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Get to the Publishing Punchline: A Fun (and Slightly Aggressive) 30 Day Guide to Get Your Book Ready for the World
As a literary agent, Joy Eggerichs Reed sees book proposals that, unfortunately, she writes off after about sixty seconds of skimming.
While that may sound harsh, there are specific things she looks for that show her immediately how seriously a writer takes their goals of getting published.
Even though the first steps of writing and figuring out how to publish a book can feel daunting, this book will not only give you everything you need for an incredible proposal, but demystify the publishing process, tell you how to market yourself authentically (and enjoyably), and cheer you on with practical next steps as you decide which publishing route is best for you.
And, Joy wants to make this whole process FUN.
This is an upbeat 30-day guide with easy to follow examples, stories, and funny illustrations (that you're more than welcome to color in because your brain will need a break), as well as insider knowledge about how to catch an agent's eye, how to land your dream endorsement and how to wildly increase your chances of getting a book deal.
Non-fiction, memoir, or novel—this book will help authors (especially first-timers) who have questions and feel alone in the writing process. Let Joy be your (slightly aggressive) friend who will encourage you, tell you what to do, and leave you feeling oh-so-confident because of all the progress you've made by day 30. If you let this book guide you, I PROMISE you will close the last page, involuntarily shout, "WOW, I did that!"
You’ll also get to know way more about Joy’s personal life than you probably wanted.
Take a look at some of the topics to see if you want to get aggressive and join the fun:
Writing Schedule and Accountability
Author Vision, Tone, Genre, and Audience
Table of Contents, Chapter Summaries, and Chapter Samples
Network, Marketing, Endorsements, and Book Launch
Author Bio, Platform, Writing, and Speaking
Structure, Design, and Auxiliary Products
Elevator Pitch and One Sentence Summary
Edits, Typesetting, and Proposal Layout
Headshots, Videos, and Website
Timelines for Hitting Goals
Self Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing
While that may sound harsh, there are specific things she looks for that show her immediately how seriously a writer takes their goals of getting published.
Even though the first steps of writing and figuring out how to publish a book can feel daunting, this book will not only give you everything you need for an incredible proposal, but demystify the publishing process, tell you how to market yourself authentically (and enjoyably), and cheer you on with practical next steps as you decide which publishing route is best for you.
And, Joy wants to make this whole process FUN.
This is an upbeat 30-day guide with easy to follow examples, stories, and funny illustrations (that you're more than welcome to color in because your brain will need a break), as well as insider knowledge about how to catch an agent's eye, how to land your dream endorsement and how to wildly increase your chances of getting a book deal.
Non-fiction, memoir, or novel—this book will help authors (especially first-timers) who have questions and feel alone in the writing process. Let Joy be your (slightly aggressive) friend who will encourage you, tell you what to do, and leave you feeling oh-so-confident because of all the progress you've made by day 30. If you let this book guide you, I PROMISE you will close the last page, involuntarily shout, "WOW, I did that!"
You’ll also get to know way more about Joy’s personal life than you probably wanted.
Take a look at some of the topics to see if you want to get aggressive and join the fun:
Writing Schedule and Accountability
Author Vision, Tone, Genre, and Audience
Table of Contents, Chapter Summaries, and Chapter Samples
Network, Marketing, Endorsements, and Book Launch
Author Bio, Platform, Writing, and Speaking
Structure, Design, and Auxiliary Products
Elevator Pitch and One Sentence Summary
Edits, Typesetting, and Proposal Layout
Headshots, Videos, and Website
Timelines for Hitting Goals
Self Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing
- GenresWriting
197 pages, Paperback
Published June 13, 2021
15 people are currently reading
28 people want to read
About the author
Joy Eggerichs Reed
2 books7 followersJoy Eggerichs Reed is the founder of Punchline Agency: A literary and speaking agency for people good on the page and stage. Aside from managing and negotiating on behalf of authors and speakers, Joy consults with aspiring writers, speakers, and those seeking to clarify a message or idea.
