The Realities of Writing a Best Selling Book

Writing a best selling book is a dream shared by many aspiring authors. However, the reality is quite different from what many aspire. It's not about the act of writing a great story; it's about the equation of writing a compelling book and effectively marketing it. Most books never achieve best seller status, and even fewer earn out their advances. This article explores the difficulties and realities of writing a best selling book.

The Usual Path to Best Seller Status

To become a best seller, a writer must first write a book, then effectively market it. Think about it this way: even the best written stories can struggle to gain traction if not properly promoted. After all, when we look at large platforms like Amazon, there are over 50 million books available, with only the top 500,000 selling a book a month. Achieving best seller status is an extraordinary feat, and it requires a combination of quality content and strategic marketing.

Marketing and Sales

The majority of traditionally published books fail to earn out their advances, and most indie published books end up in obscurity. Despite the daunting statistics, any book can potentially become a best seller. But, numerous factors must align perfectly to make it happen. One wrong decision or a missed opportunity can prevent a book from achieving its full potential. Therefore, the question ‘how easy is it?’ is actually a misdirect. The real question is, 'how hard is it?' and the answer is: VERY HARD.

Unconventional Tactics and Real-World Approaches

I recently came across a humorous article suggesting how one can become a best-selling author overnight. While it's hardly ethical, such tactics do exist. For instance, self-publishing a book on Amazon and buying back 10,000 copies in a single day can make it appear on the best-seller list. Another approach is to hire a public relations firm for $100,000 to $250,000 to do the heavy lifting for you. However, these methods rely on financial resources and often lack the genuine appeal that readers look for in a best seller.

A slower, more genuine way to achieve success is to develop a following through paid advertisements and social media promotions. By building a strong base of readers, you can approach publishers with a more compelling offer and a higher chance of success. This method not only increases your chances of becoming a best seller but also provides a more sustainable career in the long run.

Practical Writing Advice

For undiscovered authors, becoming a best seller often takes several years after selling their first book. If you're not rich and don't have a pre-existing image, the process can be challenging. Here are some practical tips:

Write for enjoyment, not for success: Stress can be a significant hindrance, so focus on the intrinsic reward of storytelling. Wait before editing: Write your first draft, then wait at least a week to a month before editing. Fresh eyes provide a clearer perspective. Check for errors: Ensure your book is free of obvious typos and grammatical errors. Poorly edited books are less likely to attract readers. No easy way out: Writing a compelling story and building an audience takes hard work and dedication. Avoid shortcuts and embrace the process.

Remember, there is no easy road to becoming a best seller. The journey requires persistence, patience, and a willingness to work hard. By focusing on quality and strategic marketing, you and your book can stand a chance in the vast world of published literature.

Final Thoughts

Writing a best selling book is a significant challenge. It involves much more than just writing a great story. It requires dedication, effective marketing, and sometimes a little bit of luck. The key is to embrace the process, enjoy the journey, and stay true to your vision. Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting, the path to becoming a best seller is arduous but rewarding.