. But, as Doug implies, with practice, one can become proficient in describing their book.
Doug also offers some advice for those who may struggle to explain the plot of their book to someone who asks. If an elevator pitch sounds flat, it may not be effective for the listener. He suggests making the pitch engaging by selecting a few plot points and drawing in the audience, making them curious to read the book.
Each summary serves a different purpose: networking, catching an agent or publisher's interest, and persuading a reader to buy the book. For instance, a summary is also needed for a query letter to catch an agent's or publisher's interest.
Doug Lewars is not necessarily old but is approaching the end of his writing career. Despite this, he continues to enjoy activities such as reading, fishing, and eating sweets. His contributions to this article underscore the importance of the elevator pitch and blurbs in the publishing world.
This article serves as a guide for authors looking to perfect their elevator pitch and blurbs, ensuring they make a lasting impression in the competitive publishing landscape.
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