How to get feedback on a book project?

In our most recent "how can we help you?" thread, a reader asks:

What are some ways to get feedback on a potential book project? We usually present papers or book chapters at conferences, and I have never seen anyone presenting a book project. It is understandable since a presentation of a book project would probably be very general and sketchy without sufficiently substantive content. But suppose you have an idea for a book but are not sure if it is worth pursuing, and you really want some suggestions. How do you get this kind of feedback?

Good question! I once gave a talk at a conference in Beirut outlining what, in effect, became my second book, and I did get some helpful feedback there. I also briefly co-organized a reading group consisting of philosophers in the region to share and discuss each other's work, and I recall getting some good feedback on a book chapter there, as well. But, beyond that, I'm not sure.

Do any other readers have any helpful suggestions?

Comments

[3X author]

I do not think that you should try to present a book project at a conference. You should draft a proposal - following the instructions that the publishers give on their homepages - and then first circulate the proposal amongst a few friends/colleagues/Mentors. Once you respond to their feedback, assuming it is positive (and they have good judgment and are honest), then send it to a publisher with whom you want to work.