Prior to being an agent, Joy got her start as a blogger and speaker, creating over 500 written and video posts and speaking to audiences of up to 12k people on the topic of singleness and relationships. In 2017, Joy launched Punchline Agency to represent and develop communicators and voices she believed needed to be heard.
She currently resides as an expat in Paris, France with her husband Matt and two petite bébés, Millie and Emerson. Collectively, their family consumes thirty-four percent of the country's croissant production.
Prior to being an agent, Joy got her start as a blogger and speaker, creating over 500 written and video posts and speaking to audiences of up to 12k people on the topic of singleness and relationships. In 2017, Joy launched Punchline Agency to represent and develop communicators and voices she believed needed to be heard.
She currently resides as an expat in Paris, France with her husband Matt and two petite bébés, Millie and Emerson. Collectively, their family consumes thirty-four percent of the country's croissant production.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
June 13, 2021
I had the chance to read Joy’s book before it’s release and I think I’ll write a book now.
Her voice is clear - if you’ve frequented her Instagram you’ll understand that reading her book is no different from hearing her talk about the warm baguette her husband just brought home or Millie’s alter-ego, Rita, finally returning from her vacation in Bora Bora.
If you have ever considered writing a book this is what you need to read first. She’ll hold your hand as she’s walking you to edge of the nest, giving you every single step you need to create a clear, concise and well-prepared book proposal right before she pushes you out (don’t worry, you can fly!).
Joy says it best here:
“Maybe your book will get published by the imprint you’ve always dreamed of, maybe you’ll print off twenty-five copies for friends and family at a local printer, or maybe you’ll write a book and keep it on your computer, knowing the process and practice helped you to heal.
“Whatever it ends up being, there is something inside of you that has a desire to get this story, this message, on the page. When you feel those nerves sneaking up on you and you grab the trash bin next to your desk at the thought of finally writing this book, ask yourself:
‘Is there a world in which I would be on my deathbed and regret having written this book?’
“If your answer is no, then let’s get cracking. We’ve got some fun to do.”
Her voice is clear - if you’ve frequented her Instagram you’ll understand that reading her book is no different from hearing her talk about the warm baguette her husband just brought home or Millie’s alter-ego, Rita, finally returning from her vacation in Bora Bora.
If you have ever considered writing a book this is what you need to read first. She’ll hold your hand as she’s walking you to edge of the nest, giving you every single step you need to create a clear, concise and well-prepared book proposal right before she pushes you out (don’t worry, you can fly!).
Joy says it best here:
“Maybe your book will get published by the imprint you’ve always dreamed of, maybe you’ll print off twenty-five copies for friends and family at a local printer, or maybe you’ll write a book and keep it on your computer, knowing the process and practice helped you to heal.
“Whatever it ends up being, there is something inside of you that has a desire to get this story, this message, on the page. When you feel those nerves sneaking up on you and you grab the trash bin next to your desk at the thought of finally writing this book, ask yourself:
‘Is there a world in which I would be on my deathbed and regret having written this book?’
“If your answer is no, then let’s get cracking. We’ve got some fun to do.”
August 26, 2022
I picked up this book because I wanted to fine-tune my book proposal, but mostly because I was intrigued by Joy and wanted to get to know her better. Even though I had already written my proposal, I found reassurance that many of the things I’d learned from my dear writing community and writing coach were also important to Joy. I wish I’d read Joy’s book a year ago when my book idea made sense to me until I tried to wrap words around it. So point #1, writers—buy this book. Read this book. Listen to Joy. And don’t give up on your proposal! Joy will un-complicate the proposal writing process so you can finish that proposal (and be proud of your work!). Get to The Publishing Punchline is also REALLY hard to put down—which brings me to point #2. I wanted to get to know Joy better, and her book definitely delivered. As someone who encourages others to build friendships instead of walls, I found the authenticity in Joy’s writing voice refreshing. She’s funny, and she’s real, and she brings both to the page.
