I hit a block because I was writing on a very difficult part of my life and the emotions provoked in me were overwhelming – Mumbi Kariuki-Ndumbi

For a few years now, I knew I would write a book and I had a collection of poems that I wanted to publish too.

Unfortunately, I lost most of my poems and so the desire to compile more waned with time.  Sometime in 2021, I planned to start the writing journey, but never had the motivation and each time I planned to start, I got sidetracked.

It was in 2022, I visited the CLC bookshop and saw the wide variety of local books that my interest was quickened again and also after my sister-in-law, Kawira Baraka, had her children’s devotional book published and highlighted in the social media that I saw myself actually writing.

Time passed and I did not act on my plans until later in 2023 at the CLC bookshop once again, I made the decision and followed it up with signing up for the next writing class, encouraged by Dr. Muthoni Omukhango. This time I was intentional about it and paid up and started the classes diligently early this year.

The first month was exciting, learning new things and actually writing. I am old school and prefer the art of handwriting and I so enjoyed it, following the instructions we received in class.

I set up my writing area and a time table and for the first month all was good. I would even write for longer than the time I’d planned to.

Then I hit a block. I was writing on a very difficult part of my life and the emotions provoked in me were overwhelming, I just wanted to run away and hide. I got to process grief that I had not faced yet and writing became more of a chore than a delight.

I thank God for holding me up and enabling me to keep writing plus my son and daughter who kept cheering me on, even offering to type for me.

There was another snag in my writing journey, the typing. It took me forever to type and when I would transcribe, my emotions would be triggered all over again and I would take breaks every few minutes.

I thank God for our coaches who did not give up on me despite my challenges. The tips they shared with us were also very helpful and the best one was to always ask Holy Spirit to help, He always did.

Now that I have a manuscript ready, I am looking forward to even more writing, Holy Spirit helping me.

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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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

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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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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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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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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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The biggest blessing was learning from a team that understand the responsibility and spiritual pressures of Christian writing – Elizabeth Wanjiru

Joining the CLC Kenya’s Group Writing Class was the greatest investment I’ve ever made. I wouldn’t be celebrating this milestone of a finished manuscript without the support of CLC Kenya. The biggest blessing was learning from a team that understands the responsibility and spiritual pressures of Christian writing. It was not any writing process, but […]

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What looked like an uphill task became so doable because each week we had meetings with pointers on what to do next – Christina Mwaura

Engaging with the craft of writing has often felt like a solitary pursuit, weighed down by the burden of procrastination and self-doubt. But my journey is a testimony of the incredible power of community and structured guidance in overcoming these obstacles. For more than a decade, the desire to write had been quietly growing inside […]

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My writing journey has illuminated a profound passion within me that had long remained dormant – Delphine Tumusiime Mugisha

First and foremost, I express gratitude to God for the presence of friends like Pamela, whose introduction led me to discover the incredible ministry of CLC. Without her, I might never have stumbled upon this enriching opportunity. Embarking on my writing journey has illuminated a profound passion within me that had long remained dormant, awaiting […]

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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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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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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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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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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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7b: Why Organising Your Non-Fiction Into Chapters Is 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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7a: 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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It was a rewarding experience – Dr. Wilson Mbugua

I have had the desire to write a book on retirement planning for some time. I was not sure where to start or who was out there to genuinely assist me to fulfil my desire. I wanted to share the message with a wider audience on the importance of planning for lifestyle in retirement. The […]

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I am excited for the days ahead – Patricia Ahawo

In 2021, I made a conscious decision to go back to one of my favourite past times, which happens to be writing. I decided to intentionally rebuild the writing muscle that I had not exercised in a long time. It was not easy to start writing again; it took a lot of small starts, daily […]

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An Incredible Experience – Caroline Opiyo

My writing journey as a member of the Diamond Writing Class has been an incredible experience. When I first joined the program, I was eager to develop my writing skills and become a better writer. The classes were comprehensive and engaging. They covered various aspects of writing such as grammar, syntax, style, just to mention […]

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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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

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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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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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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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