An excellent resource for non-fiction writers

Joanna Penn has become the go-to mentor for writers aspiring to become professional authors, and this excellent guide reinforces that well-earned reputation.

Clearly narrated by Caroline Holroyd, who has superb diction and a discernible empathy for the subject matter, this book takes the listener through easily digestible stages of the process step-by-step. The subjects covered are wide ranging, covering everything from the initial inspiration to write a book, summoning the self-confidence to do so, the best way to research, organise and get the material onto the page, through to finding an agent or publisher or going the self-publishing route.

As a self-publishing star in her own right, Penn also has plenty of wisdom to pass on about the modern reality that faces ALL authors—marketing, whether you are traditionally published or not. The whole gamut is considered, from Amazon and Facebook ads, Bookbub promotions, email list building and blogging as an author, as well as social media, live events and a great deal more besides.

Easy to listen to, but with a plethora of information to digest and act upon, I’d suggest getting this as an accompaniment to the paperback or ebook version as well, to save you scribbling reams of notes!

For writers serious about publishing their work, this is highly recommended. Another worthwhile investment from the prolific Joanna Penn.

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1 person found this helpful

Very helpful and inspiring

I cannot recommend this book enough, it has all the information I need to start my non fiction writing journey with spin off books to deep dive into specific topics and know how. Very helpful as well as very inspirational. Thank you!!

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amazing

personally I wasn't sure about getting this book because I know how to write nonfiction fiction but I'm so glad that I did buy it. the book was filled with amazing information and its very useful.

filled with useful information besides how to write nonfiction.

you need to read this book!

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Essential info for writing your non-fiction book

An excellent primer on all the major aspects of developing a non-fiction book idea into a complete, published work.

Joanna writes in an extremely clear manner that builds logically, precept upon precept. There is no fluff, and these are the principles Joanna herself has used to become a successful author.

As a regular listener of Joanna's excellent podcast The Creative Penn, I wasn't sure I'd connect with the narration being in an unfamiliar voice. But, Caroline Holroyd does a great job – and delivery is along similar lines to Joanna's quintessentially British tone.

Current, clear and concise. Well worth a listen.

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Packed with Helpful Information

This book, like all of Penn's books is absolutely jam packed with useful information. The chapters are clearly laid out and take you through the process in an easy to follow manner. I did find the reading a little monotone but that could just be me. An excellent book which I can highly recommend.

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Pretty good for a starter

I’m just dipping my toe, so take my review with a pinch of salt! I took a lot from it, but will probably come back to it as I progress.

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Not impressed

I purchased this expecting technical help after one hour I gave up! The author talks mostly about other books and authors. I wanted self help not other people's successful publication. I might persevere and review again if it gets any better not holding our much hope

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7 people found this helpful