How Is Your Book Different (And Is It Different Enough)?
Originality is often misunderstood. Your book does not need to say something no one has ever said before. In most categories, that would be nearly impossible. (“There is nothing new under the sun,” Ecclesiastes 1:9). However, it must say something in a way that feels unique, timely, or even timeless.
Publishers evaluate proposals within a crowded marketplace. They are not asking, “Is this good?” They are asking, “Why this, when we have similar books already in our catalog?”
This is where the comparison section in your proposal matters. Too many writers list bestselling books as proof of demand but fail to explain their own contribution to the topic. Naming similar titles is not enough. You must articulate how yours is different, because this is what the marketing department must do with the book as it takes it into the world. Citing older works is a common issue. It either dates the author or suggests they have not read anything recent.
The publisher is positioning the book for maximum visibility and potential for success. If the book is “just another one of those,” it could fail right out of the gate.
The difference should be easy to convey. If you have to explain it, a consumer moves to the next choice. Cosmetic distinctions are not persuasive. A slightly updated version of what already exists will struggle to find traction unless it brings a clearer, stronger, or more accessible approach.
I’ll say it another way: There is a threshold to consider. Being different is not enough. You must be different enough to justify another book entering the market. Publishers are not looking to add to the noise. They are looking to publish something that earns its place.
In the last month, I’ve had multiple clients’ proposals rejected with a statement like this one: “Not a great fit for us right now. We have something a little too similar coming out shortly,” or “We have a couple of other books in the works that are already contracted.”
A strong proposal names the competition with respect, then clearly and without exaggeration demonstrates why this book stands apart. If your answer to that question feels vague, a publisher will feel the same.
Don’t worry, this is not an exercise in self-promotion. It is positioning. The effort of sticking your book in its rightful place.
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5 Questions Your Proposal Must Answer Series:
Question 1. Is Your Audience/Platform Big Enough?
Question 2. Is Your Idea a Book or a Magazine Article?
Question 3. How Is Your Book Different (And Is It Different Enough)?
Question 4. Will Enough People Pay for Your Book?
Question 5. Why Should You Write It? Why Not Someone Else?
Thank you for expanding my understanding of proposals by explaining the comparison section. I’ve always found this to be a daunting task and wondered if I was doing it correctly.
Steve, this is timely advice as I prepare a book proposal for my husband’s book on holiness. I used books that are probably dated. I’ll check to find more recent publications. Thanks.
Thank you for explaining a book should be different enough to justify being part of the market. Is the difference based on the story line, characters and writing style? The answer will help when it comes time to write a proposal for my novel.