Nonfiction Book Proposal Doctoring

Available remotely

Most nonfiction books are sold to publishers on the basis of a proposal—a 20-40 page document that pitches the book’s content and marketability and is supplemented by sample chapters. You write the proposal before you actually write the book. To sell your book, however, you need a winning proposal. First, you need a clear idea of what your book is and how it will fit into the marketplace. Then you need to write a proposal that meets professional standards and entices editors into acquiring your book.

It's tough to get a book published. And no agent or editor grants you more than a first look. So you want your work to be in the best possible shape before sending it out into the world. Gotham has a network of professionals who can help you strengthen your work and maximize your chances of publication.

If you want guidance on creating a nonfiction book proposal, the first step is to take Gotham’s Nonfiction Book Proposal course.

If, after taking the course, you want help putting your proposal together, then you might consider one of Gotham’s Private Instruction programs.

Nonfiction Book Proposal Doctoring is for writers who have completed the Nonfiction Book Proposal course and then completed a draft of a nonfiction book proposal.

All Book Proposal Doctoring begins with a consultation with a Gotham staff member, so that we can determine your specific needs and then match them with the appropriate professional on our faculty. The doctor will be an expert with nonfiction book proposals—literary agent, nonfiction book editor, or an author who has published one or more nonfiction books.

Moving forward, the assigned professional will then read your work and meet with you one-on-one—either in-person in New York City, or via Zoom. You will receive clear and concrete suggestions for improving your proposal and refining your concept, including a summary letter. This is not a copy-editing service, but a careful analysis of the core of your work. You will also have the opportunity to get all of your questions answered.

Rate: $595, which includes a two hour meeting in-person or via Zoom.

Payment is due in advance.


For a free consultation, please complete the form below. If you have questions, call 212-974-8377.

 
 
what's this?

Please describe the type of book you are working on (i.e. Is it a memoir, self-help, gardening, history, etc.)?
Describe the state of the project you want to submit (i.e. Is it a draft, nearly complete, or a synopsis or outline?)
Have you ever taken writing classes before? If so, where and at what level?
Any other comments or questions you'd like to submit to help us better meet your needs?