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Book Proposals That Sell by W. Terry Whalin
This book reveals insider information to help you avoid the pitfalls of rejection in writing a book.
- GenresWritingNonfiction
Paperback
First published April 1, 2005
13 people are currently reading
364 people want to read
About the author
W. Terry Whalin
44 books411 followersW. Terry Whalin understands the editorial desk--as an editor and a writer. He worked as a magazine editor and his work has appeared in more than 50 publications. Terry is an Acquisitions Editor at Morgan James Publishing. He has written more than 60 books through traditional publishers. Terry's newest book released on October 5, 2021 called BOOK PROPOSALS THAT $ELL, 21 SECRETS TO SPEED YOUR SUCCESS (REVISED EDITION). Another recent book from Terry is, 10 PUBLISHING MYTHS, INSIGHTS EVERY AUTHOR NEEDS TO SUCCEED . Late in 2014, Terry had another new book, BILLY GRAHAM, A BIOGRAPHY OF AMERICA'S GREATEST EVANGELIST. Terry is a popular speaker at numerous writers’ conferences and an active member of the American Society of Journalists and Authors.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
May 9, 2010
For a writer contemplating moving your manuscript to publication, you need this book.
Reading Book Proposals that Sell: 21 Secrets to Speed Your Success, by W. Terry Whalin, is of great benefit for the writer seeking publication.
Packed with straight forward instruction on the publishing industry complete with resources and samples, you will read and continue to refer back to this book.
I purchased this book at a CLASSeminar recently and immediately began to delve into it. At first, I was overwhelmed at the information included.
As I began research the websites, read the samples, seek out the author's website, I expanded my knowledge and felt both somewhat knowledgeable but also intrigued to know more and quickly ordered Jumpstart Your Publishing Dreams, another of Terry Whalins' books.
This is a must have book and should be on the shelf of any unpublished author. I recommend it highly.
Reviewed by: Keiki Hendrix
Reviewed for: The Vessel Project
Reading Book Proposals that Sell: 21 Secrets to Speed Your Success, by W. Terry Whalin, is of great benefit for the writer seeking publication.
Packed with straight forward instruction on the publishing industry complete with resources and samples, you will read and continue to refer back to this book.
I purchased this book at a CLASSeminar recently and immediately began to delve into it. At first, I was overwhelmed at the information included.
As I began research the websites, read the samples, seek out the author's website, I expanded my knowledge and felt both somewhat knowledgeable but also intrigued to know more and quickly ordered Jumpstart Your Publishing Dreams, another of Terry Whalins' books.
This is a must have book and should be on the shelf of any unpublished author. I recommend it highly.
Reviewed by: Keiki Hendrix
Reviewed for: The Vessel Project
April 1, 2024
Practical, inspiring, and motivating!
July 17, 2018
I sometimes judge a non-fiction book by how many times I've underlined key thoughts. If I judged this book by that measure alone, it deserves the 5 stars I give it.
I do not want to write a book proposal. It feels like I'm back in school and have to turn in a term paper. Terry Whalen helped me understand WHY a book proposal is necessary and important. His stats on the average cost publishers pay to buy a manuscript and publish a non-fiction book got my full attention and helped me realize I better write the best proposal I can to convince them to commit that kind of money to me. His details comparing children's books' costs to non-fiction books had me shaking my head.
One of the strengths Whalin brings to the table is the fact he's sat on both sides: writer and acquisition editor. He knows how editors and authors think. He teaches his readers how an editor looks for any excuse to reject a proposal because of the depth of proposal piles on his or her desk.
This book is rich in resources. He gives helpful advice based on years of experience about what to delete fron your proposal, how to submit simultaneously and not burn any bridges you may want to cross in the future.
What I found most helpful: how to frame the overview and pitch the editor; the importance of the overview and what part it plays when your book is presented to the publishing house; whatever date you tell the editor you'll complete the book goes in your contract; a proposal checklist; and an actual proposal that earned a six figure advance.
For someone like me trying to learn how to improve my skills at writing a successful proposal, Whalin provided a perfect book. It did not overwhelm while being dense with additional resources to check out. This book informed, gave money-making tips, and inspired me with facts and true stories to do the work of writing an excellent proposal. I now understand why that's so important. Thank you, Terry.
I do not want to write a book proposal. It feels like I'm back in school and have to turn in a term paper. Terry Whalen helped me understand WHY a book proposal is necessary and important. His stats on the average cost publishers pay to buy a manuscript and publish a non-fiction book got my full attention and helped me realize I better write the best proposal I can to convince them to commit that kind of money to me. His details comparing children's books' costs to non-fiction books had me shaking my head.
