How to Write a Book: From First Chapter to Publication

Writing a book can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to write a book from idea to finished draft — breaking the process into clear, practical steps you can actually follow. Whether it’s your first novel or a nonfiction project, this roadmap will help you start strong and stay consistent.

I still remember staring at my first ever blank page like it was some kind of mythical beast I had to slay. I had an idea—a good one, I thought—but every time I tried to start, I second-guessed myself into paralysis.

Does that sound familiar?

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the thought of writing a book, you can finally take a breath of relief because I’m about to share my personal tips for how to write a book. It doesn’t matter if you’re dreaming up a sweeping fantasy epic, a cozy mystery, or a memoir that spills your soul on the page; I’ve been exactly where you are. And trust me: you can finish your book.

In this little guide, I’ll walk you through the entire book writing process, from that very first spark of inspiration to typing those two sweet, sweet words at the bottom of your manuscript. As a USA Today bestselling author and screenwriter who’s written and published dozens of novels, I’ve been through it all—plot twists, procrastination, coffee-fueled midnight edits, and crazy launch days.

We’re going to break this big, messy process into simple, repeatable steps—no gatekeeping, no fluff, just real advice from someone who’s done it (and still does it) for a living.

Spoiler alert: Even New York Times bestselling authors start with rough drafts. I always say that the magic isn’t in perfection, it’s actually in momentum.

Introduction to Book Writing

Writing a book is one of the most rewarding creative journeys you can embark on, but let’s be real: it’s also a big commitment. The writing process isn’t just about having a great book idea; it’s about showing up, day after day, and putting in the work to bring your story or message to life. Whether you’re dreaming of writing fiction, a self help book, or even a science fiction epic, the first step is to simply begin writing.

Successful writers know that progress comes from consistency. That’s why it’s so important to carve out a dedicated writing space—somewhere that signals to your brain, “it’s writing time.” It doesn’t have to be fancy; it just needs to be yours. Once you’ve got your spot, set up a writing schedule that fits your life. Maybe it’s early mornings before the world wakes up, or late-night writing sessions after the kids are in bed. The key is to make writing a regular part of your routine.

Setting a weekly word count goal can help you stay motivated and track your progress. Even if you only write a few hundred words per session, those words add up fast. Many writers find that using writing tools—like Scrivener, Google Docs, or even a trusty notebook—can make the process smoother and more organized.

Remember, the hardest part is often just starting. But once you commit to a writing routine and give yourself permission to write poorly (especially in the beginning), you’ll find that the blank page isn’t so scary after all. Every successful writer started with a first draft, and every finished book began as a messy, imperfect idea. So set your goals, create your space, and start writing your own book—one word at a time.

Step One: Find Your Big Idea

Every book starts with some sort of spark. Sometimes it’s a character that pops into your head fully formed. Sometimes it’s a setting, a question, or just a weird dream you can’t shake (true story: one of my best series was born from a half-awake nap I had on the couch). But here’s the key. You don’t need a fully fleshed-out plot to start. You just need a compelling seed to plant.

Finding your big idea is the first step in the creative process, and every writer’s creative process for developing ideas is unique.

Generate and Refine a Book Idea

When inspiration hits, write it down, no matter how vague or weird it seems. I keep a running list of ideas in a digital note, and some of my best books started as “pirate time-travel Egypt thing???” or “what if Death fell in love?”

Once you’ve got a handful of ideas, it’s time to put them to the test. I love the classic “what if?” method to help shape the premise. Here are some examples:

• What if teenagers had to fight to the death on live TV? — Ummm, The Hunger Games.
• What if your soulmate’s name appeared on your wrist the day they were born?
• What if a grim reaper fell in love with the girl he was meant to collect?

Ask yourself:

1. Can this idea sustain an entire book?
2. Is there conflict or stakes baked into the concept?
3. Does it make me excited to write it? If you need a boost, Writer Gadgets offers plenty of tools and writing prompts to get inspired.

Understand Your Target Audience

If you’re writing fiction, think about:

• Genre: Romance? Fantasy? Thriller? Literary fiction?
• Age category: YA, New Adult, Adult?
• Reader expectations: A cozy mystery needs a tidy resolution. A dark fantasy needs grit and high stakes. Know what your readers love, and deliver on it.

