As an author, you’ve poured your heart into your book, creating characters, worlds, and plots that you can’t wait to share with readers. But what happens when someone asks you, “What’s your book about?”—and you have just 30 seconds to answer? That’s where a well-crafted elevator pitch comes in.

An elevator pitch is a concise, compelling summary of your book designed to spark interest and leave your audience wanting more. Whether you’re speaking to a literary agent, a potential reader, or even your neighbor, a strong pitch can make all the difference.

Here’s how to create one that resonates with your target audience:

Start with Your Audience in Mind

Before diving into the details of your pitch, think about who you’re talking to. Are you pitching to:

• A literary agent who specializes in your genre?
• A potential reader who loves a specific type of story?
• A bookseller deciding whether to stock your book?

Tailoring your pitch to your audience ensures it speaks directly to their interests and priorities.

Identify the Core of Your Book

Your pitch should capture the essence of your book without overwhelming the listener with details. Answer these questions to help focus your pitch:

• Who is your protagonist? (Who is the story about?)
• What is their goal? (What are they trying to achieve?)
• What’s at stake? (What happens if they fail?)
• What’s unique? (What makes your book stand out in the market?)

For example, instead of saying, “My book is about a girl who goes on an adventure,” say, “My book follows a rebellious 16-year-old who discovers she’s the last heir to a lost kingdom, and she must defeat a dark sorcerer to reclaim her throne before the kingdom is destroyed forever.”

Use Comparisons (But Be Strategic)

Comparisons can help situate your book in the minds of your audience. Use familiar titles or authors to frame your book while emphasizing its originality.

For example:

“It’s ‘The Hunger Games’ meets ‘Percy Jackson,’ but set in a futuristic underwater city.”

Avoid overusing comparisons or comparing yourself to literary giants unless it’s accurate. It’s better to highlight the unique aspects of your story.

Focus on Emotional Impact

People remember how a story makes them feel. Instead of listing plot points, aim to evoke curiosity or excitement. For instance:

Instead of: “It’s about a woman trying to solve a murder mystery,” say, “It’s a gripping tale of betrayal, revenge, and redemption, where a journalist races to uncover the truth before becoming the next victim.”

Keep It Short and Sweet

Your elevator pitch should be no longer than 2-3 sentences. Practice boiling down your story to its essence. A simple formula to follow is:

• Introduce the protagonist and their goal.
• Highlight the main conflict.
• Tease the stakes or unique twist.

For example: “In a world where memories can be bought and sold, a memory thief uncovers a conspiracy that could destroy her family and her future. With time running out, she must decide: erase the past or rewrite history forever.”

End with a Hook

Leave your audience wanting more. A great hook could be:

• A rhetorical question: “What would you do if your memories weren’t your own?”
• A compelling statement: “It’s a story about finding courage in the face of impossible odds.”

Practice, Refine, and Deliver with Confidence

The more you practice your pitch, the more natural it will sound. Test it out on friends, fellow writers, or even strangers at a networking event. Pay attention to their reactions and refine your pitch accordingly.

Remember, delivery matters just as much as content. Speak with enthusiasm and confidence—your excitement will be contagious.

Your Story Deserves to Be Heard

Creating an elevator pitch takes time and effort, but it’s an invaluable tool for connecting with your audience and sparking their interest in your book. By focusing on the core of your story, tailoring it to your audience, and delivering it with passion, you’ll be well on your way to creating a pitch that captivates listeners and opens doors for your book.