Editor and publishing strategist AJ Harper discusses the importance of understanding readers as characters in non-fiction writing, emphasizing transformational core messages. She shares insights on developmental editing, ghostwriting, and the writer's journey, providing valuable tips for aspiring authors. Harper's expertise shines through as she delves into enhancing reader engagement and maintaining clarity in writing style.
Develop a transformational core message in non-fiction writing for impactful engagement.
Treat readers as characters to guide them through a journey of challenges and resolutions.
Deep dives
Discovering New Book Ideas through Writing Retreats
The podcast discusses how attending a writer's retreat hosted by Mike McAllowett and Michael Port led to the creation of transformative books for both the podcast host and the guest, A.J. Harper. While the podcast host sought guidance in developing the outline for his book 'Friction,' A.J. Harper discovered a passion for teaching after interacting with aspiring authors at the retreat. This experience marked a turning point in their writing careers, emphasizing the impact of collaborative and supportive writing environments.
Engaging Readers through Character-Centered Content
The episode explores the significance of character-driven storytelling in fiction and non-fiction books. A.J. Harper stresses the importance of treating readers as characters in non-fiction works, guiding them through a journey of challenges and resolutions. By viewing readers as characters with desires and obstacles, authors can structure their content effectively, ensuring alignment with readers' needs and engaging them on a personal level.
Crafting Transformational Core Messages for Impactful Books
A.J. Harper highlights the importance of creating transformational core messages in books that challenge conventional thinking and inspire behavioral change. By focusing on delivering a foundational truth that shifts readers' perspectives, authors can enhance the impact of their message. Through examples like 'Profit First' and 'Don't Make Me Think,' the episode emphasizes the power of concise, transformative core messages that resonate with audiences and drive meaningful change.
In this episode of Brainfluence, host Roger Dooley interviews AJ Harper, an editor and publishing strategist, about her career as a developmental editor and ghostwriter, her new book, and the importance of understanding the reader as a character in non-fiction writing. AJ shares her insights and experiences in the world of writing and publishing, providing valuable tips for aspiring authors.
During the interview, AJ and Roger discuss their intertwined book origin stories and their experience at a writer's retreat co-hosted by Mike Michalowicz and Michael Port. AJ emphasizes the importance of a transformational core message in non-fiction writing and marketing, and discusses editing for a deeper reader connection. She also encourages authors to do their own developmental editing before handing it off to a professional editor.
AJ's expertise in developmental editing and ghostwriting shines through as she provides valuable advice for writers looking to improve their craft. Her new book and her insights on the importance of understanding the reader as a character in non-fiction writing make this interview a must-listen for anyone interested in the world of writing and publishing
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