Writing Creative Non-Fiction 

An Introduction to Creative Non-Fiction: What's Your Niche?

In the first session, we'll be looking at creative non-fiction and discovering what works, what sells and what the market is like for non-fiction books today. We'll look at a variety of non-fiction books to 'reverse engineer' them and identify common features and how they can be applied to your work. 

By the end of the first session, you'll be able to identify your niche, start thinking about your unique selling point and platform, as well as why a publisher should commission you and what makes you the best person to write your book.

Writing a Successful Book Outline

In the second session, we'll look at real proposals for non-fiction books that have been commissioned and discuss why they were successful. You'll begin to craft your own book plan and an outline of your proposed chapters, piecing together the puzzle of why they work together. 

This will be the start of your 'homework' during the creative non-fiction course and is a project that you will receive feedback and support on.

Tone and Voice - Identifying and Developing Your Writer Persona

This session will help you to identify who you are as a writer, and the appropriate tone for your book. You'll be encouraged to find and develop your authorial voice. Are you the expert friend, the raconteur or the adviser? 

You'll write some sample text for feedback and test out different voices to get a feel for what doesn't work and why.

Identifying Your Ideal Reader - The Psychology of Writing and the Author-Reader Contract

Have you ever read a book that has resonated with you so strongly, you feel it was written just for you? Now we ponder the question, who are you writing your book for? 

In this session, we'll think about the needs of your reader and how to fulfill them. This is what makes books sell, and keeps readers coming back for more as you write future titles.

Ensuring Your Book Lands and Futureproofing Your Writing Career

In this session we'll work on how to make sure your book finds its audience.

We'll discuss the importance of establishing peer networks and relationships with reviewers, and the concept of 'street teams'. We'll consider the pros and cons of self-publishing and traditional publishing, software you can use to help your journey, the murky waters of book promotion, social media and platform development.

The Business of Writing

This session will help you to get your 'foot in the door' with publishers, should you wish to follow a traditional publishing route. We'll look at how to write an irresistable cover letter, looking at successful examples. Find out how to tailor approaches for different projects and publishers, and how to market yourself and showcase your work. We'll also look at growing your professional platform, what's expected of non-fiction authors (including contracts and pitfalls to look out for) and access to useful organisations and bodies to register with.

Frequently Asked Questions