Fridays with Manny

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WHAT DOES IT TAKE
TO WRITE A BOOK?

Many people tell me, “I have a book in my head.” They share their life stories, their experiences, their wisdom. I always encourage them to write it. But an important question follows: Who is going to read it? Are we writing for ourselves, or for others?

For me, writing is self-expression. I feel like there is an artist and a writer living inside me. Some of my books are pure text; others combine words and photographs. Every book begins the same way — with an idea. Once the idea develops, it must go on paper. If it’s fiction, you create an outline and build the story step by step.

My daughter writes fiction. She spent long time working on her first novel and has now completed her second. Her approach is different from mine — from the beginning, she thinks about publishing, agents, and reaching a broad audience. That path requires persistence, connections, and patience. It’s competitive.

My approach is simpler. I write for the people I know — my friends, clients, and community. I created my own small publishing company, Encounters Publishing. My “team” is small: a graphic designer, an editor, my daughters, and my wife — my final reviewers who give me the green light.

Because of this structure, I can create freely. I’ve published three books related to the mortgage business. I’ve also produced seven photo-story books, each on a different subject. For me, creating a book is a joy. It feels like giving birth to an idea.

I just finished my latest book, “How to Enjoy a Comfortable Aging. 42 Manifestations.” It’s almost ready to be introduced to the world. The three images that you can see above, are from my new book.

If you have a book inside you and don’t know where to start, I’d be happy to share ideas and guide you.

Stay in touch.

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