June 13, 2021
This book was a joy to read! (see what I did there?!?) But for real… I couldn’t put it down. I was given a copy in exchange for an honest review and was pleasantly surprised to find that Joy does such a fantastic job of engaging the reader that even I (who have no interest in writing a book) was instantly pulled in and read it cover to cover. Now I’m thinking, maybe I DO want to write a book. Okay, maybe not. But this does demystify the whole process, break it down into achievable goals, and light a fire of motivation while being highly entertaining. All in all, a great resource for aspiring authors.
June 12, 2021
If you’ve ever dreamed of writing a book, Joy’s 30 day guide is the place to start! I personally went through this process and she turned aspects of the process (platform building & book proposal creation) from a daunting task into reality. This book is a boot camp of sorts and it reignited hope in my heart that my idea really is destined to be a book.
June 13, 2021
Since I have been carrying this book around with me, friends have been asking if I am thinking about publishing something. I am not yet, but if I were, this book would be my constant companion. Having followed Joy for many years, it was a treat to read about this aspect of her work--helping writers bring their ideas to print. Knowing what her voice sounds like, it almost felt like listening to the audiobook while reading the words on the page. The tone is humorous (and "slightly aggressive") without being over-done. I appreciate the bootstrapping manner in which the book urges the writer/reader to get things moving. This is not a book in which methodology is handed out AND THEN one can get to it. Instead, Joy asks us to right away begin shaping ideas and creating text that will be tools of the trade moving towards publishing. The team spirit she creates is a definite motivator and encourages writers to get to it without delay, all while not sugar-coating the challenges one should expect along the way.
If you have ideas you would like to launch into the publishing world, you will not go wrong by picking up this little gem.
If you have ideas you would like to launch into the publishing world, you will not go wrong by picking up this little gem.
June 13, 2021
I was gifted an advanced copy of this little gem to read and review and I must say I loved it. The book is written like a 30-day how to guide, sectioned out into manageable chunks so it never feels overwhelming. Joy uses prompts in each section to get you writing out your ideas and processing through things from day 1. Topics covered include everything from where to write your book (choosing your environment) to coming up with the structural elements of your book (title/genre/chapters) and even how to market yourself and your book in getting it ready to launch. Overall, this book is hilarious, to the point, and very helpful. Joy manages to make it feel incredibly personal and I think it’s a great resource for launching your book baby into the world.
June 12, 2021
I’ve been following Joy for years, so this was a fantastic insight on her approach to writing proposals as an author AND what agents look for in the proposals they’re going to support. I read the book straight through in a couple of days to see what the prompts were and, as someone who would love to write one day, it really helped solidify a) that I didn’t have a fully formed idea yet and b) what I would need to do when I did.
The prompts in this book are a wonderful jumping off point to get the layout of a book proposal down, and give incredible structure if you’re the kind of person that needs boxes to check. I’ll definitely be coming back to this in the future.
The prompts in this book are a wonderful jumping off point to get the layout of a book proposal down, and give incredible structure if you’re the kind of person that needs boxes to check. I’ll definitely be coming back to this in the future.
June 13, 2021
I was given an advanced copy so I could read it before it hit the public. I can honestly say I am inspired, equipped, and prepared to write the book I’ve always dreamed of writing.
Joy’s playful tone and real-life experience makes the journey through the book funny and informative. It’s like pulling back the curtain of uncertainty in publishing a book.
Whether you’re writing for your family or hoping to sell your book internationally, Joy outlines all that an author might need to consider while breaking it down into small, but “slightly aggressive” steps.
I am ready. Now I’ll walk through each day like it’s designed. I can’t wait to see where this little journey takes me.
Joy’s playful tone and real-life experience makes the journey through the book funny and informative. It’s like pulling back the curtain of uncertainty in publishing a book.
Whether you’re writing for your family or hoping to sell your book internationally, Joy outlines all that an author might need to consider while breaking it down into small, but “slightly aggressive” steps.
