Pitch Sellable Ideas

Are you an author who’s married to her story?

If so, then listen up. If you’re pitching a novel, you’ve got to play fair with the editor. Maybe he’s willing to meet you in the

middle. He likes your basic idea, but wants you to change something to meet his house’s needs. You refuse to bend. Why? Because you’re married to your story.

Consequence?

You don’t sell the book. I’m not saying you should bend every time, but remember. . .your story idea has to be relevant and sellable. The editor knows what he can and can’t sell—to his pub board, to the bookstore owners, to the buyers at Wal-Mart and to e-readers.

So, how do you continue coming up with sellable ideas after that first book or two? First, stay true to your brand. If you’re known for quirky writing, keep coming up with quirky characters. Study people to know what themes/topics are relevant, then approach editors with a unique but truly relevant story.

Next, it’s so important to have a thorough understanding of the various genres. Don’t tell your editor it’s women’s fiction if it’s really romance. Finally, study the market. See what people are buying. Make the agent or editor’s job easy by giving him a story that you know will sell.

Download the .pdf of this lesson below.