How to Write a Nonfiction Book in 24 Hours by Dale L. Roberts — Book Review
Dale L. Roberts’ “How to Write a Nonfiction Book in 24 Hours: A Simple Step-by-Step System for Writing a Good Book Fast” is a great resource for authors looking for ways to write smarter and faster.
Dale L. Roberts’ How to Write a Nonfiction Book in 24 Hours aims to help authors push through the daunting first draft of a nonfiction book in record time. However, he does not promise that readers will “write the best book ever within one day; but if you follow this guide, you will get the first draft done.”
Practical tips and personal insights
While much of the book’s advice can be found online, Roberts’ personal experiences add value to the advice. He blends his expertise with actionable tips that can benefit fiction and nonfiction authors alike.
Unlike what the title says, the author does not outline a step-by-step formula on how to achieve the desired objective of finishing the first draft in 24 hours. Instead, he offers practical tips and advice on how to streamline the writing process. In his words, “Writing the book isn't the hardest part; it's merely the first step in the life cycle of a book. Rather than dwell on the first draft of your book for the next year, why not cut down that time so you can focus on the subsequent steps in the process?”
To create content quickly, Roberts encourages authors to break down the writing process into manageable parts. Next, he discusses writing the first draft using various typing methods or voice dictation. Then he covers converting the draft into a publishable manuscript and promoting the book.
Conversational and encouraging tone
Roberts’ approachable, conversational style makes How to Write a Nonfiction Book in 24 Hours both accessible and enjoyable. He motivates readers to conquer common obstacles like self-doubt and writer's block.
Moreover, Roberts acknowledges the challenges of achieving the objective. Thus, he urges readers to prioritize health and well-being along the way: “Writing a book is a feat in itself. Now, add the complexity of doing it in one day and you’ve got quite a lofty goal. […] Don’t try writing a book in a short time if it’s at the detriment of your personal health and sanity.”
Not genre specific
The focus of the guide is broad and less centered on nonfiction than the title suggests. Roberts’ advice leans toward broad principles rather than genre-specific challenges. Thus, almost everything he suggests applies to fiction, too. Nonfiction authors will find the section on organizing resources, references, and quotes beneficial, although it is a small part of the broader discussion.
Some readers may find the absence of a more detailed look at nonfiction-specific hurdles disappointing. For example, the book could have benefited from a deeper dive into the structural elements of nonfiction, such as structures and outlining techniques for the different nonfiction books.
Instead, Roberts includes sections on publishing choices and promotional strategies. While these are undeniably important parts of the publishing journey, readers might find the detours somewhat unexpected.
Practical but broadly focused
Dale L. Roberts’ How to Write a Nonfiction Book in 24 Hours provides plenty of practical advice for authors on how to boost productivity. The book is a solid choice for anyone seeking to establish effective writing practices.
Even though the guide could benefit from more details on nonfiction structure and content, it is still helpful for anyone trying to become a more efficient writer.
