Understanding the Basics of Writing in the Horror Genre

You can read horror novels any time of year. But, there is an extra thrill when you read a scary story in the weeks leading up to Halloween. For horror fans, Halloween is the best time of year, a time when the world widely embraces the genre. As October 31 quickly approaches, there is no better time to get drawn into a spooky tale.

Many people focus on horror on screen or as a costume, but horror literature has a storied past. There are countless subgenres within the horror genre that can be tailored to any taste. From the gothic horror of Frankenstein to the modern output of prominent authors, there is something for everybody. Common features of horror stories are ghosts, monsters, vampires, zombies, and anything else paranormal. However, horror books can also be funny, based in fantasy, or based on real life.

Regardless of what kind of horror story you are crafting, there are some basics to understand. Once you have a grasp on the basics, you can write any kind of horror story that appeals to you. This article will look at some factors to consider when you set out to write horror.

Writing to the Target Audience

As with every book you write, your target audience needs to be at the top of your mind. You always want to write to your intended audience, which will guide your writing process. Horror books can be for any audience based on the story you are telling.

Adults will likely be the intended audience for the most frightening horror books. This is true for the majority of stories with either graphic violence or true scares. When setting out to write a book for adult audiences, you do not want to speak down to them. Assume they are mature adults, write to their sensibilities. You will likely not need to hold back on your content or themes.

There are horror stories that are targeted at younger audiences, too. Teen readers are often drawn to elements of horror in their books as a fantastical way to get into reading. Similarly, there are horror books that can target pre-teens and children. When writing a horror book for younger audiences, customize it to your audience. Children may enjoy a Halloween picture book, while teenagers might crave something spookier.

Level of Scares

With the target audience in mind, the next natural question to ask is how scary your book will be. Horror is such a broad general that it can encompass books with no traditional scares to terrifying pieces of literature. For younger readers, your Halloween story might focus on trick-or-treating with minimal scares. As your audience gets older, you can introduce more scares into your writing. Fit the level of scares in your book with the content and intended audience.

Types of Scares

There are many ways to scare readers. While books often cannot have the jump scares typical of a horror film, they can still be terrifying. One way to scare readers is by depicting visceral violence or including vivid scenes of horror. Another option is to make your story more psychological and eerie, lingering in your readers’ minds. More abstractly, you can scare your readers with the unknown, highlighting fantastical spectacle and fictional monsters. No matter the type of scares you write, your goal is to have it stick with the reader.

Guiding Plot and Characters

As with any book, the characters and plot of your horror book will be of the utmost importance. The plot of your book will play into the genres and tropes you portray. For example, if you are looking to write a vampire novel, establish the rules of the universe. Keep everything consistent to create a well-rounded story. Never sacrifice a strong plot in favor of cheap scares or shock value. The best horror stories are remembered because they are well-written and leave an impact on readers.

When it comes to the characters, you want them to be well-defined and distinct. The more identifiable and realistic your characters are, the more your reader will care about them. This is especially true in horror when much of the tension comes from your characters being in peril. Have a plan for each of your characters and how they fit into the larger story. Naturally, some characters will be minor players, but make sure they serve the plot well.

Publishing Your Horror Novel

Starting the writing process can be daunting. So, once you complete your book, you will want to get it published. Once we approve your finished manuscript, our team at Cloverly will guide you through every step of the publication process. We have you covered, from copyediting the text of your book to helping craft an eye-catching cover. Your book can be a new Halloween classic!

Mastering the Art of the Prologue, Epilogue, and Interlude

You cannot become a published author overnight. Becoming an author starts with the writing process. Ideally, this yields a creatively satisfying manuscript that has appeal to the general public. Every book is different, whether in genre, length, format, target audience, etc. When it comes to writing your book, you will always want to understand the elements of a successful story.

A majority of your manuscript will contain the main substance of your story, especially when telling fictional stories. Most traditional narratives will have a three-act structure: beginning, middle, and end. This will track the book’s actions from start to finish, covering your characters’ arcs.

