Can one book appeal to everyone?
An editor sits across the table from a writer and asks, “Who’s your ideal reader for your book?”
Smiling, the writer says, “Everyone.”
The editor shakes his head. “What I’m getting at is, which demographic reads books that are like yours?”
“I don’t know. Someone like me?”
While I was at the NCWA Renewal Conference this past weekend, we were told we need to identify the target audience for our books so that we can get to know and connect with the people in that audience. The speaker made a statement that went something like, “Every book has a niche audience. No book is written for everyone.”
Being the sort of person who always looks for an exception to the rule, I thought, What about the Bible? Wasn’t it written for everyone? It’s certainly popular and has stood the test of time, but isn’t it also the one book we need to read above all others?
The Bible claims to be God’s message to the world, a message that’s not fiction or entertainment or mere great literature but one that reveals why God created us and what he wants of us. I heard a verse at church yesterday that ties the Bible to what people need to know. God said to the children of Israel,
I want to be your God and for you to be my people.”
In the New Testament, the message is given to the entire world.
Christ (the Messiah) died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.”
(from 2 Corinthians 5:15)
According to the Bible, God inspired men to write scripture that’s for all people – no matter their age, upbringing, education, outlook on life, skills, occupation, bank balance, gender, country of birth, personality, integrity, or taste in reading.
I’d guess that even editors would admit there’s one book that really is for everyone.
Posted on May 17, 2016
Norma Nill 
You are absolutely right, Norma! The Bible is the book for all ages, from childhood to old age! This is an inspirational writing! Thanks for sharing!
I like that you called the Bible “the book for all ages,” because it can mean it’s lasted through the ages as well as it’s for people of all ages. Thanks, Anita!
Right on, Norma. Also, I am working on a family devotional with animal poems, scripture, and discussion questions that appeal to both old and young. Not always easy.
Oooh, that sounds interesting and challenging, Carolyn. I’ll be on the lookout for it. Thanks!
You could even say there were 66 books intended for every reader!
What a great observation, Diane! Wish I’d thought of it. Thanks for stopping by today.
Very well done, Norma. Blessings to you.
Thank you for your encouragement, Sylvia!
It was lovely to see you at the Writers Renewal. Blessings.
You, too, Sylvia!