One of the strengths Whalin brings to the table is the fact he's sat on both sides: writer and acquisition editor. He knows how editors and authors think. He teaches his readers how an editor looks for any excuse to reject a proposal because of the depth of proposal piles on his or her desk.
This book is rich in resources. He gives helpful advice based on years of experience about what to delete fron your proposal, how to submit simultaneously and not burn any bridges you may want to cross in the future.
What I found most helpful: how to frame the overview and pitch the editor; the importance of the overview and what part it plays when your book is presented to the publishing house; whatever date you tell the editor you'll complete the book goes in your contract; a proposal checklist; and an actual proposal that earned a six figure advance.
For someone like me trying to learn how to improve my skills at writing a successful proposal, Whalin provided a perfect book. It did not overwhelm while being dense with additional resources to check out. This book informed, gave money-making tips, and inspired me with facts and true stories to do the work of writing an excellent proposal. I now understand why that's so important. Thank you, Terry.
Read
August 6, 2008A must read for anyone trying to get a publishing contract for a non-fiction book.
August 20, 2009
For the past 6 years, I have been working on a manuscript for a book I've been writing. I wish I would have read this first. If you want to publish a non-fiction book, READ THIS FIRST
March 24, 2017
When an Agency that I follow recommended this book, I picked it up, and I'm so glad I did. It was written in a simple, easy-to-read style that make getting through it a breeze, and short chapters that eliminate the biggest headaches when going back to find something later. To answer some of the criticisms:
Yes, much of this advice is posted on the internet and you can find it for free, but I like the convenience and not having to search for what those things, print them out and keep them somehow or save the link and hope I remember to go back later and look for it. It's up to each person to weigh the cost of the book versus the time, research, and storage methods for the same information.
Yes, some of the advice is simple. However, if you've picked up very many books by self publishers, apparently the advice isn't common sense. (Please note, I am not bashing self published authors here. I have read several that I enjoyed quite a lot. I am simply agreeing with Mr. Whalin that not everyone understands the basics like spell-checkers are not going to find every spelling error in a manuscript.)
As some reviewers have pointed out, the book uses examples from publishers and authors that are Christian. While I don't understand the difference that makes in the mechanics of building a book proposal, I can understand that some won't like this. Ultimately, I understood that Mr. Whalin was pulling from his experience, which seems to be in the Christian publishing world.
Perhaps the book is not as grammatically correct as some would like, but I prefer it. It felt more like a conversation than a lecture, which encouraged me to keep reading. Other books I've tried on this subject came across very different, and while I forced my way through them, it was a chore. This book was easy, which to me, makes it more valuable.
It is not clear from the description of the book that it is primarily for non-fiction proposals. That is not to say that fiction writers will not find any value in the book, but you need to be prepared to find another resource that is specific to fiction genres.
Overall, I found great value in this book and it was well worth the money I paid for it. I can see it as a resource that I refer to multiple times as I build my next few proposals.
Yes, much of this advice is posted on the internet and you can find it for free, but I like the convenience and not having to search for what those things, print them out and keep them somehow or save the link and hope I remember to go back later and look for it. It's up to each person to weigh the cost of the book versus the time, research, and storage methods for the same information.
Yes, some of the advice is simple. However, if you've picked up very many books by self publishers, apparently the advice isn't common sense. (Please note, I am not bashing self published authors here. I have read several that I enjoyed quite a lot. I am simply agreeing with Mr. Whalin that not everyone understands the basics like spell-checkers are not going to find every spelling error in a manuscript.)
As some reviewers have pointed out, the book uses examples from publishers and authors that are Christian. While I don't understand the difference that makes in the mechanics of building a book proposal, I can understand that some won't like this. Ultimately, I understood that Mr. Whalin was pulling from his experience, which seems to be in the Christian publishing world.
Perhaps the book is not as grammatically correct as some would like, but I prefer it. It felt more like a conversation than a lecture, which encouraged me to keep reading. Other books I've tried on this subject came across very different, and while I forced my way through them, it was a chore. This book was easy, which to me, makes it more valuable.
It is not clear from the description of the book that it is primarily for non-fiction proposals. That is not to say that fiction writers will not find any value in the book, but you need to be prepared to find another resource that is specific to fiction genres.
Overall, I found great value in this book and it was well worth the money I paid for it. I can see it as a resource that I refer to multiple times as I build my next few proposals.
