There are six steps to creating a theme for your book: select a subject, specify a supposition statement, sketch three points, situate
introduction, set forth conclusion, and solidify everything together. 1. Select A Subject Briefly describe what your book is about. It is not necessary to go into every aspect or element. Think about whom you are and what your experiences have been. One thing for certain, it may be easier to write about you than to write about others or to write fiction.
Also, have you learned at least one life lesson? One sure-fire way of selecting a subject is to think about why you believe your story will make a good book. List all of reasons you can think of, including triumphs and failures, lessons learned, friendships forged, betrayals, experiences, etc. There are thousands of subjects you can write about in any given story.
2. Specify a Supposition Statement Do you know why you are writing? Everyone writes for different reasons. Think of your supposition statement as a point you are trying to get over to your readers. Therefore, you should not be afraid to develop your beliefs, judgments and attitudes toward your chosen topic.
If you are truly telling your story, it will be a mistake to remain dispassionate. Whatever your point is, it needs to be clear. Just as there are thousands of possible topics, subject you choose can have thousands of possible supposition statements.
3. Sketch Three Points I believe theme should be developed before topic. I also believe it is better to develop "middle" paragraphs before writing introduction. As a minister, I am often called on to introduce guest speakers at my church and other affairs. I've found it to be much easier to introduce someone after I've gotten to know them.
The same goes for writing. Although introduction is first thing that is read, it is easier to introduce something after you know more about it. The more acquainted you are with your subject, easier introduction will be to write. So, before your introduction, divide essence of your theme into three key points. Begin by writing your supposition statement at top of a piece of paper. Think of and write down any sustaining points that are in agreement with your supposition statement. Try for at least ten points, but after careful consideration, narrow list down to three. Write a short paragraph centered upon each point.
