DEAR HARRIETTE: I have always wanted to write a book. When I tell people my personal story, they tell me I should. I don’t know if I’m the most unique person in the world, but I did come from difficult beginnings, and I have made a successful life. I tell good stories, too. The thing is that I speak well, but I have never been a writer. How can I expect to write and publish a book if that’s not my thing? -- Wannabe Author, Dallas
DEAR WANNABE AUTHOR: There are several options for you to consider to get your book written. Start off by talking into a recording device. Some will record your words and transcribe them into written words. In other words, you can dictate your book and then see what you come up with. You may be surprised to learn that your verbal stories can be edited into a cohesive, interesting book.
I recommend that you take a writing class as well. The type of book you want to write will guide your steps. If you want to write a memoir, that should be an easy class to find. Typically, you will work in a small group with other storytellers who are figuring out how to get their book on paper. You will have a professional leading the class who will give you constructive criticism, and the group members critique each other as well.
This is a good start. When it comes to publishing your book, you have several options. You can go the self-publishing route. Many people like using Amazon CreateSpace, which is affordable and easy to use. What’s tricky is that you have to do all of the promotion yourself in order to get your book published.
Alternatively, you can work to find a literary agent who will shop your book to a publisher -- if the agent thinks it will sell. This can be profitable, but it is also challenging. Do research so that you can make the best decision for you.