However, sometimes there are creative reasons to deviate from the standard structure. These structural deviations can come in the form of prologues, epilogues, and interludes.

What Is a Prologue?

A prologue is a section of a book that comes before the main action. In some ways, it is an introduction to the beginning of your main story. This can come as teasing a character or plot development, setting up the book’s style, or anything else. The main goal of a prologue is to get the reader excited and intrigued for what comes next.

The most crucial thing to consider is that a prologue should be separate from the beginning of your story proper. For example, instead of jumping right into your protagonist’s story, you can follow a secondary character. This could set the scene for a future plot development or capture the reader’s attention.

When to Use a Prologue

There is not a universal rule for when to use a prologue. It is up to the author’s discretion if and when to include a prologue to their book. Either way, prologues should always benefit the overall narrative of the book.

Authors may consider several factors when deciding whether to include a prologue. These include the tone of the story, whether the book’s world needs establishing, and whether the plot’s action starts slow. Action-packed or fast-paced stories might benefit from throwing the reader into the action before the protagonist is fully integrated. The main text of your book should work to build its characters’ motivations, plotlines, and interpersonal dynamics. Prologues can help you do just that.

What Is an Epilogue?

An epilogue of a book is a section at the end that follows the conclusion of the main story. The idea is similar to that of an epilogue, but it closes the story instead of opening it. Epilogues can provide emotional resolution, look into the future, or set up sequels. These are often short and provide a satisfying note for the reader to end their reading experience.

As with a prologue, epilogues are separate from the main story. They should exist separately but in conjunction with the rest of the story. The primary three-act structure of the story should be resolved; this is just the final note to end on.

When to Use an Epilogue

Choosing to write an epilogue for a story is completely up to the author’s discretion. If the story’s ending is definitive enough without any loose threads, an epilogue may not be necessary. Prologues and epilogues can exist separate from one another. Just because you write one does not mean you have to include the other.

There are several factors to consider when weighing adding an epilogue. Mainly, these include whether there are any lingering threads and the ending status of the characters. By the end of the third act of your narrative, all loose ends might be wrapped. If so, there might not be a need for an epilogue. However, your epilogue can open new threads and set up a future story. You can use an epilogue for whatever suits your literary journey.

What Is an Interlude?

Instead of being a separate text at the beginning or end of a story, an interlude happens during it. This means that it is a break from the main action of the story. Interludes are less common than prologues and epilogues, but can elevate the text to a new level. It is completely up to the author’s discretion what they want their interludes to look like.

When to Use an Interlude?

Every author and story can use interludes differently. They can carry thematic relevance, tell stories of small side characters, or provide context for the larger story. Often, an author will want to consider where they place their interlude or interludes. It can be a powerful tool to balance the story’s action or themes in a highly creative way.

Honoring the Spirit of American Workers Through Literature

Workers across fields and occupations have spent generations fighting for their rights. Every September, Americans celebrate the successes of the country’s labor movements. From fighting for higher wages, reasonable working hours, and better conditions, the labor movement is endlessly important.

While the official last day of summer is not until later in September, Labor Day marks the unofficial end of summer. Recognizing America’s working-class heroes is one final opportunity to celebrate the joys of summer.

In addition to the festivities of the day, there are books people could read or write to honor the spirit. Labor Day is about the power of workers, and literature is one way to channel that spirit. This article will examine the roots of Labor Day and how to embrace it across the literary world.

The History of Labor Day

Americans have been celebrating American workers for nearly 150 years. In the late 19th century, labor organizers began to want to honor workers around the country. The first Labor Day was celebrated in New York City on September 5, 1882, with a parade. A local union, the Central Labor Union, proposed and planned the festivities that set the precedent for the future holiday.

It was over a decade before it was a nationally recognized holiday. Over those years, more than two dozen states began recognizing Labor Day. In 1894, President Grover Cleveland officially declared Labor Day a national holiday on the first Monday of September.

Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Labor Day celebrations focused on the power of the labor movement. Parades and festivals became trademarks of the holiday to honor the country’s working-class spirit.

Workers around the nation spent generations fighting and organizing for their rights. Labor Day is when these movements and their progress are honored.

The Books That Celebrate America’s Workers

To honor the economic and social spirit of Labor Day, readers can engage with any number of literary offerings. The spirit of the labor movement is possible no matter what kind of book you choose to read or write.

From fiction to non-fiction and everything in between, the literary world celebrates America’s workers. The genres may vary, but there the content of any book can embrace the successes of the labor movement.

Non-Fiction Books

For those looking for more educational reads, non-fiction books are the way to go. As fact-based, true works, these books can serve many purposes. Non-fiction works can educate, enlighten, inspire, influence, or provoke thoughts. Within the larger category of non-fiction, there are many subgenres for more tailored interests.

One narrower subgenre consists of historical and autobiographical texts. These are works that tell true stories of the past, whether personal or broader. For Labor Day, these can be biographies of important figures in or histories of the labor movement. There are endless stories of successful labor leaders both across America and internationally.

Another subgenre of non-fiction covers more ideological texts. This can include books about philosophy, academic texts, or inspirational tomes. Instead of covering a specific event or series of events, these books can cover larger ideas within labor movements. Reading these books can be thought-provoking and motivational.

Fiction Books

Other readers may be looking for more traditionally entertaining reads. That is where fictional works come in. Fiction books can contain and convey important messages and lessons about workers’ rights and historical struggles.

As with any other subject matter, fictional works about workers and the labor movement can come in many shapes. Novels and short stories are the most common avenues for traditional prose. When reading or writing these works, one’s creativity can run wild and tell any story imaginable. Alternatively, one can read or write poetry or other lyrical writing. This form of writing can be used to capture the feelings and emotions of the subject matter.

Fiction books can impart important messages about the spirit of the labor movement just as well as non-fiction. Some people even absorb fiction better than non-fiction. It is ultimately up to each individual to figure what works best for them. Whether through reading or writing, literature can bolster appreciation of all American workers’ tenacity this and every Labor Day.

How to Get Your Manuscript in Front of a Publisher

Writing or conceiving of a book is only the first part of becoming a published author. After you finish writing, you have to get your book in front of publishers and out into the world. All the most famous writers stood in your shoes once and had to work to share their writing.

There are numerous ways to get your writing in front of the right people. As with every aspect of the publishing industry, times are changing. As such, the methods of doing this have evolved with the times. Traditionally, prospective authors relied on writing and sending a query letter. This article will explain what a query letter is, its somewhat-outdated role in publishing, and a more modern approach.

What is a Query Letter?

At the most basic level, a query letter is something a writer sends to potential publishers or agents. Authors without representation can have difficulty getting proper publishing and marketing, so a query letter can help.

When writing a query letter, the writer must always keep the audience in mind. This is for publishers and other industry professionals willing to put their weight behind the author. While each query letter is individualized to the specific author and their work, there are some common elements.

At the start, one writing a query letter should identify their work at hand to set the scene. From there, the next section should provide a brief plot synopsis to pique the publisher or agent’s interest. This should not be a complete start-to-finish summary, just one similar to what will appear on marketing materials. The goal is to hook the reader into taking a chance on this unrepresented author.

After the specifics of the book are laid down, the next segment is about the author themself. A huge part of being a successful author is selling one’s image. This can be educational or professional history, previous writing, and any specific niche audience. With the sign off, the author can include excerpts of their writing or any other relevant samples.

Why Are Query Letters Outdated?

Despite being the industry norm for decades, the query letter is quickly becoming outdated. Gone are the days when books need a professional publisher or distributor to get seen. With the internet, anyone can write anything and gain an audience. This can be anything from a short blog to an entirely self-published online book.

Query letters certainly have their time and place for specific authors, but there are 21st-century alternatives. Some authors have been able to leverage massively successful careers just from self-starting their writing dreams. Similarly, some classic books struggled to get published at all, showing that the industry can miss potential greatness. A slight misstep in a query letter can deprive the world of literary excellence.

