“I don’t know what length to make it. Would it be better to write a short book people can get through quickly or a longer one that goes into more depth? I've bought books in the past that felt ‘padded’ because the author had decided to make them 50,000 words or more despite their topic not really warranting that much! But I'm wary of making the book *too* short in case it doesn't seem like good value for money.” Ali Luke, from The Creative Penn survey
1. Do you want to be traditionally published?
If yes, then most publishers still work on specific word count lengths for books so you'll probably be aiming for around 60,000-80,000 words for non-fiction.
Book size is often based on how thick the spine will be and how it will stand out in a bookstore – although things are changing. Check the submission guidelines for agents and publishers you want to pitch.
If you’re self-publishing, length means little, as we mainly do marketing online and sell print-on-demand. The size is less important than the value to the customer.
2. What do you want to do with the book?
- Is it a magnum opus and the cornerstone of a high-priced speaking event?
- Is it for kudos / status / authority?
- Is it a business card?
- Are you gifting it to clients?
- Does it need to feel weighty?
If yes, you'll probably be looking at 50,000-80,000 words so it’s chunky enough to fit in your hand.
My books Business for Authors, The Healthy Writer and How to Market a Book are all around 70,000 words, and the book that this article is excerpted from is around 60,000.
Is it part of a series of micro-topics? Are you doing digital only? How much are you charging for it?
A book can be 25,000 words and still be of incredible value if it is priced appropriately. For example, check out S.J.Scott's non-fiction books on habits for US$2.99.
How long does it have to be in order to print it?
How to Make a Living with your Writing is my shortest non-fiction book at 27,000 words and looks fine in print. Just be sure to price appropriately.
Don't make it too long. Don't pack it with everything you have to give.
It clearly didn't reach enough people as Tony produced Unshakeable, a cut-down version, which is much easier to learn from and put into practice.
Essentially, you don't need to pad your book out to increase the word count. Non-fiction readers, in particular, want value fast.
Make it actionable, helpful, and great value and the length won’t matter.
This is an excerpt from How to Write Non-Fiction: Turn Your Knowledge into Words by Joanna Penn. Available in ebook, print, audiobook and workbook formats.