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Take It from Me: An Agent's Guide to Building a Nonfiction Writing Career from Scratch
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Expected 20 Jan 26Win a free print copy of this book!
11 days and 14:13:43
50 copies available
U.S. only
From the literary agent behind some of today’s most successful authors comes a narrative guide geared specifically to the needs of aspiring and working nonfiction writers, demystifying the world of publishing and offering a practical roadmap to getting your book published
Alia Hanna Habib remembers what it was like to be on the outside of the publishing world, looking in. Arriving in New York, a first-generation college student with a love of reading and loads of ambition, she hadn’t any idea how to break into the business of books. Now, years later, in her career as an agent, she hears from prospective clients who, whether they’re experts at the top of their fields or wholly new to the writing game, consider finding success in publishing to be a mysterious and daunting endeavor. Ever determined to flout the stereotype of agent as gatekeeper, however, Habib is prepared to hand emerging writers the key.
Drawing on wisdom from her star-studded list of clients, including Hanif Abdurraqib, Merve Emre, Nikole Hannah-Jones, and Judy Batalion, in Take It from Me Habib provides context and clarity to each step of the publishing process, from the germination of a book idea to finding an agent to represent it, from crafting an engaging proposal to navigating the perils of publicity. Readers will find real-life samples of her authors' pitch letters and book proposals, as well as templates writers can use when querying agents or promoting their work on social media. She also incorporates the advice of trusted industry colleagues—attorneys, accountants, editors, publishers, publicists, and more—gifting readers with a full team of experts to answer all the questions they’ve had about the publishing world, but were too afraid, or didn’t know, to ask.
Essential for both the aspiring novice and the seasoned professional, Take It from Me is a guidebook writers will return to again and again. At times laugh-out-loud funny, at others brutally honest about her own experiences in publishing, and in life, Habib offers a clear-eyed look at the challenges facing today’s aspiring nonfiction writers and then gives them the comprehensive, expert guidance they need to put those roadblocks in the rearview mirror.
Alia Hanna Habib remembers what it was like to be on the outside of the publishing world, looking in. Arriving in New York, a first-generation college student with a love of reading and loads of ambition, she hadn’t any idea how to break into the business of books. Now, years later, in her career as an agent, she hears from prospective clients who, whether they’re experts at the top of their fields or wholly new to the writing game, consider finding success in publishing to be a mysterious and daunting endeavor. Ever determined to flout the stereotype of agent as gatekeeper, however, Habib is prepared to hand emerging writers the key.
Drawing on wisdom from her star-studded list of clients, including Hanif Abdurraqib, Merve Emre, Nikole Hannah-Jones, and Judy Batalion, in Take It from Me Habib provides context and clarity to each step of the publishing process, from the germination of a book idea to finding an agent to represent it, from crafting an engaging proposal to navigating the perils of publicity. Readers will find real-life samples of her authors' pitch letters and book proposals, as well as templates writers can use when querying agents or promoting their work on social media. She also incorporates the advice of trusted industry colleagues—attorneys, accountants, editors, publishers, publicists, and more—gifting readers with a full team of experts to answer all the questions they’ve had about the publishing world, but were too afraid, or didn’t know, to ask.
Essential for both the aspiring novice and the seasoned professional, Take It from Me is a guidebook writers will return to again and again. At times laugh-out-loud funny, at others brutally honest about her own experiences in publishing, and in life, Habib offers a clear-eyed look at the challenges facing today’s aspiring nonfiction writers and then gives them the comprehensive, expert guidance they need to put those roadblocks in the rearview mirror.
320 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication January 20, 2026
4 people are currently reading
4282 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
December 2, 2025
the publishing/writing book that’s literally a beach read! I read it by the beach and by the pool. it’s informative. it’s laugh-out-loud funny. it’s a page turner. regarding pre-publication, “it’s time to shine for anyone who’s ever asked you ‘how’s the book going?’”
December 29, 2025
Incredibly specific with examples of query letter log lines, book proposals, writing and publishing advice from major authors and editors, and insights into building writing career and platform — this book is unprecedented in its helpfulness for emerging nonfiction writers, and witty to boot! Habib has peeled back the curtain on many professional practices of agents and editors (how to pitch articles, how to build relationships with editors, how to avoid the agent slush pile, the format of a proposal) that so many writers are eager to understand. Take It from Me is the masterclass we’ve been waiting for.
May 26, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for providing this ARC.
I'm not actually trying to build an nonfiction writing career, but I love reading nonfiction and was curious about what goes on behind the scenes.
This book honestly included a lot more practical information than I expected it to, especially about things like contracts, etc.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone that wants to write nonfiction or is even considering it and wants to get a look at the publishing behind nonfiction books.
