By Jennifer S. Wilkov, host of the “Your Book Is Your Hook!” Show on WomensRadio
www.yourbookisyourhook.com
As authors and writers, we’re always learning about resources and industry tools that we can use to improve our book project performance and the enjoyment of our writing and marketing experiences. Today let’s talk about why your book is your hook and reasons to write it.
Books are one means of expressing yourself about what you love, what you are passionate about, what you’ve figured out or what you’ve dreamed up.
Fiction writers capture their wildest dreams and fantastic imaginations in their novels which we love to read. Some create characters that reoccur – and become their hook –
like James Patterson’s Alex Cross.
Others become the hook themselves – as the author – like John Grisham, Nicholas Sparks or Jodi Picoult.
Nonfiction writers promote their passions and what situations they’ve solved in an enjoyable way of conveying solutions and systems to the voracious reader.
Their hook could be their take on the topic or the book cover, their title or the author’s credentials. Other reasons people may read these books could be based on their recognition of the author themselves such as Dr. Mehmet Oz or Jillian Michaels.
Young adult writers hook their readers with sagas, soap operas and slang that speaks to this audience. There are books like Kody Keplinger’s coming-of-age novel, The DUFF – meaning “Designated Ugly Fat Friend” – where the title itself is the hook, which has now hooked Hollywood and is being made into a film. Even recognizable stars are taking a stab at the YA market like Hillary Duff whose first YA novel, Elixir, will be the start of a series of books when it is released in the Fall.
Children’s authors often hook their readers through great illustrations, subject matter and the title. A child’s eye is attracted to what looks like a fun read. Oftentimes, children’s authors forget that pictures do speak louder than words with this audience – and usually there is a limit to the words you can write for these books based on their age. So your hook has got to serve the market – and so does your book.
Whether you are Anthony Bourdain, renowned chef and author of both cookbooks and novels, or Neil Sedaka, who stole our hearts singing and now delights our kids with his children’s books, there’s room for you and your book.
But to capture their interest and candidly said, you’re going to need a hook.
Regardless of which writer you are, remember to consider the hook for your book and strengthen it inside your manuscript and in your marketing plan, platform and efforts.
It’s one of the most attractive parts of your book that could win you contracts, customers and kudos.