Throw The Book At ‘Em

A literary editor told me while I was writing my to-be-published memoir that I have to hook the reader on Page 1, Chapter 1. Otherwise, they’ll never flip through the pages that follow. And, even before cracking open the book, most will check out its back cover to see if it’s been endorsed by someone noteworthy and to read a synopsis. In essence, a great deal hinges on the backside!

Today, I’d like to share the brief overview of how I’m pitching my manuscript to potential agents and publishers. These are the types of phrases that could find a place on the book’s rear jacket.

“Boy-next-door” Tony Morris was living a good life in Atlanta with a fast-paced corporate communications career, a loving relationship, great friends and a beautiful home – or so it appeared. Then, everything capsized and he found himself struggling through a tempestuous mid-life meltdown. Now in his mid-40s, he knew he needed to reconnect with his original self, the one from his Alabama childhood, and relive the treasured and troubled moments of his youth, as those were factors that had made him the man that he’d become. In his quest to connect the two eras – childhood and mid-life – together, Morris experienced an amazing spiritual awakening. What he didn’t expect were the bizarre events in Palm Springs and Louisville that mentally, physically and emotionally challenged him like something out of his wildest dreams and nightmares. His life would never be the same again.

Thanks for reading and being a sounding board. I’d love to hear your initial thoughts as to whether or not you’d want to read the entire story. Interested? Bored? Or, perhaps, hooked?

Love and light,

Tony

www.tony-morris.com

tony@tony-morris.com

 

By Tony | October 18, 2012 | Spiritual | 36 Comments |

36 thoughts on “Throw The Book At ‘Em”

  2. Vicki Morris

    Well, you got me hooked. I can’t wait to get my copy! If your book is anything like what you just wrote to lure me in (and I can’t imagine it wouldn’t be) can I pre-order the book?
    Keep these little nuggets coming!
    love you

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  5. Kaye Prejean

    First of all— I LOVE the phrase—-‘In essence, a great deal hinges on the backside!’ That made me smile! It’s true, in many areas! Ha! Seriously, I think you’re off to a fabulous start and I HOPE you’ll come nearby ‘HOME’ for a book signing!!! I’m SO there!!! GOOD LUCK!!!!!!!!! 🙂

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  7. Deborah Magnes

    Tony, I like where you are going, and I feel it would get my attention because I have an interest in Spiritual Connections. Even more so, I would like to see it actually say Psychic Spiritual Connection because I feel it better describes what you have experienced. And the word Psychic is always an attention getter. Folks are drawn to the mystery of Psychics – “Are Psychic’s the real deal?” – We know you are the real deal! Just a little thought that came to me. Love and JOY, Debi

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    1. Tony Post author

      Hey Laurie! Thanks for your comment…there’s lots more to share : ) Will definitely let you know when I make it to Houston…same for you if you come to California.

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  11. Paulette Lee

    Tony the overview has hooked me and I can’t wait to read your book. I feel sure some publisher will publish your book very soon. Best of luck and keep us posted.

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    1. Tony Post author

      Thanks so much Paulette! The right agent and the right publisher at the right time will come along. In the meantime, I really appreciate the comments, suggestions (and encouragement) that I’ve received along the way!!

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  12. Jane Conrad

    Tony, I can hardly wait to read your book! If the book is as interesting as you are it will sell MANY books. Please advise me when you have a publisher and know when it will be available to buy. The overview is fine, but I do agree with Deborah that using the word “psychic” will catch people’s interest and sell more books.

    Love and wonderful memories,
    Jane Conrad

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    1. Tony Post author

      Your comments mean so much to me! So glad you came into my life in 7th grade! I’ll definitely include the word “psychic” in the overview! Love to you!

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  14. Pam Swartz

    DAMN……… Hey Tony I want to keep reading BUT the my reading came to an abrupt end …Wanted to read more but I’ll have to wait till your book comes out huh Cousin making me wait on the edge of my seat ……What you wrote was so good to peek someones interset GOOD JOB

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  17. Mike

    Hi, Tony. In publishing, as in life, the backside is very important. 😉 I think the synopsis is very attention-grabbing and would definitely prompt me to open the book to read more. A couple of constructive comments: (1) Is it possible to hint at just one of the “bizarre” events? Rather than telling me they were bizarre, how about a few words about one event? (2) I wonder if “like something out of his wildest dreams” might be a little cliche? Consider playing with this wording a bit more. Best of luck with the book. You know we’ll order one (or two!) copies for our reading enjoyment.

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