I'm not actually trying to build an nonfiction writing career, but I love reading nonfiction and was curious about what goes on behind the scenes.
This book honestly included a lot more practical information than I expected it to, especially about things like contracts, etc.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone that wants to write nonfiction or is even considering it and wants to get a look at the publishing behind nonfiction books.
July 31, 2025
Alia Hanna Habib’s Take It From Me is a book that radiates enthusiasm. You can practically feel her love for nonfiction publishing dripping off every page. Through engaging anecdotes and a confident voice, Habib makes it clear that she’s not just sharing tips—she’s letting you into her world, pulling back the curtain on the inner workings of the publishing industry.
That said, buckle up.
This book is dense. Like, “you-might-want-to-take-notes” dense. To her credit, the depth reflects a true mastery of the subject and a whole lot of research. But at times, I found myself wishing for a bit more clarity—or at least shorter paragraphs. Some chapters dive into detailed explanations that go on for pages, and while the information is valuable, I often felt like it could’ve been said in half the space.
This might be fine if the reader were, say, a literary agent or a seasoned editor. But most folks picking up this book are likely aspiring authors just trying to understand how to get their work published. In that sense, Habib may have overestimated how much we want—or need—to know about the inner machinery of the industry.
The first chapter, in particular, is a whirlwind. It dives headfirst into the mechanics of pitching, submitting to agents, and navigating publishing houses. By the end, I felt like I’d just taken a crash course in publishing law. It’s good stuff—but it’s a lot.
At its core, this book’s message is: Don’t quit. And I admire that. Habib gives practical advice on how to persist in the face of rejection and what to do when you’re not writing, but even that advice can feel emotionally exhausting. It’s almost ironic—she’s trying to encourage writers, but the sheer intensity of the information might leave some readers feeling more overwhelmed than motivated.
Still, I can’t fault Habib’s dedication. Her commitment to excellence is obvious, and her belief in the power of good writing is genuinely inspiring. She makes it clear that if you’re going to aim for publication, you should aim high—Premier League-level high.
In the end, Take It From Me is a powerhouse of a guide—best suited for writers who are ready to treat publishing like a second full-time job. If that’s you, you’ll find this book invaluable. But if you’re hoping for a breezy read to dip your toes into the process, be warned: this one’s deep, and it pulls no punches.
That said, buckle up.
This book is dense. Like, “you-might-want-to-take-notes” dense. To her credit, the depth reflects a true mastery of the subject and a whole lot of research. But at times, I found myself wishing for a bit more clarity—or at least shorter paragraphs. Some chapters dive into detailed explanations that go on for pages, and while the information is valuable, I often felt like it could’ve been said in half the space.
This might be fine if the reader were, say, a literary agent or a seasoned editor. But most folks picking up this book are likely aspiring authors just trying to understand how to get their work published. In that sense, Habib may have overestimated how much we want—or need—to know about the inner machinery of the industry.
The first chapter, in particular, is a whirlwind. It dives headfirst into the mechanics of pitching, submitting to agents, and navigating publishing houses. By the end, I felt like I’d just taken a crash course in publishing law. It’s good stuff—but it’s a lot.
At its core, this book’s message is: Don’t quit. And I admire that. Habib gives practical advice on how to persist in the face of rejection and what to do when you’re not writing, but even that advice can feel emotionally exhausting. It’s almost ironic—she’s trying to encourage writers, but the sheer intensity of the information might leave some readers feeling more overwhelmed than motivated.
Still, I can’t fault Habib’s dedication. Her commitment to excellence is obvious, and her belief in the power of good writing is genuinely inspiring. She makes it clear that if you’re going to aim for publication, you should aim high—Premier League-level high.
In the end, Take It From Me is a powerhouse of a guide—best suited for writers who are ready to treat publishing like a second full-time job. If that’s you, you’ll find this book invaluable. But if you’re hoping for a breezy read to dip your toes into the process, be warned: this one’s deep, and it pulls no punches.
September 29, 2025
If an aspiring writer of nonfiction wanted to get published, that person needs to read Habib’s book. She not only provides her own experienced agent’s perspective but those of many other professionals from the conception, dipping-the-toes essay articles through editing to pub day—the day the book is finally released to the public. From the outside, publishing looks daunting: so many manuscripts aren’t even read by editors and fewer are accepted. But if the writer wants to break through into the “real” publishing world, and not remain in self-publication, Habib provides the do’s and donor’s of submission, marketing, etc.
There are helpful summaries at the end of each chapter: key takeaways. So if the reader is re-reading, or trying to know which pitfalls to avoid in the next stage of launching a book, these are really helpful. Also, helpful because a few chapters can be too long.