What Is Cloverly’s Process to Solicit Manuscripts?

With a more modern approach to publishing comes new ways to share your writing. Here at Cloverly Publishing, we provide in-depth self-publishing services that will make your book stand out. Each of our speciality divisions are equipped to handle the specific needs of your book.

However, we still have a process for reviewing and accepting manuscripts for publication. To ensure quality for the books we attach our name to, we thoroughly screen every submission. This takes time, so we do not accept unsolicited manuscripts to make sure we can effectively review every manuscript.

Once you request an Author Submission Kit, you will be put in touch with one of our literary agents. They will coordinate the submission process with you. From there, our in-house review board assesses each manuscript for quality, potential, and brand fit across our speciality divisions.

Most people who reach out to us are permitted to submit their manuscript; you just have to reach out. Instead of relying on a query letter to have someone read your writing, you can talk to a real person.

Your book is an extension of yourself; at Cloverly, we understand that. We want your manuscript to receive the attention it deserves without having to fight to be seen.

What to Look for in the Best Book to Read at the Beach

The summer sun is shining bright, which only means one thing: it is time for some beach fun! Alternatively, if you live somewhere without a beach, you can lounge near a pool or park. No matter where you spend your time outdoors this summer, you should bring a book with you.

Beach reads have become something of a beast of its own. While not limited to one specific genre or type of book, some books are better suited for summer reading. This article will take a look at what goes into a powerful summer, beach- or pool-side read. Whether you are looking for summer escapism or thought-provoking nonfiction, there is something for everyone.

Genre and Content for Your Next Beach Read

When looking for a good summer book, the first factor to consider is the content of the book. This can mean the genre, plot, characters, writing style, or anything else about what you are reading. Everyone has different tastes, but these are some common suggestions to start your search.

Some common genres include the more populist genres of mystery, romance, and thrillers. These books can have a wide range of plot and characters that keep the readers engaged. But, despite being more crowdpleasing, these books can have immense literary value. 

People often assume beach reads have to be lower quality, which is not true. There is not one single genre or quality of a beach read. It is just important to like what you are reading on this hot summer day.

Back to School Reading

Obviously, these months are also a perfect, and sometimes required, time for students to do their summer reading. While these titles can be given to the students, sometimes they can choose their own.

When looking for a book to read, students should hone in on what makes them engaged. Summer provides endless opportunities for students to read. If they know where they will spend their summer activities, they can tailor their book selection. No matter what they choose to read, they will be better for it.

Book Formats for Summer Outdoor Reading

There are multiple formats your book will be published in: hardcover, paperback, digital, and audiobook. Each of these formats have their time and place, some of which are better for summer reading.

The most traditional and easiest format for summer beach reading is paperback. Specifically, mass market paperback is the most compact and portable kind of book to tote to the beach. At a lower price point, mass market paperbacks are also more durable to sand, wind, sunscreen, etc. 

Traditional paperbacks are a solid second choice, but they are often bigger and more expensive. Hardcover books are not as common by the beach or pool, but if that is what you have, bring it!

Alternatively, you can bring a digital book or listen to an audiobook during your summer adventures. Many eReaders are compatible with reading outdoors, and you can download multiple books to choose from. Audiobooks allow you to rest your eyes and take in the book in any state of relaxation.

As long as you are comfortable and want to do some outdoor reading, you can read in any format.

Book Lengths

As for the length of your beach read, you know what kind of book you want to read. If you are planning on reading for hours on end during a longer trip, you can read a longer book. This can make you feel accomplished and productive, especially if it is a more complex story.

If you are planning on a shorter trip or want more mindless reading, you can bring a shorter book. This can be something that you do not need to put all your attention in, just helping you pass time.

Share with Others!

Nothing is better than a fun beach day with friends where you can crack into a book. Let your mind wander and bask in the summer sun. When you read at the beach or by the pool, that can even inspire others to do the same. If you have any particular beach reads you enjoyed, you can share that with your friends, family, and community.