If you’re writing nonfiction, ask yourself:

• Who needs this information?
• What problem are you solving?
• What transformation or takeaway are you promising?

A self-help book on burnout aimed at millennial women in their 30s is going to sound very different than a business productivity guide for CEOs.

Once you know who you’re writing for, it’s easier to make decisions about tone, pacing, and structure down the line. You’re not writing into the void anymore. You’re writing to someone.

Step Two: Outline the Entire Book Before You Begin Writing

I know, I know. Some writers break out in hives at the word outline. But stick with me for a sec. Whether you’re a hardcore plotter or a chaotic pantser (hello, it’s me, I’m literally both), having some kind of roadmap before jumping into chapter one will absolutely save you from a headache later. And just to be clear, outlining is just as important for a nonfiction book as it is for fiction, ensuring clarity and structure from the start. Outlining helps both fiction and nonfiction writers in the same way, providing a clear path forward.

Why Outlining Matters

You might think outlining kills creativity, but it actually frees you to be more creative, in my opinion. You’re not wasting energy trying to remember where your story is going; you’re too busy exploring how it gets there.

A solid outline:

• Helps maintain consistent character development
• Prevents plot holes and pacing issues
• Gives you a bird’s-eye view of your story arc
• Makes revisions so much easier (ahem, especially if you hate cutting whole chapters later… )

And no, your outline doesn’t have to be fancy. It just needs to make sense to you because it’s not for anyone else.

Choose an Outlining Method

I’ve seen a ton of outlining styles over the years, and honestly? You might need to try a few to see what sticks. Here are some of the most popular:

The Snowflake Method

Start small (a one-sentence idea) and build it out step-by-step until you’ve fleshed out characters, scenes, and subplots. It’s methodical and great for complex novels.

Mind Mapping

Visually branch out ideas from a central theme. Ideal for non-linear thinkers and creatives who like to see connections laid out.

The Beat Sheet

Popular in screenwriting, which is probably why I tend to use this one, beat sheets map out key story beats. I love this for pacing and emotional arcs, especially if I’m working in romance or fantasy where turning points are crucial.

For Fiction Writers

• Map out character arcs, not just plot events
• Ensure your story features interesting characters who face significant obstacles (this combination drives the narrative and keeps readers engaged)
• Clarify your point of view (POV) for each chapter
• Create a basic three-act structure (or five-act, hero’s journey, etc.)

For Nonfiction Writers

• Break content into logical sections or chapters
• Identify the transformation you’re guiding the reader through
• Include examples, anecdotes, or stats in your outline so drafting feels smoother later

Recommended Writing Tools

Outlining can be done with pen and paper (I’m a sucker for Post-Its, an empty wall, and colored pens), but digital tools make organizing way easier, especially if you’re working on a full-length book.

Here are a few I recommend:

• Scrivener: You can build a visual corkboard, rearrange scenes easily, and keep research all in one place. It’s not just for drafting. It’s outlining heaven.
• Notion: Great for visual thinkers and those who want a clean, drag-and-drop experience with linked databases and boards.
• Google Docs: Classic, free, and easy to access from anywhere. You can create a bulleted outline and link to individual chapter docs.

Pssst: Check out our full Scrivener review for a full breakdown on how to use it for outlining series.

Step Three: Set Up Your Writing Space and Routine

Writing a book is equal parts creativity and logistics. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve stared at a blinking cursor, not because I didn’t know what to write, but because my writing space was a disaster and my brain was even messier.

Here’s how to make the physical and mental space you need to get that first draft done.

Design a Productive Writing Space

You don’t need a Pinterest-worthy office or a fancy desk with LED lights and aesthetic coffee mugs (though, hey, no judgment if that’s your vibe. I love a good mug!). You just need a place where your brain knows: this is where we write.

Here are a few essentials I live by:

• Minimal distractions: Clear your desk. Close the tabs. Put your phone in another room or use something like the Brick App (blocks distractions with one touch).
• Ergonomics matter: Your back, neck, and wrists will thank you later. Invest in a decent chair and consider a laptop stand or external keyboard.
• Mood lighting & vibes: Natural light is great, but a cozy lamp works too. I like to light a candle or play instrumental music to signal my brain that we’re in “writing mode.”

