What African writers can learn from Jesus Killed My Business
Many writers assume that footnotes and endnotes belong to scholars, lecturers, and people who live surrounded by libraries and long words. They sound technical, serious, and perhaps a little too academic for writers of memoir, ministry, testimony, or Christian non-fiction. Yet the truth is much simpler and far more useful: footnotes and endnotes are not there to make your writing heavy. They are there to make it honest, credible, and well-grounded.
As writers, we often draw from more than our own experiences. Sometimes we need history to give context. Sometimes we need a definition, a research finding, or a quotation from another author to support what we are saying. When this is done wisely, it enriches the work. When it is done carelessly, it can weaken our voice or leave readers unsure of where our information came from.
A good example of this balance can be seen in Jesus Killed My Business by Dr. Muthoni Omukhango. Although the book is deeply personal and reflective, it still reaches beyond personal experience when necessary. In Chapter One, while describing the Pentecostal background that shaped the author’s early life, the book includes historical material about the growth of Pentecostalism in Kenya and marks that material with a numbered source note. Later in the same section, it does the same when explaining the meaning of “Full Gospel.” This shows that even a testimony-driven Christian book can responsibly include outside material without losing warmth or flow.
This leads us to the first important term: an excerpt. An excerpt is simply a short borrowed portion from another source. It may be a direct quotation, a brief historical statement, a definition, or an idea drawn from a published work. In Jesus Killed My Business, the historical discussion on African Pentecostalism is one such use of sourced material. The writer does not stop the book and turn it into a research paper. Instead, she briefly brings in outside knowledge to support the story she is telling. That is how excerpts should work. They should serve your message, not overtake it.
A footnote is the source note placed at the bottom of the same page. In the book, one clear example appears where the text discusses the Pentecostal movement and then gives the note: “The shifting landscape of African-Pentecostalism in Kenya. Julius M. Gathogo. Published: 13 January 2022.” Another appears with the explanation of “Full Gospel,” followed by the note: “Full Gospel – Wikipedia.” These notes sit quietly beneath the text, allowing the main narrative to continue while still acknowledging where the information came from.
An endnote works in much the same way, except that instead of placing the source at the bottom of the page, the source is gathered at the end of the chapter or at the back of the book. Jesus Killed My Business includes a References section near the end, listing sources such as Julius M. Gathogo’s work on African Pentecostalism, the Wikipedia entry on Full Gospel, and other outside materials used in the book. That means the book does not only acknowledge sources on the page; it also gathers them at the back for fuller reference. This is a useful reminder that writers can combine readable storytelling with proper documentation.
Let us make this more practical. Suppose you are writing an article on surrendering control to God, and you want to borrow a line from Jesus Killed My Business. You might write: In Jesus Killed My Business, Dr. Muthoni Omukhango reflects that many believers struggle because they want more control over their lives. That borrowed idea becomes your excerpt. If you use a footnote system, you place a small note number after that sentence and give the source at the bottom of the page. If you use an endnote system, you place the same number in the text, but the source appears at the back instead. The purpose is the same in both cases: the reader can see that the idea came from a source and was not simply lifted without acknowledgement. The book itself says, “We want more control over our lives,” which makes it a strong and concise example of a quotable excerpt.
What makes this especially important for African writers is that many of us write from rich personal history, family memory, oral culture, ministry experience, and community life. These are strengths, not weaknesses. Yet once we begin to draw from published material outside ourselves, we must show where it came from. That practice does not reduce creativity. It strengthens trust. It tells the reader that we are not only gifted storytellers or thoughtful teachers, but also careful stewards of truth.
There is, however, an important caution. A footnote is not a hiding place for over-copying. You cannot borrow large blocks of someone else’s writing and imagine that a little number at the bottom of the page has solved the problem. A mature writer quotes lightly, acknowledges clearly, and returns quickly to their own voice. The reader should always know who is leading the conversation.
That is one of the useful lessons from Jesus Killed My Business. The book remains personal, devotional, and reflective, yet it still makes room for external sources where they genuinely add value. It uses notes not to impress, but to support. It uses references not to show off, but to strengthen credibility. In doing so, it offers African writers a quiet but powerful model: you can write from the heart and still document responsibly.
