Where does it belong, and how would I recommend it?
The Bookseller turns a manuscript into a clear recommendation. The decision is practical: where would the book sit, who would notice it and what could be said honestly to help the right reader choose it?
Use the title, one-sentence description, reader promise, synopsis, cover if available and three comparable books. Consult the manuscript only when you need to verify a claim. Keep the Reader and Editor reports closed until this report is complete.
Stonecurrent Press does not receive or store your manuscript, notes, answers, reports or result. Everything stays with you unless you choose to share it.
1 Find its natural place
Record:
- the primary shelf, section or category;
- a useful secondary placement;
- the interest, need or conversation that brings the reader there; and
- a misleading placement that should be avoided.
2 Picture the reader in the shop
Describe one plausible person rather than a broad market segment:
- Who notices the book?
- What makes them pick it up?
- What question do they ask before buying?
- What might make them put it back?
- What would reassure them honestly?
3 Use comparisons properly
For each of three comparable books, record the shared appeal, the important difference and what the comparison must not imply. Then identify the book’s own reason to exist.
4 Recommend it aloud
Write a one-sentence recommendation beginning, “I would suggest this if you…”
Then give yourself thirty seconds to say what the book is, who it suits and why someone might choose it rather than another. Read the recommendation aloud. It should sound natural, remain accurate and avoid exaggerated praise.
5 Identify the friction
Answer:
- What is the hardest question a bookseller may be asked?
- What is the honest answer?
- What is the principal obstacle to placement?
- What evidence supports that concern?
- What one practical change would reduce the friction?
6 Complete the Bookseller report
Record:
- where the book belongs;
- the reader you would recommend it to;
- what you would say;
- the strongest reason to choose it;
- the principal obstacle;
- one priority action; and
- a provisional green, amber or red signal.
Only after completing the report should you open the Reader and Editor reports. Note one point reinforced by all three and one useful disagreement. Do not turn the judgements into a vote.
Next: The Marketer asks: Who needs it, and how will they discover it?
Download the Bookseller worksheet (PDF)
A genuine free resource from Stonecurrent Press.
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