Finding the Right Title

Not so very long ago, writer’s came up with a working title for their novel knowing that the publisher would likely change whatever they decided on. Those days are over for quite a few. With the advent of small presses and self-publishing, titles are more important than ever.

They are also very busy. Here are a few things a title should do:

· Identify your story

· Set the tone or mood of your work

· Attract attention

· Create interest

 How do you find the right title? Well, first off, you need to identify your market. Remember, all books don’t appeal to all people. So think about it. Mull it over. Once you’ve come up with what you feel fits, give it a rest. Let it go for a few days, or weeks. Then come back to it. Does it still resonate? When you think about it, does it still do all the things you thought it would in the beginning? Do you love it? If your answers are yes, yes, and YES! It’s time to send it out into the world.

Tell a few people that you trust about it, and ask their opinions. If one of them doesn’t care for it, but most do, you’re good to go. If they all comment on the same thing, you might want to rethink your title. I know, believe me, I know it’s easier said than done. It’s tough to encapsulate months of work into just a few words. But it’s very important. It’s what we do. And we’re going to live with it a very long time.

Do you have any tricks or tips for coming up with a great title?