Build a Writing Routine

This is where the magic happens, baby. Consistency is the single best gift you can give your writing dream. Once you get that first chapter written, it’s all downhill from there. But that doesn’t mean you need to write every day or at 5am like your favorite author on TikTok.

You just need a routine that works for you, and that starts by making it small and sustainable.

Try this:

• Pick your writing days: 3–4 days a week is plenty.
• Choose a set time window: Even just 30 minutes.
• Stack it with a habit: Coffee, then writing. Kids on the bus, then writing.
• Use timers: The Pomodoro method (25 minutes writing, 5-minute break) is a life-saver when motivation’s low or you’re stressed about deadlines.

My current schedule is writing from 7:30–9:00 AM before the day gets loud. Even if I only get 500 words, that adds up to 2,500+ a week. If I happen to miss my morning writing session, I find time in the evening to sit with my Notes app and at least jot down some thoughts for the next day.

Progress is progress.

Set Achievable Writing Goals

A common mistake I see with new writers is them setting massive, unrealistic goals and burning out in two weeks. Then writer’s block sets in.

Let’s fix that with SMART goals:

• Specific: “Write 500 words on Tuesday and Thursday” > “Write more”
• Measurable: You can track your progress
• Achievable: Don’t set yourself up to fail
• Realistic: 1,000 words/day is great. 200 is also great.
• Timely: Add a timeframe (e.g., “finish draft by August 1st”)

If you want help creating a realistic writing timeline, check out our guide on how long it takes to write a book. It breaks down the math based on your schedule and speed.

And always remember: Progress is greater than perfection. You don’t need to write the perfect book today, you just need to write something.

Step Four: Start Writing Your Rough Draft

Okay, deep breath. This is the part where most aspiring authors panic. The outline’s looking good, the coffee’s hot, the vibe is just right… and yet, that blank page feels like it’s judging you.

Trust me, every author feels this. The key is to stop trying to write a perfect book. Start trying to write any book at all. Think of it this way. Can you make something out of Play D’oh if the tub is empty? No, you can’t. You need something to work with. So, just start dumping the words onto the page you can mold and play with later. Remember, early drafts are meant for exploration and experimentation.

Overcome the Fear of the Blank Page

If I had a dollar for every time someone told me, “I want to write a book, but I’m scared it’ll suck…” I could buy a yacht and name it Chapter One.

Here’s the thing: first drafts are supposed to be messy. The goal isn’t brilliance. It’s momentum.

Even Stephen King says in On Writing: “I believe the first draft of a book — even a long one — should take no more than three months, the length of a season.”

But that doesn’t mean it’ll be good. In fact, it probably won’t be.

And that’s totally okay.

So, the next time that blinking cursor mocks you, try this mantra: “This is allowed to suck. I’m just getting it down.”

Create Momentum and Consistency

The best way to keep going is to… keep going.

Don’t stop to edit. Don’t second-guess every sentence. If you hit a tough scene, skip it, leave yourself a note, and come back later. The first draft is not for judgment, it’s for progress.

Try these practical strategies I use:

• Timers are magic: I use the Pomodoro Method—25-minute writing sprints, 5-minute breaks. Three rounds gets me over 1,000 words before lunch.
• Set mini deadlines: “Finish chapter three by Friday.” Small deadlines beat big vague ones like “finish book eventually.”
• Track your word count: Use tools like Scrivener, Notion, or a simple spreadsheet to chart progress. Watching that word count climb is addictive.
• Accountability helps: Join a writing group, or find a buddy who’ll check in weekly. Even a Discord server or Facebook group can be game-changing.

When I was writing one of my series, I made a chart on my fridge with checkboxes after I’d finish writing 1,000 words. Every time I hit a goal, I got to color in a box like a kid…and it worked.

Develop Your Writing Style

This is the fun part: discovering your voice. There’s no shortcut to this. It happens through writing. A lot of it.

Here are a few elements to play with as you go:

• Point of view: First person (“I walked into the room…”) or third person (“She stepped into the light…”)? Try both and see what feels right. I play with both but ten to go with first person with most of my books because I like to experience the story as if I’m the main character.
• Tense: Past tense is classic, but present tense can feel immersive and immediate. Choose what suits the story.
• Tone: Are you writing witty romantic comedy? Dark fantasy? Gritty memoir? Your tone shapes everything.
• Sentence style: Long, lyrical passages or punchy and fast-paced? Play with rhythm and voice.

