How to Find An Idea For A Book

Hello, welcome back to my creative zone. I am Anasua Ghosh. I am an author, reader, writing mentor, life coach, and blogger. I mentor people to read and write more when I am not reading or writing. I have written and published three books. Currently, I am writing a psychopath thriller which will be published later this year. The idea of this book came to me in the most bizarre way. After the release of the book, I will reveal the backstory of the book idea. But today, I am going to discuss something which most aspiring writers struggle with — how to find an idea for a book.

The Actual Problem With Finding A Book Idea

The trouble with finding an idea for a novel does not lie in the scarcity of ideas. It is just the opposite. When you start delving into the depth of book ideas, you will find a wide array of topics, themes, and genres available. The plethora of ideas can be overwhelming and the beginners can get baffled by them. I got baffled by them. The question which arises is — which idea to stick to. The problem is not in finding an idea most of the times. The problem is in sticking to one idea.

So, if you have found an idea for a book that seems like a great one for a bestselling novel, stick to it. Don’t go two-timing with your book. Take one idea at a time and finish writing. Now, for those who struggle with finding an idea for a novel, here comes the lecture. So, please bear with me for a little while.

News Papers/Blogs

Never taken the newspapers seriously? Well, I had made the mistake of doing it. Yet, nothing will give you a bucket full of new ideas better than a newspaper or a news blog. Those who are into crime thriller writing will find the crime blogs immensely beneficial. We steal ideas from real life. So, hunt it down in real life. Fantasy writers can find ideas in mythologies, ancient events, or fairy tales. Sci-fi writers can explore the scientific mishaps and try to create something. literary writers can find ideas everywhere. So, keep your eyes and ears open all the time.

People & Their Lives

We write about people and their lives. So, never shy away from people’s stories. You never know where you can get an idea for a book. However, it is against the rule to snoop around. But when someone tells you their stories, don’t just turn away. Pay attention to what people say. You can get a lot out of casual chats.

Dreams

Well, some will raise their eyebrows here. But dreams do come with many ideas. If you remember your dreams, you can turn them into stories. Some writers keep a journal on their bedside tables. If a dream wakes you up from deep sleep, it is worth recording.

Your Life

We go through many events in our lives which are strange enough to use in a book. If you are desperately looking for an idea for a book, you can look at your own life for ideas. I am sure you will find something interesting to write about.

Movies

You can get ideas for a book while watching movies. The secret is to keep an open mind and explore every aspect of life. Don’t banish anything because you never know what might trigger an idea for a book.

So, with this, I am wrapping the post up. I will be back soon with more on writing.