I’m frequently asked, “I’ve written a book – what do I do next?” The next most common question I hear is “I want to write a book but where do I start?” Here are some of the things I suggest people do when they don’t know what to write.
First of all, write what you know.
You don’t have to write your life story, but you could use where you live or where you grew up as the setting for your story. No need to invent a street when you can picture it in your head as you write. You could also use an incident from your own life in the story – anything stand out as particularly great or particularly horrifying? Has anything that happened to you that would capture a reader’s attention?
Second, you could write what you wish could be.
Set your book in a place you invent – create a whole different world, or make everything happen in the future or past. It’s your book – you can be as creative as you like. Describe life the way you imagine it on a different planet, or in a different time. Sometimes once you get started describing a place you get ideas of what could happen there.
Third, write something to teach another person.
Every single person knows something that someone else doesn’t. What do you know that you could teach? Try writing it to different groups – how would you teach a group of children what you know, how would you explain it to a police officer, and so on. Once you figure out what you want to teach, you can figure out what kind of audience you want to write to.
Do you have any tips when people ask what to write about? I’d love to hear them below or at www.jexbo.com!
Showing posts with label how to sell your book. Show all posts
Showing posts with label how to sell your book. Show all posts
How to Finish Your Book By the End of the Year
Hard to believe it but the year is nearly over, and if you’re a writer with the goal of finishing your book by the end of the year, you should be in high gear right now.
Here are some ideas for you to try if you’re struggling to get done with a book in the next few weeks.
First of all, you should realistically assess how much you still have to do to finish your book. If you cannot finish it without cutting out all food and sleep, then take a moment to figure out how much you can do before the end of the year and aim for a goal other than finishing.
Second, if it is a manageable amount of work you have to do to finish your book, try to break it down into hours and then keep to a strict schedule for these next few weeks. Get up a little earlier or go to sleep a little later if possible.
Third, see if there are any shortcuts you can take to reach the goal of finishing your book by the end of the year. Are you pausing after each chapter to have someone read through it? While they read through it, continue to move ahead with your book rather than editing that chapter after it’s been read.
It’s great to reach the goal of finishing your book by the end of the year, and I hope you successfully reach that goal if it’s one you’ve set!
Please feel free to contact me here or at http://www.jexbo.com/ if you have questions about self-publishing.
Here are some ideas for you to try if you’re struggling to get done with a book in the next few weeks.
First of all, you should realistically assess how much you still have to do to finish your book. If you cannot finish it without cutting out all food and sleep, then take a moment to figure out how much you can do before the end of the year and aim for a goal other than finishing.
Second, if it is a manageable amount of work you have to do to finish your book, try to break it down into hours and then keep to a strict schedule for these next few weeks. Get up a little earlier or go to sleep a little later if possible.
Third, see if there are any shortcuts you can take to reach the goal of finishing your book by the end of the year. Are you pausing after each chapter to have someone read through it? While they read through it, continue to move ahead with your book rather than editing that chapter after it’s been read.
It’s great to reach the goal of finishing your book by the end of the year, and I hope you successfully reach that goal if it’s one you’ve set!
Please feel free to contact me here or at http://www.jexbo.com/ if you have questions about self-publishing.
How to Control Your Writing Schedule During the Holidays
Everyone’s busy during the holidays – There’s always something distracting us, taking up time, and interrupting our routines. Here are a few quick ideas to maintain control over your writing schedule during the holidays:
First of all, where possible, work ahead.
If you can add on time spent writing in the weeks before things get busy, you won’t feel like you’re running behind. Write for an extra hour on the weekends, or if you normally give yourself a day off each week, use that day to write even if it’s only briefly spent working.
Secondly, limit your holiday activities.
Only go to one party per week, or whatever you think is necessary. You have a great excuse – you’re working! If you need to prepare a holiday meal, divide the meal between the guests – someone brings a salad, someone else brings a dessert, and so on. Or do what I do and find a restaurant that caters – you can get a great catered meal for a reasonable price from Boston Market for example!
Finally, be gentle on yourself – you also deserve a present and some time off might be perfect.
If you’re not able to maintain the level of writing you’d like, it’s all right. The holidays don’t last forever and if you’re a week or two behind schedule, you’ll be able to catch up in January.
What about you? Do you work at the same pace during the holidays? How do you control your schedule when there are so many outside demands put on it?
Please write to me here or at http://www.jexbo.com/ and let me know!
I meet people all the time who tell me they have a great idea for a book, but don’t know where to get started. Here are a few ideas I have for where to get help writing your book:
A great place to start is to join a writing group. These are people just like you who want to write and share their ideas. You can look for groups at your local library or community center, but if you don’t find one, start one yourself! Just post a notice asking other writers if they’re free to meet on a regular basis, usually once a month.
You could also do online searches for how to get started. Search “how to write a book” and you’ll find plenty of sites that give tips on how to get started.
Something you might do is talk to friends. Even if your friends aren’t writers, they might have a good idea for you to get started. You might use them as a sounding board about your book idea, or they might read through what you’ve written and give you thoughtful feedback.
Don’t forget that it helps to read well-written books. You can get a feeling for what works and what doesn’t. You might also try writing a paragraph or two of your book in the style of different writers. Not only is imitation the sincerest form of flattery, it’s also good practice!
Good luck with your writing, and let me know what worked for you to get help with your book!
First of all, where possible, work ahead.
If you can add on time spent writing in the weeks before things get busy, you won’t feel like you’re running behind. Write for an extra hour on the weekends, or if you normally give yourself a day off each week, use that day to write even if it’s only briefly spent working.
Secondly, limit your holiday activities.
Only go to one party per week, or whatever you think is necessary. You have a great excuse – you’re working! If you need to prepare a holiday meal, divide the meal between the guests – someone brings a salad, someone else brings a dessert, and so on. Or do what I do and find a restaurant that caters – you can get a great catered meal for a reasonable price from Boston Market for example!
Finally, be gentle on yourself – you also deserve a present and some time off might be perfect.
If you’re not able to maintain the level of writing you’d like, it’s all right. The holidays don’t last forever and if you’re a week or two behind schedule, you’ll be able to catch up in January.
What about you? Do you work at the same pace during the holidays? How do you control your schedule when there are so many outside demands put on it?
Please write to me here or at http://www.jexbo.com/ and let me know!
I meet people all the time who tell me they have a great idea for a book, but don’t know where to get started. Here are a few ideas I have for where to get help writing your book:
A great place to start is to join a writing group. These are people just like you who want to write and share their ideas. You can look for groups at your local library or community center, but if you don’t find one, start one yourself! Just post a notice asking other writers if they’re free to meet on a regular basis, usually once a month.
You could also do online searches for how to get started. Search “how to write a book” and you’ll find plenty of sites that give tips on how to get started.
Something you might do is talk to friends. Even if your friends aren’t writers, they might have a good idea for you to get started. You might use them as a sounding board about your book idea, or they might read through what you’ve written and give you thoughtful feedback.
Don’t forget that it helps to read well-written books. You can get a feeling for what works and what doesn’t. You might also try writing a paragraph or two of your book in the style of different writers. Not only is imitation the sincerest form of flattery, it’s also good practice!
Good luck with your writing, and let me know what worked for you to get help with your book!
Interview with Self-Published Author Karen Magill
Today we’re going to hear from author Karen Magill. Here’s what she has to share with us:
Tell us about your self-published book and where it is available.
I have two self published novels. One is "The Bond, A Paranormal Love Story." A woman, Laura Neill, in Vancouver is struck while crossing the street. At the same time in Toronto a car also strikes Julian Rule.
When both have an out of body experience, their ethereal forms bond as one before separating - each taking a part of the other's soul with them as they return to their bodies. They are truly soul mates. When he senses that she is in danger - a feeling that is confirmed by a psychic friend - Julian goes to Vancouver to come to her aid. With the help of a detective, Julian is able to prove that Laura's fiance is a con artist and a murderer. When Julian confronts the man, he and Laura are placed in imminent danger.
The other is "Let Us Play, A Paranormal Love Story." In an uncertain time in the future, rock and roll music has been banned. Kaya More uses second sight to lead a group of rebels to bring it back. Their quest leads them from the streets of New York City to the peaks of the Canadian Rockies to the beaches of California. The pursuit heats up as combatants switch sides and the world joins forces as the rebels find adventure, music and love.
"The Bond" is going to be published in Turkish soon. I sold the rights to a small publisher in Turkey.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
I wanted to see what I could do on my own without a big house or agent telling me what to do.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
Promotion and getting the books selling. It is an uphill battle constantly but it is fun learning all the new ways to get more attention and to find your own interviews and such. It is a great learning experience.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
I have really enjoyed learning about so much to do with the writing industry. I don’t think I would be learning all avenues if it weren’t for self publishing. Right now, I am waiting for a book on being one’s own literary agent and I can learn even more about the business. I don’t know if I would have learned as much if I had an agent and they handled everything.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
Learn everything you can and research anyone you are dealing with. There are a lot of good people involved with writing but there are a lot of scam artists too. Also learn as much as you can about promotion and marketing. You’ll need it.
Is there anything you would like to add?
I want to thank you for interviewing me and everyone for reading. Check out my blog on Vancouver and its history at http://karen-magill.blogspot.com/ and my website http://www.karenmagill.com/.
Thanks so much for telling us about yourself and your books, and good luck with book sales!
Tell us about your self-published book and where it is available.
I have two self published novels. One is "The Bond, A Paranormal Love Story." A woman, Laura Neill, in Vancouver is struck while crossing the street. At the same time in Toronto a car also strikes Julian Rule.
When both have an out of body experience, their ethereal forms bond as one before separating - each taking a part of the other's soul with them as they return to their bodies. They are truly soul mates. When he senses that she is in danger - a feeling that is confirmed by a psychic friend - Julian goes to Vancouver to come to her aid. With the help of a detective, Julian is able to prove that Laura's fiance is a con artist and a murderer. When Julian confronts the man, he and Laura are placed in imminent danger.
The other is "Let Us Play, A Paranormal Love Story." In an uncertain time in the future, rock and roll music has been banned. Kaya More uses second sight to lead a group of rebels to bring it back. Their quest leads them from the streets of New York City to the peaks of the Canadian Rockies to the beaches of California. The pursuit heats up as combatants switch sides and the world joins forces as the rebels find adventure, music and love.
"The Bond" is going to be published in Turkish soon. I sold the rights to a small publisher in Turkey.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
I wanted to see what I could do on my own without a big house or agent telling me what to do.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
Promotion and getting the books selling. It is an uphill battle constantly but it is fun learning all the new ways to get more attention and to find your own interviews and such. It is a great learning experience.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
I have really enjoyed learning about so much to do with the writing industry. I don’t think I would be learning all avenues if it weren’t for self publishing. Right now, I am waiting for a book on being one’s own literary agent and I can learn even more about the business. I don’t know if I would have learned as much if I had an agent and they handled everything.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
Learn everything you can and research anyone you are dealing with. There are a lot of good people involved with writing but there are a lot of scam artists too. Also learn as much as you can about promotion and marketing. You’ll need it.
Is there anything you would like to add?
I want to thank you for interviewing me and everyone for reading. Check out my blog on Vancouver and its history at http://karen-magill.blogspot.com/ and my website http://www.karenmagill.com/.
Thanks so much for telling us about yourself and your books, and good luck with book sales!
"Notes from An Alien" Author Interview
Today we’re talking to Alexander M Zoltai, author of “Notes from An Alien.” Here’s what he has to say:
Tell us about your self-published book and where it is available.
This is what reading Notes from An Alien promises.
And: This Story Could Help Earth…
You can read it online, get a free digital copy, plus buy it at Amazon or Barnes & Noble and for the iPad by going here: http://notesfromanalien.yolasite.com/contact-us.php
Why did you decide to self-publish?
First, because Notes from An Alien is a radical “niche” novel.
Second, because I don't “trust” the mainstream publishing process.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
Taking on the never-ending job of self-promotion.
Why? Because, even on the Internet, I'm quite the Introvert :-)
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
The best part of self-publishing is that the book is out there, available, and I'm controlling the promotion.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
Make absolutely sure you get as many eyeballs on the manuscript as possible.
Is there anything you would like to add?
I have a forum for discussing the issues raised in the story here: http://notesfromanalien.yolasite.com/forum.php#/
Plus, I spend at least 20 hours a week in the virtual world, Second Life, attending to various levels of self-promotion...
Thanks for the information about your book Alexander, and good luck with book sales!
For help with your self-publishing efforts, please write to me here or at www.jexbo.com. Thanks!
Tell us about your self-published book and where it is available.
- Start with a 500-year InterWorld War.
- Continue through ecological disaster and the decimation of populations.
- Follow the institution of a Worlds’ government, bringing a glimmer of hope.
- Discover the challenges and failures of unifying three very different Worlds.
- Explore what it takes to give birth to a lasting peace.
This is what reading Notes from An Alien promises.
And: This Story Could Help Earth…
You can read it online, get a free digital copy, plus buy it at Amazon or Barnes & Noble and for the iPad by going here: http://notesfromanalien.yolasite.com/contact-us.php
Why did you decide to self-publish?
First, because Notes from An Alien is a radical “niche” novel.
Second, because I don't “trust” the mainstream publishing process.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
Taking on the never-ending job of self-promotion.
Why? Because, even on the Internet, I'm quite the Introvert :-)
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
The best part of self-publishing is that the book is out there, available, and I'm controlling the promotion.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
Make absolutely sure you get as many eyeballs on the manuscript as possible.
Is there anything you would like to add?
I have a forum for discussing the issues raised in the story here: http://notesfromanalien.yolasite.com/forum.php#/
Plus, I spend at least 20 hours a week in the virtual world, Second Life, attending to various levels of self-promotion...
Thanks for the information about your book Alexander, and good luck with book sales!
For help with your self-publishing efforts, please write to me here or at www.jexbo.com. Thanks!
Self-published Author Interview - Saurav Dutt
Today we’re talking to Saurav Dutt, author of a number of books and winner of the Dark Tales Quarterly horror competition 2010 and the Dark Static short story contest 2009. Here’s what he had to say:
Tell us about your self-published book and where it is available.
My book is a biography of Academy Award nominated actor Mickey Rourke. As well as providing a career retrospective, it is a commentary and film criticism analysis of his life and work. It is available through Amazon UK and US on paperback and Kindle formats as well as the Lulu website on paperback, Ebook and digital download.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
Ultimately, it was to have the creative control I so savored and needed to portray the exact vision of my work that I had in mind when it was first conceived.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
Having the tenacity to self-promote and pursue as many avenues of promotion as possible especially when that side of being an author was completely alien to me at the outset. It was time consuming and sometimes self-defeating to trawl through these multitudes of hyperbole to find the best ways to promote and market.