November 8, 2013
If you are a non-fiction writer, this book will give you a wealth of information on what publishing looks like from the inside. The key insight of the book is that publishers don't need a manuscript; what they want is a proposal. As much as I have learned from professors and published authors, I have never found so much practical information from a publisher's perspective.
October 4, 2015
THis is a must read book for every writer and author. W. Terry Whalin shares his expertise on how to write the best book possible, and how to get it published. THANK YOU GOODREADS FIRST READS FOR THIS FREE BOOK!!!!!
July 25, 2015
I learned practical knowledge on how to write a book proposal. Many good tips.
October 5, 2021
As an author, I am always on the lookout for books that help me in my quest to become a published author. When I discovered Terry Whalin's BOOK PROPOSALS THAT SELL, I knew immediately that I had a winner in my hands; in reading it, I was not disappointed. Whalin shares his great knowledge of the publishing world to help writers with what many of us consider the scariest aspect of the writing business. Whalin's instruction is concise, clear, well-informed, and interesting--the most important part of any book especially a book of non-fiction.
I was a little put off by Whalin's declarations that he knows what he is talking about, but his boasts are not out of order; Whalin truly does know his stuff. Writers who are writing their proposals will definitely benefit from Whalin's expertise. I can only hope and pray that with his recommendations and sound advice that I will be able to sell my next book from an incredibly well written book proposal.
"Disclaimer: I have received a digital ARC of this book from the author with no expectation in return. The comments above are my own."
I was a little put off by Whalin's declarations that he knows what he is talking about, but his boasts are not out of order; Whalin truly does know his stuff. Writers who are writing their proposals will definitely benefit from Whalin's expertise. I can only hope and pray that with his recommendations and sound advice that I will be able to sell my next book from an incredibly well written book proposal.
"Disclaimer: I have received a digital ARC of this book from the author with no expectation in return. The comments above are my own."
October 6, 2021
I’m thrilled to add this revised edition to my writing resource library! Terry Whalin’s knowledge of the industry is phenomenal, and I’ve benefited over the years from his previous edition. I’m glad to have this updated version to help me continue the writing journey! My favorite chapter is the encouraging Secret # 20 – Get More Proposals Out the Door. Whalin points out, “Every writer needs to learn patience, and the best way I’ve been able to handle patience is to plunge into a new endeavor.” Thank you for this great resource, Terry Whalin! I’m sure I’ll refer to it often on my next writing endeavors!
(Disclaimer: I received an advanced copy for my perusal, however, I loved the previous book so much that I've already ordered my personal copy of this revised edition. And it comes in next week!)
-Julie Lavender, author of 365 Ways to Love Your Child: Turning Little Moments into Lasting Memories (Revell) and Children's Bible Stories for Bedtime (Z Kids/Penguin Random House)
(Disclaimer: I received an advanced copy for my perusal, however, I loved the previous book so much that I've already ordered my personal copy of this revised edition. And it comes in next week!)
-Julie Lavender, author of 365 Ways to Love Your Child: Turning Little Moments into Lasting Memories (Revell) and Children's Bible Stories for Bedtime (Z Kids/Penguin Random House)
October 5, 2021
“Book Proposals That $ell: 21 Secrets to Speed Your Success” provides an overview of:
• practical information about writing a book proposal
• insider insights on why and how a publisher chooses books for publication
• advice about obtaining endorsements
• importance of attending writer’s conferences
• understanding the author’s marketing responsibilities.
Terry’s “last-minute questions to ask about your book proposal and sample chapters,” and as well as his book proposal checklist summarizes the key points. Included is a sample book proposal that incorporates what the book teaches on how to write a book proposal. At a writer’s conference, I recall an attendee raving about Terry’s book and how it helped her write a successful book proposal.
Disclaimer: I received a digital ARC of “Book Proposals That $ell” from the author for an objective review and this review reflects my thoughts after reading the ARC.
• practical information about writing a book proposal
• insider insights on why and how a publisher chooses books for publication
• advice about obtaining endorsements
• importance of attending writer’s conferences
• understanding the author’s marketing responsibilities.
Terry’s “last-minute questions to ask about your book proposal and sample chapters,” and as well as his book proposal checklist summarizes the key points. Included is a sample book proposal that incorporates what the book teaches on how to write a book proposal. At a writer’s conference, I recall an attendee raving about Terry’s book and how it helped her write a successful book proposal.
Disclaimer: I received a digital ARC of “Book Proposals That $ell” from the author for an objective review and this review reflects my thoughts after reading the ARC.
