Got an idea yet? This week, we’ve been generating unique ideas by applying fun strategies that are bound to help you discover your next book idea. But how do you know if your current idea is a GOOD idea?
Here’s 5 ways to know your book idea is golden:
1. Pitch to a handful of trusted readers/writers
I can’t express the value of having voracious readers and quality critique partners in your arsenal enough. When it comes to exploring others’ interest in your idea, it could be as simple as asking. For those of you who are worried about your concept being stolen, only ask those you trust and have worked with before. Chances are readers are more interested in reading a story like yours than writing it, and quality critique partners have plenty of ideas of their own. If 3-5 opinions say they’d like to read that book, you have an audience.
2. See if it has legs
Sometimes, the easiest way to know if your story idea is a good one is to see where it could go. Outline a basic plot or even freewrite the general storyline to see where it might go. Does it have captivating characters? An interesting twist or conclusion that you know readers will love? Then it’s likely this story could go the distance.
3. Pull out all the stops on an element or two
Not every story is going to be high concept, but that doesn’t mean it won’t be worth reading. Develop a unique character, vivid world, or brilliant writing style. Then ensure you nail those elements every chance you get. The more intriguing your execution, the more readers will want to read.
4. Read, read, read!
Yes, we’ve all heard it before. But you’d be surprised how many writers never quite find the time to read. Of course we’re all short on time—Hence, Better Writing in 5. But at the end of the day, it’s all about what you prioritize. Read a chapter at lunch, listen to an audiobook while working out, commit to reading a few pages each night before bed. The more pages you get in, the more you’ll understand what’s working in your genre, and what’s not. Another strategy is to check out synopses for a couple dozen comp titles in your market. Is your story idea comparable? You just might be on to something.
5. Check your gut
When you think about your book idea, are you excited to write it? All of it? Would you want to read it? If the different elements and scenes give you a buzz, that’s a sign that your story could really go somewhere. And the small plot holes or elements that give you pause can always be revised later. Often, when it comes to knowing if your story is any good, you’ll just know. If you’ve been doing any of the above—getting feedback, developing the plot, exploring the market—you’ll know in your gut if what you have will work or not.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, it’s not about coming up with the next blockbuster. It’s all about executing the story in a phenomenal way that will keep readers turning pages. Trust yourself and write the story that you want to read. And when you feel good about it, know others will too. Looking for a few good tips to develop that good story into a great one? Check out the conclusion of the Ideas Series here.