Today we’re talking to self-published author Mike Brennan, who has been covering cyber security news for more than a decade at his news portal site, MITechNews.Com. This is what he had to say:
Tell us about your self-published book and where it is available.
"Cyber Styletto" is the first in a series of novellas that takes an insider’s look at the security threats on the Internet today. The story – developed by a technology journalist, a cyber security expert and an award-winning novelist - focuses on super hacker Yvonne Tran, part of a secret government agency called CyberCom, who is brought in to investigate a malicious network attack that kills eight innocent people in California. She and her team follow the trail to Hong Kong and Afghanistan, where they must pinpoint the cause before the next attack, which could kill thousands more people in the United States.
The book is available now at www.cyberstyletto.com, www.lulu.com, www.smashwords.com, Barnes & Noble.com and iTunes. Soon it we will be available at Amazon.com, Schuler Books in West Michigan and on jexbo.com.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
We are breaking new ground in fiction, creating a new genre about cyber crime, and we didn’t think a traditional publisher would see the big picture until we sold a few thousand books on our own. We also wanted to get the book out quickly, since many of the facts in it are ripped from today’s headlines. We wanted to make more money and get paid faster than if we went the traditional publishing route, too.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
Marketing the book, getting the word out to the target audience worldwide. We’re still figuring out that part of the book publishing business. But we plan to have Cyber Styletto translated into German, French, Japanese, Chinese and Spanish. I’m sure there are a lot of folks who would be interested in reading "Cyber Styletto" that are non-English readers.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
Total control over distribution and sales. We also earn a much higher profit than if we went the traditional publishing route.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
Make sure you connect with veterans of the book self-publishing industry who can help you learn the ins and outs. We had Gian DeTorre, our novelist, who handled this part for the team.
Is there anything you would like to add?
Follow your dream. Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do it. You can. You can achieve anything you believe.
Your book sounds very exciting Mike! Thanks for sharing your information, and good luck with book sales!
Showing posts with label sell my book. Show all posts
Showing posts with label sell my book. Show all posts
Interview with "The Immigrants' Daughter" Author, Mary Terzian
Today, we’re talking to Mary Terzian, author of “The Immigrants’ Daughter.” Here’s what she has to say:
Tell us about your self-published book and where it is available.
My book, “The Immigrants’ Daughter,” a memoir about growing up in Egypt in the 1940’s, was published in 2005 by Booklocker.com. It is a story of triumph over destiny, breaking the chains of tradition by embracing freedom. It can be ordered from bookstores (distributed through Ingram), from Amazon.com, Barnes&Noble.com, and other online retailers, in E-format from Booklocker.com, and from digital shelves like Kindle, Ipad and Nook.
“The Immigrants’ Daughter” won the Best Books 2006 Award and placed as a finalist in the Indie Excellence 2007 Book Awards, in nonfiction, under the “multicultural” subdivision. It has garnered fifteen five-star reviews on Amazon.com. At the 18th Annual Writer’s Digest Competition for self-published books it was given 4.5 points out of a possible 5.
Per the judge’s comments, “'The Immigrants’ Daughter' is a totally enjoyable read from start to finish . . . laced with the perfect mix of drama and humor, with some occasional sarcasm thrown in for good measure. She (Terzian) is also a master at sensory detail . . . so that readers are engaged in the surroundings without ever being overwhelmed. Women of all nationalities will be amazed at her strength and character as she takes them through her struggles to overcome Middle Eastern ideas regarding ‘a woman’s place’ in society in the 1940’s . . . The snappy chapter titles brought a smile to my face.”
Why did you decide to self-publish?
I tried a few agents and publishers. I must confess. I did not pursue this route long because I felt young editors will not fully appreciate the ambiance of the times and the struggles it took for women, especially in the Middle East, to overcome their secondary role. Also the book’s multicultural content and my foreign name might raise some concerns about it being a home-made recipe. I wrote it, of course, from the wider international perspective. Also self-publishing was the faster route to see the book in print. .
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
I was a closet poet in my teens, releasing my pent-up emotions via the pen. Eventually writing became a sideline because it gave me pleasure my regular jobs did not offer. I had quite a number of articles published in local and ethnic papers, first in Armenian and later in English.
Some of them are available online, at www.authorsden.com/maryterzian, or just by “googling” my name. Success and acceptance at Toastmasters’ and Writers’ Clubs boosted my self confidence to venture on my own. Beside the major decision of choosing a publisher, I had to cross over my regularly low profile to promote my book, to meet my audience, embrace my fans sometimes, attend discussions, and to keep up with an ever-changing technology. Marketing a book is a time-consuming occupation.
My two critique groups, and the two clubs I belonged to, California Writers’ Club and Writers’ Club of Whittier, were the testing grounds for my writing. I could not have succeeded without my fellow writers' encouragement, constructive criticism and kudos.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
My book proved to be a catharsis for me. It sort of cleansed my soul. It was an accomplishment I had opted for and it was carried out satisfactorily. It helped me shift my priorities from fame and fortune to the pleasure of self-actualization. I hope I influenced a lot of women, men too, to make the proper choices in the pursuit of their goals in life. I derived the greatest satisfaction from fans who have profusely thanked me for the impact my book has had on them. Bringing hope and joy to others has been a mission I did not anticipate but welcomed with open arms. When my fans ask for more articles I am “tickled pink.”
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
1. Have the book professionally edited.
2. Choose a cover that is compatible with the story within.
3. Have an attention catching title that will strike a chord with the readers.
4. Research web for information on comparative costs and services of self publishing companies. I found The Fine Print by Mike Levine very useful.
5. Be as careful in the choice of a publisher as in the selection of a lifetime partner.
6. Study the offers. All that glitters is not gold.
7. Review your contract carefully. Read between the lines. Are shipment costs spelled out. Is an ISBN included in the charges? Is the author’s royalty based on the list price (at which the books is sold) or at the net price (after all relative expenses have been deducted.)? Check on author discounts, free books etc.