At the end of the day, read whatever book at the beach or pool that you want to read! You ultimately decide what makes for the best beach read for you. If you are looking for a place to start your search for new books, visit Cloverly’s catalog of recent releases.

How to Celebrate America’s 250-Year History with Books

This Independence Day marks a landmark achievement: the United States of America’s 250th anniversary. On July 4, 1776, the American colonies announced their separation from Great Britain by approving the Declaration of Independence. Every year since then has marked another year of American independence and freedom.

When it comes to celebrating the Fourth of July, Americans celebrate in many ways to showcase their patriotism. Many people brandish their American flags, have a barbeque, sing patriotic tunes, and watch a stunning firework show. No matter how people celebrate, America and its storied history are always at the center of the day.

Literary-minded folks may want to celebrate American independence through the world of literature. Whether reading, writing, or sharing books with others, literature is a powerful tool for expressing your patriotism. This article will review how to celebrate the Fourth of July with literature.

Reading About America’s History

As a historical day, it makes sense that someone would want to read about America’s past. That is where historical books come in handy. History books come in both conventional and unconventional forms to embrace our nation’s storied past.

For those looking for more fact-based historical reading, there is a wide array of literature available. These books, often non-fiction, are the most traditional way of learning about America’s history. Whatever area of American history you are most interested in, there will be an endless supply of literature. You can dig into any area of American history and culture that you want. Celebrating America’s birthday means learning as much as possible about the country’s history. Figure out what interests you and go from there!

Alternatively, you might want to focus on historical fiction. This is an outlet for people interested in American history but need a narrative drive. There are historical fiction books set in every era of America’s 250-year history. From the Revolutionary War to the 2020s, there are fictional books about every historical event. These books can be set during any period, but they also enlighten the reader about the real history. Historical accuracy is crucial.

Historical books, fiction and non-fiction, are for readers of all ages. From the simplest picture books to multi-volume biographies, there is a historical book for everybody. Reading about American history allows you to become more in touch with your national pride.

Writing Your Own Historical Book

The other way to engage with the literary world of Independence Day is to write a book of your own. Writing a book about history is nearly the same as writing any other, it just requires some more research. You always want the history parts of your books to be based in fact and reality. Have your story fit in with real life; do not bend history to fit your narrative, unless it is intentional. This goes for both fiction and non-fiction.

When you set out to write a history book, you need to establish the time period and framework. This sets out the path for what you will write about when you start drafting. As with any other book, make sure you plan ahead, including making an outline or storyboard. Create a story that tells a compelling narrative within your chosen time period.

There are no limits to your imagination. Writing about America’s history is a great way to celebrate the country’s birthday.

Sharing with Others

On the Fourth of July, Americans around the country celebrate America’s independence with their friends and family. There are numerous ways to spend Independence Day, including sharing American history with others. This does not have to be through literature, but books are a strong resource for celebrating.

If you have any favorite books about American history, share them with the people in your life. Readers of all ages will find lots to learn in each and every book. Sharing your knowledge and library with others truly expresses the ideals on which America was founded.

Tricks to Writing About Yourself for Your Book

People who read books like to know who wrote them. Every book has an About the Author (or ATA). This is where the readers can learn about the person behind the book. Usually, this includes a professional photograph, so the readers can put a face to the name.

Writing an ATA can seem straightforward — it is just writing about yourself, right? However, it can be deceptively tricky. Sometimes, people struggle to write about themselves, do not know what to write, or just need a guide. This article will explain what goes into writing your very own About the Author.

Basic Technicalities of an ATA

First and foremost, you need to understand the basic technicalities of writing your book’s About the Author section. Some of these may seem like common sense, but it is always good to lay the foundation.

Your ATA is almost always going to be written as a paragraph with complete sentences. Do not use bullet points or sentence fragments as that can come across as unprofessional. Often, these sentences will be written in the third person; avoid using “I” and other first-person words. As a reader, this makes sense and allows them to read about you without confusion.