I am ready. Now I’ll walk through each day like it’s designed. I can’t wait to see where this little journey takes me.
June 12, 2021
What I love about this book is that it can be for dreamers - those who have had this far off dream of writing a book, but have no clue how to make it happen. I am one of those dreamers, who gave up a career of teaching to try to write…and failed miserably! This book gives me a new sense of direction and hope. I feel like I already have an agent right here by my side telling me what to do and how to do it! I know so many others who I can’t wait to give this book to, hoping it will help them rediscover the passion they have for writing, with a new found direction!
October 9, 2023
Joy Eggerichs Reed helped me get my second book published. After reading her how-to guide (on a flight from Charlotte to Salt Lake City), I felt fully equipped to build a killer proposal and marketing plan for my next manuscript. Reed uses humor to offset challenging candor and leverages encouragement to offset the realities of the process. Her very practical advice rings true to my experience of pitching books before and during the social media era. If you dream of writing and publishing a book someday, start with this book. It will save you headaches and frustration. Also, I love that for every book purchased, a children’s version is given to a child in foster care—to help them write a story that gives them agency and that helps them see the bigger story of their lives.
June 13, 2021
Joy’s book is supposed to be a 30-day guide to publishing but I finished it in one night. Joy’s writing style, lighthearted voice and practical breakdown of the publishing process make the writing process feel accessible. While I may not have a book stirring in me at the moment, this book made me believe I CAN do it when the idea comes one day. Joy feels like the ultimate cheerleader, while also giving a gentle kick in the butt to get to work. I really enjoyed reading!
(I received an advanced reader copy in return for an honest review.)
(I received an advanced reader copy in return for an honest review.)
June 13, 2021
This book and all the practical tools and information it contains has been SO incredibly helpful for bringing clarity to my writing and confidence in myself as an aspiring author. For anybody on the outside, the publishing industry can feel so out-of-reach and mysterious, and 'Get to the Publishing Punchline' feels like a helping hand has been extended, walking you through the (practical!!) ins and outs of what to do, how to do it, and when. I highly recommend this read to anybody who has written a book, or is thinking about writing a book!
June 12, 2021
If you've ever wanted to write a book, but felt overwhelmed at (what can appear to be) the daunting book-writing process, then look no further!
Literary agent, Joy Eggerichs Reed guides you through a 30 day journey using both her personal experiences and expertise within the publishing world that will make you laugh, and might make you cry...BUT will definitely leave you feeling proud of all that you have accomplished.
Literary agent, Joy Eggerichs Reed guides you through a 30 day journey using both her personal experiences and expertise within the publishing world that will make you laugh, and might make you cry...BUT will definitely leave you feeling proud of all that you have accomplished.
June 14, 2021
I was gifted a copy of the book in exchange for a review and I’m so glad I got a chance to read this book! While I may never publish a book myself, I’ve always been fascinated about the process and all the behind-the-scenes details of how to get your writing out into the world. Joy demystifies the publishing process and gives you an inside look into a confusing world. She makes it all so much more accessible and easier to navigate. If you’re considering writing or ever want to publish a book, this is a must read!
June 13, 2021
Joy Eggerichs Reed has created a relatable, genuine guide that helps alleviate the feelings of inadequacy and fear that plague many would-be authors. With her unique blend of humor and expertise, she lays out practical steps that encourage each writer to tell the story they have to give the world. This is a must-have for anyone aspiring to write.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 13, 2021
Get to the Publishing Punchline is a practical how-to guide with pages on pages of prompts and guides to get your book ready for the world. If you have dreams of being an author, this is the book for you. Joy acts as your book writing Sherpa with encouragement, humor, and a bit of tough love. Writing can be tough, but Joy’s guidance is a lifesaver.
I was gifted an advanced copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I was gifted an advanced copy of this book in return for an honest review.