8. Have a marketing plan. The onus of promoting the book is primarily the author’s responsibility.
9. If the idea of self promotion is alien to you, hire a publicist, use advertising or the social media, burn a house down (not really), learn to accept praise gracefully.
You need to develop your platform as soon as you start writing your book.
Is there anything you would like to add?
Write from the heart. If you are sincere the rewards will catch up with you. My most favorite motto is “the future belongs to those who believe in the power of their dreams.” Eventually your enthusiasm and determination will meet with success.
Thanks so much Mary, and good luck with book sales! For help with self-publishing your book, please write to me below or visit http://www.jexbo.com/!
Tell us about your self-published book and where it is available.
My book, “The Immigrants’ Daughter,” a memoir about growing up in Egypt in the 1940’s, was published in 2005 by Booklocker.com. It is a story of triumph over destiny, breaking the chains of tradition by embracing freedom. It can be ordered from bookstores (distributed through Ingram), from Amazon.com, Barnes&Noble.com, and other online retailers, in E-format from Booklocker.com, and from digital shelves like Kindle, Ipad and Nook.
“The Immigrants’ Daughter” won the Best Books 2006 Award and placed as a finalist in the Indie Excellence 2007 Book Awards, in nonfiction, under the “multicultural” subdivision. It has garnered fifteen five-star reviews on Amazon.com. At the 18th Annual Writer’s Digest Competition for self-published books it was given 4.5 points out of a possible 5.
Per the judge’s comments, “'The Immigrants’ Daughter' is a totally enjoyable read from start to finish . . . laced with the perfect mix of drama and humor, with some occasional sarcasm thrown in for good measure. She (Terzian) is also a master at sensory detail . . . so that readers are engaged in the surroundings without ever being overwhelmed. Women of all nationalities will be amazed at her strength and character as she takes them through her struggles to overcome Middle Eastern ideas regarding ‘a woman’s place’ in society in the 1940’s . . . The snappy chapter titles brought a smile to my face.”
Why did you decide to self-publish?
I tried a few agents and publishers. I must confess. I did not pursue this route long because I felt young editors will not fully appreciate the ambiance of the times and the struggles it took for women, especially in the Middle East, to overcome their secondary role. Also the book’s multicultural content and my foreign name might raise some concerns about it being a home-made recipe. I wrote it, of course, from the wider international perspective. Also self-publishing was the faster route to see the book in print. .
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
I was a closet poet in my teens, releasing my pent-up emotions via the pen. Eventually writing became a sideline because it gave me pleasure my regular jobs did not offer. I had quite a number of articles published in local and ethnic papers, first in Armenian and later in English.
Some of them are available online, at www.authorsden.com/maryterzian, or just by “googling” my name. Success and acceptance at Toastmasters’ and Writers’ Clubs boosted my self confidence to venture on my own. Beside the major decision of choosing a publisher, I had to cross over my regularly low profile to promote my book, to meet my audience, embrace my fans sometimes, attend discussions, and to keep up with an ever-changing technology. Marketing a book is a time-consuming occupation.
My two critique groups, and the two clubs I belonged to, California Writers’ Club and Writers’ Club of Whittier, were the testing grounds for my writing. I could not have succeeded without my fellow writers' encouragement, constructive criticism and kudos.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
My book proved to be a catharsis for me. It sort of cleansed my soul. It was an accomplishment I had opted for and it was carried out satisfactorily. It helped me shift my priorities from fame and fortune to the pleasure of self-actualization. I hope I influenced a lot of women, men too, to make the proper choices in the pursuit of their goals in life. I derived the greatest satisfaction from fans who have profusely thanked me for the impact my book has had on them. Bringing hope and joy to others has been a mission I did not anticipate but welcomed with open arms. When my fans ask for more articles I am “tickled pink.”
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
1. Have the book professionally edited.
2. Choose a cover that is compatible with the story within.
3. Have an attention catching title that will strike a chord with the readers.
4. Research web for information on comparative costs and services of self publishing companies. I found The Fine Print by Mike Levine very useful.
5. Be as careful in the choice of a publisher as in the selection of a lifetime partner.
6. Study the offers. All that glitters is not gold.
7. Review your contract carefully. Read between the lines. Are shipment costs spelled out. Is an ISBN included in the charges? Is the author’s royalty based on the list price (at which the books is sold) or at the net price (after all relative expenses have been deducted.)? Check on author discounts, free books etc.
8. Have a marketing plan. The onus of promoting the book is primarily the author’s responsibility.
9. If the idea of self promotion is alien to you, hire a publicist, use advertising or the social media, burn a house down (not really), learn to accept praise gracefully.
You need to develop your platform as soon as you start writing your book.
Is there anything you would like to add?
Write from the heart. If you are sincere the rewards will catch up with you. My most favorite motto is “the future belongs to those who believe in the power of their dreams.” Eventually your enthusiasm and determination will meet with success.
Thanks so much Mary, and good luck with book sales! For help with self-publishing your book, please write to me below or visit http://www.jexbo.com/!
Interview with Gibran Tariq, Self-published Author
Today at jexbo, we talk to self-published author Gibran Tariq. Here’s what Gibran had to say:
• Tell us about your self-published book.
The name of my self-published book is "When I Say Jump," and it is about a government conspiracy to imprison one out of every four black males born in this country. To a lot of us in the black community, this grim statistic is more than a mere conspiracy theory. In fact, it is more of a governmental prophecy. I chose to write about it because I have spent 35 years of my life in prison and dating back to when I was 14, I have seen up close and personal the devastating rape of the black community by the invisible hand of the prison/industrial complex.
• Why did you decide to self-publish?