As for the ATA’s length, use your discretion. It should not be too long or too short, but it should convey all your relevant information. Anywhere from one to three short paragraphs will likely be appropriate, but adjust as needed. For the most part, your ATA should fit on a single page of your book. Feel free to look at other books’ ATAs as reference points when writing yours.

The final technicality to consider is your author photo. It is suggested, but not necessary, to include a photo of yourself. This allows the reader to put a face to the person who wrote the book in front of them. Your photo will often be a high-quality, professional headshot against a neutral background. The more professional your headshot looks, the more your readers will trust your authority.

What to Include in Your ATA

Your About the Author is just that, yours. You can write about whatever you want your readers to know about your life. However, there are a few standard components to include in a basic ATA. Your ATA should never be too long, so balance all of these components accordingly.

Personal Life

Readers like to know who the author is outside of writing. This can include some basic autobiographical information about your personal life, depending on the type of book. Of course, you do not want to get too personal as to invade your privacy. This can include where you are from, if you are married and/or have children, and any other basic information. You can be as vague as saying the state you are from and who you live with. Or, it can be as detailed as including your town, spouse’s name, children’ s name, etc. Write whatever you feel comfortable sharing.

Education and Work Experience

For some books, it is more important to lay out your professional and educational credentials. This often goes for academic, non-fiction, historical, political, or self-help books. Readers will want to know that the author whose book they are reading is qualified in the area. Most commonly, this will include where you went to school and any relevant work experience. You do not have to go into too much detail, but always factually represent your credentials.

Past Works

If you are already a published author in any medium, be sure to include that in your ATA. This allows readers to seek out your past works or recognize your previous writing. If you have an expansive roster, tailor your ATA to the book at hand. Then, direct readers where to find your complete catalog of work.

Fun Facts

Finally, you can include any fun facts that you think define you as a writer or person. This part is the most optional to include, but have fun with it. Let your personality shine through. It is especially helpful to include fun facts if the rest of your ATA is lighter.

Future Uses for Your ATA

If you are a first-time author, writing a strong ATA now will help you going forward. Once you have an initial ATA written and accessible, it can be used for both future books and current opportunities. When using your ATA for future books, you can make small adjustments and updates, but the bones are already there.

Your ATA will be helpful to have on hand during the marketing process of your book. This includes social media, book signings, panels, media appearances, etc. Many of these request ATAs or something similar, so have one ready to go. Having a single ATA to use across mediums will allow for a coherent identity as an author across the spectrum.

Lessons to Apply to When Writing Your Second Book

Publishing your first book is a huge accomplishment in your life. You spent months, maybe years, perfecting your book to make it the book of your dreams. Now, it is out in the world, ready for readers to find, read, and share with others.

But, what happens now? You are a published author, and the sky is the limit. If you enjoyed the writing process, you will probably want to continue your literary journey. Likely, this will manifest as writing your second book. Your follow-up can be whatever you want, either in the same vein as your first or completely different. This is the next step in your life as an author.

Throughout the writing, publishing, and marketing processes, you likely learned valuable lessons to take forward with you. Your experience as an author will always be unique to you, but there are some common general takeaways. This article will look at how you can use the lessons you learned from your first book.

Hone Your Writing Style

Perhaps the most direct lesson to take from your first book is honing your writing. This can include stylistically, thematically, or anything else. You may have written your first book without a clear sense of direction or experience as a writer. When approaching your second book, you will have direct and relevant experience.

This does not mean your first book was poorly written. On the contrary, some of the most acclaimed books in literature are novels from first-time authors. Everyone’s journey to publishing a book is different, and you can have a strong literary background in other ways. The lessons you learn from publishing your first book, however, are unique. You will be able to cement your identity and brand as a writer going forward.

Build an Audience

When you start your first book, you probably do not have much of an audience. Therefore, you will have to build your readership from the ground up. This can be one of the most exciting parts about being a published author. People will read your books and want more from you.

