Navigating the "Guts" of Non-Fiction Publishing with Agent Alia Hanna Habib

In the world of publishing, non-fiction is often treated like fiction’s mysterious cousin. Many writers assume the process is the same: write the book, find the agent, sell the manuscript. But as literary agent and author Alia Hanna Habib shared on our latest episode of Writers with Wrinkles, that approach can lead to a lot of wasted time and "death by PowerPoint."

Alia joined us to discuss her new book, Take It From Me: A Practical, Behind-the-Scenes Guide to Getting a Non-Fiction Book Published. Whether you're an academic looking to reach a wider audience or a memoirist with a wild story to tell, Alia’s insights are the "GPS" every non-fiction writer needs.

The Agent as Author: A New Perspective

Alia isn’t just an agent for heavyweights like Nicole Hannah-Jones and Clint Smith; she’s now a debut author herself. She candidly shared how writing Take It From Me gave her a visceral understanding of "writer anxiety."

"Now I know what it’s like to anxiously await feedback," Alia told us. She even shared a personal trick for managing the urge to nudge your agent: "Ask yourself: Am I sending this email because I need an answer, or am I sending it to soothe my own anxiety? If it’s the latter, wait."

Why Non-Fiction is Different

The biggest takeaway? Non-fiction is sold on proposal, not manuscript. Alia notes that many writers spend years finishing a book they haven't sold yet—a mistake that her book aims to fix.

However, selling on proposal doesn't mean the writing doesn't matter. Alia warns against "Death by PowerPoint"—proposals that focus so much on marketing and bullet points that they forget to provide a reading experience.

Alia’s Tips for a Winning Proposal:

• Start with Voice: Don’t start with a dry summary. Start with a scene that immerses the reader immediately.

• Solve the "Page 100 Problem": You need an engine—whether it’s plot, a compelling argument, or deep storytelling—that can sustain a reader for 80,000 words.

• Be Realistic About Marketing: Don't pitch custom t-shirts. Tell the publisher what actual platform and reach you are bringing to the table to help them sell the book.

What’s Trending in the Market?

If you're wondering what agents are looking for right now, Alia describes the current landscape as "more art than science." While the industry saw a massive boom in social justice titles a few years ago, we are currently in an "escapist" moment. Readers are looking for:

• Practical Guidance: Books that make life better or provide hope.

• "Soft" Self-Help: Relatable, actionable advice.

• Tech-Critical Narrative: Books exploring our skepticism of online lives.

Final Thoughts

Publishing is a marathon, not a sprint. From the moment Alia finished her proposal to her January 28th release date, years have passed—including a few major life upheavals. Her journey is a reminder that resilience is just as important as the writing itself.

Want more? You can find Alia’s book, Take It From Me, wherever books are sold starting January 28th. Be sure to subscribe to her Substack, Delivery and Acceptance, for more candid industry advice.

Listen to the full episode with Alia Hanna Habib on your favorite podcast platform or right here on our website!