3 Rules To Write a Global Bestseller

The world loves a good story, especially one that leaps across the divides of cultures, languages, and oceans. And hey, if you’re dreaming of not just getting published but resonating across continents—from San Francisco to Singapore—then you're in for a treat.

So, how do you write a story that sings the same tune in every reader's heart, no matter where they call home? It’s about spinning stories that connect us, despite all our differences.

Be Different, Yet Familiar

Let's face it, every culture has its storytellers. Those who help us make sense of the world. But if you want to go global, it’s about nailing that sweet spot. Your story needs to touch on those deep, universal human feels—love, betrayal, redemption—while also throwing in a dash of something new.

Take Khaled Hosseini for example. His tales are steeped in the Afghan experience but resonate globally because, at their heart, they deal with emotions and situations that we all understand, no matter where we live.

Your mission? Make it exotic enough to be intriguing but relatable enough to be embraced by outsiders.?

We mean…

Keep It Real—But Don’t Water It Down

Imagine you’re telling a story set in Japan, centred around the "Chanoyu," the traditional Japanese tea ceremony. You could say they had a tea party, but then you'd lose all the beautiful, intricate details that make the ceremony special.?

Don’t just serve tea; let your readers smell the matcha, hear the clink of the utensils, and feel the solemnity of the ritual.?

Authenticity is your best friend when it comes to cross-cultural literary mingling.?

Simplifying might seem like an easy ticket to universal appeal, but it often strips your story of its soul.?

Instead, invite your readers into your world with open arms and clear, engaging descriptions.

So you have a great book written and ready to be read. Big deal!?

But…

Writing a Great Book Isn’t Enough Tho

Here’s the kicker: even the best book won’t become a global sensation on its own. It needs a passport to travel, doesn't it?

?And yes, that means promoting yourself incessantly.

When Ashneer Grover, from Shark Tank India, released his book Doglapan, he grabbed attention the way he does best—by sparking controversy.?

On social media, he kept the fire alive by engaging with both supporters and sceptics, turning every comment and controversy into a chance to highlight his book. He shared bold snippets from his book all over the media, stirring up debates that got everyone talking.

This smart play of using his rep to stir up controversy kept his book in the spotlight. Grover shows us that if you're not shy about sharing your opinions and maybe even stirring up a bit of drama, it can pay off in keeping your work on people's minds and their bookshelves.

Yep, celebrities easily go global. But can a 12-year-old?

Today’s tools and supports have made it easier than ever to take your story global.?

Aahan Atray, the 12-year-old author of Notion Press. Raised between Melbourne and Singapore, his book Chronicles of Dawn mashes up his vibrant cultural experiences with classic, universal themes of adventure and heroism, hitting a sweet spot for readers all over the globe. And now, his books have reached the top of Amazon’s Hot New Releases in the Young Adult category.

And so can yours…

Aahan’s story is a brilliant example of what happens with the right approach and support, anyone can make a splash on the global stage.

With these three rules and a supportive publishing partner, you’re well on your way to writing a global bestseller.?

Who knows? The next big story could be yours.