For nonfiction authors, including memoirists, who are ready to turn a lived idea into an agent‑ready proposal.
You bring the spark. I help you shape the fire—clear language, strong structure, and a compelling case for why your book and message matters now.
Is this for you?
This offering is for writers of nonfiction—memoir, narrative nonfiction, practical how‑to, spirituality, psychology, health, social change, and hybrid forms—who want hands‑on guidance to create a magnificent, industry‑ready book proposal. You’ll get mentoring on your voice and argument and practical help building the proposal sections agents and editors expect.
You might be:
What we’ll build together
By the end, you will have an agent/publisher‑ready proposal that typically includes:
How the mentoring works
The Package: Agent/Publisher‑Ready Proposal
Timeline: 8–10 weeks
Investment: $3,200 (or 4 payments of $825).
What’s included:
Note: If you only need a Proposal Audit (one‑time review + strategy memo + 45‑minute consult), it’s $475.
Why work with meI’ve mentored writers for decades and authored 11 books (traditionally published and one indie). My most recent book contract was accepted in 2023. I keep current with what agents and editors expect and translate the industry’s moving parts into a calm, honest path that fits you. I’m practical, encouraging, and frank—with a bias toward clarity, integrity, and momentum.
What clients say“Julie helped me find the beating heart of my book—and gave me the words to show it to an agent.”
“I came for structure; I left with a proposal and a writing practice that feel like home.”
(More testimonials available upon request.)
Timeline & Deliverables
Most writers choose an 8–10 week cadence. You’ll receive:
How to begin
Subject: Book Proposal Mentoring — [Your Book Title]
FAQ
Do you guarantee representation or a book deal?
No one can guarantee that. What I deliver is a clear, persuasive, industry‑standard proposal that represents your best case and helps you make a strong first impression.
Will you write the proposal for me?
This is a collaborative process. I’ll edit, shape, and sometimes draft to model language—but the voice and ownership are yours. (If you need full ghostwriting, ask about availability and pricing.)
What about memoir?
Memoir proposals are welcome. We’ll emphasize narrative arc and sample chapters.
Refunds & rescheduling?
Start dates can be moved with 14‑day notice. Payments are non‑refundable once work begins; I’m committed to seeing you through.
Values & Approach
You bring the spark. I help you shape the fire—clear language, strong structure, and a compelling case for why your book and message matters now.
Is this for you?
This offering is for writers of nonfiction—memoir, narrative nonfiction, practical how‑to, spirituality, psychology, health, social change, and hybrid forms—who want hands‑on guidance to create a magnificent, industry‑ready book proposal. You’ll get mentoring on your voice and argument and practical help building the proposal sections agents and editors expect.
You might be:
- Starting with a concept and notes, but unsure how to organize it.
- Sitting on essays or blog posts and wondering how they become a book.
- Revising an existing proposal that isn’t getting traction.
- Ready to query agents and want a professional review before you do.
What we’ll build together
By the end, you will have an agent/publisher‑ready proposal that typically includes:
- Overview / Hook & Promise — your big idea, why now, and why you.
- Target Readers & Market Position — where your book sits and how it stands out.
- Competitive/Complementary Titles — comparative analysis that strengthens your case.
- Author Bio & Platform — authentic, doable ways to share your work.
- Chapter Outline / Annotated TOC — a clear map of the book.
- Two Sample Chapters — polished, voice‑true, aligned with the promise.
- Marketing & Outreach — realistic strategies that fit your values.
- Specifications & Timeline — word count, format, delivery.
How the mentoring works
- Initial Deep‑Dive (75–90 mins): Clarify your book’s promise, reader, and structure. Identify your strongest through‑line and set a custom plan.
- Weekly Working Sessions (45-60 mins): Co‑write, revise, and troubleshoot in real time. Between sessions, I leave margin notes, tracked edits, and voice‑tuned suggestions.
- Asynchronous Support: Reasonable email/message support for questions and quick reviews.
- Accountability & Momentum: Light, sane deadlines; I’m your steady companion, not a drill sergeant.
The Package: Agent/Publisher‑Ready Proposal
Timeline: 8–10 weeks
Investment: $3,200 (or 4 payments of $825).
What’s included:
- Overview, hook, and positioning
- Reader & market section
- Comparative titles (3–5 comps)
- Annotated chapter outline
- Two sample chapters — developmental + line‑by‑line edits
- Author bio & platform plan (doable outreach tailored to you)
- Marketing & outreach section
- Query letter draft + revision
- Identification of 2 publishers or agents aligned with your book
- Final proofread and submission‑ready formatting (PDF + DOCX)
Note: If you only need a Proposal Audit (one‑time review + strategy memo + 45‑minute consult), it’s $475.
Why work with meI’ve mentored writers for decades and authored 11 books (traditionally published and one indie). My most recent book contract was accepted in 2023. I keep current with what agents and editors expect and translate the industry’s moving parts into a calm, honest path that fits you. I’m practical, encouraging, and frank—with a bias toward clarity, integrity, and momentum.
What clients say“Julie helped me find the beating heart of my book—and gave me the words to show it to an agent.”
“I came for structure; I left with a proposal and a writing practice that feel like home.”
(More testimonials available upon request.)
Timeline & Deliverables
Most writers choose an 8–10 week cadence. You’ll receive:
- A customized proposal template (Google Docs or Word)
- Weekly checklists and short lessons
- Two editorial passes on each section (developmental and line‑level where relevant)
- A submission‑ready proposal (PDF + DOCX) and a polished query letter
- Suggestions for two aligned publishers/agents
How to begin
- Share a paragraph about your book’s premise and audience.
- Book a free 20‑minute consultation call to match your goals to the package.
Subject: Book Proposal Mentoring — [Your Book Title]
FAQ
Do you guarantee representation or a book deal?
No one can guarantee that. What I deliver is a clear, persuasive, industry‑standard proposal that represents your best case and helps you make a strong first impression.
Will you write the proposal for me?
This is a collaborative process. I’ll edit, shape, and sometimes draft to model language—but the voice and ownership are yours. (If you need full ghostwriting, ask about availability and pricing.)
What about memoir?
Memoir proposals are welcome. We’ll emphasize narrative arc and sample chapters.
Refunds & rescheduling?
Start dates can be moved with 14‑day notice. Payments are non‑refundable once work begins; I’m committed to seeing you through.
Values & Approach
- Appreciation over critique. We build on what’s alive and working.
- Integrity over hype. No gimmicks; just clarity and honest positioning.
- Right‑sized platform. Sustainable, values‑aligned outreach you can actually do.
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©2025 Julie Tallard Johnson, MSW, LCSW
Mentor, therapist, citizen
Transformational & Embodied Counselor & Mentor
Most rights reserved. Admin
Mentor, therapist, citizen
Transformational & Embodied Counselor & Mentor
Most rights reserved. Admin