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Want to write a book based on real-life stories? Learn how with the Writing a Non-Fiction Book course by Duncan Barrett on Domestika. Start today!
Introduction: Why Writing Non-Fiction Is a Powerful Skill
Have a compelling true story to tell? Writing a non-fiction book is one of the best ways to share real-life experiences in an engaging, meaningful way. Whether you dream of writing a memoir, a biography, or investigative journalism, crafting a well-told non-fiction book requires strong storytelling techniques, research skills, and structure.
If you’re a beginner wondering where to start, the Writing a Non-Fiction Book course by Duncan Barrett on Domestika is an excellent resource. It helps you develop your writing skills, structure a book, and create an engaging narrative, all in a project-based learning format.
Let’s dive into a full review of this course and find out if it’s the right fit for you!
What Is the Writing a Non-Fiction Book Course?
The Writing a Non-Fiction Book course is designed to help aspiring writers bring real stories to life using journalist-style writing techniques. Taught by Duncan Barrett, an established non-fiction author, this course covers key writing strategies to ensure your book is compelling, well-structured, and marketable.
What You’ll Learn:
- ✅ Conduct research and develop story ideas
- ✅ Master interviewing techniques for gathering real details
- ✅ Build engaging characters from real people
- ✅ Learn narrative storytelling for non-fiction
- ✅ Create a polished sample chapter and book proposal
This course is hosted on Domestika, an affordable and user-friendly learning platform offering lifetime access to content.
Who Should Take This Course?
✔️ This Course is Perfect For:
- ✅ Absolute beginners who want to write but don’t know where to start
- ✅ Writers looking to turn real-life events into compelling books
- ✅ Journalists, bloggers, or memoir writers eager to improve storytelling
- ✅ Anyone who wants structured guidance and hands-on learning
🚫 It Might Not Be Ideal If You:
- ❌ Prefer highly personalized feedback (this course offers general guidance)
- ❌ Need advanced or highly specialized non-fiction techniques
- ❌ Want a deep dive into publishing contracts & marketing—this course primarily focuses on writing itself
Course Breakdown: What’s Included?
📚 16 Lessons, 3+ Hours of Content
The course consists of step-by-step modules packed with suggestions, tips, and hands-on exercises.
📝 Hands-On Project: Write Your Book Proposal
One of the best parts of this course is its practical approach. You’ll complete a working book proposal and a sample chapter, which is essential if you want to pitch your book to a publisher or agent.
🌎 Multiple Language Support
Domestika offers subtitles in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Portuguese, German, French, Italian, and more.
Pros & Cons: Is This Course Worth It?
✅ Pros:
- ✔ Affordable compared to in-depth university programs or expensive MasterClass courses
- ✔ Taught by an experienced author with a background in bestsellers
- ✔ Focuses on practical writing exercises and application
- ✔ Lifetime access so you can learn at your own pace
❌ Cons:
- ❌ Limited direct feedback (self-paced courses don’t offer individual coaching)
- ❌ Not a deep dive into marketing or publishing (focuses mainly on writing)
- ❌ Best for beginners—advanced writers may want more specialized topics
How Does It Compare to Other Non-Fiction Writing Courses?
| Course | Price | Best For | Length | Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✅ Domestika: Writing a Non-Fiction Book (Duncan Barrett) | Affordable | Beginners learning storytelling and research | 3h 39mins | Hands-on project, storytelling techniques |
| ❌ MasterClass (Malcolm Gladwell, Neil Gaiman, etc.) | Much more expensive | People looking for theory & inspiration | Varies | Big-name instructors, less structure |
| ❌ Joanna Penn’s How to Write Non-Fiction | Medium price | Writers who want publishing/business advice | Self-paced | Focuses on self-publishing & marketing |
Takeaway: If you want a structured, beginner-friendly introduction to non-fiction writing, Domestika’s Writing a Non-Fiction Book is one of the most accessible options at an affordable price.
Real Student Reviews: What Are People Saying?
Many students praised the course for its clarity, engagement, and practicality. Here are some real reviews from Domestika:
⭐ “I enjoyed working through the course; Duncan certainly explains things very clearly.” – christinaellie2024
⭐ “Brilliant course, love it.” – andrewg72
⭐ “This course is well organized and invites you as the writer to listen and tell others’ stories.” – claudiairagan
Is This Course Right for You?
If you’re an aspiring non-fiction writer looking for a clear, practical way to transform ideas into a book, then this course is a solid investment. The focus on storytelling, interviewing, and structuring your book makes it an excellent starting point.
However, if you’re already an advanced writer looking for publishing and marketing-specific coaching, you might need additional resources.
Verdict: 4.8/5 ⭐ Highly Recommended for Beginners & Intermediate Writers
How to Get Started
Unlike expensive writing programs, Domestika’s courses are affordable, and you own access for life after enrolling.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to write a non-fiction book is a rewarding skill, whether you’re creating a personal memoir, a biography, or an investigative narrative. With Duncan Barrett’s Domestika course, you get structured guidance, storytelling techniques, and hands-on practice to turn your book idea into reality.
If you’re serious