The Scribe Method The Best Way to Write and Publish Your Non-Fiction Book

Write Your Book Foreword

Before we dive in, let’s be clear: most books do not need a foreword. If you’re unsure whether your book does, then it probably doesn’t.

However, if you believe a foreword could add value, this guide will help you determine whether your book needs one, how to choose the right person to write it, and how to make the process seamless.

What Is a Book Foreword?

A foreword is an introduction written by someone other than the author. It serves two primary purposes:

  1. Conferring Credibility and Status

A foreword is often written by an authority or expert in your field. This endorsement signals to readers that your book—and you as an author—should be taken seriously.

For example, when James Altucher released Choose Yourself, he had Dick Costolo, then-CEO of Twitter, write the foreword. While many readers didn’t initially know Altucher, Costolo’s endorsement added immediate credibility.

  1. Providing Context for Readers

A foreword can also provide valuable background about why the book is important. It can include praise for the author, explain why the book matters, and highlight key insights in a way that the author cannot without sounding self-promotional.

A great example is Kevin Harrington, a well-known entrepreneur, writing the foreword for a real estate expert’s book. While the author was well-known in his niche, Harrington’s foreword introduced him to a broader audience and reinforced his authority.

If a foreword does not accomplish at least one of these two objectives, it’s best to skip it.

Who Should Write Your Foreword?

If you decide your book needs a foreword, the next step is choosing the right person to write it. The best candidate is someone you already have a personal relationship with—someone who respects your work and is willing to vouch for you.

If you don’t have a connection with a high-profile individual in your field, you have two choices:

  1. Reach out to someone and ask.
  2. Skip the foreword altogether.

While it’s possible to get a foreword from someone you don’t know, it’s challenging. It’s often easier to ask for a blurb (a short endorsement) instead.

A good rule of thumb: If you wouldn’t put “Foreword by [Name]” on your book cover, ask for a blurb instead.

How to Ask for a Foreword

The best way to ask someone for a foreword is over the phone or in person. If you’re not comfortable calling them directly, they probably aren’t the right person to ask.

A foreword is a personal endorsement, and asking someone you barely know to write one is a tough sell.

How to Write a Foreword (or Help Someone Write It)

Many people hesitate to write a foreword because they’re either too busy or unsure what to say. To make it easier for them, offer these two approaches:

Option 1: The “Letter to the Reader” Approach

This is the simplest method. Send them this template:

“Thank you for agreeing to write the foreword! Here’s all I need:

  • A short piece (about 500 words)
  • A letter-style introduction telling readers why they should read this book
  • If you want to include kind words about me, I won’t complain! :)”

If they send a draft that needs edits, get their approval before making any changes.

Option 2: The Interview Approach

If your foreword writer is short on time or struggles with writing, you can help them by conducting an interview and turning it into a written foreword.

Here’s how:

  1. Interview the foreword writer (or hire someone to do it).
  2. Transcribe the interview (Rev.com is a great tool for this).
  3. Draft the foreword based on their answers.
  4. Send it back to them for approval.

Foreword Interview Questions:

  • Who is the author? Tell me about them.
  • What makes them remarkable, especially in their field?
  • Why is this book important?
  • What does the reader need to know about this topic?
  • Why should the reader care about this book?

Foreword Length: Keep It Short

A foreword should rarely exceed 500 words. If it does, it must be exceptionally engaging. The foreword is like a movie trailer—give readers just enough to build excitement and then let the book take center stage.

Does the Foreword Writer Need to Read the Book First?

Not necessarily. Since a foreword is about the author and the topic, the writer doesn’t always need to read the book in its entirety. However, if they want to, it’s a bonus.

Start Early!

Forewords take time to write. If you wait until the last minute, you risk delaying your book’s launch. Start the process as early as possible to avoid unnecessary setbacks.

Ready to Write and Publish Your Book?

The Scribe Method has helped thousands of authors write, publish, and market their books successfully. Get your free online copy of The Scribe Method here, or purchase a hard copy to keep as a reference!