"The Gentle Pen" - Why & Who

So You Wanna Write a Book? Start Here!

Hey there, future author!

If you're reading this, you're probably feeling the itch—that tug in your gut that says “Hey… maybe I should write a book.” First off, let me say this: YES. You absolutely should. But before you dive into plotting epic battles, baking up cozy romances, or sharing the wisdom of your grandma’s secret pickle recipe, let’s hit pause for a sec.

Because before anything else…You need to answer two big questions:

1. WHY Are You Writing This Book?

This might sound super obvious, but trust me, this question is everything. Your why is like the compass that will keep you pointed in the right direction when the writing gets tough (because it will). So… what’s your reason?

• Is it to entertain? Maybe you want to make kids laugh, take adults on an adventure, or distract someone from a tough day.

• Do you want to teach something? Could be a skill, a life lesson, or a deep dive into something weird and wonderful that you’re obsessed with.

• Are you trying to preserve memories? A family memoir, a tribute to your travels, or a story your grandpa used to tell that you don’t want to lose.

Your purpose is your spark. And trust me, when you know why you're writing, it makes everything else so much clearer (and honestly, way more fun).

2. WHO Are You Writing It For?

Next up: who’s your reader? Like, actually picture them.

Is it...

• A wide-eyed kid who reads under the covers with a flashlight?

• A busy mom who’s grabbing 20 minutes of escape before bed?

• A hobbyist looking for a how-to guide that doesn’t sound like a college textbook?

• Your own family, years from now, flipping through your memories like a treasure map?

When you know who you’re talking to, you can write to them, not just at them. It’s the difference between shouting into a crowd and having a one-on-one conversation with someone who totally gets you.

Final Thoughts

Writing a book isn’t just about putting words on a page. It’s about connection. It’s your voice, your purpose, and your heart landing in someone else’s hands.

So before you outline chapter one or pick your main character’s favorite snack—just ask yourself:

Why am I writing this?And who am I writing it for?

The rest? We’ll figure it out together.

Got your "why" and "who"? Let me know in the comments—I'd love to hear what kind of magic you're dreaming up.

Gentle thoughts,

Liv

#WriteOn#BookGoals#FutureAuthorVibes