In 2002, I had a very bitter experience. I was still in prison and my work had become known in the greater Atlanta writing community and I was approached by an independent publisher to write a novel. I did.
However, I never received any royalties on the sales of the book. Upon my release, I was secretly contacted by the husband of the publisher who provided me with the details of what had happened to the money of the writers who had all been cheated by this particular company. They were going through a nasty divorce and he wanted me to sue her. Instead, I simply chalked it up as a lesson learned, deciding then to self-publish if I continued in the world of literature.
• What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
A total lack of confidence. Not in my work, mind you, as I was absolutely convinced that I had a viable product. However, I did lack confidence in my ability to reach out to the world. Being in prison severely limited my perspective, forcing me to think small. Sure, I had dreams of reaching a world audience, but had no real clue as to how to sustain this dream or how to put it into motion. The Internet had narrowed the vastness of the world's cyber-geography, but I was the new kid on the block when it came to computer use.
Then I got a miracle in the guise of Angela Morrow, her partner Chris, and the Writer's Choice. They believed in me, my work, and my aspirations. They then put together a literary package for me that was tailor-made for my particular writing sensibilities, and in addition formulated a promotional plan to help me go from one level to the next in a timely fashion so I wouldn't feel overwhelmed. They have even helped me start a creative writing class where I teach and use my own unique brand of writing prompts that I personally developed as writing tools while I was confined.
• What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
Now that I am not alone, my confidence in my ability to promote myself has soared and now I enjoy meeting people and talking to them about my work. Self-publishing awards me total control of my work and this is very therapeutic for me. After 35 years of having absolutely no control over my life where I was told when to go to bed, when to get up, when to eat, when to talk,etc... it feels great to wake up in the morning, knowing that what I accomplish throughout that day will be according to the plan of my choosing.
• What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
Even though they may not encounter the mental roadblocks I did, I urge them most emphatically to pursue the dream of doing for self. But even more than just offering a slogan, I encourage them to study their craft and then to study the market. I do not hesitate to tell anyone out there who is embarking on this wonderful, creative venture to contact Angela Morrow and Writer's Choice. I promise that they can and will help anyone navigate their way through the murky waters of the publishing world. And help is indeed needed. I was once a drug-trafficker and I conducted a lot of business with a lot of shady characters in a lot of dark alleyways, but they didn't frighten me half as much as some of the shady people I have met in the literary world. Writer's Choice helped me determine who was who, and what a blessing that was.
• Is there anything you would like to add?
At long last, it is my time to shine and I will seize the moment. "When I Say Jump" is merely the beginning of something I will be doing for quite a time to come. Thanks for the opportunity to express my views.
Thanks for the information about you and your book Gibran! Good luck with more book sales!
• Tell us about your self-published book.
The name of my self-published book is "When I Say Jump," and it is about a government conspiracy to imprison one out of every four black males born in this country. To a lot of us in the black community, this grim statistic is more than a mere conspiracy theory. In fact, it is more of a governmental prophecy. I chose to write about it because I have spent 35 years of my life in prison and dating back to when I was 14, I have seen up close and personal the devastating rape of the black community by the invisible hand of the prison/industrial complex.
• Why did you decide to self-publish?
In 2002, I had a very bitter experience. I was still in prison and my work had become known in the greater Atlanta writing community and I was approached by an independent publisher to write a novel. I did.
However, I never received any royalties on the sales of the book. Upon my release, I was secretly contacted by the husband of the publisher who provided me with the details of what had happened to the money of the writers who had all been cheated by this particular company. They were going through a nasty divorce and he wanted me to sue her. Instead, I simply chalked it up as a lesson learned, deciding then to self-publish if I continued in the world of literature.
• What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
A total lack of confidence. Not in my work, mind you, as I was absolutely convinced that I had a viable product. However, I did lack confidence in my ability to reach out to the world. Being in prison severely limited my perspective, forcing me to think small. Sure, I had dreams of reaching a world audience, but had no real clue as to how to sustain this dream or how to put it into motion. The Internet had narrowed the vastness of the world's cyber-geography, but I was the new kid on the block when it came to computer use.
Then I got a miracle in the guise of Angela Morrow, her partner Chris, and the Writer's Choice. They believed in me, my work, and my aspirations. They then put together a literary package for me that was tailor-made for my particular writing sensibilities, and in addition formulated a promotional plan to help me go from one level to the next in a timely fashion so I wouldn't feel overwhelmed. They have even helped me start a creative writing class where I teach and use my own unique brand of writing prompts that I personally developed as writing tools while I was confined.
• What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
Now that I am not alone, my confidence in my ability to promote myself has soared and now I enjoy meeting people and talking to them about my work. Self-publishing awards me total control of my work and this is very therapeutic for me. After 35 years of having absolutely no control over my life where I was told when to go to bed, when to get up, when to eat, when to talk,etc... it feels great to wake up in the morning, knowing that what I accomplish throughout that day will be according to the plan of my choosing.
• What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
Even though they may not encounter the mental roadblocks I did, I urge them most emphatically to pursue the dream of doing for self. But even more than just offering a slogan, I encourage them to study their craft and then to study the market. I do not hesitate to tell anyone out there who is embarking on this wonderful, creative venture to contact Angela Morrow and Writer's Choice. I promise that they can and will help anyone navigate their way through the murky waters of the publishing world. And help is indeed needed. I was once a drug-trafficker and I conducted a lot of business with a lot of shady characters in a lot of dark alleyways, but they didn't frighten me half as much as some of the shady people I have met in the literary world. Writer's Choice helped me determine who was who, and what a blessing that was.
• Is there anything you would like to add?
At long last, it is my time to shine and I will seize the moment. "When I Say Jump" is merely the beginning of something I will be doing for quite a time to come. Thanks for the opportunity to express my views.
Thanks for the information about you and your book Gibran! Good luck with more book sales!