What has been the best part about self-publishing and why?
Having a more one to one relationship with my audience and getting back the positive feedback from them is pleasing knowing that I could reach them through my own endeavors and with a writing style that was completely my own and not diluted by editors, literary agents or publishers. It was purely my own work from the first to the last word, and getting praise from complete strangers was worth all the effort as they understood my vision.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
To stay true to their creative truth and to never ever compromise or dilute their art for the perceived likes and dislikes of others. In other words, don’t commercialize your work for the sake of somebody else, stick to your guns and your vision and believe me, there is an audience out there willing to be engaged.
Is there anything you would like to add?
As well as my biography on Mickey Rourke, I have published books of poetry and fiction ranging from horror to drama. Most recently my book “The Far Lonely Cry of Trains” made the shortlist of the 2011 Amazon Breakthrough Novel award and my first novel “Dark Mood Rising” won the Exeter Writing Competition in 2010.
Thanks for the information Saurav, and good luck with book sales!
Do you need help self-publishing your book? Please write to me here or at http://www.jexbo.com/. I'd love to hear from you!
Tell us about your self-published book and where it is available.
My book is a biography of Academy Award nominated actor Mickey Rourke. As well as providing a career retrospective, it is a commentary and film criticism analysis of his life and work. It is available through Amazon UK and US on paperback and Kindle formats as well as the Lulu website on paperback, Ebook and digital download.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
Ultimately, it was to have the creative control I so savored and needed to portray the exact vision of my work that I had in mind when it was first conceived.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
Having the tenacity to self-promote and pursue as many avenues of promotion as possible especially when that side of being an author was completely alien to me at the outset. It was time consuming and sometimes self-defeating to trawl through these multitudes of hyperbole to find the best ways to promote and market.
What has been the best part about self-publishing and why?
Having a more one to one relationship with my audience and getting back the positive feedback from them is pleasing knowing that I could reach them through my own endeavors and with a writing style that was completely my own and not diluted by editors, literary agents or publishers. It was purely my own work from the first to the last word, and getting praise from complete strangers was worth all the effort as they understood my vision.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
To stay true to their creative truth and to never ever compromise or dilute their art for the perceived likes and dislikes of others. In other words, don’t commercialize your work for the sake of somebody else, stick to your guns and your vision and believe me, there is an audience out there willing to be engaged.
Is there anything you would like to add?
As well as my biography on Mickey Rourke, I have published books of poetry and fiction ranging from horror to drama. Most recently my book “The Far Lonely Cry of Trains” made the shortlist of the 2011 Amazon Breakthrough Novel award and my first novel “Dark Mood Rising” won the Exeter Writing Competition in 2010.
Thanks for the information Saurav, and good luck with book sales!
Do you need help self-publishing your book? Please write to me here or at http://www.jexbo.com/. I'd love to hear from you!
How to Find Time to Write Your Book
Finding time to do all the things you need to do each day can be tough, and adding in writing a book can really take up your time. What I think helps is flexibility. What works at one time may change – for instance if you have young children, you might write during their naptimes. If you have a full-time job, you might write early in the morning or late at night.
You also need to find what works best for you, and this might mean you try working at various times. Do you have uninterrupted time on the weekends? Are you a night owl? If you try varying the times you write, you might find you work best at a different time than you thought.
Another thing you might try is getting up earlier than you usually get up to write, or stay up later at night to write. I choose to work early in the morning, because I never know what each day will bring, but one of my best friends always writes late at night once she’s finished everything else she needs to do. You might be able to make time during the day to write, for instance take a shorter lunch break and use the extra time to work.
Is there something you can take off your list of things to do and use that saved time to write? For instance are your kids old enough to do their own laundry, which would free up the time you’d normally have to do it for them? Could you find a lawn service to take care of your yard to give yourself a couple hours on the weekends to write?
Let me know if you have any tips, here or at http://www.jexbo.om/. I’d love to hear from you!
You also need to find what works best for you, and this might mean you try working at various times. Do you have uninterrupted time on the weekends? Are you a night owl? If you try varying the times you write, you might find you work best at a different time than you thought.
Another thing you might try is getting up earlier than you usually get up to write, or stay up later at night to write. I choose to work early in the morning, because I never know what each day will bring, but one of my best friends always writes late at night once she’s finished everything else she needs to do. You might be able to make time during the day to write, for instance take a shorter lunch break and use the extra time to work.
Is there something you can take off your list of things to do and use that saved time to write? For instance are your kids old enough to do their own laundry, which would free up the time you’d normally have to do it for them? Could you find a lawn service to take care of your yard to give yourself a couple hours on the weekends to write?
Let me know if you have any tips, here or at http://www.jexbo.om/. I’d love to hear from you!
How to Turn Your Book Idea into a Reality
The simple answer to how to turn your book idea into a reality is obviously to write. It’s one thing to come up with a great idea, it’s another thing altogether to actually get it down on paper.
If you come up with an idea for a book, you should start by setting some writing goals. Will you write for a certain amount of time each day? Will you write a certain number of words per day? Where will you write? Do you prefer to work on a laptop in a coffee shop? Can you work from home?
Next do any research necessary for your book. Is there any information you’ll need to know when you’re writing? If you’ve already got the details handy, you won’t need to stop writing in the middle of your book to look something up. Will you be interviewing anyone? Get the interviews done before you start writing. You can always get additional information later, but the more you have to start with, the easier it will be to just fill in details.
Many writers start with an outline. Do you have a rough idea of characters, opening and closing, and plot development? If you get an outline written down, you can use it to keep yourself from going astray while you’re working.
What helped you turn your book idea into a reality?
Please share your tips here or at http://www.jexbo.com/. Thanks!
If you come up with an idea for a book, you should start by setting some writing goals. Will you write for a certain amount of time each day? Will you write a certain number of words per day? Where will you write? Do you prefer to work on a laptop in a coffee shop? Can you work from home?
Next do any research necessary for your book. Is there any information you’ll need to know when you’re writing? If you’ve already got the details handy, you won’t need to stop writing in the middle of your book to look something up. Will you be interviewing anyone? Get the interviews done before you start writing. You can always get additional information later, but the more you have to start with, the easier it will be to just fill in details.
Many writers start with an outline. Do you have a rough idea of characters, opening and closing, and plot development? If you get an outline written down, you can use it to keep yourself from going astray while you’re working.
What helped you turn your book idea into a reality?
Please share your tips here or at http://www.jexbo.com/. Thanks!
Self-Published Author Ken Spoerl
Today at jexbo we’re talking to author Ken Spoerl. This is what he had to say:
Tell us about your self-published book and where it is available.
My fictional book is the story of a man, who because of a strange set of circumstances faces accusations of embezzlement and grand theft. The story follows him on a quest to prove in innocence as he and his lawyer build a case for his defense.
Matthew Scott left his place of employment one afternoon with company funds that were entrusted into his care to deposit into the firm’s corporate account. That was the last anyone saw of him. He seemingly vanished from the face of the earth until one year later he returned with a bizarre explanation for his disappearance. He was taken into custody and charged with embezzlement of company funds. He ultimately ends up in a court of law where a jury must decide his fate.
