Can you discuss a time when you had to make a tough decision about a book's content or direction and how it turned out?

When I began editing my first manuscript, each meeting with my editor was excruciating, as I only saw how my writing had failed. I led with my ego rather than getting curious about how this incredibly skilled mentor was enhancing my writing skills and amplifying the power of my message. Self-loathing from perceived ineptitude is like hiding in a dark cave with your eyes and ears closed. I blocked all creative flow and new perspectives, instead welcoming in my inner critic's rueful regrets. When we are brave enough to seek another's critique, we allow ourselves to explore the rough edges, counterintuitive routes, and boldly broken rules that make our work provocative, unique, and unforgettable. Instead of criticism, your mentors generously draw out the invaluable strengths they see emerging from within you. I have learned that it is in the raw fragility of our fears and most painful emotions that we receive the genius inside ourselves and become more relatable and accessible to others, especially those we hope to impress. Be grateful and open to your editor's feedback for it can transform a piece of good work to magnificent, transformative and distinguished.

When I wrote The Book of TRUST, I had so much content to put in there that the book ended up having 550 pages and nearly a quarter-million words. The challenge was that it was too much for people to read. So, I created a short version of the book called “The MINI Book of TRUST.” The book is organized the same way as the complete book, but in a smaller form factor, 180 pages and 40,000 words. It is cheaper and easier to read, and if the reader feels they want to read more content, they can always get The COMPLETE Book of TRUST with its 550 pages and easily find the additional content. Whenever I’m asked, “Why did you write The COMPLETE Book of TRUST (with 550 pages)?” I answer, “Because I don’t know if I will wake up tomorrow morning.” The Book of TRUST is my legacy and will survive my mortal life…

In my experience as an author and working with publishers, making decisions about a book's content can often be a challenging yet crucial part of the publishing process. One particular instance that stands out involved a book where we had to decide whether to include specific controversial topics that were integral to the story but had the potential to alienate some readers. After much deliberation, we opted to include these topics, but with a careful approach to ensure they were handled sensitively and thoughtfully. This decision not only preserved the integrity of the narrative but also sparked meaningful conversations among readers. Ultimately, it demonstrated the importance of balancing creative expression with reader sensitivity, a tightrope walk often at the heart of publishing decisions. Dennis Schleicher Literary Agent and Content Creator on Social Media

Once, I found myself grappling with a hard decision regarding the content of my book. There was a part I personally found funny and entertaining, but I had to acknowledge its potential inappropriateness. Despite my desire to maintain a unique style, I made the decision to remove that particular content to ensure wider acceptance by the audience. Balancing personal expression with audience perception proved to be a tough, but I believed it was the right move in the end. This experience highlighted the importance of considering how readers will look at the content and making sure it aligns with their expectations.

I change directions on the book many times before it goes to print. I have a lot of ideas, but I have to remember I write for beginning readers and I need to get to the point they will understand and still tell a story they will like. My last book wasn't fiction, so it was easy to decide the direction of the book, I just told the truth! I told the stories about the mascots, their crews and a little about their lives. I love meeting with my audience at book readings, the kids always tell me what they would like to see so I bring a notebook with me. I guess my best advice would be to listen to your audience.