Recognizing that writing is a process and embracing imperfections along the way are what make a good writer.

Step Five: Revise and Edit the Entire Manuscript

Now that you’ve got a messy, glorious first draft… what now? The next step is to revise and polish your entire first draft, ensuring every section is improved before moving forward. This is where a lot of writers freeze again. Because editing can feel just as intimidating as writing the book in the first place.

But take it from someone who’s done this over 30 times: editing is where the magic happens. It’s where you uncover the gold beneath all that rough rock. Experienced writers may find their first drafts require less revision, but all writers benefit from a thorough editing process.

Take a deep breath and tackle it one phase at a time.

Separate Drafting from Editing

Step one: put the manuscript down and walk away.

Seriously. Give it space to breathe. And more importantly, give yourself time to forget what you wrote, so you can come back with fresh eyes.

I usually wait two to four weeks after finishing a draft before diving into edits. During that time, I’ll work on a different project, plot a sequel, or…binge something on Netflix.

When you’re ready to return, read it like a reader.

• Don’t make changes yet. Just take notes.
• Highlight what made you laugh, smile, cringe, or skim.
• Ask: Does the story flow? Do the characters make sense? Is the pacing on point?

Only after that should you roll up your sleeves for draft two.

Get External Feedback

You can’t write a great book in a vacuum. Eventually, you need another set of eyes (preferably ones not attached to your mom or the co-worker who did well in English class).

Here are your options:

Beta Readers

These are early readers (not editors) who can give feedback from a reader’s perspective. Ask them:

• Was anything confusing?
• Did you skim anywhere?
• Did you like the characters and ending?

I usually have 3–5 beta readers and give them a Google Form with questions. Structure helps you get actionable feedback. Never settle for just “I liked it!” That’s not helping anyone.

Writing Groups or Critique Partners

These folks are fellow writers, so they’ll notice things like head-hopping, weak stakes, or pacing problems. Join a local group or an online one like Scribophile or Critique Circle.

Hire a Professional Editor

This step is so important if you plan to self-publish. Actually, even trad-pub hopefuls benefit from a solid developmental edit before querying.

Just understand that there are different types of editing:

• Developmental edit: Big-picture stuff (plot, pacing, character arcs).
• Line edit: Sentence-level polish and flow.
• Copy edit: Grammar, punctuation, spelling.
• Proofread: The final spit shine before formatting.

If you’re on a tight budget, focus on a solid developmental edit. You can do some of the copyediting yourself with tools like ProWritingAid.

Polish the Final Version

After rounds of feedback and rewrites, you’re finally ready to polish your manuscript. Here’s what to double-check:

• Spelling & grammar: Run it through editing software like Grammarly or ProWritingAid, then proofread manually.
• Formatting: Follow industry standards (12-pt Times New Roman, double-spaced for manuscripts).
• Front/back matter: Add a title page, acknowledgments, and author bio.
• Final read-through: Read it aloud or use text-to-speech software. Your ears will catch what your eyes miss.

Once it’s clean and tight, now you’re ready to share it with the world, or with literary agents, if that’s your route.

Step Six: Get Feedback and Prepare to Publish

Alright, your manuscript is polished, your eyeballs are permanently dry from all the editing, and now you’re probably asking yourself… what’s next?

This is the crossroads where you decide: Do I self-publish or go the traditional route? Both options are totally valid. I’ve done both and both can lead to success, but also require strategy.

Let’s break it down.

Decide Between Self-Publishing and Traditional Publishing

I’ve gone down both paths, and here’s the honest truth: neither is easy. But the right path depends on your goals, your timeline, and your budget.

Self-Publishing

• Pros: Full creative control, faster timeline, higher royalty rates (typically 60–70%).
• Cons: You wear all the hats: editor, marketer, designer, tech support. Upfront costs can add up. If you’re looking for guidance on how to write fantasy, there are resources available to help you navigate the process.

If you want to get your book out there quickly, build your own author brand, and don’t mind learning a few new skills (ahem, Canva and Amazon KDP!), this might be your jam. I’m a massive control freak so self-publishing is how I slipped into the industry.

