I am pleased to announce that my latest book, “That’s What You Think: A Practical Guide to Writing Compelling Op-Eds and Short Memoirs,” is now available for purchase in paperback or eBook.
As the Opinion Page editor at the Toronto Star, I receive dozens of op-ed submissions every day from writers wanting their opinions published in Canada’s largest circulation newspaper. Demand is high and space is limited, which led to a question I am frequently asked: What makes a good op-ed? The cheat sheet I put together for writers wanting an edge became the genesis for this book.
Writing compelling op-eds is a skill that can be learned. In this practical guide, I explain the importance of op-eds, how to express opinions effectively, how the process works at news organizations and how not to alienate the editors you want to impress. I also stress that in today’s political climate, not everyone will agree with your opinion or want to hear your opinion, so writers must be prepared for a backlash.
Many op-eds are written as memoirs because sharing personal anecdotes is a highly effective way of drawing in readers to make a point and share insights. The second part of “That’s What You Think” focuses on writing short memoirs. Memoir is one of the most popular forms of writing because we love to be invited into each other’s lives. Your short memoir does not have to be an op-ed destined for a news outlet or personal blog, although it can be.
In “That’s What You Think,” I encourage anyone with a story to share it. Personal stories will always gather value over time. So, take the time to get your ideas down on paper or on a screen and craft your stories. In “That’s What You Think,” I show how to do it and why you need to get started now.
“That’s What You Think” is available on Amazon:
https://lnkd.in/gkd6T8HQ
What readers said about his Book:
Scott Colby’s book, “That’s What You Think,” is a lifesaver for anyone banging their head against the wall trying to get an op-ed published … Scott gets it – he’s been in the trenches as the Opinion Editor at the Toronto Star, and he doesn’t sugarcoat things. The best part is that his book isn’t just about telling you how to write; it’s like sitting down for coffee with him, and he’s giving you the inside scoop on cutting through all that noise.”
Another reader wrote:
“I wish I had this book when I first started writing op-eds as a student. I remember just how difficult it was to navigate this space and its unspoken rules. Scott Colby’s ‘That’s What You Think’ is a guide on op-ed writing and fills important gaps in an area that isn’t really formally taught anywhere else. It’s practical, insightful, and an essential read for any writer.”
I completely agree with the second comment. If I had access to this book ten years ago, I believe it would have greatly benefited me. Many of my stories have been published by Star – Surjit Singh Flora
