Most people won’t believe you when you tell them that librarians can play a role that could prove vital to getting you published. The image of a cranky woman at a desk persists—but most don’t realize that behind that woman is a world of resources that could pave the way to success. It’s never too early to start working in the library, especially if you’re serious about becoming … [Read more...]
Have you ever tried to find a publisher who accepts unsolicited manuscripts that is really good? If so, you'll know that it's difficult because most major publishers don’t accept unsolicited manuscripts and the smaller publishers who do are always suspect. So what do you do? Many people have found success by making sure they dot their i’s and cross their t’s before they go … [Read more...]
Publishing is exciting because it means your book is finally going to become “real” and tangible. Yet, this is the part that so often derails even the most passionate and determined author. One reason is that many authors struggle through the writing and then suddenly have a finished book and nowhere to send it. If you are one of them, it may be that you started in the middle — … [Read more...]
I am the author or co-author of seven published fiction titles. Along the way I’ve had the experience of working with four different writers. I’ve spoken many times to libraries and book conventions about how it is to work with another author. Many questions have been asked about the process. I’ve narrowed the list down to the eight most voiced and will share them with you … [Read more...]
With the affordability of print-on-demand (POD) publishing, there is something you can do to encourage creativity and communication with your child, while teaching your child about the publishing process and giving their self-esteem a boast as well! As a parent, we are always thrilled when our children take an active interest in their own education. Heck, we are even … [Read more...]
As a published author who has attended numerous writers groups and writers conferences over the last decade, I've heard lots of excuses about why people don't write. Some of them I've even heard coming from myself! For fun, I came up with a list of 101 excuses why people don't write that book they say they are always going to write. See what you think. 1. No one will want to … [Read more...]
With the advent of technology, writers have numerous options when it comes to publishing. If you’re blessed to get a book deal with a traditional publisher (i.e. Random House, Simon & Schuster, HarperCollins), you’ll get an advance, royalties and a marketing allowance. Given the volatility of the book industry and emergence of e-books, landing a deal with a traditional … [Read more...]
Failure to follow simple instructions can result in authors and their books being dismissed. If authors want others to read and appreciate their books, first they need to follow submission guidelines set by publishers, agents, and reviewers. At some point, almost everyone has had to apply for a job. Being able to do a job requires being able to follow directions, and the … [Read more...]
This is not going to be about how to write. Rather I want to write about what I learned on the way to being a “published” author. I am going to assume you have written a book of fiction, a novel, and now you want to know what is the next step. 1. Everything I have read says you need an agent. I wouldn't know as I don't have one. I have been rejected by them. At last count … [Read more...]
For many people like yourself, there is nothing that can compare to the dream of having a book in your name. Getting your thoughts, stories, and ideas in print and being recognized for those intellectual contributions and can seem like a daunting task. The admiration you receive from others when they learn that you are an author is also a bonus. Given the millions of … [Read more...]