Writing a book series can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to the proposal stage. Many aspiring authors fall into the trap of spending too much time on a proposal, only to find that traditional publishers are typically only interested in completed books. In this article, we will guide you through the process of writing and pitching a book series, focusing on practical strategies that prioritize the quality of your writing over the initial proposal. By the end, you will have a clear roadmap to follow, ensuring your series has the best chance of success.

Why proposing a book series is not a waste of time

Many writers believe that proposing a book series is a waste of time, especially when traditional publishers are known for their interest in completed manuscripts. While it is true that agents and publishers typically prefer to see a complete manuscript to make their decision, there are still several compelling reasons to prepare a proposal:

While traditional publishers may not commission from proposals, many newer platforms, such as KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing), welcome authors who have a series in mind. These platforms often encourage authors to put their first book out and then use the feedback and success to build their series over time.

Writing Your First Book

It is important to remember that writing the first book is the most crucial step. Once you have a complete manuscript, you can start submitting it to agents or publishers. Believe me, if they like the first book, they will be eager to learn more about your series.

Research and Analyze Successful Series

The key to writing a successful book series lies in thorough research and analysis. By spending time online, you can gather insights from successful series in your chosen genre. Analyzing these series can help you understand the elements that make them successful:

By studying these elements, you can develop a more strategic approach to your own series, ensuring that each book adds value and builds upon the previous ones.

Putting It All Together

Once you have completed your first book, you can confidently start to develop your proposal. Your proposal should include:

Remember, the goal of your proposal is to showcase your ability to develop a compelling, cohesive series. By focusing on these key elements, you can create a proposal that stands out and enhances the chances of catching the eye of agents and publishers.

Conclusion

Writing a book series is a long-term endeavor, but with the right approach and strategy, you can increase your chances of success. Prioritize writing the first book, and use that as a foundation to build your series. By doing your research, analyzing successful series, and preparing a solid proposal, you can make your series more appealing to agents, publishers, and readers alike.