What’s in a Book Title? 4 Questions to Answer
The old adage goes “don’t judge a book by it’s cover” … but we all know we do! Observe yourself. How do you choose and select the books you would read?
In my case, every summer from the time I was age 10, I would spend portions of my summer vacation at the library reading book after book. I would glide along the aisles while my fingertips brushed the book bindings. My eyes would glance at the titles hoping to see one that would call to me – a book title that would make me stop and pick it up. As an adult, I still indulge in this same book-picking practice. Chances are I am not the only one.
When it comes to giving your book a title you want to do so deliberately, specifically, and purposefully. Below are four questions to ask yourself when deciding on a book title. Moreover, we are also going to look at the naming of the Lord and Savior Jesus as it relates to this discussion.
Question 1: Why am I writing this book?
The reason behind writing your book is the same reason God sent Jesus to the Earth: to solve a problem. Mankind needed to be redeemed from his fallen state and Jesus was that Redeemer. What problem does your book solve? What solution does your book present? What challenge does your book overcome? Your title must communicate the answer.
Question 2: Who is going to read my book?
God had a large audience – the whole world! I would not recommend promoting your book to the entire population. Though your readership may still be vast, what is the niche group you are trying to reach? Who are they? What are their struggles and their triumphs? What does their day-to-day life look like? Once you tap into their soul, you can speak their language.
Question 3: How do you feel when you read and say your title?
Jesus is a powerful name! In fact, it’s the name above all names! It means savior and salvation. Salvation gives a feeling of hope, joy, peace, health, safety, and love. When I say Jesus, it feels good. Your book title should feel good, and it should sound good. Say your book title aloud: What feelings and thoughts rise up on the inside of you? If you don’t feel a sense of excitement, then reconsider the title.
Question 4: Is my title time bound?
Jesus was born, lived, died, and raised about 2,000 years ago, and yet His name has not gone out of style. Does your book title give the impression of one certain time or period in life or history? Or does your book title tell me I can pick it up 10 years from now and still receive the answer to my problem? Ideally, your title should lasts through various times and seasons.
Choosing a book title can feel overwhelming, but be encouraged. God has given you the Holy Spirit to help you in this selection process. Just like He planned the name of His Son, He has planned the name of your book!
Yours in book writing!
LaToya
Book Writing Coach
Exclamation Publishing
Say it Right, WRITE Now!
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