How to Write a Paranormal Nonfiction Book

Whether you’ve been contracted to write a paranormal nonfiction book, or are writing one to chronicle your or another person's paranormal experiences, this can be one of the most enjoyable experiences you’ll ever have as a writer. The blend of standard nonfiction and atypical paranormal is a compelling mix of genres and writing methods. A paranormal nonfiction book is formatted like a nonfiction book, but written and researched in a way that reflects your writing style and the tone you wish it to have.

Things You'll Need

• • Computer
• • Manuscript formatting guide
• • Paper
• • Pen
• • Optional: tape recorder

Instructions

Write a Paranormal Nonfiction Book

1. Be objective. Because the word paranormal is typically associated with things we don’t normally encounter, there’s sometimes a stigma attached to the writer, subject, and reader. When writing a paranormal nonfiction book, you will write it as a reporter would, but with lots more style and personality than if you were writing a straight nonfiction book. The experiences you write about will sometimes border on the incredible. As a writer, it’s important to remain objective. Regard information pertaining to the book with equal doses of skepticism and objectivity. If you don’t feel comfortable writing about something, don’t.

2. Research the story or stories. The more information you know before you start the actual writing of the book, the better. Research helps you to be better prepared to formulate questions for any interviews and investigations you might take part in, as well as documenting any history that may be involved in the story.

3. Conduct interviews in the same manner that you would for any other type of writing. Honor your interviewee’s request to keep some information confidential. A sensational story may sell copies, but could also ruin your reputation and/or the reputation of the person you are interviewing.

4. Take photos if possible. Photos of the persons involved and the paranormal experience itself can really make your book unforgettable. If you use a photo of someone else, be sure to have that person sign a release. If you are using another person's photo, they also need to sign a release--and make sure to credit them for the photo in the book. Remember: Nothing says paranormal like a ghostly entity, orb or inexplicable image caught on film.

5. Tie up loose ends once you’ve finished writing a rough draft. Fact-checking should be number 1 on your to-do list. It’s beyond embarrassing to misspell the name of a kind contributor. It’s just as bad to leave out information that should be included. Double check that all the sources in your bibliography can be accessed by using the information you’ve cited. If you haven’t already acknowledged or thanked those that contributed to your book, now is the time to do so.

6. Proofread, revise, submit, and congratulate yourself on a job well done.

Tips & Warnings

• The paranormal is intriguing, so it shouldn’t come as a shock that paranormal authors have a wide audience. Some publishers even devote entire lines to the subject. If you choose to position yourself as a paranormal expert, other opportunities often present themselves. In addition to book signings, you may be asked to join investigations as a media representative, or to speak at paranormal conventions or conferences.