So, if you are working on a memoir, a Christian living book, a ministry reflection, or a book that mixes testimony with teaching, do not fear footnotes and endnotes. Use excerpts with wisdom. Use notes with integrity. Then return to your own voice and write with conviction.
That is not only good writing. It is good stewardship.
Conclusion
Are you writing a memoir, Christian non-fiction book, or reflective manuscript? Learn to use excerpts, footnotes, and endnotes in a way that strengthens your message without silencing your voice.
Getting Started: Publishing Books
Preparing to Write/Publish
Step1: Prepare Yourself to Get Published…
Are you ready to publish your book? Here is how you need to prepare. Have your manuscript ready and explore the oprions available today. If you are stuck in getting it started or finished, there is several ways to get help. Explore and get published today! #RaisingAfricanVoices
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Step2: Let’s Talk About Publishing
The self-publishing landscape has changed considerably in the past two decades with new technologies such as the Internet, and the $1 billion markets continuing to change at a rapid pace. Increasingly, there are numerous alternatives to traditional publishing, and self-publishing is becoming the first choice for writers. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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Step3: Factors to Consider Before Self Publishing
Jesus, while talking to the disciples about following Him, asked them to count the cost. The same Scripture applies to authors today - you have to count the cost from the beginning to ensure you don't stop at some point in your book project's journey. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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Step4a: Requirements for Self Publishing
Are you ready to be published? Use our 4 points check list and tick 'Published Author' box so you can move on to the next God-given assignment... #RaisingAfricanVoices
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Step4b: Publishing Steps – Review
Is your manuscript due for a review towards getting published? The major focus during manuscript review is the general quality of the book. It is important to establish the overall completeness, scope and readership of the manuscript and whether the presentation and accessibility of the book is suitable. #RaisingAfricanVoices
Read MoreElementary Skills: Publishing Books
How to Write
5a: How to Write a Book Dedication
A book dedication is a way for you, the author to bestow a high honor on a person (or a group of people) you wish to praise or otherwise spotlight. This dedication note is often short and usually focused on one person (or a specific group of people). It’s supposed to be personal, rather than professional. It goes on the dedication page, which is in the very front of the book, after the title page. Here's how to write one. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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5b: How to Write a Book’s Foreword
A well-written foreword can function as the ultimate third-party recommendation or endorsement for your book, generating interest and helping when it’s time to market your book. Here’s how to write one. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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5c: How to Write a Book Introduction
Are you stuck on writing your book introduction? Here's how to... Hook the reader right from the beginning with a personal story from your life, a funny story, a joke, or just an interesting fact that causes him/her to want to continue reading. Here’s how to write one. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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5d: How to Write a Book’s Conclusion
If your readers are in the conclusion chapter, it also means they read the whole book, they liked it, and now they want you to wrap it up. So don’t rash it. Give them what they want. Here’s how to write one. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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5e: How to Write an Author’s Bio
People are looking for reasons why they should spend their time reading what you have written. You need to instill confidence in your readers that you are knowledgeable on the subject matter by writing an appropriate bio. Here's how to write one. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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5f: How to Write a Book’s Blurb
A blurb is a short yet descriptive account of the book that goes on the back cover or within the book sleeve of a hardcover book. It includes any information that represents the book best and intrigues the readers and shoppers to pick the book off the shelves. Here's how to write one. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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5g: How to Write an Acknowledgment
An acknowledgment section in a book provides the space to go into lenghty details in thanking the people who were sources of inspiration and support for your book and life. Here'show to write one. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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5h: How to Write a Table of Contents
A table of content shows the things that are held or included in something. In the book industry, it is a list of the chapters or sections given at the front of a book or periodical. Here's how to write one. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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5i: How to Differentiate Between a Foreword and Endorsement
Foreword vs endorsement: what’s the difference? Discover their purpose, placement, length, and how each builds credibility and helps readers choose your book.