Writing Inspriation - Record Your Family History
Everyone has a story to tell, and one thing I particularly enjoy is hearing stories from my own family. What I do is ask questions such as:
- How did you meet your spouse?
- What did you like about school?
- What hobbies did you have?
- What’s the most interesting thing that ever happened to you?
I write things down in stories on my computer, but you could also use a tape recorder and interview your family that way.
Learning about your family can give you some great ideas for stories. You might choose to write the stories exactly as you hear them, or you could turn them into fiction by changing a few of the facts. If you’re suffering from writer’s block, a family story might be just the thing to get you started writing again.
If your own family history doesn’t interest you, maybe you could visit a local nursing home to learn about someone else’s history. There is a world of stories out there waiting to be written, and you might be just the one to write them!
Do you have questions about selling your self-published book? Please let me know below. Thanks!
Planning Tips for Working Moms
If you’re like me, you have a lot of things going on all the time. I have my business, my family, and a house to take care of. Some of the things I do to keep things straight might work for you, so I’d like to share them here.
First of all, I make lists of everyone I need to buy presents for, and then I shop well in advance of any occasion where I might need to give someone something.
I keep a list for birthdays and Christmas, and once I’ve bought a present for someone, I check them off the list. Then, I store the presents in my “present container” which has a list taped to the top with everyone’s name on it, and I write what I’ve gotten for each person.
If you’re really ambitious, you can also wrap the present before you store it. Then when the birthday comes up, you aren’t scrambling to find something. You just get it out of the container!
Second, I print off calendars and keep copies on the refrigerator, in my purse, and next to my computer. You can find a huge variety with a search engine such as Yahoo – just search for “free printable calendar.”
There are also online calendars you can use which will remind you of upcoming events. I make everyone write what they have coming up on the main calendar on the refrigerator, and I check it each night before I go to bed to be sure I know what’s coming up the next day.
Third, prioritize what needs to be done. If your list includes doing laundry, and finishing a chapter of a book you’re writing, I would say laundry could be first.
Unless of course, you’re writing to a deadline, in which case everyone can wear something that’s not quite clean for a day or two.
Finally, delegate as much work as possible. Even very young children can help around the house – sorting laundry to be folded, setting the table, and making their own beds.
Do you have tips for authors out there? Please write to me here or at www.jexbo.com. Thanks!
First of all, I make lists of everyone I need to buy presents for, and then I shop well in advance of any occasion where I might need to give someone something.
I keep a list for birthdays and Christmas, and once I’ve bought a present for someone, I check them off the list. Then, I store the presents in my “present container” which has a list taped to the top with everyone’s name on it, and I write what I’ve gotten for each person.
If you’re really ambitious, you can also wrap the present before you store it. Then when the birthday comes up, you aren’t scrambling to find something. You just get it out of the container!
Second, I print off calendars and keep copies on the refrigerator, in my purse, and next to my computer. You can find a huge variety with a search engine such as Yahoo – just search for “free printable calendar.”
There are also online calendars you can use which will remind you of upcoming events. I make everyone write what they have coming up on the main calendar on the refrigerator, and I check it each night before I go to bed to be sure I know what’s coming up the next day.
Third, prioritize what needs to be done. If your list includes doing laundry, and finishing a chapter of a book you’re writing, I would say laundry could be first.
Unless of course, you’re writing to a deadline, in which case everyone can wear something that’s not quite clean for a day or two.
Finally, delegate as much work as possible. Even very young children can help around the house – sorting laundry to be folded, setting the table, and making their own beds.
Do you have tips for authors out there? Please write to me here or at www.jexbo.com. Thanks!
How to Avoid Scams as a Self-Published Author
There are so many benefits to self-publishing a book that I don’t need to list them all for you here. But there are also some pitfalls you need to avoid.
First of all, when choosing a company to publish your book for you, you need to be sure you’re dealing with a reputable firm. Check with the Better Business Bureau, ask for and confirm references, and don’t be afraid to ask for more information about the company before you hand any money over.
Second, find out what you’re paying for. Does the price include services you don’t need, and if so, can you have that cost deducted from your total? Also, check to confirm you will get everything you need for the fee.
Will the company ship the books to you? Or if they sell them directly to the readers, will they include a shipping cost that changes the price of your book?
I think self-publishing is a great way to get your books out into the market, but you have to remember to use your head while you’re looking for a publisher, and not forget to be cautious when you’re the one paying for a job to be done.
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 at http://www.jexbo.blogspot.com/.
First of all, when choosing a company to publish your book for you, you need to be sure you’re dealing with a reputable firm. Check with the Better Business Bureau, ask for and confirm references, and don’t be afraid to ask for more information about the company before you hand any money over.
Second, find out what you’re paying for. Does the price include services you don’t need, and if so, can you have that cost deducted from your total? Also, check to confirm you will get everything you need for the fee.
Will the company ship the books to you? Or if they sell them directly to the readers, will they include a shipping cost that changes the price of your book?
I think self-publishing is a great way to get your books out into the market, but you have to remember to use your head while you’re looking for a publisher, and not forget to be cautious when you’re the one paying for a job to be done.
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 at http://www.jexbo.blogspot.com/.
Interview with Self-Published Author, Tom McQueen
For today’s self-published author interview, we talk to Tom McQueen, author of “Letters to Ethan: A Grandfather’s Legacy of Live & Love.” Here’s what Tom had to say:
Tell us about your self-published book and where it is available.
Patients who had come to see me for counseling for over 25 years who had lost a parent or grandparent motivated me to write “Letters to Ethan.” They said that while they may have been left a house, a car, or some other material possessions, what really would have been meaningful and helpful to them would have been to leave a letter or note from their loved one containing some affirmation of love or advice that they would have treasured as a legacy.