Traditional Publishing

• Pros: Professional team, potential advance, bookstore distribution, industry credibility.
• Cons: Highly competitive, loooong timelines (1–2 years is normal), and you give up some control (like title, cover, etc.).

This path is great if you want the validation of a book deal, or don’t want to front the publishing costs yourself. You may also benefit from exploring writing apps to enhance your creativity and productivity.

Listen, you can always start indie like I did and go trad later. Plenty of hybrid authors have done both and starting indie can help you build a name for yourself.

How to Query Literary Agents

This can crush your soul but if you’re going the traditional route, your next step is querying literary agents. Here’s what your query toolkit needs:

Query Letter

A one-page query letter pitch should include:

• A hook (the “what if” premise of your book)
• A short blurb (back-cover style)
• Your bio (keep it relevant—no need to list your love of bubble tea unless it’s in the book)
• Word count, genre, comp titles

Synopsis

A 1–2 page summary of the plot, including spoilers. No twists left unturned here. Agnts want to know what your book is about, they don’t want to be left hanging. Think of an agent not as a reader but as a teacher waiting for your complete essay.

Manuscript Sample

Most agents request the first 5–10 pages or chapters pasted in the email. Follow each agent’s submission guidelines to the letter. I’m serious here. Don’t just blanket email a ton of agents the same pitch. Tailor it to each and every one of them.

Prepare for Marketing

Regardless of how you publish, marketing is non-negotiable. Even traditionally published authors are expected to hustle on social media, book podcasts, or run launch campaigns.

Here’s a mini-marketing checklist to get you started:

• Build a website with a newsletter signup
• Set up social media accounts as an author (focus on 1–2 platforms)
• Create a launch plan with goals, timelines, and promo ideas
• Collect early reviews from beta readers or ARC readers
• Use pre-orders if possible (especially on Amazon or Kickstarter)

Just remember that marketing doesn’t have to be scary. It’s just storytelling but off the page. And if you can write a whole book, you can handle a few Instagram posts.

Step Seven: Build Your Author Platform

This is the part most first-time writers forget about… until it’s too late. But trust me: your author platform matters.

Why? Because your platform is how you connect with readers, showcase your work, and (bonus!) make book sales. Whether you’re indie, trad, or somewhere in between, this is your long game.

If you’re working on your first novel, building your author platform early is especially important—it helps to establish credibility as you begin your journey.

Why You Need an Author Platform

Look, even New York Times bestselling authors need visibility. In today’s insane publishing world, having a strong online presence can make the difference between a book that quietly vanishes and one that actually reaches readers that stick around.

Your author platform helps you:

• Build trust and credibility
• Connect with your target audience
• Sell your current book and future ones
• Create long-term career sustainability

And nope, you don’t need to be on every platform yelling “Buy my book!” 24/7. It’s about being strategic and genuine. Tell readers who you are, share bits of your life, writing process, your playlist, your pet, etc.

Create Content That Builds Authority

You don’t need to be an influencer. You just need to show up and serve your readers. Here are some low-effort, high-impact ways I create content:

• Blog Posts: Share your writing process, behind-the-scenes peeks, or tips for fellow writers and readers.
• Email Newsletters: Build your subscriber list early. A good newsletter = gold for launches.
• Social Media: Choose one or two platforms that suit your vibe. Instagram is great for visuals and Reels. TikTok’s exploding for authors (#BookTok). Threads and X work well for witty takes and industry chat.

Just ask yourself, “What can I offer that educates, entertains, or inspires my reader?” Also, repurpose! One blog post = 3 Instagram posts = 5 tweets = 1 newsletter. Work smarter, not harder.

Network with Other Writers

Publishing can feel like a super lonely road, unless you walk it with others. I know, if you’re an introvert like me, this idea sucks. But whether you’re shy or social, connecting with fellow writers has real benefits. Trust me.

• Support: Writing slumps? We’ve all been there. Having writer friends who get it makes a huge difference. You can push one another through the slump.
• Opportunities: Anthologies, podcast invites, co-writing, beta swaps—all come from community. The first time I hit a bestseller list was with an anthology.
• Cross-promotion: Sharing audiences with like-minded authors boosts visibility for everyone.