Read MoreTechnical Skills: Publishing Books
Refining Your Manuscript
6a: How to Write a Devotional
A devotional book is a literary work designed to provide spiritual inspiration, guidance, and reflection for readers seeking to deepen their faith and relationship with God. Get started here. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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6b: How to Write a Captivating Novel
A great novel is a complex interplay of various elements, but some key components often contribute to its greatness. Get started here. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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6c: How to Use Dialogue in Story Writing
Effective dialogue is characterized by authenticity, clarity, and relevance to the story. It should sound natural and believable, reflecting the unique voices and perspectives of the characters. Dialogue tags, such as "said," "asked," and "replied," help identify speakers and maintain clarity in conversations. Get started here. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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6d: How to Use ‘Show Don’t Tell’ in Story Writing
"Show don't tell" is a fundamental principle in storytelling that encourages writers to use descriptive language, actions, dialogue and scenes to reveal information to the reader, rather than simply telling them outright. Get started here. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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6e: How to Elevate a Non-fiction Christian Book to Make it Personal and Engaging
Transforming a flat non-fiction Christian book into an engaging and impactful read requires authenticity and connection. Share your personal testimony, use relatable real-life examples, and offer practical applications to make your message resonate. Being vulnerable about your faith journey fosters trust, while reflective questions and actionable steps encourage readers to apply the lessons to their own lives. Get started here. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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6f: How to Ethically Use Other People’s Public Stories in a Non-fiction Christian Book
Using public stories in your Christian book requires integrity and respect for the individuals involved. Always seek permission where possible, give proper attribution, and ensure the story aligns with your message while preserving the dignity of those featured. Avoid embellishment or distortion for dramatic effect, and focus on presenting truth with grace. By handling stories ethically, you honour both the subjects and your readers while maintaining your credibility as a Christian author. Get started here. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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6g: How to overcome the challenge of mixed languages in writing a manuscript
Writing a manuscript with mixed languages can be both enriching and challenging. To overcome this, establish clear guidelines for when and how to incorporate multiple languages. Use translations sparingly and only where necessary, ensuring they don’t disrupt the reader’s flow. Consider adding footnotes or a glossary for clarity and consistency. Tools like professional editors and language experts can help refine your manuscript while maintaining cultural authenticity. Get started here. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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6h: How to Peer Review Fiction and Non-Fiction Christian Literature Manuscripts
Peer reviewing Christian literature requires a thoughtful approach to ensure the manuscript aligns with Biblical principles while engaging readers effectively. For fiction, focus on character development, plot consistency, and spiritual themes. For non-fiction, assess clarity, theological accuracy, and practical application. Provide constructive feedback, highlighting strengths and offering actionable suggestions for improvement. A thorough peer review not only refines the manuscript but also upholds its spiritual impact. Get started here. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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6i: How to Ensure Diversity and Inclusion in Christian Writing
By embracing diverse voices, ensuring equitable access for underrepresented authors, and encouraging inclusive storytelling, authors and publishers can reflect the richness of God's Kingdom. This includes actionable strategies to amplify marginalized voices, promote cultural representation, and create a more inclusive literary ecosystem. With initiatives like multilingual publishing, fair contracting, and global partnerships, CLC Kenya leads the way in advancing DEI while staying true to Biblical principles. Get started here. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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6j: How to Use External Source Excerpts with Footnotes and Endnotes
Many writers think footnotes and endnotes belong only in academic writing, yet they can strengthen memoir, Christian non-fiction, and reflective books too. Here is a simple guide for African writers, with practical lessons from Jesus Killed My Business.
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6k: How Authors Should Mention Other People in Painful Stories
Learn how authors can write about real people in painful situations with wisdom, honesty, and grace. This post explores how to change names, stay objective, avoid slander, acknowledge personal responsibility, and tell difficult stories in a way that honours truth, protects others, and reflects Christian maturity.
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6l: How to Turn a True Story into Autobiographical Fiction: Practical Steps for Writing Painful Personal History Well
Learn practical ways to turn a painful true story into autobiographical fiction without losing its truth or lessons. This training article helps African writers change names, settings, timelines, and identifying details wisely, especially when writing about trauma involving close relationships, while protecting people and strengthening the story.
Read MoreAdvanced Skills: Publishing Books
Going the Extra Mile
7a: Why Should a Non-Fiction Book Have a Subtitle?
A subtitle is a powerful tool for non-fiction books, offering clarity and appeal to potential readers. It provides additional context about the book's content, target audience, and benefits, helping it stand out in searches and on bookshelves. A well-crafted subtitle enhances discoverability, boosts SEO, and communicates your book's value in just a few words. Learn More Here. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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7b: Why is Organising Your Non-Fiction Into Chapters Important?