August 5, 2017
Whalin warns the reader at the outset that this book is meant for writing non-fiction book proposals, but honestly, this book is incredibly helpful for fiction writers as well. There's a lot of valuable info to be gleaned from here--especially Whalin's insights into how the publishing world works and why authors need to understand that if they're going to write an effective book proposal. From a fiction writing perspective, certainly not all of Whalin's advice is applicable, but a lot of it is, and I'm really happy to have read it.
Rating: 4 Stars (Very Good).
Rating: 4 Stars (Very Good).
July 15, 2017
Terry breaks down the steps to creating a book proposal in an easy to follow guide. He knows what it takes and this should be a must for anyone aspiring to get a book published.
October 4, 2021
BOOK REVIEW:
BOOK PROPOSALS THAT SELL
“Book Proposals That $ell” by Terry Whalin is a practical guide and handbook for authors who plan on writing a book or already hold a manuscript of their book and want to get published by a large publishing house. If you’re writing your first book, but don't know where to start, “Book Proposals That $ell,” is for you. With step-by-step instructions, this guide will teach you how to write a winning book proposal--and get your book published.
Terry Whalin, an author and book editor, released a new revised edition of his “Book Proposals That $ell”. He guides aspiring authors through the maze of national Publishing Houses. Successful selling of a well drafted manuscript ensures the author future royalties and a well-crafted product to be proud of.
What will the author get from the book publishing industry? (1) Sales and royalty of the book (2) An official document called an ISBN number which is a number that unifies the production of a book and its legitimacy. (3) Portability of the ISBN number to other publishers for an easy publishing and printing. (4) A book produced and printed in a high class format since it is done through professional book layout and design procedure. (5) The books is stored in the Library of Congress using the ISBN number. (6) Have the book released and sold in major book stores.
In the Age of Amazon anyone can self-publish a book. But a self-published book mostly languishes in obscurity.
Whalin takes the reader of this guide book through the concept that a published book is a profitable business venture for the Publishing House.
A proposed or written manuscript has to be pitched to, and evaluated by, a professional literary agent or an acquisition book editor with a track record in the publishing business. Next, an acquisition editor needs to be sold upon, to advocate the manuscript before the Business Board of the reputable Publishing House. The Business Board consists of publishing executives, senior editors who are known for their exceptional expertise in the publishing field, (who may be editors of prestigious magazines or editors of different books); book marketing and book-selling experts.
In order to convince the board of the publishing house to offer a contract, the author must demonstrate understanding and willingness to be a partner in marketing and show a potential of a wide public readership audience who will buy the book.
Whalin’s guide book for successful book proposals includes every detail - all information on how to find a literary agent, or where to meet and how to pitch to a publisher’s acquisition editor. It includes his 21 secrets for successful book proposal based on his own many years of experience as an author and book acquisition editor.
Whalin’s book is a how-to guide that shows you what to do and explains why you should do it. It’s your personal roadmap to getting published by a large publishing house like Penguin, HarperCollins, Simon & Schuster, Morgan James, etc.
This guide includes an actual sample of a winning book proposal contributed by Michael Hyatt, the former CEO of Thomas Nelson Publishers. Just studying the instructions chapter by Mr. Hyatt is well worth studying Whalin’s present 2021 complete revised hand book.
I studied Whalin’s new book and expanded my writing and publishing world understanding.
If you want to get your book published by a large publishing house, this is the guide for you!
BOOK PROPOSALS THAT SELL
“Book Proposals That $ell” by Terry Whalin is a practical guide and handbook for authors who plan on writing a book or already hold a manuscript of their book and want to get published by a large publishing house. If you’re writing your first book, but don't know where to start, “Book Proposals That $ell,” is for you. With step-by-step instructions, this guide will teach you how to write a winning book proposal--and get your book published.
Terry Whalin, an author and book editor, released a new revised edition of his “Book Proposals That $ell”. He guides aspiring authors through the maze of national Publishing Houses. Successful selling of a well drafted manuscript ensures the author future royalties and a well-crafted product to be proud of.
What will the author get from the book publishing industry? (1) Sales and royalty of the book (2) An official document called an ISBN number which is a number that unifies the production of a book and its legitimacy. (3) Portability of the ISBN number to other publishers for an easy publishing and printing. (4) A book produced and printed in a high class format since it is done through professional book layout and design procedure. (5) The books is stored in the Library of Congress using the ISBN number. (6) Have the book released and sold in major book stores.
