Help Me Tell My Story In A Book That’s Loved

Superman fan

“Help me tell my story in a book that’s loved, not just sitting on a shelf collecting dust.” Sure thing!

A loved book always has your reader top-of-mind.

A loved book is intentional in all aspects – what you say, how you say it, how it looks, how it feels.

I created these questions and suggestions to give you the tools to create that book, the one that’s loved to pieces!

(Don’t worry. You can order another.)

Questions & Suggestions for Creating a Book

First, think through these questions – knowing the answers makes telling your story in a book easier and story better.

• Why are you creating this book? Identify and clarify the story you’re telling.

• Who is the audience?

• Why are you creating this book now?

• What is your budget?

• What is your timeframe? Is there a deadline?

Then, what does the book look like in your mind’s eye?

• Is the content split between words and images? Is it mostly images with captions?

• Is the book physically big? Small enough to comfortably read in your lap? Fit on a shelf or sit on the coffee table?

• What does the cover look like?

• What is the design style? Colorful or neutral? Lots going on or more minimalist?

Consider your material:

• The book’s text – story, captions, an introduction (I recommend it), credits (if needed) – all will ultimately need to be in a WORD document.

• The photos, both tangible and digital

• Any other important pieces (e.g. drawings, invitations, newspaper clippings, tickets, recipes)

• Images you don’t have but can find on the internet (use copyright free or purchase from copyright holder) or you can take photos of them (think three-dimensional items – clothing, trophy, china)

Some image guidance:

• Choose the best quality pictures you can find, both tangible and digital. That said, if you only have one blurry photo of great-grandmother, that’s your best photo!

• Use a variety of shots – candid and posed, singles and groups, joyful and thoughtful – whatever best tells your story.

• Consider both horizontal and vertical images.

Consider  the book’s organization:

• Book’s title

• Featured photos for front and/or back covers – or a fabric cover with embossed title

• Table of Contents?

• Introduction

• Credits/Acknowledgements

TIP: Record where the content will go AFTER the book is made – back to your sister, in the baby album etc. It will make things much easier for you when finished.

Remember, Life is a Story, so Tell Yours.

The wonderful photo is from the Library of Congress collection.