The title of my book is “The Return of Matthew Scott” by Kenneth Spoerl. It is available at Iuniverse.com (click on the book store tab), amazon.com and barnes&noble.com.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
I decided to self-publish after contacting numerous traditional publishers. Although almost all of them told me that my book sounded interesting and the story line captured their attention, the response to my query was consistent. They were either not taking on new clients or they did not want to look at work from new unpublished authors.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
The biggest challenge for me in self-publishing was, and still is, book promotion. I work a full time job so I had to find time to contact newspapers and radio stations for interviews to promote my book. I also have to visit bookstore owners in the hope that they will stock my book on their shelves.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
The best part of self-publishing is that I have total control over everything involved with the book from selling price to promotion. Also the publishing process is much faster than it would be with a traditional publisher.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their books?
My advice to others about self-publishing is, do your homework. There are a lot of self-publishing companies out there. Investigate these companies and weed out the ones that don’t offer a book evaluation and a personal representative to guide you through the publishing process. Although it is completely up to the author whether or not he or she wants to use the evaluation to make changes to their work, the evaluation can be a useful took in writing a quality book. It may be hard to hear that your work isn’t perfect but it is important to realize that constructive criticism can be very beneficial in the long run.
Thanks for sharing this information with us Ken, and good luck with book sales!
Do you have questions about self-publishing your book? Please write to me here or at http://www.jexbo.com/. Thanks!
Tell us about your self-published book and where it is available.
My fictional book is the story of a man, who because of a strange set of circumstances faces accusations of embezzlement and grand theft. The story follows him on a quest to prove in innocence as he and his lawyer build a case for his defense.
Matthew Scott left his place of employment one afternoon with company funds that were entrusted into his care to deposit into the firm’s corporate account. That was the last anyone saw of him. He seemingly vanished from the face of the earth until one year later he returned with a bizarre explanation for his disappearance. He was taken into custody and charged with embezzlement of company funds. He ultimately ends up in a court of law where a jury must decide his fate.
The title of my book is “The Return of Matthew Scott” by Kenneth Spoerl. It is available at Iuniverse.com (click on the book store tab), amazon.com and barnes&noble.com.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
I decided to self-publish after contacting numerous traditional publishers. Although almost all of them told me that my book sounded interesting and the story line captured their attention, the response to my query was consistent. They were either not taking on new clients or they did not want to look at work from new unpublished authors.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
The biggest challenge for me in self-publishing was, and still is, book promotion. I work a full time job so I had to find time to contact newspapers and radio stations for interviews to promote my book. I also have to visit bookstore owners in the hope that they will stock my book on their shelves.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
The best part of self-publishing is that I have total control over everything involved with the book from selling price to promotion. Also the publishing process is much faster than it would be with a traditional publisher.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their books?
My advice to others about self-publishing is, do your homework. There are a lot of self-publishing companies out there. Investigate these companies and weed out the ones that don’t offer a book evaluation and a personal representative to guide you through the publishing process. Although it is completely up to the author whether or not he or she wants to use the evaluation to make changes to their work, the evaluation can be a useful took in writing a quality book. It may be hard to hear that your work isn’t perfect but it is important to realize that constructive criticism can be very beneficial in the long run.
Thanks for sharing this information with us Ken, and good luck with book sales!
Do you have questions about self-publishing your book? Please write to me here or at http://www.jexbo.com/. Thanks!
Today at jexbo, we’re talking to Linda Hoagland, author of nine self-published or print-on-demand books. Here’s what she had to say:
Tell us about your self-published book and where it is available.
"Watch Out for Eddy" is a story about a fifteen-year-old named Eddy, whose life is forever changed when he, while riding a bicycle, collides with a car.
Eddy’s mother, Ellen, tells the story of her son’s survival as well as the survival of the family. While she was waiting for Eddy’s brain to heal, Ellen looked for help with handling the monster that the brain injury had created. The part of Eddy’s brain that was injured was the part that led to aggression and hatred. His brain seemed to be stuck in that mode. Her quiet, passive son changed to one that was determined to kill her and his younger brother.
Ellen needed help and wasn’t able to find it. It became her goal to write a book so others, who might be in her situation, could have whatever guidance she was able to offer.
"Watch Out for Eddy" is available at Amazon.com and from the author. It was published in 2009 by Henderson Publishing of Pounding Mill, Virginia.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
I live in a rural area of Virginia where there are no national chain bookstores, no literary agents, or direct paths to the large publishing houses. The only way my words were going to be put on the printed page was by self-publishing and, of course, selling those books by personally presenting them to the public.
What were the biggest challenges to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
The cost became my biggest challenge to getting this particular book published. It took a great deal of time to get the funds gathered to begin the process, but I couldn’t have been happier about the end product.
I wanted my book edited for spelling and grammar but I didn’t want the content changed in any other way because it was a true store and I wanted it to remain true.
Self-publishing allowed me to keep my story true and factual with only the names changed to protect Eddy.
What was the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
In order to get my books into the hands of the readers, I have to get out and meet the public, which I gladly do at every function where they allow me to set-up a table. Most of the time I get to talk one-on-one to people and tell them about my writing and how much a part of my life it has become.
I have discovered that because I self-publish or use print-on-demand, that I get a bigger portion of the profit than if I were published by one of the large publishing houses who limit the writer to a very small percentage of the profit for each book sale.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
If it is your desire to be the next John Grisham or Danielle Steel, then you should seek the services of a literary agent and pound away at the big publishing houses. But – if you want to see your words in print the way you wrote them, then self-publishing is the route to follow.
I would love national recognition for my writing, but I’m very realistic with my dreams. If my books are read by my friends, neighbors, and those I meet and greet at the fairs and festivals in my region of this wonderful country, I will be happy.
Is there anything you would like to add?
Keep writing – the more you write, the better you get.
I have eight other self-published or print-on-demand books available. They are:
FICTION:
Checking on the House, 2011
Death by Computer, 2010
The Backwards House, 2009
An Awfully Lonely Place, 2008
NONFICTION:
Quilted Memories, 2011
Living Life for Others, 2010
Just a Country Boy – Don Dunford, 2010, Edited
The Little Old Lady Next Door, 2006
They are available from the writer, Amazon.com, PublishAmerica, or local outlets in Virginia, West Virginia, and Tennessee.
Arts Depot – Abingdon, VA
Holston Mountain Artisans – Abingdon, VA
Appalachian Arts Center – Richlands, VA
Historic Crab Order Museum – Tazewell, VA
Bubba’s Book Swap – Kingsport, TN
Hearthside Books – Bluefield, VA
Brainy Boston Bookstore – Princeton, WV
Thanks for the great information about self-publishing your books Linda! Good luck with more book sales!
For more information on self-publishing, visit http://www.jexbo.com/.
Tell us about your self-published book and where it is available.
"Watch Out for Eddy" is a story about a fifteen-year-old named Eddy, whose life is forever changed when he, while riding a bicycle, collides with a car.
Eddy’s mother, Ellen, tells the story of her son’s survival as well as the survival of the family. While she was waiting for Eddy’s brain to heal, Ellen looked for help with handling the monster that the brain injury had created. The part of Eddy’s brain that was injured was the part that led to aggression and hatred. His brain seemed to be stuck in that mode. Her quiet, passive son changed to one that was determined to kill her and his younger brother.
Ellen needed help and wasn’t able to find it. It became her goal to write a book so others, who might be in her situation, could have whatever guidance she was able to offer.
"Watch Out for Eddy" is available at Amazon.com and from the author. It was published in 2009 by Henderson Publishing of Pounding Mill, Virginia.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
I live in a rural area of Virginia where there are no national chain bookstores, no literary agents, or direct paths to the large publishing houses. The only way my words were going to be put on the printed page was by self-publishing and, of course, selling those books by personally presenting them to the public.