During the writing process of your second book, you will want to consider the audience from the first book. Who read it and liked it? What did they like about it? Why did they like it? You can assess audience reviews and feedback to get to the root of what about your book worked for them.

Your job is not to repeat what you did the first time, just take those lessons forward. Instead of cloning your first book, write to your strengths. If you think critically about your writing, you will find your voice and fanbase grow with each new book.

Gain Connections with Other Writers

As with any industry, networking and building connections are key to success as a writer. Knowing other authors gives you a community of like-minded people who share your passion. You can give each other feedback, advice, or pep talks at any stage in the writing process.

The connections you build with other writers will be different than any other. Sharing a common purpose allows you to build confidence within your own writing. Growing a community with other writers can carry you through your follow-up book. As you write more and more books, you will become a more engrained member of the literary world.

The Ropes of Marketing

When you publish a book, marketing is just as important as the writing and publishing processes. This is when your book gets in front of new people all around the world. Your marketing starts with a press release upon publication and goes from there. You control how you market your book; this can include social media, television appearances, book signing, etc.

Your first book can be a trial for how you can best market your writing. If some methods worked for you, you can carry those forward. However, you can adjust your strategies. Use the methods that worked best and focus on those. For example, you might love in-person events and interaction with potential readers. Embrace those events when marketing your second book.

Understanding Imposter Syndrome as a New Writer in the Literary World

Have you ever felt like you were unworthy of your success? Or do you have constant doubts of your abilities? You are not alone. In every field and discipline, high-achieving people doubt their skills and feel like they do not belong in their field. This is called imposter syndrome, and it is more common than you might think, especially in the literary world.

Imposter syndrome can feel insurmountable. This article will take a look at imposter syndrome, how it affects new writers, and tips to dealing with it.

Imposter Syndrome for Writers

Imposter syndrome is exactly what it sounds like: when someone feels like an imposter. Often, this manifests as insecurity and doubts about your skills and ability. This can stem from comparing yourself to others’ successes or feeling like you are as good. Of course, this does not have to be true — it is based on your feelings of self-worth.

In particular, the publishing world can foster imposter syndrome. As a writer, you may feel insecure about how your book measures up to others. Others may publish more books, have more social media followers, win awards, enjoy acclaim, etc. When you have imposter syndrome, you take the achievements of others as a personal attack on your abilities.

Who Experiences Imposter Syndrome?

Anyone can suffer from imposter syndrome at any point in their life. Everyone compares themselves to others; it is a natural part of the human experience. However, some people are more prone to having this impact their self-esteem.

Some groups with the highest levels of imposter syndrome are people who may feel like outsiders in their group. This includes women, racial minorities, members of the LGBTQ+ community, immigrants, and minorities in age or class. These people can see the success of the “insiders” as intimidating to their chances of success.

Certain personality types are also more likely to experience imposter syndrome. People prone to anxiety can have their anxiety manifest as imposter syndrome. Perfectionists can also experience imposter syndrome because they strive for perfection. Anything short of that makes them feel inadequate.

People with less experience or are new to a field can also feel like an imposter in their new environment. As time goes on, they are likely to become more comfortable, but the beginning can be intimidating. This is especially true for new writers looking to break into the industry.

Tips for Dealing with Imposter Syndrome

There is not a one-size-fits-all cure for imposter syndrome. Everyone handles their mental health differently. However, there are some general tips to consider when you feel like you do not belong, especially as a writer.

Mindfulness

You cannot flip a switch and change your entire mindset, but you can try to train your way of thinking. Practicing mindfulness can allow you to focus on the positives and bright future ahead of you. It trains your mind to not automatically jump to the negative thoughts of feeling out of place. Remind yourself that everyone started somewhere and you are in this space for a reason.

Everyone’s journey to becoming a writer is different, and you cannot grow without pushing yourself. No two journeys to becoming a writer are the same. As such, there are different types of success for different authors. You cannot compare yourself to others just because you are both writers. Focus on ways to work towards your goals without needing to measure up to others’ standards. Putting your stress in perspective can ease your anxiety and make your more confident.

