How do I get started in writing a book?

Question

For some years now, I have been collecting photos and info about my family, I have pics that go back to the 1860's. I would like to start a book about my family's history, mainly showing the great historic photos that I have, how do I go getting started, to make the book interesting, not just a book full of photos,,,??

Answer 1

First sit down and write an introduction stating why, who, what, where, and when. Then add a family tree and begin either with present family members and work your way back with each family name beginning a chapter. OR start as far back as you can and come to the present. Add the pictures as you write about each family member. If it is going to be sold to people other than family members do not including living people. Also included documentation either at the bottom of each page or in the back of the book. The best way to start writing is to sit down and put your thoughts onto paper. Your great great grandchildren will Thank You!

Answer 2

You can write any book you want, anytime, UNLESS you plan on selling it. If you want other people to buy the book, then you need a marketing plan. Ask yourself why a stranger in a book store might want to buy it. That is how you start. These days, you need an angle, unless your prose is so masterful that people break into tears when they read it. If your prose isn't that good, you have to have something, sex, drugs, murder, scandal, or some hot girl-on-girl action. Even Bill Clinton couldn't have sold books if it weren't for Monica Lewinsky.

Answer 3

Put your reasons upo front in the preface, then start out, always throwing your emtions into it. Don't make it in humane. Let it go where it does, then after it's done, show it to a writing group shjomewhere, or an editor. Mostly, make it unique and get a unique reason for sharing this info with the public.

Answer 4

If it was me, I'd just start writing. Go with the flow. Go back & edit later. But I'm not an expert.