What were the biggest challenges to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
The cost became my biggest challenge to getting this particular book published. It took a great deal of time to get the funds gathered to begin the process, but I couldn’t have been happier about the end product.
I wanted my book edited for spelling and grammar but I didn’t want the content changed in any other way because it was a true store and I wanted it to remain true.
Self-publishing allowed me to keep my story true and factual with only the names changed to protect Eddy.
What was the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
In order to get my books into the hands of the readers, I have to get out and meet the public, which I gladly do at every function where they allow me to set-up a table. Most of the time I get to talk one-on-one to people and tell them about my writing and how much a part of my life it has become.
I have discovered that because I self-publish or use print-on-demand, that I get a bigger portion of the profit than if I were published by one of the large publishing houses who limit the writer to a very small percentage of the profit for each book sale.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
If it is your desire to be the next John Grisham or Danielle Steel, then you should seek the services of a literary agent and pound away at the big publishing houses. But – if you want to see your words in print the way you wrote them, then self-publishing is the route to follow.
I would love national recognition for my writing, but I’m very realistic with my dreams. If my books are read by my friends, neighbors, and those I meet and greet at the fairs and festivals in my region of this wonderful country, I will be happy.
Is there anything you would like to add?
Keep writing – the more you write, the better you get.
I have eight other self-published or print-on-demand books available. They are:
FICTION:
Checking on the House, 2011
Death by Computer, 2010
The Backwards House, 2009
An Awfully Lonely Place, 2008
NONFICTION:
Quilted Memories, 2011
Living Life for Others, 2010
Just a Country Boy – Don Dunford, 2010, Edited
The Little Old Lady Next Door, 2006
They are available from the writer, Amazon.com, PublishAmerica, or local outlets in Virginia, West Virginia, and Tennessee.
Arts Depot – Abingdon, VA
Holston Mountain Artisans – Abingdon, VA
Appalachian Arts Center – Richlands, VA
Historic Crab Order Museum – Tazewell, VA
Bubba’s Book Swap – Kingsport, TN
Hearthside Books – Bluefield, VA
Brainy Boston Bookstore – Princeton, WV
Thanks for the great information about self-publishing your books Linda! Good luck with more book sales!
For more information on self-publishing, visit http://www.jexbo.com/.
3 Top Tips for Dealing with Rejection Letters
Most writers, myself included, have received their share of rejection letters from publishers. While it is disappointing every time, there are some things you can do to make the rejection hurt less.
First of all, remember that a rejection of your book is not a rejection of you as a person. Although our books are like pieces of ourselves to us, to an editor it’s just a book, and you are just getting their opinion.
Second, make sure you are submitting books in the proper format that each editor asks for.
Are you sabotaging yourself by not including a cover letter if one is required?
Is it a publisher who requires you to have an agent?
Do your homework before sending anything so you can be sure your book won’t be rejected for a reason that would’ve been easily corrected before you sent it.
Finally, take action if your book is rejected. If there are comments from the editor, read them to see if you can make changes in your manuscript. Maybe it’s just a small change you need to make and you can resubmit it with a greater chance of having your manuscript accepted the second time around. Or do what I did, and find a self-publisher and publish your book yourself.
Do you have questions and need help with writing and marketing your self-published book? For additional resources, check out our self-published interview series on this blog and the information http://www.jexbo.com/.
First of all, remember that a rejection of your book is not a rejection of you as a person. Although our books are like pieces of ourselves to us, to an editor it’s just a book, and you are just getting their opinion.
Second, make sure you are submitting books in the proper format that each editor asks for.
Are you sabotaging yourself by not including a cover letter if one is required?
Is it a publisher who requires you to have an agent?
Do your homework before sending anything so you can be sure your book won’t be rejected for a reason that would’ve been easily corrected before you sent it.
Finally, take action if your book is rejected. If there are comments from the editor, read them to see if you can make changes in your manuscript. Maybe it’s just a small change you need to make and you can resubmit it with a greater chance of having your manuscript accepted the second time around. Or do what I did, and find a self-publisher and publish your book yourself.
Do you have questions and need help with writing and marketing your self-published book? For additional resources, check out our self-published interview series on this blog and the information http://www.jexbo.com/.
Quick Tips to Promote Book Sales 3-7-11
Here are some quick tips to promote book sales:
• Set up Twitter and Facebook accounts for your book.
Both of these are free and can really help you get the word out that you have a book for sale… and inform readers where they can purchase a copy. Once you have accounts set up, then you need to regularly update them to keep things current.
For instance, you could include a sentence from your book one day. Then, the next day, write something about yourself. Then, the following day, mention where the book can be purchased. Make sure the content changes so your followers and friends are always reading something new from you.
• Get in touch with blog-talk radio hosts who interview authors.
You could use a search engine to find an interviewer. Then, send an email introducing yourself and your book and ask to be put on their schedule of interviews.
If you can bring a fresh perspective each time, you could be interviewed more than once on a show. For instance, in one interview talk about how you wrote your book. In another, talk about yourself, and in another, give your tips for writers.
• Have a contest for your friends and family.
Ask them to help promote your book, and take the first one to sell ten copies of your book out to lunch. This lets you reach a large group of people fairly quickly.
Do you have any tips to promote books sales? I’d love to hear them! Please let me know here or at http://www.jexbo.com/.
• Set up Twitter and Facebook accounts for your book.
Both of these are free and can really help you get the word out that you have a book for sale… and inform readers where they can purchase a copy. Once you have accounts set up, then you need to regularly update them to keep things current.
For instance, you could include a sentence from your book one day. Then, the next day, write something about yourself. Then, the following day, mention where the book can be purchased. Make sure the content changes so your followers and friends are always reading something new from you.
• Get in touch with blog-talk radio hosts who interview authors.
You could use a search engine to find an interviewer. Then, send an email introducing yourself and your book and ask to be put on their schedule of interviews.
If you can bring a fresh perspective each time, you could be interviewed more than once on a show. For instance, in one interview talk about how you wrote your book. In another, talk about yourself, and in another, give your tips for writers.
• Have a contest for your friends and family.
Ask them to help promote your book, and take the first one to sell ten copies of your book out to lunch. This lets you reach a large group of people fairly quickly.
Do you have any tips to promote books sales? I’d love to hear them! Please let me know here or at http://www.jexbo.com/.
How to Deal with Writer's Block
It’s easy to hit a wall when writing and not know what to write next, but there are a couple things you can do when you are stuck.
Take a break from writing if possible – go for a walk, call a friend, or work on things around the house that need to be done. Being away from writing might bring something to mind that you wouldn’t have thought of if you stayed in front of the computer.
Keep a list of words or phrases that evoke feelings you could use in your work – words like rebel, warm, and fester can instantly make me think of something to write.
Try writing a different way – if you normally work on a computer, try writing in longhand. Or you might use a recorder and just talk out loud before transcribing what you said.
Do you have any tips for dealing with writer’s block? If so, I’d love to hear them! Please write to me below or at http://www.jexbo.com/. Thanks!
Take a break from writing if possible – go for a walk, call a friend, or work on things around the house that need to be done. Being away from writing might bring something to mind that you wouldn’t have thought of if you stayed in front of the computer.
Keep a list of words or phrases that evoke feelings you could use in your work – words like rebel, warm, and fester can instantly make me think of something to write.
