We all have a few books on our shelf that have sat unfinished for years. There are others that barely sit for a moment because we’re constantly loaning them out to friends, with our passionate review in tow.

If you’re a hopeful author, you probably want your publication to exist more like the second kind of book in your readers’ libraries. 

We call these “Life-raft” books. When you’re left with only moments to carry a few precious belongings on your life-raft – these are the books that make it on board. They’re the books that have had a profound impact on your perspective. They’ve carried concepts that you circulate for years, that you’re always bringing into conversations. These are the kind of books that change the world because they change our way of thinking.

Beyond just a good idea

So, what is it that makes a book pass the Life-raft test? Let’s break it down into the non-negotiable elements of a truly transformative book.

1. Boundary-pushing ideas

A great idea alone doesn’t mean a great book – but every great book has to start with great ideas. The foundation of any Life-raft book is presenting a concept that gets right to the heart of an issue, a question, or an unexplored solution.

2. Compelling narrative

Did you know that our brains are wired to remember stories exponentially better than raw facts? In fact, research from Stanford shows that we are 22 times more likely to recall the details of a narrative story than we are a statistic. Storytelling is an essential part of getting your argument to stick – and to ensure your reader stays engaged!

3. A clear argument

One of the most common issues we see with first draft manuscripts is that they aren’t anchored with a central argument. They leave the reader with too many directions they could follow and too many lingering questions. The result is more like a hodge podge of three books squished into one manuscript. Unlike this, a Life-raft book builds a case, or presents an argument in a clear, super focused way. 

4. Thorough analysis

Great books don’t just present the solution; they also consider that solution from all angles. The natural tendency of a reader is to constantly challenge the ideas being put forward. They’re looking for plot holes, and comparing your ideas to things they’ve seen before. Life-changing books go on this journey with their readers. They challenge and defend their own argument, leaving us with an airtight concept by the end.

5. Inspiration to act

This is the element that sets thought leadership books apart from the rest. By the last page, readers aren’t just more informed and aware – they also have a clear next step to take in their life. And that change-making inspiration is the same fuel that keeps the book circulating from one person to the next.

Not every book has to be a Life-raft book

It probably goes without saying that realistically, you can’t bring your whole library on a liferaft. There are books you’ve probably read in the past that you enjoyed or found helpful that you wouldn’t choose to bring. And that’s OK! Not every book is written with the intention to shift minds or spark global change. 

People write books for many reasons. Some authors write to satisfy that insatiable “itch” to express a story they’ve been holding onto. Others see their name on a book as the ultimate business card to launch their reputation forward. But these books are rarely the kind that stick with you for years to come.

If you’re at the early stage of your book writing journey, it’s important to ask yourself what you want to achieve with your book. And if you intend on passing the Life-raft test, then it’s important to start considering how you’ll get there.

We support thought leadership authors on their road to groundbreaking manuscripts every day with the Better Book Project – our group programme designed to push both your writing progress and your thinking process.

Learn more about how we can help you create your Life-raft book by exploring the programme here.