Where to find your people:

• Writing Facebook groups (like 20BooksTo50k, or genre-specific ones)
• Twitter chats and #WritingCommunity
• Local or virtual critique groups
• Writing conferences (don’t sleep on these—life-changing stuff happens in hotel lobbies, I swear. I met Mark Coker, the dude who created Smashwords back in the day. It was amazing)

Step Eight: Stay Consistent and Keep Learning

Okay, you’ve written your first draft (yay!), polished it to the best of your ability, and maybe even shared it with the world. But here’s the truth no one really tells you when you’re first learning how to write a book:

The writing journey never ends. Along the way, you’ll likely encounter writer’s block—a common challenge that can make progress difficult. Learning to manage writer’s block is part of the ongoing writing journey. And honestly? That’s the magic of it, if you ask me. I’ve published dozens of books over a decade and a half and, to this day, I still feel the magic. You’ll hear my long wail of agony cry out across the world the day the magic ends.

Embrace the Long Game

Writing isn’t just about finishing one book, it’s about becoming the kind of writer who keeps showing up for yourself, for your readers.

Some days you’ll feel unstoppable. Other days, you’ll wonder why you ever started this dang crazy dream. You’ll question your talent, your ideas, your timeline. That’s normal.

Even after 30+ books, I still have moments of doubt. But the key is: I don’t let it stop me. I rest, reassess, and keep going. The authors who make it aren’t necessarily the most talented; I think they’re the most resilient.

Keep Refining Your Craft

Every book you write will teach you something new about structure, dialogue, pacing, and even yourself.

Want to grow faster? Do this:

• Read widely. From literary fiction to rom-coms to memoirs. Study what works. I’m currently reading Children’s End by Arthur C. Clarke in tandem with SJM’s A Court of Thorns & Roses (for the 6th time)
• Study craft. Pick up books like Save the Cat Writes a Novel or On Writing by Stephen King.
• Join critique circles or workshops. Getting feedback (and giving it!) sharpens your skills like nothing else.

I’ll be honest. I’ve learned as much from editing others as I have from writing my own stuff.

Measure Progress and Celebrate Wins

We’re not great at celebrating ourselves, are we? I mean, some are, sure. But most writers are of a solitary nature, and compliments make us retreat even farther.

But you should celebrate every step:

• Finishing a messy first draft.
• Writing consistently for a month.
• Getting feedback and making it better.
• Publishing your book (or querying it, because that’s huge, too).

Keep a writing wins journal if you’re into that. Or just pause now and then to whisper, “I’m doing it.”

You are. And I’m proud of you!

Step Nine: Finalizing Your Book

No matter which publishing route you choose, remember that many writers go through several rounds of edits and feedback before their book is ready. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and don’t rush the process. A compelling story, strong character development, and attention to detail will set your book apart—whether you self publish or land a deal with traditional publishers.

The final editing process is your chance to make sure your manuscript is free of spelling errors and correct grammar issues.

And if you’re considering self publishing, now’s the time to ensure proper formatting and the steps involved in getting your book onto platforms like Amazon KDP before your marketing strategies kick in.

By following the steps in this guide and staying dedicated to your writing process, you’ll be well on your way to writing a book that you’re proud to share with the world. Keep refining, keep learning, and most importantly—keep writing. Your story deserves to be written, and your readers are waiting.

Final Thoughts: Your First Draft Is Only the Beginning

If you’re still reading, first of all…heck yes! That tells me you’re serious about writing a book, even if you’re still battling that inner voice whispering, “Can I really do this?”

Yes. You absolutely can.

Writing a book isn’t about waiting for the muse to appear or having a perfect idea fully formed in your mind. It’s about showing up for yourself day after day, putting one word after the other, and slowly building something magical out of nothing but thought and time.

Even the most seasoned, bestselling authors start with rough, messy first drafts. I promise. The only difference between a finished book and an idea that never left your head is commitment.

So, if you’ve been waiting for a sign to start your book… this is it. Consider this your slap in the face.

Create your outline. Set a tiny word count goal. Block off fifteen minutes today. Don’t worry about being good—just be done. Because once you get that first draft out of your system, you’ll have something real to shape, edit, and eventually publish.

Be sure to come back here and tell me how the writing is going! Share your finished book when it’s done! I can’t wait to see it!

And feel free to stick around, hang out. We’ve got tons of great tips and guides for writers just like you. Share this guide with someone you know who wants to learn how to write a book.