Try writing a different way – if you normally work on a computer, try writing in longhand. Or you might use a recorder and just talk out loud before transcribing what you said.
Do you have any tips for dealing with writer’s block? If so, I’d love to hear them! Please write to me below or at http://www.jexbo.com/. Thanks!
Author Tips for Saving Money
I’m a firm believer in clipping coupons and shopping at sales, but there are other things you can do to save money while still enjoying your life.
Something I like to do is make copy-cat recipes of favorite restaurant food. When you cook at home, it costs a fraction of the price of eating out. A family favorite at my house is the Benihana fried rice I make using the recipe from the Benihana website! You can do a search for copy-cat recipes for your favorite restaurants and see if your family likes it better when you make it.
Write down everything you spend in one week, and the next week try to take spend 10% less than the previous week. Then the following week see if you can take 10% from that week. Or you can even try cutting your spending in half.
Limit your shopping as much as possible. I once heard someone say, “What the eye sees, the heart wants,” and I find that very true. If I’m in a store, I find myself wanting everything I see, so the trick for me is to stay out of the stores as much as possible.
What are some money-saving tips you have? I’d love to hear from you! Please write to me here or at http://www.jexbo.com/.
Something I like to do is make copy-cat recipes of favorite restaurant food. When you cook at home, it costs a fraction of the price of eating out. A family favorite at my house is the Benihana fried rice I make using the recipe from the Benihana website! You can do a search for copy-cat recipes for your favorite restaurants and see if your family likes it better when you make it.
Write down everything you spend in one week, and the next week try to take spend 10% less than the previous week. Then the following week see if you can take 10% from that week. Or you can even try cutting your spending in half.
Limit your shopping as much as possible. I once heard someone say, “What the eye sees, the heart wants,” and I find that very true. If I’m in a store, I find myself wanting everything I see, so the trick for me is to stay out of the stores as much as possible.
What are some money-saving tips you have? I’d love to hear from you! Please write to me here or at http://www.jexbo.com/.
How to Organize Your Workspace
Although I am a fairly, well-organized person, I think it’s a good idea to at least once a year completely reorganize my workspace. Some of the things I do to help myself might also work for you.
I sort through my files completely once a year, and I keep a shredder nearby to use when I throw anything away from my files. If you don’t have a shredder, you can buy an inexpensive one from an office supply store, or you might check your local library to see if they have one available for the public to use.
I keep my in- and out-boxes up to date. At the very least, once a month file what needs to be saved in a binder or folder. It will be one less thing to search for when you start to prepare your taxes. I also keep a 3-hole punch next to my inbox and I immediately punch holes in documents I print off from the computer.
I keep a number of directories and address books on shelves next to my computer. Check to see if you are using current directories, and not wasting space by storing out-of-date books when you only need the most recent issue.
Make a space for printer ink cartridges and extra paper and keep them next to your printer. If you can see at a glance that you’re running low on supplies, it means there’s less chance of running out of things in the middle of printing something.
Staying organized is an ongoing job, but you should annually go through your workspace to be sure you have the room to work without holding on to clutter.
Do you have questions about being a self-published author? Please write to me here or at info@jexbo.com. I’d love to hear from you!
I sort through my files completely once a year, and I keep a shredder nearby to use when I throw anything away from my files. If you don’t have a shredder, you can buy an inexpensive one from an office supply store, or you might check your local library to see if they have one available for the public to use.
I keep my in- and out-boxes up to date. At the very least, once a month file what needs to be saved in a binder or folder. It will be one less thing to search for when you start to prepare your taxes. I also keep a 3-hole punch next to my inbox and I immediately punch holes in documents I print off from the computer.
I keep a number of directories and address books on shelves next to my computer. Check to see if you are using current directories, and not wasting space by storing out-of-date books when you only need the most recent issue.
Make a space for printer ink cartridges and extra paper and keep them next to your printer. If you can see at a glance that you’re running low on supplies, it means there’s less chance of running out of things in the middle of printing something.
Staying organized is an ongoing job, but you should annually go through your workspace to be sure you have the room to work without holding on to clutter.
Do you have questions about being a self-published author? Please write to me here or at info@jexbo.com. I’d love to hear from you!
Tips for Running a Business and Self-Publishing a Book While Raising a Family
As the New Year approaches, I thought I’d share some of my tips with you on running a business, self-publishing a book and raising a family at the time. I know I’ve mentioned this before, but it bears repeating:
Be organized and work ahead as much as possible.
Something I love are the free, printable calendars available from a number of websites (search “free printable calendar” and you’ll find a number to choose from). When I need to have a day organized carefully, I print off a calendar with everything for that day in set blocks of time so I can follow it closely.
Most of the time, I just need a weekly calendar-page printed with the jobs I have to do, and I print off one copy to keep next to my computer and one copy to keep in my purse. I check it every night to be sure I know exactly what I need to do for the upcoming day.
With the school calendar, I need to change some of my schedule to include carpooling, after-school practice times, and additional school and church activities. For me, this means back to working early in the morning, rather than in the middle of the day. For you, it might mean working later in the evening.
Finally, be sure you set yourself some sort of schedule to follow, even if it’s as simple as doing laundry on Mondays, sending e-mails at 8:30 am, or writing 3,000 words per day. It’s easy to let time slip away if you don’t have a goal to reach each day, but it’s also just as easy to accomplish something if you put your mind to it.
Do you have questions and need help with writing and marketing your self-published book? Please contact me here or at http://www.jexbo.com/.
Happy 2011!
Be organized and work ahead as much as possible.
Something I love are the free, printable calendars available from a number of websites (search “free printable calendar” and you’ll find a number to choose from). When I need to have a day organized carefully, I print off a calendar with everything for that day in set blocks of time so I can follow it closely.
Most of the time, I just need a weekly calendar-page printed with the jobs I have to do, and I print off one copy to keep next to my computer and one copy to keep in my purse. I check it every night to be sure I know exactly what I need to do for the upcoming day.
With the school calendar, I need to change some of my schedule to include carpooling, after-school practice times, and additional school and church activities. For me, this means back to working early in the morning, rather than in the middle of the day. For you, it might mean working later in the evening.
Finally, be sure you set yourself some sort of schedule to follow, even if it’s as simple as doing laundry on Mondays, sending e-mails at 8:30 am, or writing 3,000 words per day. It’s easy to let time slip away if you don’t have a goal to reach each day, but it’s also just as easy to accomplish something if you put your mind to it.
Do you have questions and need help with writing and marketing your self-published book? Please contact me here or at http://www.jexbo.com/.
Happy 2011!
How to Plan for a Successful New Year as a Writer
The start of a new year is a great time to set some goals for yourself. Here are some ideas for writers to consider to plan for a successful new year:
There are a couple ways to set writing goals.
Manage Your Time.
Do you want to work for a certain amount of time per day or week?
Or would you prefer to write a certain number of words per day or week?
If you can put a manageable amount together, it will be much easier for you to stick with it than if you start with an unreasonable amount.
Join a Writer’s Group.
You can check community center boards, or libraries or bookstores. These groups can support you throughout the year and keep you from getting discouraged and giving up on your goals. If you can’t find a group, start your own!
Ask around or advertise locally to find others who are interested in meeting once a month or so.
Reward Yourself.
Set up some rewards to keep yourself motivated. For instance, every 10 pages written you get a day off from writing, or an extra 15 minutes of sleep.
You can have bigger rewards for reaching bigger goals – a new computer game for 100 pages written. Think of something you’d really like, and use the thought of it to keep you working.
