The Robert Collier Letter Book. Illustrated

Robert Collier

• Publisher: Asimis Books
• Year: 2026
• eBook ISBN:
  9786178790790
• Subtopic: Business General

The Robert Collier Letter Book by Robert Collier is a classic and influential guide to persuasive writing that has shaped the fields of advertising, sales, and direct marketing for nearly a century. First published in 1931, the book distills Collier's deep understanding of human psychology into practical advice on how to write letters that motivate readers to take action. Drawing on his experience as a successful advertising copywriter, Collier emphasizes that effective letters do not sell products or ideas directly—they sell desires, emotions, and solutions to problems. He teaches writers how to enter the reader's mind, identify their hopes and fears, and speak to them in a tone of empathy and understanding. The result is communication that feels personal, sincere, and compelling rather than manipulative. The book provides step-by-step guidance on crafting sales letters, fundraising appeals, and personal correspondence, covering headlines, openings, structure, and calls to action. Collier illustrates his principles with real-world examples and clear explanations, making the material accessible to both beginners and experienced writers. Beyond marketing, The Robert Collier Letter Book offers timeless lessons in human communication. Its insights apply equally to business, leadership, and everyday persuasion, highlighting the importance of clarity, honesty, and emotional resonance.

Table of contents

• PREFACE
• FOREWORD
• I WHAT IS IT MAKES SOME LETTERS PAY?
• II HOW TO AROUSE THAT ACQUISITIVE FEELING
• III GETTING NEWS INTEREST INTO YOUR LETTERS
• IV WORD PICTURES THAT MAKE PEOPLE WANT YOUR PRODUCT
• V MOTIVES THAT MAKE PEOPLE BUY
• VI THE PROOF OF THE PUDDING
• VII SUPPLYING THAT IMPULSE
• VIII HOW TO PUT A HOOK INTO YOUR LETTERS
• IX THE SIX ESSENTIALS
• X HOW IT ALL BEGAN
• XI THE FIRST OLIVE
• XII SELLING $2,000,000 WORTH OF O. HENRY STORIES
• XIII A WAR HISTORY THAT SOLD
• XIV BOOKS THAT MANY PEOPLE KNOW
• XV HOW WELLS' "OUTLINE" WAS SOLD
• XVI HOW THE BOOKBUYERS SAVED A CAMPAIGN
• XVII A GIANT OF THE MAILS
• XVIII THE THIRD FIFTY THOUSAND
• XIX WILL YOU ACCEPT THIS LITTLE GIFT?
• XX ONE MILLION DOLLARS' WORTH OF ORDERS IN THE FIRST SIX MONTHS
• XXI TAKING THE GUESS OUT OF ADVERTISING
• XXII WE HELP TO START A STORE
• XXIII HOW TO REACH THE LEADERS
• XXIV COLLECTING WITH A SMILE
• XXV THE IDEAL SALES LETTER
• XXVI HOW TO RAISE MONEY BY MAIL