ABOUT me
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Book coach, journalist, author, editor, ghostwriter...
I have worn many different hats over the years. The main thread running through my varied career is my passion for books, writing and learning.
For nearly three decades, I worked as a foreign correspondent in Istanbul, covering a broad range of topics for international media outlets. I was Turkey correspondent for the French daily Le Monde for 15 years. I have also collaborated with non-governmental organizations, international institutions and academic bodies as a consultant writer, editor and researcher.
Journalism taught me to explore story angles, conduct research, structure information and develop a strong narrative. As a reporter, I was allowed to ask questions and satisfy my natural curiosity.
Today, I apply these skills in my book coaching practice – mentoring and supporting nonfiction and memoir authors as they navigate the challenging process of turning the story in their mind into a book that readers want to buy.
I still get to ask questions but now I do it to support my clients and give their books the best chance of success.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is a book coach?
A book coach is a mentor and a sounding board who provides editorial feedback and encouragement as you shape your book and find your voice.
I work with committed nonfiction and memoir authors, supporting them as they turn their big idea into a solid outline, develop their proposal, and navigate the writing process.
My role is to ask questions to help you clarify your thoughts and develop your book project. You will still have to work hard, but I can make the process easier and keep you focused on the end goal by offering honest and constructive guidance along the way.
Why do I need to plan my book? I’m ready to start writing right away
Do get started if you feel confident about your book concept. Keep in mind, however, that nonfiction book projects are usually sold to agents and publishers on the basis of a proposal – a comprehensive business case for your book that includes several components, including a marketing plan and an audience analysis.
Having a polished proposal gives you a better chance of getting your book traditionally published. Even if you do not seek an agent or publisher, identifying your target reader, clarifying your message and structuring your book before you start writing your manuscript will save you time and energy.
As an author myself, I also know that writers can get so involved in their material that they lose the reader’s perspective. This is why I enjoy my role as a mentor and sounding board. I engage in an intense collaborative process with my clients and their projects but maintain an outsider’s perspective.
If you want to find out more about The Benefits of Investing in a Book Coach, check out this blog post by Jennie Nash.
Can you guarantee that my book will be published?
Unfortunately, I can offer no such guarantee – nor can any other book coach. Many factors influence an agent or a publisher’s decision to sign up an author and these evolve constantly. What I can say is that I will support you and work hard to give your book the best chance of success. It is important to keep in mind that traditional publishing is not the only path to release your book into the world. A growing number of authors opt for hybrid publishing or self-publishing, which give them a greater degree of control over their work.
What are your credentials as a book coach?
I got my certification as a nonfiction and memoir book coach from Author Accelerator, an organization that trains book coaches to high standards. My coaching is inspired by the methods and tools developed by Author Accelerator founder Jennie Nash. It is also informed by the skills I developed during my long career as a journalist, editor and writer.