Do you have questions about self-publishing? Please write to me here or at jill@jexbo.com.
There are a couple ways to set writing goals.
Manage Your Time.
Do you want to work for a certain amount of time per day or week?
Or would you prefer to write a certain number of words per day or week?
If you can put a manageable amount together, it will be much easier for you to stick with it than if you start with an unreasonable amount.
Join a Writer’s Group.
You can check community center boards, or libraries or bookstores. These groups can support you throughout the year and keep you from getting discouraged and giving up on your goals. If you can’t find a group, start your own!
Ask around or advertise locally to find others who are interested in meeting once a month or so.
Reward Yourself.
Set up some rewards to keep yourself motivated. For instance, every 10 pages written you get a day off from writing, or an extra 15 minutes of sleep.
You can have bigger rewards for reaching bigger goals – a new computer game for 100 pages written. Think of something you’d really like, and use the thought of it to keep you working.
Do you have questions about self-publishing? Please write to me here or at jill@jexbo.com.
Self-Published Author Interview – Diane Marentette of The New Brain for Business Institute
If you have questions about self-publishing your book, check out my interview today with Diane Marentette. She and Richard Trafton are the authors of “A New Brain For Business,” and Diane had some great information to share…
Tell us about your self-published book.
Our book is "A New Brain for Business: Leadership Practices that Unleash the Very Best from Your People and Your Business." We wrote the book to capture the work we had been doing with our clients, because they were asking for it (you may want to watch our video on our site to hear more about this)!
We published it in May of this year, and it is now available in three formats: a hard copy is available directly from our website at www.newbrainforbusiness.com and both a paperback copy and a Kindle version of the book are available at www.Amazon.com.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
We submitted eight or nine proposals to publishers or agents and ultimately spoke with five of them. In every case where we had a conversation, they were all interested in our completing an “author’s marketing plan” that would convince them that we would do what it takes to sell books.
At the time, that felt like it was taking us in a direction that would pull us away from our work with our clients, which is where our hearts are. In addition, a good friend had self-published a book and was very pleased with the results, so we decided to take that route.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why? How did you overcome that challenge?
We started with website providers who published “on-demand.” The company we started with turned out to be extremely unresponsive and unhelpful with technical problems (we work exclusively with Apple products, and that company only wanted Microsoft output).
We struggled with that for several weeks, finally got the book to “proof” and were very dissatisfied with the output. The big learning, however, was that “on-demand publishing” meant that if a client wanted to order a book, it could take literally weeks to receive a copy.
Once we realized that, it became pretty easy to shift gears. We then found a printer and a fulfillment house and got on with the process of publishing the book for sale on our website. (It was inexpensive and easy to then get a Kindle version on Amazon. We just made a paperback version available, too, and that was remarkably easy and fast!)
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
We were able to do it quickly and “control” the process and output. We got the book out and are able to use it in our business.
Getting it published has had a huge impact on our approach to our business and our future, a real milestone for us. So, there have been many “best” parts of self-publishing our book!
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
Clarify your intentions and expectations. Are you hoping for a best seller? Are you hoping to make much money? Are you wanting to have a book available for any specific reason, such as supporting other work you do? Will you be satisfied if no one buys the book but you got it published? Are you willing to spend some money to get it published - although most self-publishing efforts are extremely inexpensive, they also do not get you much return.
Self-publishing is hard because of the potential “false” promises it holds - thinking through the promises you think self-publishing holds for you and asking questions to find out if they are real is the best advice we can give!
Is there anything else you would like to add?
If you want a “professional looking” book, get an editor to read and help you at least get the language and syntax correct. Get an illustrator for pictures and layout, and a great cover.
Think through every aspect of the book, and don’t accept your proof just because you are tired of the entire process! You’ve made it this far (written the book) but you are not done. Bring it home.
Fantastic advice Diane! For more information about Diane and Richard’s book, “A New Brain For Business,” and how to use your new brain for business success, visit http://www.newbrainforbusiness.com/.
And if you have questions about selling your book online, please write to me here or at www.jexbo.com. I’d love to hear from you!
Tell us about your self-published book.
Our book is "A New Brain for Business: Leadership Practices that Unleash the Very Best from Your People and Your Business." We wrote the book to capture the work we had been doing with our clients, because they were asking for it (you may want to watch our video on our site to hear more about this)!
We published it in May of this year, and it is now available in three formats: a hard copy is available directly from our website at www.newbrainforbusiness.com and both a paperback copy and a Kindle version of the book are available at www.Amazon.com.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
We submitted eight or nine proposals to publishers or agents and ultimately spoke with five of them. In every case where we had a conversation, they were all interested in our completing an “author’s marketing plan” that would convince them that we would do what it takes to sell books.
At the time, that felt like it was taking us in a direction that would pull us away from our work with our clients, which is where our hearts are. In addition, a good friend had self-published a book and was very pleased with the results, so we decided to take that route.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why? How did you overcome that challenge?
We started with website providers who published “on-demand.” The company we started with turned out to be extremely unresponsive and unhelpful with technical problems (we work exclusively with Apple products, and that company only wanted Microsoft output).
We struggled with that for several weeks, finally got the book to “proof” and were very dissatisfied with the output. The big learning, however, was that “on-demand publishing” meant that if a client wanted to order a book, it could take literally weeks to receive a copy.
Once we realized that, it became pretty easy to shift gears. We then found a printer and a fulfillment house and got on with the process of publishing the book for sale on our website. (It was inexpensive and easy to then get a Kindle version on Amazon. We just made a paperback version available, too, and that was remarkably easy and fast!)
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
We were able to do it quickly and “control” the process and output. We got the book out and are able to use it in our business.
Getting it published has had a huge impact on our approach to our business and our future, a real milestone for us. So, there have been many “best” parts of self-publishing our book!
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
Clarify your intentions and expectations. Are you hoping for a best seller? Are you hoping to make much money? Are you wanting to have a book available for any specific reason, such as supporting other work you do? Will you be satisfied if no one buys the book but you got it published? Are you willing to spend some money to get it published - although most self-publishing efforts are extremely inexpensive, they also do not get you much return.
Self-publishing is hard because of the potential “false” promises it holds - thinking through the promises you think self-publishing holds for you and asking questions to find out if they are real is the best advice we can give!
Is there anything else you would like to add?
If you want a “professional looking” book, get an editor to read and help you at least get the language and syntax correct. Get an illustrator for pictures and layout, and a great cover.
Think through every aspect of the book, and don’t accept your proof just because you are tired of the entire process! You’ve made it this far (written the book) but you are not done. Bring it home.
Fantastic advice Diane! For more information about Diane and Richard’s book, “A New Brain For Business,” and how to use your new brain for business success, visit http://www.newbrainforbusiness.com/.
And if you have questions about selling your book online, please write to me here or at www.jexbo.com. I’d love to hear from you!
Self-Published Author Interview Series - Author Corinne Frontiero
As part of today’s self-published-author interview series, we talk to Corinne Frontiero, author, presenter and facilitator. Corinne is the author of three relationship recovery e-books: "Moving Forward," "Project Teen Intervene" and the "Children’s Divorce Support Group," http://www.booksonrelationships.net/.
Tell us about your self-published book.
I have three relationship recovery books that are self-published. This interview will cover "Moving Forward."
"Moving Forward" is a love relationship and divorce recovery handbook. Its’ intent is to act as a guide on how not to repeat past relationship mistakes. It defines the difference between a healthy and unhealthy relationship.
