Columbia-Capstone

Writers’ Guidelines

Columbia-Capstone is seeking people,

with expertise in subjects they enjoy,

to write books.

 

The primary qualifications are:

 

1. You really enjoy the topic.

2. You consider yourself, and may be considered by others, to be accomplished within the topic.

3. You can tell good stories on the topic.

4. You can organize your thoughts.

 

For example, you may enjoy fly fishing and have been doing it for a number of years. You know the fun of planning a fishing trip, all the decisions to be made, all the gear to have, the thrill of landing a big fish, the agony of filling your hip-waders with the water of an icy mountain stream. You can present all of this in a lively entertaining manner, complete with stories to give the reader a real sense of fly fishing.

 

You do not need to be a great writer but you do have to be able to organize your thoughts, get the facts straight, and tell good stories in writing.

 

How it works

 

Columbia-Capstone provides the book structure and the editing services. Our editors will work with you to complete a project in a short amount of time.

 

To get started, we need to see a sample of your writing. Don't worry, it is easy and you will find out if you want to do this. Your task is to write three to five pages of a standard 12 point double line (it will be 1,000 to 1,200 words) word processing document on your topic, to tell a potential reader why people want to do this activity. Simply answer this:

 

Why do people want to do this?

 

In your text, you will want to write facts and opinions about why. Maybe include some numbers about how many people do it, if that number is growing, is it universal or just a few countries, etc. And illustrate your points with stories. Very important. Stories. Strike a balance between the rationale and some experiences and you will have a winning combination.

 

When you finish writing

 

When you are satisfied with your work, email the document to submissions@columbia-capstone.com and it will be reviewed. If you meet the four primary qualifications, you will hear from us soon. Note: This is not self-publishing. We cover up-front costs and editing. We offer options on your compensation ranging from lump-sum to per-sold-copy.

 

At that point, we will send you a non-disclosure agreement. Once signed and returned, we will discuss the entire concept, book structure, and business direction. If you like where we are going, and we think you will, we will embark on the relatively quick journey to turn your expertise into an enjoyable book.

 

So now get to writing! If you are having difficulty, please look at "Writing Ideas" and the words will flow, sooner or later. Again, don't worry, it is hard to get started but then it all takes shape. Have fun!

 

 

Send your writing to: submissions@columbia-capstone.com

Include your name, physical address, and email address.

 

We will be in touch shortly!