Which one of these writers are you?
In both cases, the problem is the same: You’re trying to navigate across the wilderness without a compass.
Let’s get you a compass.
Work with an award-winning editor to discover the shape of your story, craft an effective framework for your book, and actually start writing it. Successful writers of fiction, nonfiction, or memoir all understand the benefits of creating structure. If they can reap the benefits, so can you!
⁃ Get clear on what your book is about, who it’s for, and why they want to read it.
⁃ Establish a map through the writing process, including goals, timelines, and support.
⁃ Design a starter structure for your book, which you can use to start writing immediately.
⁃ Refine your ideas.
⁃ Troubleshoot questions that arose for you while writing.
⁃ Discuss writing feedback, if you’ve submitted your sample prior to this meeting.
⁃ Field test your writing, getting early feedback on what to adjust and improve…before you get 100,000 words in (or even 20,000).
Different people have radically different knee-jerk reactions to the term “outline.” Some absolutely adore it, and can think of nothing better and more useful. Others can’t stand it, seeing an outline as a restrictive, reductive creativity-killer.
If you love an outline, we will make you an outline. If you loathe an outline, we will make a mind map, character constellation, or discover guiding principles. I’m not wedded to a singular way of doing things. Every writer has their process. The most effective strategy is the one you’ll actually use.
A lot of nonfiction writers love outlines and tables of contents (but not all). A lot of fiction writers prefer a more organic process (but not all). When working with writers on their starting structure, I prefer to use the term “map.” No matter where you start, and what route you elect to take, a map helps you get where you want to go.
What you do after the intensive is up to you—whether you prefer to work on your own, or continue with one-on-one coaching.
Little did I know the intensive would be the pivotal moment of working clarity for me. Alexandra’s quick understanding of my outline led to invaluable suggestions that enhanced the flow and coherence of the work, which will undoubtedly add depth and readability to my book. The many moments of insight during the intensive enhanced my writing plan, and I have a roadmap that goes beyond a general direction. Alexandra’s gentle guidance brings out the best in you and your concepts. Her workshop not only ignites creativity but also helps to clarify ideas and refine your writing process. I cannot overstate the transformative power of Alexandra’s Book Structure Intensive. Now I’m off to write!
Regina Garay
Trainer and Consultant
Alexandra’s Book Structure Intensive offer is the perfect amount of time to get focused and clear on your book’s outline and dive into the main questions you need to answer before putting pen to paper. I loved this service because I got REAL clarity on why I am writing the book, who it’s for, and from there—how to best serve that audience with the content I choose to include. Alexandra has so many great suggestions that spark creativity and innovation—it was such a great experience, I highly recommend working with her if you have a book idea and are getting stuck on how to move forward. I left the meeting with a newfound spark and motivation for my project. Thank you, Alexandra!!
Amanda Miller
Book Publishing Success Coach
For the first time, I really feel like my book project has more than simply potential—now it has at least the beginning of some momentum. Thanks!
CC
Author
All recommendations are made on an individual, no-obligation basis. Editing and Coaching are contracted for separately. Be sure your book meets the genre guidelines here. Review Working with Alexandra here.