When it comes to writing craft, a question that often crosses every author’s mind is whether or not writing a sequel is worth the time and effort. It may seem daunting to invest time in writing more than one book. Fiction authors may wonder if the story world is complex enough to support a sequel. Non-fiction authors may feel there is more to say on their topic, but is there enough for another book? While these questions help writers decide if a book has sequel potential, there is more to consider when deciding whether to write on. In this post, we’ll look at the perks and challenges of writing a sequel.
Let’s start with the business perks of publishing a sequel.
- Increased Revenue: Sequels already have a built-in audience. If readers enjoyed the first book, they are likely to purchase subsequent books, leading to increased revenue for the author.
- Brand Recognition: Writing a sequel will help establish an author’s brand and develop a dedicated fan base. This can lead to increased exposure and recognition within the industry, potentially opening doors to new opportunities.
- Marketing: The release of a sequel can be promoted as a new event, attracting attention from new and existing fans, boosting sales of the first book as well.
The business benefits are great, but let’s consider writing craft and the challenges of scribing a sequel.
- Creative Limitations: The author must work within established expectations. For non-fiction authors, this means writing a new book that remains relevant to and builds on the concepts of the first book without rehashing the same ideas and concepts. For fiction authors, this means sticking to the rules of an established world and writing about the same characters, which can lead to a lack of flexibility and difficulty keeping the story fresh and exciting.
- Reader Expectations: Fans of the first book may have specific ideas about how the story should progress or, in non-fiction, what topics should be covered next. If the author fails to meet those expectations, they risk losing their readership.
- Time and Resources: Writing a sequel takes an author’s time and resources. Authors must dedicate themselves to the story or topic for an extended period, which can be draining and may limit their ability to pursue other creative projects.
While there are pros and cons to writing a sequel, the decision ultimately comes down to the author’s personal goals and preferences. Here are a few writing craft tips for authors considering a sequel (for non-fiction, replace “story” with “topics” and remember that non-fiction has characters, too):
- Plan Ahead: Before committing to a sequel, map out the overarching story arc. Having a clear idea of where they want the story to go will prevent creative limitations and ensure the story stays fresh.
- Keep It Fresh: While sequels continue a story, keeping things fresh is important to avoid reader fatigue. Introduce new characters, explore different settings, and introduce new conflicts to keep your readers engaged. This will help your sequel feel like a natural progression of the story rather than a rehash of the same events.
- Listen to Reader Feedback: Readers are the ones who will ultimately determine the success of a sequel. Be open to feedback and consider adjusting the story based on reader reactions.
- Stay Organized: Writing a sequel requires careful organization to keep track of all the characters, plot points, and storylines. Keep detailed notes and outlines to ensure continuity throughout the series.
While writing a sequel can be a successful business decision, it does come with challenges. With these writing craft and publishing tips, authors will be able to discern whether their story has series potential and navigate the challenges of writing a sequel. Remember to plan ahead, keep it fresh, listen to readers, and stay organized.
