The case studies on my website are based on the Book Done Newsletter, where I share my author clients’ Book Done insights! In this case study, I talk to Eline Allaart about her book “Positively Triple Negative: Fighting my Tumor with a Dose of Humor”, self-published in 2020.
I designed the interior of this 226-page memoir and adapted it for ebook. I also jumped in at the last moment to make some adjustments to the front cover and design the back cover and spine before press time!
Positively Triple Negative by Eline Allart is a memoir that documents her cancer journey. Eline shares her experiences, putting a positive lens on her journey.
Eline’s Book Done Timeline
🐣 Idea hatched: During treatment for breast cancer
✍️ Writing started: Summer 2019
🎨 Files ready for editing, design and layout: September 2020
✔️ Book done (released): October 2020
Eline’s Book Done Take-Aways
Here are my questions for Eline about self-publishing her memoir.
When did you first have the idea for your book?
I always wanted to write a book, but thought it would be fiction. However, when I was battling breast cancer, I felt this intense need to write about my experience. I wanted to turn something negative into a positive, help people, process my own trauma and tackle the perception and taboo of cancer head on. I had all this material, so why not?
How did you come up with your book title?
The idea of the title came to me fairly early on. My type of breast cancer is called Triple Negative. As I love a play on words and a good paradox, I added “Positively” in front of it, which highlights both my mindset and the fact that I tested positive. In addition, it also refers to how my experience was; negative with a lot of positives. The subheading, however, took me the longest. I could not crack it and tried everything. Many subheadings I thought of already existed and I wasn't able to communicate what the tone of the book was and also explain that it was about cancer. That is until I came up with; “fighting my tumor with a dose of humor”.
Which part of your book project was the most fun or rewarding? Which was the most challenging?
Having to figure it out all on my own was overwhelming, yet also rewarding. Since my memoir was about my cancer story, it was important to me that I had full creative control. I am definitely proud of myself for having followed through on writing and releasing my memoir, because it is a huge task.
Editing was definitely the most challenging. I had to take care of everything and assemble the right team (editor, proofreader, designer, etc.) and as a newbie in the industry, that was a gamble. My editor and I were a great fit, and she really encouraged me to go back to the past and write about it with more emotion, depth and raw honesty. It wasn't always easy, but the book needed it and so did I. I really felt like I could close the book on cancer (knock on wood), when others opened mine. I processed it, healed from that experience and created a little legacy in the meantime.
Eline shared her story on Instagram: @postripneg
Which part of your book project took longer than you expected, and why?
I think the editing process took longer than I expected. My book changed so much compared to my first manuscript. If you want a good book, you have to put your pride aside and listen to your editor, but also fight for what you believe in. It's your story and you get to decide how you tell it, yet a second opinion from a professional should be considered with an open mind.
What was the biggest surprise during your book project??
When self publishing, there's so much to think about in addition to the actual writing. Marketing (which never stops by the way), printing, isbn codes, book design, book editing, etc. It costs money, time and a whole lot of Googling. I would advise new writers to take it step by step and not get overwhelmed with the full to do list as it can be demotivating.
In addition, I was quite worried about disappointing peopleabout how they were portrayed in my memoir. I didn't want to hurt anyone's feelings or step on any toes. I renamed everyone (except family members) to protect their privacy and avoid them feeling judged. I was still fully prepared that some people would be offended, but I have only heard positive feedback!
Tell me a bit more about the cover design you chose.
Because my book is a memoir, I wanted my photo on the front cover, so that people could put a face to the name, to the story.
Claudia Sanches was kind enough to take my cover photo. I wanted a picture that embodied positivity. In the original picture, the wall behind me was blue and I wanted a rose background to subtly hint at breast cancer, so a good friend of mine edited the background color. Julie then finalized the design for both front and back covers.
What service providers or partners did you have in creating and producing your book?
Self-publishing a book is truly a team effort!
Editor: Laura Kaiser at Word Haven Editorial
Cover photography: Claudia Sanches
Cover design: Usman Saleemi
Book Interior Design: Julie Karen Hodgins
Cover production: Julie Karen Hodgins
Proofreading: Elizabeth Nunes, plus friends & family
Julie is very skilled, fast and good. I loved what she did with the book, adding little touches of design that really made the book look more creative, professional and fun. I highly recommend her.
Eline’s Book Done Tips
Finding an editor that understands you and appreciates your story, makes a world of difference.
Be true to yourself and your story.
Focus on marketing, especially before publishing. To stand out on your own, amidst thousands of other books is hard.
Do the events, the launch party, and host the talks. People buy books a lot quicker in person than online.
Working with influencers on social media definitely helps a lot in terms of getting exposure and increasing sales.
Enjoy the journey. Publishing your story is something fun, special and creative. You shouldn't let the stress or tiny typos cloud the experience.
Eline’s Book Done Technical Details
Quantity ordered: no minimum quantity (print on demand)
Page count: 226
Dimensions (page size): 5 x 8 inches
Binding: Paperback
Interior details
Ink colors: Black ink
Paper: 90g Creme bond
Bleed: Yes
Cover details
Cover stock: 100# white paper with glossy finish
Ink colors: Full color
Eline published her book via Amazon KDP, which is ideal for a passion project like a memoir. Amazon KDP prints your book on demand and takes care of all the logistics, such as orders, shipping and customer support.
A memoir for you in 2022?
I love learning and helping you share your story. Will 2022 be the year when you get your memoir done? Book a live brainstorming session via zoom or get your questions answered by email. Let’s get your book done! ✔️