The Steve Laube Agency

Focusing only on the Christian book publishing world, here are some things an author might see as positive about them and their work, but those working in publishing do not view them in the same way.

“Money isn’t important to me.”
Maybe you feel compelled to mention this to show your priorities are in order. But if you truly believe it, you will be the only person in the entire book industry who doesn’t place some priority on finances. Instead, don’t mention it and just seek fair pay for your work.

“I can write well in many categories.”
This is a red flag indicating a bit of self-deception. No one is good at everything. Instead, let your work communicate what you are good at and let someone else suggest expanding your focus. This statement is similar to self-endorsing your work. (Not good.)

“I use a typewriter just like Hemingway,” or “I use a pen, like Dickens.”
Fine. But you will still need to upload your manuscript in a current version of Microsoft Word and revise with an editor using an online file-sharing process. Instead, don’t mention the initial typewritten or handwritten process. That’s a personal choice, but publishers in the 21^st century might think you are joking. For sure, it won’t improve your literary credibility.

“God gave me the words to this book,” “I am on a mission from God,” or “My book will change the world.”
Always a firm warning at conferences or writers groups to avoid these statements. They are perceived as someone who should not be taken seriously. At best, they are unnecessary; at worst, they are manipulative. Instead, just assume everyone knows that Christians are guided by the Spirit of God, including the one reviewing your work or giving advice.

“No one has written a book about this,” or “I have found something brand new in Leviticus.”
In the Christian publishing world, particularly in theology, these statements are especially problematic, as newly discovered truth is generally assumed to be false teaching. Of course, no one from your town, with your background, with your unique perspective, has written a book on this exact subject. But trying to press the issue of uniqueness communicates, “We have no way to evaluate this book.” Instead, just let your work speak for itself and focus on your own writing style and approach.

“It took me ten years to write this book.”
Intended to convey discipline and a never-give-up mindset, at best it communicates that you learned how to write a book by writing a book, which is never a good approach. Professional writers worth working with take 6-12 months to write a typical book. What if your book sells well? Will it take another decade for book number two?

“I’ve dreamt of being a published author since I was a child.”
Understood as, “So don’t reject me, or my life has been a waste.” Book writing is both serious work and an ongoing growth process. Instead, say this only to your close friends and relatives, after you start getting paid to write.

Bonus thought: “Hmm. Your book proposal looks interesting.”
Something a publisher or agent says to you isn’t always as positive as you might think. Wait a few months before deciding whether it is.