When my son was born, I began writing him "legacy letters" on his birthday, recounting the experiences we shared during the year and telling him how much I loved him and what faith I had in him. Then when my grandson, Ethan, was born those letters turned into a book which has been endorsed by Coach Lou Holtz, Dick Vitale at ESPN, Rudy Ruettiger (inspiration for the movie, Rudy) and others.
The book is available at http://www.legacynationusa.com/, http://www.letterstoethan.com/, and as of November 1st, at http://www.amazon.com/ as well as other retail outlets.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
I decided to self-publish because I wanted control over my work. I also wanted to keep 100% of the royalties and use them to help fund projects associated with our not-for-profit, American Family Foundation, Inc.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
My biggest challenge was developing an effective marketing and PR plan. To respond to that challenge I sought endorsements from recognizable public figures that I thought would complement the theme of the book. I was actually surprised at the people who were willing to reach out and help after they had read the manuscript.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
The best part of self-publishing has been the ability to control the outcome of the final product and maintain both the integrity and the intent of the theme of the book. To me, this was the tipping point when the decision needed to be made as to whether or not to accept the offer of a publisher or to do it myself.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
My advice is that if you have a clear vision of what your book project needs to look like, and you have the drive and ambition to make that happen, then by all means self-publish. In addition, you have to be willing to partner with editors, cover designers, typesetters and others who may not always share your vision or who, in fact, may have a better idea for getting your message out.
Collaboration and cooperation is the key, and writers have to be of that mind set to be successful with self-publishing.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Sometimes I think that authors aren't aware of the tremendous power and potential that they have to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Being an author isn't a job or a career.... it's a vocation...and while the calling that we have is a special gift, it also carries with it a tremendous responsibility to contribute to the common good. Thanks for the opportunity to share these thoughts....
Your book sounds very interesting Tom. Thanks for your inspiration, and we wish you all the best!
How about you?
Do you have some inspiring information to share with other, self-published authors? 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.
Patients who had come to see me for counseling for over 25 years who had lost a parent or grandparent motivated me to write “Letters to Ethan.” They said that while they may have been left a house, a car, or some other material possessions, what really would have been meaningful and helpful to them would have been to leave a letter or note from their loved one containing some affirmation of love or advice that they would have treasured as a legacy.
When my son was born, I began writing him "legacy letters" on his birthday, recounting the experiences we shared during the year and telling him how much I loved him and what faith I had in him. Then when my grandson, Ethan, was born those letters turned into a book which has been endorsed by Coach Lou Holtz, Dick Vitale at ESPN, Rudy Ruettiger (inspiration for the movie, Rudy) and others.
The book is available at http://www.legacynationusa.com/, http://www.letterstoethan.com/, and as of November 1st, at http://www.amazon.com/ as well as other retail outlets.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
I decided to self-publish because I wanted control over my work. I also wanted to keep 100% of the royalties and use them to help fund projects associated with our not-for-profit, American Family Foundation, Inc.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
My biggest challenge was developing an effective marketing and PR plan. To respond to that challenge I sought endorsements from recognizable public figures that I thought would complement the theme of the book. I was actually surprised at the people who were willing to reach out and help after they had read the manuscript.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
The best part of self-publishing has been the ability to control the outcome of the final product and maintain both the integrity and the intent of the theme of the book. To me, this was the tipping point when the decision needed to be made as to whether or not to accept the offer of a publisher or to do it myself.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
My advice is that if you have a clear vision of what your book project needs to look like, and you have the drive and ambition to make that happen, then by all means self-publish. In addition, you have to be willing to partner with editors, cover designers, typesetters and others who may not always share your vision or who, in fact, may have a better idea for getting your message out.
Collaboration and cooperation is the key, and writers have to be of that mind set to be successful with self-publishing.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Sometimes I think that authors aren't aware of the tremendous power and potential that they have to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Being an author isn't a job or a career.... it's a vocation...and while the calling that we have is a special gift, it also carries with it a tremendous responsibility to contribute to the common good. Thanks for the opportunity to share these thoughts....
Your book sounds very interesting Tom. Thanks for your inspiration, and we wish you all the best!
How about you?
Do you have some inspiring information to share with other, self-published authors? Please write to me here or at http://www.jexbo.com/. I’d love to hear from you!
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 – Robert M de la Torre – 9-28-10
Today, we talk to self-published author, Robert M. de la Torre, author of "Six Great Short Stories." Here are Robert’s tips:
Tell us about your self-published book and where it is available.
My self pubished book is: "Six Great Short Stories" and it's available on Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble and other, online bookstores.
Why did you self-publish your book?
I chose to self-publish because of the time factor. I wanted to get my work out there uninterrupted and within a timeframe that was suitable for me.
I also wanted to have my work published as a manuscript, without the editing and formatting of mass produced literature so that people would actually be able to read the work that I have done, as if I were speaking the way I usually do.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
My biggest challenge was to learn how to use the tools that self-published authors face… learning the techniques and how to develop them. Also, I wanted to get my art work on the cover of the book, sometimes tracking down the artists who created them and getting their permission. Although, I do most of my art work myself, as I am an abstract artist and love to paint.
The best part of self-publishing was the feeling that I was in control all the way through. I didn't have to meet deadlines, and I could feel free to to back and change what I thought was necessary, and also embellish later the things that I left out.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
My advice to those who want to go the self-publish route is not to be afraid to get creative. After all, think of it as a project that will reward you and others later on. Before you decide that the work you have created is what you want others to see, have some people you know read it and critique, then go at it and get it done. Don't put yourself on a time table, take it easy all the way through.
In addition, take a look at what others have accomplished. You'll be surprised how much you get out of it and how it will assist you in making decisions. Also, think of your creation as a work of art, after all that's what it is.
Great insights Robert! Thanks! All the best with your self-published book.
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!
Tell us about your self-published book and where it is available.
