Eloquio?*

I have decided to write a book. Not just any book, but one that will appeal to a wide readership, speak to controversial current events, and draw on academic research.

Should be a piece of cake.

But in case it isn’t, because the writing process rarely comes neatly packed in well-defined slices, this collection of posts will archive my experience moving through the soup-storm of the draft-to-publication experience.

*For the story behind the title, you’ll have to wait for the post!

Some Background

I recently finished a doctorate in Italian Studies and after writing a hefty dissertation, defending it, and getting a job outside of academia, I still feel like writing.

My hope is to make the process of writing a book that draws on academic expertise but speaks to a wider readership more transparent and less daunting for others. Some posts will share the creative thinking alongside the obstacles involved in writing a nonfiction book; others will share resources or strategies that I’ve found super useful or inspiring.

Who is this for?

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to write a nonfiction book and try to get it published, this collection is for you. Each post will update you on my progress, obstacles I run into, and resources that I use so you get a full step-by-step perspective of this process (the worm's-eye view).

Scholarly authors who are currently writing outside the academy and those who are thinking of making the jump off the (sinking?) ship will find it especially helpful. But anyone new to nonfiction publishing will find something valuable in this collection. At the very least, you can read through my recommended resources on publishing so that you don’t have to find/evaluate them all on your own.

Do I need to subscribe?

If you like what you read, consider subscribing and sharing it with others (it’s free!). I post monthly in real time so that you can follow along as I get closer to a finished book and, hopefully, publication.

Many of the posts will be available to all readers but becoming a subscriber will give you the satisfaction of supporting writing work directly with your attention and keep you up-to-date on my mysterious journey towards authorship.

Once I have chapters or excerpts of my new book to share, those will be made available only to subscribers (my Super Human Supporters) along with Q&As and other live events. Other exclusive material includes interviews with editors, publishers, and other writers that I run into along the way to publication.

This is an entirely new adventure for me and you will be along for the ride. Here’s to smooth sailing and a sense of humor when the water gets rough!