The book itself is very readable, as if the author is in a conversation with you. Also, there are moments when the author pulls back the veil on the process for this book. But being in the publishing world and having shepherded many authors’ books onto bookstore shelves, there are plenty of anecdotes to back up her advice. And a few moments of vulnerability as well when describing the stumbles by the author when negotiating on her clients’ behalf.
If I was interested in publishing (again), I would definitely refer to Habib’s book many times for guidance.
I’m appreciative of the publisher for providing an advanced copy.
There are helpful summaries at the end of each chapter: key takeaways. So if the reader is re-reading, or trying to know which pitfalls to avoid in the next stage of launching a book, these are really helpful. Also, helpful because a few chapters can be too long.
The book itself is very readable, as if the author is in a conversation with you. Also, there are moments when the author pulls back the veil on the process for this book. But being in the publishing world and having shepherded many authors’ books onto bookstore shelves, there are plenty of anecdotes to back up her advice. And a few moments of vulnerability as well when describing the stumbles by the author when negotiating on her clients’ behalf.
If I was interested in publishing (again), I would definitely refer to Habib’s book many times for guidance.
I’m appreciative of the publisher for providing an advanced copy.
December 8, 2025
Alia Hanna Habib has a way of explaining things that feels reassuring, almost like someone sitting beside you and walking you through a world that usually feels confusing and closed off. She covers everything from shaping an idea to writing a proposal, finding an agent, understanding contracts, and what to expect after a book sells. It is clear, helpful, and surprisingly comforting.
I think almost everyone has dreamed of becoming a writer at some point, and I am definitely one of those people. I have always wanted to tell my story, but I never knew where to begin. That is why I was so excited when my request for this eARC was approved. Reading it felt like someone handed me a map. It was genuinely informative, and I am already planning to buy a finished copy so I can return to it when I finally work up the courage to start writing. Or if the author happens to be reading this, I would very kindly accept a copy to have on my shelf :)
One of the things I appreciated most was how practical the book is. The sample query letters, proposal examples, and real behind the scenes advice make this feel like something you can use, not just something you read once and forget. There are a few sections that feel a little dense, especially if you are new to the publishing world, but the honesty and clarity throughout the book make it worth the read.
If you have ever wondered how authors actually break into nonfiction publishing, or if you are someone like me who hopes to write one day but does not know where to start, I really think this book could help. I am grateful I had the chance to read it.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
I think almost everyone has dreamed of becoming a writer at some point, and I am definitely one of those people. I have always wanted to tell my story, but I never knew where to begin. That is why I was so excited when my request for this eARC was approved. Reading it felt like someone handed me a map. It was genuinely informative, and I am already planning to buy a finished copy so I can return to it when I finally work up the courage to start writing. Or if the author happens to be reading this, I would very kindly accept a copy to have on my shelf :)
One of the things I appreciated most was how practical the book is. The sample query letters, proposal examples, and real behind the scenes advice make this feel like something you can use, not just something you read once and forget. There are a few sections that feel a little dense, especially if you are new to the publishing world, but the honesty and clarity throughout the book make it worth the read.
If you have ever wondered how authors actually break into nonfiction publishing, or if you are someone like me who hopes to write one day but does not know where to start, I really think this book could help. I am grateful I had the chance to read it.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 14, 2025
I was lucky enough to snag a copy before publication—and I’m positively giddy about it. Sure, there’s no shortage of books and blogs explaining the publishing process, and just as many hair-raising cautionary tales. But Habib manages to cut through the noise, dismantle the mystery, and—miracle of miracles—never once lull you into a yawn. Her secret weapon? A deliciously cheeky sense of humor and spot-on metaphors that make you snort-laugh while learning. Every page sparkles with little “aha!” gems, busting myths and steering you away from common pitfalls. I’m walking away feeling not only armed and ready to take on the publishing world, but also equipped with the know-how to make my work truly stand out.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I had the good fortune of reading Take It From Me ahead of its publication date. I found it highly informative, with fresh insights into an industry that is often discussed but still not widely understood by aspiring authors like myself.
I think many readers will find value in the author’s description of platform. I also really appreciated the author interviews and the tactical tips for publicity and marketing, both pre- and post-publication.
I will most likely reference this book for years to come. A must-read for authors of nonfiction, particularly those pursuing traditional publication from a Big 4 imprint, regardless of stage.
I think many readers will find value in the author’s description of platform. I also really appreciated the author interviews and the tactical tips for publicity and marketing, both pre- and post-publication.
I will most likely reference this book for years to come. A must-read for authors of nonfiction, particularly those pursuing traditional publication from a Big 4 imprint, regardless of stage.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews