How to Generate Book Ideas

We have covered a myriad of topics on writing; from finding inspiration and conquering writer’s block, to developing characters and how to proofread your own work. But there is always more to unpack about the fickle nature of sitting down to write, including starting from scratch and generating your own book ideas.

It can be difficult to come up with new book ideas when you're not feeling particularly inspired. We've compiled a list of some basic questions to ask yourself to help inspire new ideas for books and get the writing juices flowing:

1. What do I know? What wisdom have I learned from my life experiences that I want to share?

2. What have I done – work or life experiences, professional or personal successes, life or habit changes, travel experiences and guidelines, parenthood advice, etc.

3. What is my area of expertise? Where do I feel most comfortable and skilled?

4. What emotions do I want to evoke? Do I want to inspire, encourage, educate, entertain?

5. What have my friends and family told me I talk a lot about?

6. What life story do I want to tell? Is it mine? Someone I know? A relative or someone important in your life or community?

7. What causes do I want to support or further?

8. Is there a historical event or place that I want to document and share with others?

9. What challenges have I overcome, and how can I help others?

10. Which current popular topics do I have opinions on and related life experiences to share

We hope answering these questions will help act as your own book idea generator and inspire new book ideas. Once you have your idea and start outlining your manuscript, it is also smart to start planning for what lies ahead, like designing your book and self-publishing your work. Remember, 48 Hour Books is here to help every step of the way, so feel free to explore our book printing services and self-publishing resources.

Got your idea? Contact us with any questions to get started printing and self-publishing your book!