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It’s almost December, and that means one thing is most definitely on everyone’s minds: the holidays. We’re in the final stretch to Christmas, with New Year’s already peeking in over the horizon. And while it may be too late to crank out an entire new holiday-themed book for publication by Christmas, this does make the perfect time to talk about what it is that actually makes for a successful holiday-themed writing project! After all, the good thing about the calendar is that it keeps bringing the good things back around again, year after year.
There are two key things to keep in mind that are specific to writing holiday-themed books: saturation and genre. Genre is important because there are several which are known for holiday-themed installments, particularly romance, non-fiction and children’s picture books. The first two provide opportunities for additions to ongoing series, featuring beloved characters or ideas but with bonus added holiday appeal, while holiday-themed children’s picture books offer bountiful opportunities for rich illustrations! And while any genre can definitely be enriched with a little extra holiday appeal, you will have to choose between writing in a genre where your book will have lots of competition but also a massive built-in readership, and writing in a genre where you will be the innovator and trend-setter. Pick wisely, and with your heart!
Secondly, when we use the word saturation here, we refer to the degree to which the holidays figure in your book. It is vital as you set out to craft a holiday-themed book that you don’t get so carried away including festive imagery and festive language and festive references to Frosty the Snowman and so forth that you forget all of the other vital elements of craft: plot, characterization, style, and voice to name a few. It’s best to set a couple of guidelines for yourself going in, to outline––even if you don’t outline your entire book––the specifics of what will give your book a holiday appeal. Before you pick up your pen or open your laptop.
Keep these two guiding stars in your constellation of inspiration, and you’ll produce a book which has massive sales potential around the holidays––and which will also hold lasting appeal, regardless of the season!
Not sure where to start? It may be time to lean on an expert. If you’re looking to write and publish a holiday-themed book, there’s never a better time than now to inquire. Visit us online at www.outskirtspress.com where you can chat with a Publishing Consultant or call us at 1-888-672-6657.
To see our staff picks of amazing holiday books from many of our authors, visit our Pinterest page by clicking here.