One of the best ways to find new readers for your book is to write a book that helps readers locate other books. Survey, or exploration, books can sell very well and enhance the author’s credibility by demonstrating knowledge of their field.

Not all nonfiction books have to be address an author’s unique idea or topic! Sometimes, the author’s role is one of filtering options and helping readers locate other books (or other options) that can help them achieve their goal.

Hallie Ephron’s recent book, 1001 Books for Every Mood, is an excellent example of a “survey” book. It’s mission, expressed in the subtitle, is clear: A Bibliophile’s Guide to Unwinding, Misbehaving, Forgiving, Celebrating, Commiserating.

1001 Books for Every Mood is, thus, an excellently targeted book with excellent sales potential. It clearly targets a strong market: readers who like to read! Its sales potential is also strong because it lends itself to multiple sales through local reading groups.

When trying to locate a fresh approach to your topic, consider asking yourself, how can I best serve my market and find new readers? Often, a procedural, or step-by-step, approach is most useful. But, not always. Authors should be aware of the numerous approaches they can use to attract readers and provide useful information.