Self-Care

Always practice self-care. If you are feeling particularly stressed about a specific task or situation, take a break. Drink water, watch television, take a walk, read a book, call a friend, or do any calming activity. Unless it is an emergency, it can wait. Allowing stress to fester causes it to compound, so it is best to handle it from the start.

Resources

The most important thing is to always know when to ask for help and seek out resources to help you. Writing is often a solitary activity, but you are not alone. There are communities of people online and in-person who understand your struggle and can help you. There is no shame in asking for help and support along your journey.

Publishing with Cloverly

Publishing your book can be a stressor of its own. When you publish with Cloverly Publishing, our team will work with you every step of the way. We will make sure no stone is left unturned and that you have all the resources you need to succeed.

An Overview of Writing Books About Your Own Life

One of the most prevalent types of books on the market are about the author’s own life. This is because their life is what the author knows best. Authors can use their life story to teach the reader life-changing lessons, impart practical wisdom, and share entertaining anecdotes.

For a first-time author, writing about your life can be a natural entry into the writing world. If this piques your interest, what kind of book do you want to write? There are several kinds of books you can write that are either about or inspired by your life. This article will take a look at different types of autobiographical books to help you find the right fit.

Autobiography vs. Memoir

The most straightforward genres of book for your life story are memoirs and autobiographies. These are similar in style and outward appearance, but each holds nuances that make them unique. However, the common bond of a memoir and autobiography is that you are telling your own story. A biography is also the story of someone’s life, as told by a third party.

An autobiography is a book written to chronicle your entire life, up to the present day. It takes a big-picture look at who you are as a person from childhood. The end result is a well-rounded self-portrait through all of life’s trials and tribulations. With an autobiography, you get to share more of your life’s landmarks.

On the other hand, a memoir is more limited in scope. While still a story about your life, it is often limited to a specific time or similar sets of situations. Instead of showing your entire self, a memoir curates an image based on what themes you are employing. For example, a memoir could focus on a meaningful job you had or a specific relationship in your life. 

Every author can decide whether an autobiography or memoir is the appropriate format for their book. One thing to consider is what the reader will get out of reading your book. If you want to share your whole self, an autobiography might be the better option. However, if your goal is to inform about an area of expertise, a memoir could be more suitable.

Essays & Short-Form Writing

Outside of the traditional parameters of autobiographies and memoirs, there are essays and other short-form pieces of writing. These differ from traditional writing about yourself because it is composed of various standalone elements. Instead of painting a chronological picture of your life, short-form writing is like a vignette. You can write about various points of your life and still create a cohesive whole.

If you decide to write essays or short stories about your life, publishing a book is not the only option. An alternative is to create a blog or newsletter where you can write about your life. This can give you more freedom to write about whatever you want to on a given day to your audience. After some time, you might have enough material to compile into a book after the fact. This can allow you to write short pieces about your life then curate those selections for publication.

True-Life-Inspired Fiction

Instead of writing a true story directly about your life, you can use autobiographical elements to tell a fictional story. This is a creative and unassuming way to share your perspectives and story. The audience will not necessarily know this book is based on aspects of your life while reading. But, they know more about you as a person without even knowing it.

For a more private person, this could be an especially powerful tool for self-expression. You can disguise your vulnerabilities as those of fictional characters. Since these stories are based on real life, there is an underlying emotional truth.

Poetry

The most creative literary outlet to share your life story with is poetry and other lyrical writing. This is the most removed from the formal structures of prose, but is often even more meaningful. Think of your favorite poem; that was likely inspired by the poet’s life at some level. Even if a poem is fantastical in nature, there is likely an inkling of the author’s self in it. That is just how they channel and process their emotions.

No matter how you decide to write about your life, your story deserves to be heard. At Cloverly Publishing, we review each and every manuscript we receive. If your book fits with one of our divisions, we work with you every step of the way to publication. We understand how important your autobiographical work is to you — your story will always be yours.