Publishers Weekly
11/04/2019
Business writer Diehl (Brand Identity Breakthrough) delivers a practical and encouraging guide to self-publishing nonfiction. In snappy chapters that talk directly to potential authors, Diehl covers the process from start to finish. First, he recommends rejecting the notion that any stigma still exists around self-publishing. Then, he advises, authors should select a new topic to write about, or an old one that can be written about in a new way. To that end, Diehl suggests outlining the book into chapters and figuring out exactly what one wants to communicate before beginning to write. In the editing and refining stage, he advises cutting anything that does not serve the book’s purpose. When the finished book is ready to be presented, its title, cover, and synopsis are the first things readers will see, so it is imperative, Diehl writes, that they are enticing and free of typos. Most helpfully, he urges aspiring authors to pick the marketing plan that will deliver the highest return for their investment. Though lengthy, Diehl’s book can be quickly read and is crammed with practical ideas that readers will want to highlight and refer back to when they endeavor to write their own book. (Self-published.)
From the Publisher
“(Diehl) delivers a practical and encouraging guide to self-publishing nonfiction… Though lengthy, Diehl’s book can be quickly read and is crammed with practical ideas that readers will want to highlight and refer back to when they endeavor to write their own book.”
Publisher’s Weekly
"(The Influential Author) is refreshing, leaving no misinterpretation on what success is for a nonfiction writer. Diehl's writing is compelling and inspiring, aptly following the tenants of his own message. The author's book is a must-read for aspiring writers."
US Review of Books
“Every year there is at least one book that is a 'must read' for the aspiring writer seeking to have their manuscript become a book, and their book become successful. This year that 'how to' manual is Gregory V. Diehl's The Influential Author: How and Why to Write, Publish, and Sell Nonfiction Books that Matter… A complete and comprehensive course that should be a part of every community, college, and university library Writing/Publishing instructional reference and resource collection.”
Midwest Book Review
"Gregory establishes seven aspects of the relationship between an author and their nonfiction book: philosophy, strategy, creation, refinement, presentation, promotion, and reward. Each of these areas is explored thoroughly and it becomes readily apparent that the 'rules' apply to all writers of nonfiction, no matter their stage of experience! Highly recommended."
San Francisco Review of Books
"Gregory Diehl has written THE ultimate guide to nonfiction book publishing. Nothing is assumed and nothing is left out. A complete masterwork on everything you need to know, do, be, and have for a successful book that will promote your business and your brand for years. The book does a great job of including both strategic and tactical advice - from what you need to do months and months before publication - to initial promotion - and what you must continue to do on a daily basis to make sure your book continues to serve your business."
David Newman, author of Do It! Marketing
"I enjoyed The Influential Writer as a reader who writes, but also as a teacher. I would consider using this book as a recommended resource for upper-level writing students who wish to see their work in print, and I think the philosophical sections would make great material for classroom discussion."
Literacy Work & Play
