Includes bibliographical references and index.

This Writer's Digest classic from literary agent Michael Larsen outlines in a clear step-by-step manner how to create an effective nonfiction book proposal. The 4th edition of the book features information about recent changes in the publishing industry, updated trend information, new sample proposals, a completely updated resources section, and a new chapter on online promotion.

Why now is the best time ever to write books: twenty reasons for you to be a writer -- McBook: the fastest, easiest way to use this book -- What's in it for you? Reasons to use this book -- Pushing your hot buttons: choosing the right book for you to write -- Getting off the pin: the first three steps to take with your idea -- Getting paid to write your book: the parts of the irresistible proposal -- Selling the sizzle: your opening and hook -- Naming rites: finding the answers you need to choose your title -- Your selling handle and the models for you book -- Bennies for readers, royalties for you: listing you book's benefits -- Adding value to your book: special features.

Following the money: four kinds of markets for your book -- Sizing up the comps: competing and complementary books -- The base of your golden triangle: creating the communities you need -- Eyes are the prize: building the platform your book needs -- The web as synergy machine: building your online platform -- Laying your life on the lines: your bio -- Ushering you baby in to the world: putting your promotion plan on paper -- Making your desk promotion central: your online campaign -- Throwing something in the pot: your promotion budget (Optional) -- Taking the guesswork out of publishing: fourteen ways to test-market your book to guarantee its success.

Using Niche craft to create a career out of your idea: spin-offs -- Star power: your foreword and cover quotes -- Your call to arms: a mission statement -- chapter choices: finding the best way to write your outline -- Giving your outlines structure and heft -- No time for sophomores: strategies for outlining six kinds of books -- A taste of the feast: a Q & A session about your sample chapter -- Making your proposal more salable: the benefits of writing your manuscript first -- Making your work look as good as it reads: formatting your proposal -- The breakfast of champions: getting feedback on your proposal.

Publishing on the vertical slope of technology: seeking the right publisher for you and your book -- Get published or self-publish: Do you need a publisher? -- The hook, the book, and the cook: write and send your (E- )query letter -- The first impression: making your proposal look like it's worth what you want for it -- DIY: The joys of self-publishing -- Pushing the envelope: how to sell your book yourself -- Meet the matchmaker: how an agent can help you -- Recipes for a successful book and the best publishing experience -- Starting with the end in mind: setting your personal and professional goals -- From author to authorpreneur: the building blocks for growing from small to big -- Spring is coming: the prologue.

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