In the Age of Amazon anyone can self-publish a book. But a self-published book mostly languishes in obscurity.
Whalin takes the reader of this guide book through the concept that a published book is a profitable business venture for the Publishing House.
A proposed or written manuscript has to be pitched to, and evaluated by, a professional literary agent or an acquisition book editor with a track record in the publishing business. Next, an acquisition editor needs to be sold upon, to advocate the manuscript before the Business Board of the reputable Publishing House. The Business Board consists of publishing executives, senior editors who are known for their exceptional expertise in the publishing field, (who may be editors of prestigious magazines or editors of different books); book marketing and book-selling experts.
In order to convince the board of the publishing house to offer a contract, the author must demonstrate understanding and willingness to be a partner in marketing and show a potential of a wide public readership audience who will buy the book.
Whalin’s guide book for successful book proposals includes every detail - all information on how to find a literary agent, or where to meet and how to pitch to a publisher’s acquisition editor. It includes his 21 secrets for successful book proposal based on his own many years of experience as an author and book acquisition editor.
Whalin’s book is a how-to guide that shows you what to do and explains why you should do it. It’s your personal roadmap to getting published by a large publishing house like Penguin, HarperCollins, Simon & Schuster, Morgan James, etc.
This guide includes an actual sample of a winning book proposal contributed by Michael Hyatt, the former CEO of Thomas Nelson Publishers. Just studying the instructions chapter by Mr. Hyatt is well worth studying Whalin’s present 2021 complete revised hand book.
I studied Whalin’s new book and expanded my writing and publishing world understanding.
If you want to get your book published by a large publishing house, this is the guide for you!
October 5, 2021
If you are a writer – especially if you are a writer aspiring to be a traditionally published author one day – this book is extremely helpful and informative.
This new revised edition of “Book Proposals That Sell” by W. Terry Whalin has been edited and updated for this current era of publishing. Because things change so quickly in the realm of book publishing, I appreciate the effort that the author has put into this book to ensure that the information is up to date.
Chapters two and three provide a helpful glimpse into the myriad of responsibilities an acquisitions editor at a publishing house deals with on a daily basis. Not only was this fascinating, but it also gave me a deeper understanding of just how complex the process of acquisitions can be. I never realized everything that goes into not only accepting a manuscript but also seeing that manuscript through to publication.
This book will also serve as a terrific resource for me in my work as a freelance editor. I help many writers and aspiring authors with developmental editing and line editing of their full-length manuscripts – both fiction and nonfiction. Many of them are not sure what the next step is as far as publishing their work. “Book Proposals That $ell” provides great insights that will help writers determine whether traditional publishing or self-publishing is right for them.
If you choose to go the way of traditional publishing, “Book Proposals That $ell” offers a step-by-step guide directing you in how to go about it. (I will definitely recommend it to clients with whom I work. Even though I've been in the “wordsmith” business for over a decade, this book provided a lot of details regarding the behind-the-scenes work that goes on in publishing houses – things I never knew.)
On a personal note, this book inspired me. I worked on several book proposals several years ago in hopes of getting my own manuscripts out there, but it’s been a while since I did anything with them. After reading these secrets and practical tips on how to go about getting a book proposal accepted, I'm ready to pull out my proposals and keep polishing them until they're ready to send out.
Some of the “secrets” outlined in this book are not exactly secrets but rather, important strategies and or tips to keep in mind while going through the process of submitting a book proposal. While some facts and tips are things I've come across before, either at writer’s conferences or while reading other books on writing and publishing, to have it all outlined and defined clearly in step-by-step format makes it easy to understand the overall process and accomplish one thing at a time until you've written a proper book proposal.
In fact, that's one of the most helpful aspects of this book. In addition to the great insider information that's provided, the organization of this book and the way it's laid out makes it very clear the steps that writer needs to go through one at a time in order to prepare a winning proposal.
I highly recommend this book for aspiring authors. Even if you’re not sure whether traditional publishing is the direction you want to go, this book is jam-packed with statistics, information, and tips. A terrific guide for every writer.
Disclaimer: I have received a digital ARC of this book from the author with no expectation in return. The comments above are my own.
This new revised edition of “Book Proposals That Sell” by W. Terry Whalin has been edited and updated for this current era of publishing. Because things change so quickly in the realm of book publishing, I appreciate the effort that the author has put into this book to ensure that the information is up to date.
Chapters two and three provide a helpful glimpse into the myriad of responsibilities an acquisitions editor at a publishing house deals with on a daily basis. Not only was this fascinating, but it also gave me a deeper understanding of just how complex the process of acquisitions can be. I never realized everything that goes into not only accepting a manuscript but also seeing that manuscript through to publication.
This book will also serve as a terrific resource for me in my work as a freelance editor. I help many writers and aspiring authors with developmental editing and line editing of their full-length manuscripts – both fiction and nonfiction. Many of them are not sure what the next step is as far as publishing their work. “Book Proposals That $ell” provides great insights that will help writers determine whether traditional publishing or self-publishing is right for them.
If you choose to go the way of traditional publishing, “Book Proposals That $ell” offers a step-by-step guide directing you in how to go about it. (I will definitely recommend it to clients with whom I work. Even though I've been in the “wordsmith” business for over a decade, this book provided a lot of details regarding the behind-the-scenes work that goes on in publishing houses – things I never knew.)
On a personal note, this book inspired me. I worked on several book proposals several years ago in hopes of getting my own manuscripts out there, but it’s been a while since I did anything with them. After reading these secrets and practical tips on how to go about getting a book proposal accepted, I'm ready to pull out my proposals and keep polishing them until they're ready to send out.
Some of the “secrets” outlined in this book are not exactly secrets but rather, important strategies and or tips to keep in mind while going through the process of submitting a book proposal. While some facts and tips are things I've come across before, either at writer’s conferences or while reading other books on writing and publishing, to have it all outlined and defined clearly in step-by-step format makes it easy to understand the overall process and accomplish one thing at a time until you've written a proper book proposal.
In fact, that's one of the most helpful aspects of this book. In addition to the great insider information that's provided, the organization of this book and the way it's laid out makes it very clear the steps that writer needs to go through one at a time in order to prepare a winning proposal.
I highly recommend this book for aspiring authors. Even if you’re not sure whether traditional publishing is the direction you want to go, this book is jam-packed with statistics, information, and tips. A terrific guide for every writer.
Disclaimer: I have received a digital ARC of this book from the author with no expectation in return. The comments above are my own.
October 6, 2021
Book Proposals That $ell brings a whole new understanding of the publishing world. From a look in the board room to a peek at an editor’s calendar, Terry Whalin shows why a book proposal is crucial to an author’s success. Terry says, “Nine out of ten nonfiction books are sold from a nonfiction book proposal.”
W. Terry Whalin is an acquisitions editor with Morgan James Publishing. His articles have appeared in more than 50 publications and he has authored more than 60 books. Terry has a website for writers of all genres called Right-Writing(dot)com.
Terry wants authors to know the book proposal is a tool to sell a publisher on your manuscript. It also gives an editor ammunition to take to the Pub Board, lending passion to the pitch. Even if an author self-publishes, the book proposal serves as a “business plan and a roadmap for your book.”
I found the chain reaction account of a tardy book interesting. When an author is late turning in the manuscript, it backlogs editors, reviewers, sales forecasters and print runs.
Another eye-opening lesson is found in the spine of a book. When an author requests a spiral-bound book, they’re asking the publisher to give up prime real estate for marketing that book.
Book Proposals That $ell is a valuable resource for every writer, providing tips to catch an editor’s attention, secrets critical to success in marketing your book proposal, checklists for pitching the essence of your idea, and twelve maxims for any writer.
Terry admonishes us to “never lose the wonder of the opportunity,” and encourages authors to persist in the industry. “Every publisher is looking for new talent, and they need and want your book proposals.”
Do you want to be published? Then, first master the book proposal, and then partner with your publisher to launch your masterpiece into the world!
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author with no expectation in return.
W. Terry Whalin is an acquisitions editor with Morgan James Publishing. His articles have appeared in more than 50 publications and he has authored more than 60 books. Terry has a website for writers of all genres called Right-Writing(dot)com.
Terry wants authors to know the book proposal is a tool to sell a publisher on your manuscript. It also gives an editor ammunition to take to the Pub Board, lending passion to the pitch. Even if an author self-publishes, the book proposal serves as a “business plan and a roadmap for your book.”
I found the chain reaction account of a tardy book interesting. When an author is late turning in the manuscript, it backlogs editors, reviewers, sales forecasters and print runs.
Another eye-opening lesson is found in the spine of a book. When an author requests a spiral-bound book, they’re asking the publisher to give up prime real estate for marketing that book.
Book Proposals That $ell is a valuable resource for every writer, providing tips to catch an editor’s attention, secrets critical to success in marketing your book proposal, checklists for pitching the essence of your idea, and twelve maxims for any writer.
Terry admonishes us to “never lose the wonder of the opportunity,” and encourages authors to persist in the industry. “Every publisher is looking for new talent, and they need and want your book proposals.”
Do you want to be published? Then, first master the book proposal, and then partner with your publisher to launch your masterpiece into the world!
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author with no expectation in return.
October 5, 2021
I found this book helpful in explaining what publishers look for in a good proposal and also in going over the parts that make up a good book proposal. I had purchased the original back in 2014, but with the constantly changing world of publishing, I was anxious to see this revised edition. It did not disappoint. W. Terry Whalin balances well both the writers' and the publishers' side of book proposals. This is a great reference for the nonfiction writer who is working on his or her first book proposals. He helps new writers to learn and avoid common mistakes in drafting a proposal. The information Whalin offers is practical and step-by-step and comes from decades of working in the publishing industry. The book divisions make it easy to later find any part of the proposal or helps a writer would like to review. The appendices offer helpful advice, tips, and a well-known publisher's guide to a winning proposal. I appreciate the candor in the difficult but not impossible task of traditional publishing. I highly recommend this book to new writers desiring to move towar
**I was provided an advanced readers copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. This is my review.
**I was provided an advanced readers copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. This is my review.
October 3, 2021
If you think writing a book is hard, wait until you tackle writing the book proposal. But if you do it right, a book proposal will help put you and your book on the fast track to success.
In Book Proposals That $ell: 21 Secrets to Speed Your Success, W. Terry Whalin tells you how to write a book proposal that will make publishers want to buy your book—and more.
Even if you’ve already written your book, if you’re hoping to be traditionally published, you must have a book proposal. If you’re planning to self-publish, the process of creating a book proposal will contribute to the success of your project in ways you may not have considered.
Book Proposals That $ell: 21 Secrets to Speed Your Success provides a candid look at how the publishing industry works. It’s rich with stories, each one providing a lesson of what you should and shouldn’t do. It’s up to you to decide if you want to follow Whalin’s advice—I’m recommending that you do.
Disclaimer: I received a digital review copy of this book from the author. This review is my honest opinion of this book.
In Book Proposals That $ell: 21 Secrets to Speed Your Success, W. Terry Whalin tells you how to write a book proposal that will make publishers want to buy your book—and more.
Even if you’ve already written your book, if you’re hoping to be traditionally published, you must have a book proposal. If you’re planning to self-publish, the process of creating a book proposal will contribute to the success of your project in ways you may not have considered.
Book Proposals That $ell: 21 Secrets to Speed Your Success provides a candid look at how the publishing industry works. It’s rich with stories, each one providing a lesson of what you should and shouldn’t do. It’s up to you to decide if you want to follow Whalin’s advice—I’m recommending that you do.
Disclaimer: I received a digital review copy of this book from the author. This review is my honest opinion of this book.
October 8, 2021
Avoid blowing your big opportunity!
Ten years ago, I knew it was time to start looking for an agent or publisher and I found the first edition of “Book Proposals That $ell.” It both helped me understand the publishing industry and also write a better proposal, but perhaps its greatest value was warning me against all the rookie mistakes that could have blown my big opportunity when I connected with an acquisitions editor. Thanks to his advice, he signed me—so count me a fan of Terry Whalin!
Even then, the book was dated, so I was thrilled to hear he was writing a revised edition. It does not disappoint. Filled with new tips and insight, I’ll be happy to keep this on my shelf as a reference for another ten years!
Disclaimer: I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
Ten years ago, I knew it was time to start looking for an agent or publisher and I found the first edition of “Book Proposals That $ell.” It both helped me understand the publishing industry and also write a better proposal, but perhaps its greatest value was warning me against all the rookie mistakes that could have blown my big opportunity when I connected with an acquisitions editor. Thanks to his advice, he signed me—so count me a fan of Terry Whalin!
Even then, the book was dated, so I was thrilled to hear he was writing a revised edition. It does not disappoint. Filled with new tips and insight, I’ll be happy to keep this on my shelf as a reference for another ten years!
Disclaimer: I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
September 29, 2021
I explored the idea of traditionally publishing my book, but avoided the overwhelming task of creating a book proposal, until a fellow author encouraged me. As I seriously considered the process, this book was brought to my attention.
Everything I need to create a professional book proposal is provided in this book. The author outlines the steps to build a professional book proposal that sells & gets the attention of agents & publishers.
I love the 21 secrets & the valuable insights the author shares as an industry expert. The proposal creative process is simplified, making it less daunting for the first timers. Every Author should get this book!
Disclaimer: I have received a digital ARC of this book from the author with no expectation in return. The comments above are my own.
Everything I need to create a professional book proposal is provided in this book. The author outlines the steps to build a professional book proposal that sells & gets the attention of agents & publishers.
I love the 21 secrets & the valuable insights the author shares as an industry expert. The proposal creative process is simplified, making it less daunting for the first timers. Every Author should get this book!
Disclaimer: I have received a digital ARC of this book from the author with no expectation in return. The comments above are my own.
September 28, 2021
Help For A Stellar Book Proposal
Great book filled with much needed information on how to create a book proposal that will get the attention of an agent or acquisition editor. If you're wanting to publish that book you've worked so hard to write, you need this for your next step to publication.
With a professionally written proposal, your book has a much better chance for a publisher to want to publish your book. Count this as part of your professional development and help in taking your career to the next level.
Disclaimer: I have received a copy from the author with no expectation in return. The thoughts and comments above are my own.
Great book filled with much needed information on how to create a book proposal that will get the attention of an agent or acquisition editor. If you're wanting to publish that book you've worked so hard to write, you need this for your next step to publication.
With a professionally written proposal, your book has a much better chance for a publisher to want to publish your book. Count this as part of your professional development and help in taking your career to the next level.
Disclaimer: I have received a copy from the author with no expectation in return. The thoughts and comments above are my own.
October 7, 2021
If you want to get traditionally published, this book is a must-read. It pulls back the curtain on the publishing industry, giving you solid facts you need to know to be successful. I'm a traditionally published author myself, and this advice is spot-on. It will save you lots of time and money, and possibly even get you published if you apply all the concepts, especially the one to stay humble and teachable. Smart, to-the-point, and knowledge-packed, this is an essential read for aspiring authors.
July 5, 2023
Book Proposals That Sell is just what I need. It provides a step-by-step process (with examples) that guides me through the tangled forest of book publishing. His process is so simple that I am not only willing, but excited to create a proposal that can attract my ideal agent. Terry also makes it clear that proposal writing is not easy. That it takes care and dedication. But his guidance, including valuable references, provides a clear path to an author's publishing goal. This book is a must-have for every author who is on the publishing path.
February 5, 2025
Terry Whalin writes from the perspective of a successful author, editor, journalist and insider to the world of publishing. My eyes were opened by the descriptions of how acquisition editors study and pitch books to an editorial team. I took notes on each secret to publishing success. Now I'm following the valuable tips and the sample book proposals at the end of the book - hoping for a win! I highly recommend this book to anyone working on a fiction or non-fiction manuscript. Read this before you finish your manuscript or pitch it to a publisher.
October 6, 2021
This is my go-to book for everything book publishing, especially for non-fiction! Terry's knowledge is unsurpassed from years of actually working in the acquisitions side of publishing. If you want to know the hints and tricks to get your book into the right hands fast, I definitely recommend this one.
October 15, 2021
The # 1 book I suggest when people ask how to publish a book. I used the original book by W Terry Whalin when I began my first book. I believe Terry’s secrets helped me get my first and second book contract with a traditional publishing house. With writer’s conferences up and running you will need this to help you in your publishing journey! The Revised Edition is a must-have.
October 17, 2022
Purchased paperback
Writing a proposal seems daunting but this book really seems to boil it down to small, actionable steps. Which ironically is parallel to the habit change book I am writing a proposal for!
I have already referenced this book twice since finishing it. I know it will live at my fingertips for awhile.
Writing a proposal seems daunting but this book really seems to boil it down to small, actionable steps. Which ironically is parallel to the habit change book I am writing a proposal for!
I have already referenced this book twice since finishing it. I know it will live at my fingertips for awhile.
August 19, 2025
Valuable insights from a trusted source
As a writer, the publishing industry has been quite a mystery. In Book Proposals that Sell, Terry offers straightforward and challenging advice to help authors understand the effort needed to deliver a quality product. I’m eager to pursue my writing, now armed with a better understanding of what I need to do to improve my books.
As a writer, the publishing industry has been quite a mystery. In Book Proposals that Sell, Terry offers straightforward and challenging advice to help authors understand the effort needed to deliver a quality product. I’m eager to pursue my writing, now armed with a better understanding of what I need to do to improve my books.
October 6, 2021
A great update to an already excellent book. I am convinced I received my first two book contracts because of the secrets shared in Book Proposals That Sell. I will use the updated information to get the third.
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