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In episode 716, Dianne Jacob reveals what it really takes to get your cookbook published—from crafting an irresistible proposal to standing out in a saturated market.
Dianne Jacob coaches food writers on how to get a cookbook published, pitch freelance stories, start newsletters, and improve the quality and effectiveness of their writing. She specializes in book proposals. Dianne is the author of a multiple award-winning book on food writing, Will Write for Food: Pursue Your Passion and Bring Home the Dough Writing Recipes, Cookbooks, Blogs and More. She also co-authored two pizza cookbooks with chef Craig Priebe and has won awards for her food writing in such publications as The Washington Post, Food & Wine, and Lucky Peach. Dianne has judged cookbooks for the James Beard Foundation and the International Association of Culinary Professionals. She has also judged for a national magazine awards. Previously a journalist and newspaper, magazine and publishing company editor-in-chief, she writes a monthly free newsletter aimed at food writers.
In this episode, you’ll learn everything you need to know about writing a cookbook proposal—from when to start, to how to structure it, to what publishers are really looking for.
Key points discussed include:
- Know when you're ready: You need a strong niche and an audience before jumping into a cookbook proposal.
- Choose a compelling topic: Find your hook—what sets your content apart and appeals to your audience.
- Do your research: Study the competition and understand how your book fills a unique need.
- Structure matters: A well-organized proposal includes your bio, target audience, promotion plan, table of contents, and sample recipes.
- Recipes must shine: Include a variety of high-quality recipes that showcase your skills—ideally around 10.
- Voice makes a difference: A strong, clear writing voice can be the edge that sets you apart.
- Your platform matters: A social media following isn’t everything, but publishers want to see a strong online presence.
- It’s a business plan: Think of your proposal as a sales pitch—show that you understand the market and your brand.
Connect with Dianne Jacob
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