June 15, 2021
A book proposal is a writer’s first step in clarifying their unique message and offering. Joy feels like a personal coach—and a funny, warm and encouraging one at that. This book offers many tangible first steps towards a well-crafted proposal and without second guessing yourself along the way. This is a much needed resource for navigating the publishing industry in a way. Love the illustrations, stories and specific ideas she offers throughout.
June 12, 2021
If you’re wondering where to begin your publishing journey, you’ve found it! “Get to the Publishing Punchline” is a yellow brick road, guiding when you don’t know where to go. Reed’s book cuts the overwhelm of the process into digestible portions, and her conversational manner feels like you’re with a friend. Bonus: Doodles! This book makes professional content comfortable. Helpful read!
June 12, 2021
Thank you for the insight into all things writing, Joy! Though I may not ever write a book, I’m fascinated by the process and have loved the inside look at all it takes to publish. I have several friends I know this book will help out their thoughts to words on a page. Highly recommend this for anyone who loves to read and write!
I was gifted a copy of this and for that I’m so appreciative.
I was gifted a copy of this and for that I’m so appreciative.
June 12, 2021
What a fantastic guide for any person (like me) who’s considering taking on the beast of book writing and publishing. Joy makes the whole process seem manageable — and fun! I read through quickly, but will certainly be returning to it again as I gear up for proposal preparation. This is a must-have resource.
October 1, 2022
This fun accessible book has helped me secure an agent and two book deals. The information is accurate, up to date, and informative. You will absolutely find what you need if you are an author who wants to break into the world of publishing. Joy writes with energy, wit and compassion, empowering you with clear next steps and inspiring you to dream that you can do it!
June 13, 2021
I am so grateful for this book! Not only is it one of the most practical publishing books out there but it’s witty, relatable, and rich. Say goodbye to the full “how to” books of ol. Joy brings fresh eyes and solid advice to anyone looking to launch into the book world.
July 11, 2021
This book is a great resource for anyone navigating publishing. Joy is both wildly funny and wildly helpful. Plus there are practical steps to break down an overwhelming process into manageable bites.
Read
July 22, 2021A fun, easy read, but the value of this book is doing the work that comes with it. This book breaks down a book proposal and things to consider as far as traditional and self-publishing. It also discusses the questions of marketing.
August 17, 2023
I read the first half last year while working on my book proposal, and I finished it today as I wrap up the whole book readying it for publishing. Great insight, humor, and helpful step-by-steps for this first time author. Highly recommend.
January 3, 2025
This is good. Most of it was stuff I already knew, but helpful guide. It's also helpful to talk to me, a certified writers coach.
August 10, 2021
I definitely enjoyed this book and found it to be inspiring and practical. That said, when Reed started discussing how to market your "platform" and "network" to the publishing companies, it really took the wind out of my sails. She relays her experience of blogging turning into speaking gigs turning into book offers, and me?
I get 40 views on my blog on a good day. Maybe 41 today: Life, Love, and Sentences (Thank you, kind soul, who clicked on that link. I do appreciate it. Let's be friends.)
So while I loved her humor and writing style, thinking about increasing my platform and network as preparation to publish a book was super, super discouraging. I don't have any "influencer friends." I don't have a wildly popular blog. I can't list all my speaking engagements I've had in the last several years (but does teaching ON THE STAGE OF THE CLASSROOM count?). I don't have crazy growth on Instagram (except for the creepy "Airplane-Pilot-Single-Dad-Dan" who just wants to "live his best life," has 3 pictures on his feed -- two are exactly the same picture, one is of him and some unsuspecting curly-haired little girl he probably just met on the beach -- and 4 followers. Yes, I blocked him.) Sigh.
Even so, I came away from the book feeling like Joy and I would be friends if we knew each other in real life. That counts for something -- maybe? Anyway, I'd recommend the book, for sure.
And now I'm back to bed because I have COVID
because I live in Ecuador
and I got the first shot as soon as I got to the States
but then still got sick because
CHURCH.