The book discusses family dynamics, and how they play into our unhealthy love relationships. It gives one an insight on how destructive parenting relationships have set us up for being eternal caregivers. The book shares the warning signs of unhealthy relationships such as the addictive relationship and the abusive relationship. Its’ goal is to help you examine “perpetual cycles” you play out.
The book could be considered a measurement of where one is and if they are in a healthy relationship. "Moving Forward" gives us the tools to understand what a healthy love relationship is and how to exist in one.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
I decided to self-publish in lieu of waiting for a publisher because that could be a very long waiting game.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
The biggest challenge I had to overcome in self-publishing my book was building my website: www.booksonrelationships.net. I had little to no html experience. I constructed a profile on My Space simply to gain a higher understanding of how templates worked. Once I got my domain, I sat in front of the computer for about three weeks before the light finally came on. Thank goodness. After that, everything came naturally. It took me about a month-and-a-half to build the entire website.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
Through affiliations in self-publishing, I have also had the opportunity to utilize my facilitator skills by conducting workshops. Recent ones have included: Working Out Writer’s Block, Healthy Boundaries and Finding Time to Write, and Overcoming Social Anxiety and Public Speaking.
I was given my own radio show, “Reading, Writing and Relationships,” by the folks at Motown Writers Network on Blog Talk Radio which I really enjoy hosting. I have met some wonderful people through the MWN.
In addition, I have become both a national and local writer writing on divorce recovery and pets for Examiner.com.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
Self-publishing is a long process but so is seeking out a publisher. Why not do both? While you are waiting to hear from a publisher, build your own website, download your books and try to sell them from there.
Don’t get discouraged. Everything takes time.
Is there anything you would like to add?
Make sure to have your work copyrighted through the National Library of Congress. Talk to others about computer tips and tricks as you go along. Learn how to use publishing tools by getting out there and writing or blogging.
Keep writing and try other genres, too.
What great advice Corinne! Thanks for taking the time to tell us about your self-publishing experience. We wish you all the best with your books and future engagements!
How about you? Do need assistance marketing and selling your self-published book online? Check out the free marketing we offer self-published authors at http://www.jexbo.com/ or send me a note. I can help! Thanks!
Tell us about your self-published book.
I have three relationship recovery books that are self-published. This interview will cover "Moving Forward."
"Moving Forward" is a love relationship and divorce recovery handbook. Its’ intent is to act as a guide on how not to repeat past relationship mistakes. It defines the difference between a healthy and unhealthy relationship.
The book discusses family dynamics, and how they play into our unhealthy love relationships. It gives one an insight on how destructive parenting relationships have set us up for being eternal caregivers. The book shares the warning signs of unhealthy relationships such as the addictive relationship and the abusive relationship. Its’ goal is to help you examine “perpetual cycles” you play out.
The book could be considered a measurement of where one is and if they are in a healthy relationship. "Moving Forward" gives us the tools to understand what a healthy love relationship is and how to exist in one.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
I decided to self-publish in lieu of waiting for a publisher because that could be a very long waiting game.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
The biggest challenge I had to overcome in self-publishing my book was building my website: www.booksonrelationships.net. I had little to no html experience. I constructed a profile on My Space simply to gain a higher understanding of how templates worked. Once I got my domain, I sat in front of the computer for about three weeks before the light finally came on. Thank goodness. After that, everything came naturally. It took me about a month-and-a-half to build the entire website.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
Through affiliations in self-publishing, I have also had the opportunity to utilize my facilitator skills by conducting workshops. Recent ones have included: Working Out Writer’s Block, Healthy Boundaries and Finding Time to Write, and Overcoming Social Anxiety and Public Speaking.
I was given my own radio show, “Reading, Writing and Relationships,” by the folks at Motown Writers Network on Blog Talk Radio which I really enjoy hosting. I have met some wonderful people through the MWN.
In addition, I have become both a national and local writer writing on divorce recovery and pets for Examiner.com.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
Self-publishing is a long process but so is seeking out a publisher. Why not do both? While you are waiting to hear from a publisher, build your own website, download your books and try to sell them from there.
Don’t get discouraged. Everything takes time.
Is there anything you would like to add?
Make sure to have your work copyrighted through the National Library of Congress. Talk to others about computer tips and tricks as you go along. Learn how to use publishing tools by getting out there and writing or blogging.
Keep writing and try other genres, too.
What great advice Corinne! Thanks for taking the time to tell us about your self-publishing experience. We wish you all the best with your books and future engagements!
How about you? Do need assistance marketing and selling your self-published book online? Check out the free marketing we offer self-published authors at http://www.jexbo.com/ or send me a note. I can help! Thanks!
Self-Published Author Series – Interview with Nick Cavuto
Today, we talk to Nick Cavuto, author of the cookbook, “Conquering Healthier Recipes and Beyond,” available on jexbo at http://www.jexbo.com/items/98.
Here’s what Nick had to say as part of our self-published author interview-series:
Tell us about your self-published book and where we can find it on jexbo.
My wife and I self-published a cookbook in 2005 titled “Conquering Healthier Recipes and Beyond”.
There are over 300 quick, easy and delicious recipes on the light side. It has a spiral binding which makes it easy to use.
We didn’t want to just have pages of compiled recipes, so I wrote short stories about several food experiences introducing the twelve categories. Also included are inspirational quotes and a six-week menu cycle.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
We decided to self-publish because we thought the traditional ways were too costly and didn’t feel we would have the control needed for marketing.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book?
We feel the biggest challenge was and still is MARKETING. We have had several compliments about the recipes in our cookbook, which makes the two-year effort well invested time. But we are always looking for ways to market.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book?
The best part about self-publishing is the rewarding feeling we have for creating something that is helping others.
What advice do you have for other potential writers and self-published authors?
If there is any advice we think is important, it would be taking the time to do your market research.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
The only other thing I would like to say is, I did not and could not have completed this project without the endless encouragement from my loving wife Suzanne and during many early morning hours working on my book I knew God was with me.
Thanks for your tips Nick!
Do you have questions about marketing your self-published book and how to sell books online? Please contact us here or at www.jexbo.com. I’d love to hear from you!
Here’s what Nick had to say as part of our self-published author interview-series:
Tell us about your self-published book and where we can find it on jexbo.
My wife and I self-published a cookbook in 2005 titled “Conquering Healthier Recipes and Beyond”.
There are over 300 quick, easy and delicious recipes on the light side. It has a spiral binding which makes it easy to use.
We didn’t want to just have pages of compiled recipes, so I wrote short stories about several food experiences introducing the twelve categories. Also included are inspirational quotes and a six-week menu cycle.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
We decided to self-publish because we thought the traditional ways were too costly and didn’t feel we would have the control needed for marketing.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book?
We feel the biggest challenge was and still is MARKETING. We have had several compliments about the recipes in our cookbook, which makes the two-year effort well invested time. But we are always looking for ways to market.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book?
The best part about self-publishing is the rewarding feeling we have for creating something that is helping others.
What advice do you have for other potential writers and self-published authors?
If there is any advice we think is important, it would be taking the time to do your market research.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
The only other thing I would like to say is, I did not and could not have completed this project without the endless encouragement from my loving wife Suzanne and during many early morning hours working on my book I knew God was with me.
Thanks for your tips Nick!
Do you have questions about marketing your self-published book and how to sell books online? Please contact us here or at www.jexbo.com. I’d love to hear from you!
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