Writing a book is hard. A book coach can make the process less overwhelming by helping you develop your ideas, create a workable structure, set writing goals, and stay accountable as you draft.
What is book coaching?
Book coaching is a collaborative process that gives authors guidance and support while the author is writing the book—from the initial idea and outline through drafting and revision. Book coaching is collaborative and helps a writer develop long-term mastery.
What does a book coach do?
Book coaching sessions can be used to address:
- idea generation
- writer’s block
- outlining
- character profiles
- worldbuilding
- scene construction and pacing
- description
- dialgue
- series planning
- revising and self-editing strategies
- provide other resources
A book coach helps guide a writer through the creative process. This can include brainstorming, outlining, setting writing goals, organization, and sometimes there is editing involved. A book coach offers cuts, narrative advice, accountability, and critique.
What is the difference between a book coach and a structural editor?
There are differences between a coach and a structural editor. One difference is that a book coach is involved in the process of writing with you all the way through, providing feedback and guidance while the manuscript is being drafted. After the manuscript is written, a structural editor becomes involved—it’s a holistic approach. A structural edit is about assessing and reorganizing material to improve readability; it addresses the direction of a manuscript with creative feedback and structure.
| Book Coach | Structural Editor |
| Works with you while you’re writing | Often works after a draft exists |
| Provides ongoing guidance | Evaluates the completed manuscript |
| Helps establish goals and process | Focuses on structure and revision |
| Provides accountability | Provides editorial recommendations |
| Helps you develop your skills | Helps improve the manuscript |
There can be some overlap between book coaching and that structural edit.
Who can benefit from book coaching?
- First-time authors
- Someone with an idea but no outline
- Someone who has started a manuscript but is stuck
- Someone struggling with structure
- Someone who needs accountability
- Fiction writers
- Memoir Writers
- Nonfiction writers
- Published authors
- Entrepreneurs and other professionals looking to build their brand
- and others
How does book coaching work?
We will work in blocks when we work together—book coach and author. Each block will be one to two weeks long. Blocks include:
- One review of the current and/or updated materials for that block (block length is based on goals and timelines agreed upon at the beginning of the project)
- Email correspondence based on author needs. Often, this is clarification on comments, and/or setting up the next actionable steps. If there is an area that is a struggle, we can focus more time there.
I love the creative process and I have a writing background. As a published author, I have experience which I will bring to our time working together. I have a process to share, but we can adjust it to fit your needs and goals. One thing that I’ve learned is that the creative process is not a one-size-fits-all experience. Each writer is unique. Part of being successful is finding what process works for you. So, I will provide you with a moldable form to get started.
If you are interested in working together, please complete the questionnaire—partial or no manuscript and full manuscript—and email it to me at writingsparklebooks@gmail.com.
Frequently asked questions
What is book coaching?
Book coaching is a collaborative service that helps authors turn an idea into a completed book.
What does a book coach do?
A book coach helps you move from “I have a book idea” to “I have a book.” They help you make decisions, uncover what your book is really about, work through the messy middle, and keep the project moving until the pieces begin to come together.
Do I need to have written a book before?
No. Book coaching is for both first-time and experienced authors.
What’s the difference between a book coach and an editor?
A book coach helps you write the book; an editor helps you improve what you’ve written.
Can a book coach help me if I’m stuck?
Yes. A book coach will help identify what’s holding you back and get you writing again.
How long does book coaching take?
Your book coaching plan is tailored to where you are and what you need. So, coaching can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months—or longer—depending on your book, goals, and pace.
Is book coaching right for my project?
Book coaching could be right for you if your book matters deeply—but the path from where you are to where you want to be isn’t clear.
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