I'm sure I will fall into a fitful, fevered slumber about starting a TikTok account, getting tons of followers who will then go follow and share my blog, propelling me to wild popularity to the point of agents banging down my door BECAUSE I MUST GET MY VOICE OUT INTO THE WORLD. And I feel I should somehow add "viral" to that sentence.
I can dream. So with that, goodnight.
Nice meeting you, Joy. Seriously. --Your Friend, Jen
Update: If you're reading this and also in that hairy publishing game, check out my last post and let's be friends. Getting Rejected and Other Fun Things About Publishing a Book
I get 40 views on my blog on a good day. Maybe 41 today: Life, Love, and Sentences (Thank you, kind soul, who clicked on that link. I do appreciate it. Let's be friends.)
So while I loved her humor and writing style, thinking about increasing my platform and network as preparation to publish a book was super, super discouraging. I don't have any "influencer friends." I don't have a wildly popular blog. I can't list all my speaking engagements I've had in the last several years (but does teaching ON THE STAGE OF THE CLASSROOM count?). I don't have crazy growth on Instagram (except for the creepy "Airplane-Pilot-Single-Dad-Dan" who just wants to "live his best life," has 3 pictures on his feed -- two are exactly the same picture, one is of him and some unsuspecting curly-haired little girl he probably just met on the beach -- and 4 followers. Yes, I blocked him.) Sigh.
Even so, I came away from the book feeling like Joy and I would be friends if we knew each other in real life. That counts for something -- maybe? Anyway, I'd recommend the book, for sure.
And now I'm back to bed because I have COVID
because I live in Ecuador
and I got the first shot as soon as I got to the States
but then still got sick because
CHURCH.
I'm sure I will fall into a fitful, fevered slumber about starting a TikTok account, getting tons of followers who will then go follow and share my blog, propelling me to wild popularity to the point of agents banging down my door BECAUSE I MUST GET MY VOICE OUT INTO THE WORLD. And I feel I should somehow add "viral" to that sentence.
I can dream. So with that, goodnight.
Nice meeting you, Joy. Seriously. --Your Friend, Jen
Update: If you're reading this and also in that hairy publishing game, check out my last post and let's be friends. Getting Rejected and Other Fun Things About Publishing a Book
June 28, 2021
A must read for anyone looking to learn more about publishing or wants to write a book! The 30 days of writing prompts will help flesh out your ideas, bring clarity, and get you to a working book proposal by the end!
May 11, 2025
During the height of last year’s lockdown I began toying with the idea of writing a book, but had no idea of where to begin, or how to get it out into the world, or whether or not the idea I had was even suited for a book. Which is why I was so excited to pick up “Get to the Publishing Punchline.”
This guide really takes you through the entire writing and publishing process step-by-step, in a manner that feels feasible. Over the course of 30 days, Joy gives you manageable steps— from identifying your audience to writing chapter summaries to creating a marketing strategy— that culminate in a ready-to-go pitch that can be sent to agents. And she does it in a manner that never makes you feel stupid for not already knowing how the process works or for not having previously thought of a certain aspect of the process (like finding a typesetter!).
The book is easy to read, and the writing style is genuinely funny. I read through it in a single sitting, but plan to go back through it next month and work through each step in order to clarify my ideas. This is a must-read for anyone whose ever even remotely thought about publishing, and I’m so glad to have had the opportunity to get my hands on it early!
This guide really takes you through the entire writing and publishing process step-by-step, in a manner that feels feasible. Over the course of 30 days, Joy gives you manageable steps— from identifying your audience to writing chapter summaries to creating a marketing strategy— that culminate in a ready-to-go pitch that can be sent to agents. And she does it in a manner that never makes you feel stupid for not already knowing how the process works or for not having previously thought of a certain aspect of the process (like finding a typesetter!).
The book is easy to read, and the writing style is genuinely funny. I read through it in a single sitting, but plan to go back through it next month and work through each step in order to clarify my ideas. This is a must-read for anyone whose ever even remotely thought about publishing, and I’m so glad to have had the opportunity to get my hands on it early!
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews