How do I turn my dissertation into a book?
Part 1: Getting Started
Your dissertation was a labor of love, a journey of discovery, and a . . . [sound of screeching brakes] . . . hold up. Who am I kidding? If your experience writing your dissertation was anything like mine, it was torture! You spent hours in front of your keyboard, night after night, turning down countless invitations from friends who were off having fun doing anything besides staring at a glowing laptop screen. But you did it; you passed your defense and you’re now Dr. So-and-So. Congratulations! You’ve also secured the holy grail of an academic job, the fall semester has begun, and you’re juggling teaching, committee service, and one student crisis after another. All the while, you hear your advisor’s voice in the back of your head saying, “Now, the next step is to turn this into a book!” Ugh . . .
Listen, I know you’re exhausted, and revisiting the tome that kept you awake for so many nights is the very last thing you want to do. But you spent years researching and writing the manuscript, and you absolutely should not let it all get buried in the archives. Now, when it’s fresh in your mind, is the best (and easiest!) time to get it shipped off to a publisher. But where do you even start?
Thankfully, we at Acadia Editing Services are here to help, beginning with this step-by-step guide to turning your dissertation into a book. Read through our tips below and contact us to discuss your project further. Don’t miss this opportunity to transform your thesis into a publication that will reach a much broader audience, have a bigger influence on your field, and move you closer to achieving your professional goals. Turning your dissertation into a book is the key to unlocking that potential. It’s a challenging journey that requires careful planning, meticulous revision, and a deep understanding of the publishing landscape.
In this blog post, we’ll help you navigate the complexities of academic publishing so you can guide your work toward a broader readership and have a lasting impact. Hopefully these tips will also make the process much simpler and more straightforward so that you can spend as little time at your keyboard as possible!
Step 1: Assessing Your Dissertation
Your dissertation represents the culmination of years of research, dedication, and expertise, making it a valuable source of knowledge. But not all manuscripts are immediately suited for publication as a book. To determine if your dissertation is book-worthy, you should assess several critical factors. First, consider its originality: Does it offer a unique perspective, fresh insights, or novel findings that could contribute to the existing body of literature? Second, evaluate its scope: Does your dissertation cover a topic that’s broad enough to sustain an entire book, or will it require significant expansion and refinement? Finally, assess its relevance: Does the subject matter remain pertinent and meaningful in the academic and wider context?
Seeking feedback from mentors and peers is a vital step in this evaluation process. If you’ve recently graduated, you likely have a notebook full of comments from your dissertation committee pointing you in the direction of book publishing. But if it’s been a while since you left grad school, engaging with those who understand your field can provide valuable insights into the potential of your work. Their assessment can help you gauge the extent of changes you’ll need to make for your dissertation to become a compelling book that contributes meaningfully to your academic discipline.
Step 2: Understanding the Publishing Landscape
When it comes to publishing your academic book, it’s crucial to explore the various avenues available to you. One common route is to publish through a university press. These outlets are renowned for their commitment to academic rigor and quality. They often provide strong editorial support and peer-review processes, enhancing your work’s credibility. Examples include Oxford University Press, Princeton University Press, and MIT Press. Commercial publishers, on the other hand, offer broader distribution networks and may have a more extensive marketing reach, potentially increasing your book’s visibility. Some popular commercial presses are Edward Elgar Publishing, Routledge, and Palgrave Macmillan. (Check out our work for Elgar and Routledge in our Portfolio.) Additionally, there are hybrid models that combine elements of traditional publishing with self-publishing, giving authors more control but also requiring them to take on a significant share of the publishing responsibilities.
To make an informed decision, carefully weigh the pros and cons of each option. Consider factors like prestige, distribution, royalties, and the level of creative control you want. Researching and identifying potential publishers that align with your book’s topic is equally important. Look for publishers with a track record in your field, and examine their catalog to see if your work complements their existing publications. Don’t be afraid to ask them about their expectations and how they will market your book. Finding the right publishing partner can greatly affect your book’s success and your experience as an author.
Step 3: Writing a Book Proposal for Your Dissertation
The book proposal plays a pivotal role in the publishing process and serves as a gateway to securing a publishing contract for your academic book. It acts as your manuscript’s advocate, providing publishers with a detailed blueprint of your work and its potential impact. A well-crafted book proposal not only demonstrates your scholarly prowess but also convinces publishers that your book is worth investing in. I offer some general advice here, but it is imperative that you read the specific guidelines on the publisher’s website to identify what exactly they’re looking for (e.g., see OUP’s instructions here). It’s also helpful to meet with acquisitions editors (the people who decide which books get published) at conferences to network and obtain feedback.
To create a compelling book proposal, follow a structured template or framework. Begin with an engaging cover letter that succinctly introduces your work and your qualifications as an author. Then, provide a clear and concise overview of your book, emphasizing its significance in the field. Discuss your target audience, explaining who will benefit from your work and why it matters to them. Analyze the existing competition in your subject area, showcasing how your book fills a gap or offers a unique perspective. Finally, delve into the book’s market potential, outlining its relevance in today’s academic and broader book market (e.g., is it for undergrads, grad students/faculty, or a general audience?). Remember, a persuasive pitch combines your expertise with a compelling narrative, making a strong case for why your book should be published and read.
