When creating a life story or family history book, one of the most important decisions you will make is determining the scope of your audience. You may choose a private audience of close family and friends or a public audience that grants anyone open or paid access to your book.
This decision doesn’t have to be finalized until your book is ready to be published and distributed. However, understanding the distinctions between private and public audiences can help ensure your book meets its intended purpose and resonates with your desired readers.
Writing Content
Your target audience will shape the types of stories you tell and the level of detail you include.
Writing for a private audience often allows for a more intimate and relaxed tone. Since your readers will likely already understand the context for your book, you may feel comfortable sharing inside jokes, quirky anecdotes, or deeply personal reflections.
Writing for a public audience requires more background information on key people, places, and events to ensure readers understand your perspective. This type of writing will heavily benefit from employing storytelling techniques, such as drawing out universal themes and creating a compelling narrative structure.
Editing and Design Choices
Professional editing and design are always a good idea regardless of your audience, although the goals may differ slightly to meet your needs.
When editing for a private audience, you might prioritize maintaining a distinct voice over strict grammatical rules and structural conventions. Design choices might emphasize personal touches such as family photos or unique formatting that resonates with loved ones.
When editing for a public audience, you might strive for a grammatically coherent manuscript that enhances your professional credibility. Design choices for your book’s cover and interior should align with industry standards for your genre to maximize commercial appeal.
Distribution Considerations
When it comes to your book’s distribution, it will be wise to choose the method(s) that give your intended audience the easiest access to your book.
If you want to share your book privately, this might include self-publishing with a limited print run, keeping your book’s link private, and/or using print-on-demand services.
If you want to make your book public, you will need to obtain an International Standard Book Number (ISBN) and create a strategic approach to releasing your book. This includes considering price points and developing a promotional plan that might involve social media campaigns, book-related events, or media interviews.
Writing a life story or family history book is a deeply personal journey, and NextGen can help at all stages of publication for private and public audiences. Book your free consultation today to learn more!
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