Organising your non-fiction book into clear, well-structured chapters enhances readability, engagement, and comprehension for your audience. Chapters create a logical flow, making complex ideas easier to digest while guiding readers through your message step by step. A structured layout also improves your book's professional appeal and allows readers to quickly locate topics of interest. Learn More Here. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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7c: Why Self-Edit Your Book Before Submitting it for Publishing?
Self-editing is a crucial step before submitting your manuscript for publishing. It allows you to refine your ideas, correct errors, and enhance the overall quality of your work. A well-edited manuscript not only demonstrates professionalism but also makes the publishing process smoother and more efficient. From grammar to flow and consistency, self-editing ensures your book is the best version of itself before reaching an editor's desk. Learn More Here. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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7d: Why is The Art of the Author Photo Important? Essential Specs for a Professional and Polished Image
Professional photos on a book’s back page play a crucial role in an author’s branding and marketing strategy. Learn More Here. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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7e. Why Professional Layout Is Non-Negotiable for African Christian Authors: Publishing With Excellence
Why professional book layout is non-negotiable for African Christian authors. Learn how industry-standard layout protects your message, credibility, reader experience, and publishing excellence from manuscript to marketplace.
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7f: Book Covers: Why They Matter for Every Author
Your book cover is not decoration—it is your book’s first decision-maker. Discover why covers matter for trust, genre clarity, and sales, plus common mistakes authors can avoid and a practical checklist for creating a cover readers choose, not ignore. Learn More Here. #RaisingAfricanVoices
Read MoreContractual Skills: Publishing Books
Be Informed (Not Legal Advice)
8a: Why Every Author Needs a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA)
Protect your intellectual property with a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) in publishing! An NDA safeguards your manuscripts and creative ideas by establishing confidentiality between authors, publishers, and editors. It ensures your work isn't misused, offers legal protection, and secures your publishing journey. Learn how to prevent unauthorized use of your content, why documentation is essential, and how trusted publishers like CLC Kenya provide sample NDAs to keep your work safe. Don't let your hard work go unprotected—explore the importance of NDAs today! Here’s what you need to know. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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8b: What to Include in the Copyright Page and Complete the Copyrighting Process
Copyright law gives creators of original material the exclusive right to further use and duplicate that material for a given amount of time, at which point the copyrighted item becomes public domain. Here's what you need to know. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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8c: Terms and Conditions for Traditional Publishing/Adapting Existing Books into Other Versions
Adapting existing books into new versions, such as translations, audiobooks, or special editions, requires clear terms and conditions in traditional publishing agreements. These terms outline rights, royalties, and responsibilities for both the author and publisher, ensuring a smooth adaptation process. Properly defined agreements protect the integrity of the original work while maximising its reach and impact across different formats. Here’s what you need to know. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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8d: How to Publish a Book with Multiple Stakeholders: Best Practices for Rights Ownership, Expenses and Recognition
Publishing a book with multiple stakeholders requires clear communication and well-defined agreements to ensure smooth collaboration. Establish ownership rights, allocate expenses transparently, and outline recognition for each contributor's role. Best practices include drafting detailed contracts, maintaining open communication, and resolving disputes amicably. These steps protect relationships while ensuring the book's success. Here’s what you need to know. #RaisingAfricanVoices
Read More8f. How to Write a Contributor Consent Form for a Memoir Book
Publishing a book with multiple stakeholders requires clear communication and well-defined agreements to ensure smooth collaboration. Establish ownership rights, allocate expenses transparently, and outline recognition for each contributor's role. Best practices include drafting detailed contracts, maintaining open communication, and resolving disputes amicably. These steps protect relationships while ensuring the book's success. Here’s what you need to know. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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8e: How to Get ISBN in Kenya and Other African Countries
Publishing a book with multiple stakeholders requires clear communication and well-defined agreements to ensure smooth collaboration. Establish ownership rights, allocate expenses transparently, and outline recognition for each contributor's role. Best practices include drafting detailed contracts, maintaining open communication, and resolving disputes amicably. These steps protect relationships while ensuring the book's success. Here’s what you need to know. #RaisingAfricanVoices
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