My self pubished book is: "Six Great Short Stories" and it's available on Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble and other, online bookstores.
Why did you self-publish your book?
I chose to self-publish because of the time factor. I wanted to get my work out there uninterrupted and within a timeframe that was suitable for me.
I also wanted to have my work published as a manuscript, without the editing and formatting of mass produced literature so that people would actually be able to read the work that I have done, as if I were speaking the way I usually do.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
My biggest challenge was to learn how to use the tools that self-published authors face… learning the techniques and how to develop them. Also, I wanted to get my art work on the cover of the book, sometimes tracking down the artists who created them and getting their permission. Although, I do most of my art work myself, as I am an abstract artist and love to paint.
The best part of self-publishing was the feeling that I was in control all the way through. I didn't have to meet deadlines, and I could feel free to to back and change what I thought was necessary, and also embellish later the things that I left out.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
My advice to those who want to go the self-publish route is not to be afraid to get creative. After all, think of it as a project that will reward you and others later on. Before you decide that the work you have created is what you want others to see, have some people you know read it and critique, then go at it and get it done. Don't put yourself on a time table, take it easy all the way through.
In addition, take a look at what others have accomplished. You'll be surprised how much you get out of it and how it will assist you in making decisions. Also, think of your creation as a work of art, after all that's what it is.
Great insights Robert! Thanks! All the best with your self-published book.
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!
Self-Published Author Interview Series – Colleen Rae
In today’s self-published interview series, we caught up briefly with self-published author, Colleen Rae about her book, “Mohave Mambo.” Here’s what Colleen had to say:
Tell us about your self-published book and where it is available.
“Mohave Mambo” is an adventure, suspense novel about exotic dancer, Lola Raines from Las Vegas, who witnesses a murder and must flee for her life. She hides out in a small town in AZ, meets a cowboy, falls in love and begins a new life, unaware that a killer is on her trail.
The book is available in three book stores locally; Tree House Books and Readers World Books in Holland, MI and Saugatuck Bank Bookstore in Saugatuck, MI. Also, it is available on my website; www.colleenraesnovels.com.
Why did you self-publish your book?
I decided to publish after I had tried for two years to attract an agent or small publisher without success.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
My biggest challenge with self-publishing is the marketing end of it. I find it very difficult even though I do readings/book signings and try to consign my books to different bookstores.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
I would advise other writers who wish to self-publish to go for it, but have a marketing plan in place, if possible.
Thanks for your quick tips Colleen, and we wish you all the best with your self-published book!
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 www.jexbo.com or send me a note. I can help!
Tell us about your self-published book and where it is available.
“Mohave Mambo” is an adventure, suspense novel about exotic dancer, Lola Raines from Las Vegas, who witnesses a murder and must flee for her life. She hides out in a small town in AZ, meets a cowboy, falls in love and begins a new life, unaware that a killer is on her trail.
The book is available in three book stores locally; Tree House Books and Readers World Books in Holland, MI and Saugatuck Bank Bookstore in Saugatuck, MI. Also, it is available on my website; www.colleenraesnovels.com.
Why did you self-publish your book?
I decided to publish after I had tried for two years to attract an agent or small publisher without success.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
My biggest challenge with self-publishing is the marketing end of it. I find it very difficult even though I do readings/book signings and try to consign my books to different bookstores.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
I would advise other writers who wish to self-publish to go for it, but have a marketing plan in place, if possible.
Thanks for your quick tips Colleen, and we wish you all the best with your self-published book!
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 www.jexbo.com or send me a note. I can help!
Self-Published Author Interview Series – Tina Alwood
Today, we talk to Tina Alwood, self-published author of “Isabella Learns to Be Thankful.”
Tell us about your self-published book.
My first book, “Isabella Learns To Be Thankful was released at the end of May. The second book, “Isabella Learns To Share” will be available soon, and the others will follow later this year.
Isabella is five years old, and she is learning all these lessons with the help of her family.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
I self-published because I didn’t want to go through the steps needed to have someone publish for me. I wanted the books out now. I do have 22 more titles and would like to have them published. Publishing is expensive, and I would not be able to afford to publish and market that many titles.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
I did not have any challenges in self publishing. I am working with a company, authorhouse, and they have been outstanding.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
The best part of self-publishing my book is learning the book business first hand. I know the ins and outs of what it takes to publish and market a book. It’s a lot of hard work and effort but certainly worth the satisfaction of seeing your work in print and able to share it with others.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
My advice to other authors that want to self-publish is to find a company that will offer you marketing. Most brick and mortar stores will not put self-published books on their shelves. You will have to do the marketing yourself and get your book out there. If the publishing company offers a good marketing kit or marketing advice, this is a very important tool in the process.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
If you want to make money on your books, you have to consider marketing your book as a job, not a hobby. Every day, I make contacts with bookstores, magazines, TV, newspapers, etc. to market my book. The more people see it out there, the more intrigued they will be to buy it.
Thanks for your insights Tina, and all the best with your books!
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 www.jexbo.com or send me a note here. Thanks.
Tell us about your self-published book.
My first book, “Isabella Learns To Be Thankful was released at the end of May. The second book, “Isabella Learns To Share” will be available soon, and the others will follow later this year.
Isabella is five years old, and she is learning all these lessons with the help of her family.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
I self-published because I didn’t want to go through the steps needed to have someone publish for me. I wanted the books out now. I do have 22 more titles and would like to have them published. Publishing is expensive, and I would not be able to afford to publish and market that many titles.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
I did not have any challenges in self publishing. I am working with a company, authorhouse, and they have been outstanding.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
The best part of self-publishing my book is learning the book business first hand. I know the ins and outs of what it takes to publish and market a book. It’s a lot of hard work and effort but certainly worth the satisfaction of seeing your work in print and able to share it with others.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
My advice to other authors that want to self-publish is to find a company that will offer you marketing. Most brick and mortar stores will not put self-published books on their shelves. You will have to do the marketing yourself and get your book out there. If the publishing company offers a good marketing kit or marketing advice, this is a very important tool in the process.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
If you want to make money on your books, you have to consider marketing your book as a job, not a hobby. Every day, I make contacts with bookstores, magazines, TV, newspapers, etc. to market my book. The more people see it out there, the more intrigued they will be to buy it.
Thanks for your insights Tina, and all the best with your books!
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 www.jexbo.com or send me a note here. Thanks.
Self-Published Author Interview Series – 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," www.booksonrelationships.net. Corrine has a new book coming out and tells us about her experience with it here.
Tell us about your self-published book and where it is available.
I have a new release coming out which is soon to be added to my website and Amazon.com. I hope to have it on jexbo, as well. It is an Anthology of Divorce, Dating and Parenting Wisdoms. It is a collection of 180 articles written as a National Divorce Support Examiner for Examiner.com.
My relationship recovery book, “Moving Forward - A Handbook designed for the Divorced Individual” may be purchased on Amazon.com, online at Barnes and Noble, CreateSpace, and of course, on my website www.booksonrelationships.net
Why did you decide to self-publish?
I wanted to be involved in my own business.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
For the Anthology, in particular, it was difficult transferring the articles over to my hard drive from my column because there were so many. But, I believe it was all worth it in the end.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
Through writing the Divorce, dating and parenting articles, it has brought me an opportunity to help the general-public in a difficult economy by bringing resources to the public.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
Make sure to research different sites where you may sell your books. Get out and about too. Local bookstores may invest and take some of your books to sell. That’s a start, at the very least.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Always be consciously aware of new networking possibilities. Brainstorm with other people about writing. Do a workshop on your topic once in a while just because you can. Attend workshops and spend some time on the computer to advance your knowledge of how to share your work(s).
Believe in yourself and keep writing.
Thanks again for your great motivation and advice Corinne! 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 www.jexbo.com or send me a note. I can help!
Corinne is the author of three relationship recovery e-books: "Moving Forward," "Project Teen Intervene" and the "Children’s Divorce Support Group," www.booksonrelationships.net. Corrine has a new book coming out and tells us about her experience with it here.
Tell us about your self-published book and where it is available.
I have a new release coming out which is soon to be added to my website and Amazon.com. I hope to have it on jexbo, as well. It is an Anthology of Divorce, Dating and Parenting Wisdoms. It is a collection of 180 articles written as a National Divorce Support Examiner for Examiner.com.
My relationship recovery book, “Moving Forward - A Handbook designed for the Divorced Individual” may be purchased on Amazon.com, online at Barnes and Noble, CreateSpace, and of course, on my website www.booksonrelationships.net
Why did you decide to self-publish?
I wanted to be involved in my own business.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
For the Anthology, in particular, it was difficult transferring the articles over to my hard drive from my column because there were so many. But, I believe it was all worth it in the end.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
Through writing the Divorce, dating and parenting articles, it has brought me an opportunity to help the general-public in a difficult economy by bringing resources to the public.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
Make sure to research different sites where you may sell your books. Get out and about too. Local bookstores may invest and take some of your books to sell. That’s a start, at the very least.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Always be consciously aware of new networking possibilities. Brainstorm with other people about writing. Do a workshop on your topic once in a while just because you can. Attend workshops and spend some time on the computer to advance your knowledge of how to share your work(s).
Believe in yourself and keep writing.
Thanks again for your great motivation and advice Corinne! 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 www.jexbo.com or send me a note. I can help!
jexbo Self-Published Author Interview Series – Gabriel Schechter
Today, I had the pleasure of interviewing self-published author Gabriel Schechter. After publishing three books, here’s what Gabriel had to say…
Tell us about your self-published book.
I've published three books of baseball history, all available at www.charlesapril.com. The first two are available at Amazon.com, and other stray sites and stores. The books are: 1) VICTORY FAUST: The Rube Who Saved McGraw's Giants (2000), 2) UNHITTABLE! Baseball's Greatest Pitching Seasons (2002) and 3) THIS BAD DAY IN YANKEES HISTORY (2009)
Why did you decide to self-publish?
My first book was about a fairly obscure player, and I couldn't get a mainstream publisher interested in it. I also had a nibble about a possible film deal and preferred owning the rights to the book if that materialized, which it did (the deal, not yet the film). I had enough savings to finance it, so I did it.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
The biggest challenge was, and continues to be, marketing – finding the time and energy to promote the book and seek markets for it, finding the motivation after running into roadblocks and disinterest, and being persistent at exploring possibilities for selling copies.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
By far, the best part was that I was able to create and produce all three books exactly the way I wanted them to read and look. With the help of good typesetters and cover designers, I produced three books I'm very proud of and which are my, not another publisher's, version of what they thought my books should be.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
It echoes what I said earlier. Be prepared to devote as least as much time and energy to marketing and selling the book (and filling orders) as you did to putting the book together. There are so many little business details that have to be attended to that it can be all-consuming.
If you can afford it, hire professionals in specialized fields (distribution, publicity, accounting, etc.) to take up some of the workload. But the bottom-line responsibility is yours, and you can't overlook things that are a nuisance but still important.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Dan Poynter's books are very helpful, though as with all advice some of it will apply to your venture and some won't. First and foremost, produce a book that you would want to read and are proud to have your name on. Then be prepared to do everything you can to sell those copies!
Excellent advice Gabriel! Thank you!
And how about you? Do you need help getting the word out about your self-published book? Send your questions to me, and check out the free information at http://www.jexbo.com/.
Tell us about your self-published book.
I've published three books of baseball history, all available at www.charlesapril.com. The first two are available at Amazon.com, and other stray sites and stores. The books are: 1) VICTORY FAUST: The Rube Who Saved McGraw's Giants (2000), 2) UNHITTABLE! Baseball's Greatest Pitching Seasons (2002) and 3) THIS BAD DAY IN YANKEES HISTORY (2009)
Why did you decide to self-publish?
My first book was about a fairly obscure player, and I couldn't get a mainstream publisher interested in it. I also had a nibble about a possible film deal and preferred owning the rights to the book if that materialized, which it did (the deal, not yet the film). I had enough savings to finance it, so I did it.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
The biggest challenge was, and continues to be, marketing – finding the time and energy to promote the book and seek markets for it, finding the motivation after running into roadblocks and disinterest, and being persistent at exploring possibilities for selling copies.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
By far, the best part was that I was able to create and produce all three books exactly the way I wanted them to read and look. With the help of good typesetters and cover designers, I produced three books I'm very proud of and which are my, not another publisher's, version of what they thought my books should be.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
It echoes what I said earlier. Be prepared to devote as least as much time and energy to marketing and selling the book (and filling orders) as you did to putting the book together. There are so many little business details that have to be attended to that it can be all-consuming.
If you can afford it, hire professionals in specialized fields (distribution, publicity, accounting, etc.) to take up some of the workload. But the bottom-line responsibility is yours, and you can't overlook things that are a nuisance but still important.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Dan Poynter's books are very helpful, though as with all advice some of it will apply to your venture and some won't. First and foremost, produce a book that you would want to read and are proud to have your name on. Then be prepared to do everything you can to sell those copies!
Excellent advice Gabriel! Thank you!
And how about you? Do you need help getting the word out about your self-published book? Send your questions to me, and check out the free information at http://www.jexbo.com/.
The Goddess Biker, Jennifer Bair, Tells Us About Her Self-Published Book
Have you ever talked to a Goddess Biker before?
Well, as part of our self-published interview series, today I’m talking to Jennifer Bair. Jennifer is an author, musician/vocalist, and spiritual consultant.
Tell us about your self-published book and where it is available.
“Open Road: A Goddess- Biker Guidebook” gives you a touchstone for your own journey inside. This book will provide a set of tools for choosing the right bike, getting on the road on your own terms and helping others do the same. It’s a metaphor. Even if you don't intend to ever ride a motorcycle, it gives you a simple process for navigating your life's purpose and inner road toward happiness.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
After a long year of queries to potential literary agents and small, Indie publishers, a multitude of workshops given and taken, college-level writing courses and many sleepless nights worrying over whether this message would ever have a voice, I decided to bite the bullet and self-publish.
It was with a jaded sense of failure and was overwhelmed at the disheveled literary community and publishing industry as a whole that prompted me to buck the system and do it myself. I felt like an outlaw, on the fringe; a mole rat toward the goal of seeing the light at the end of the tunnel someone else had dug eons ago. And it felt good to let go of the old paradigm and forge something from the new well.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
I am going through the process just to get the book out there and then I’ll try to find a foothold in the publishing world by reaching as many people as possible with the message and passion of my work. It is all a mirror for the evolution of humanity. We will survive with conscious, communal commitment or well all go down to the pavement.
How did you overcome that challenge?
Challenges are just debris in the road. You have to get into the lean and divert around it before it brings you down. I mean all the way to the pavement. This book publishing experience has been like the ultimate slide on a curve. The challenge of staying on top of another systematized, automated machine of the self-publishing companies making; no personal contact, a lot of automated step-by-step emails that promise and don’t deliver. You have to let go of any deadlines. The process is achingly slow.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
The sunny side of all this is the fact that I can recognize my own growth as I navigate through this maze. It’s been a steep learning curve. One that I have not honored perhaps as well as I could have. However, it makes me think in new ways, which translates to higher consciousness around the business of writing for the masses.
Of course, if you ask me what I’m trying to accomplish with this book/CD, it would have to be validation for the ideas that have had an impact on so many people already. It is a compilation of my skills, talents and shared dreams. It is the silver lining to an otherwise string of chaotic, feral, mindful ideas that I live and breathe. I am grateful for the passage on this rocky journey. It’s (self-publishing) gonna get me where I need to go.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
My advice to other writers on this path is to take a giant breath and relax into the jaws of the monster as your precious gift is being churned into printed/digitized matter.
Thanks for your insights Jennifer. This is quite interesting!
And for those of you who would like to find out more about Jennifer’s book, it is available at all major retailers such as Borders Books, Barnes & Noble, Indie booksellers, online retailers such as Amazon and through Authorhouse.com and jenniferbairpresents.com.
There is a also a companion audio-workbook and an original music CD available through these venues titled, “The Goddess Sings - An Audio Workbook and Music.”
How about you?
Do you need help getting the word out about your self-published book? Send your questions to me, and check out the free information at http://www.jexbo.com/. Thanks, and check back for another interview soon!
Well, as part of our self-published interview series, today I’m talking to Jennifer Bair. Jennifer is an author, musician/vocalist, and spiritual consultant.
Tell us about your self-published book and where it is available.
“Open Road: A Goddess- Biker Guidebook” gives you a touchstone for your own journey inside. This book will provide a set of tools for choosing the right bike, getting on the road on your own terms and helping others do the same. It’s a metaphor. Even if you don't intend to ever ride a motorcycle, it gives you a simple process for navigating your life's purpose and inner road toward happiness.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
After a long year of queries to potential literary agents and small, Indie publishers, a multitude of workshops given and taken, college-level writing courses and many sleepless nights worrying over whether this message would ever have a voice, I decided to bite the bullet and self-publish.
It was with a jaded sense of failure and was overwhelmed at the disheveled literary community and publishing industry as a whole that prompted me to buck the system and do it myself. I felt like an outlaw, on the fringe; a mole rat toward the goal of seeing the light at the end of the tunnel someone else had dug eons ago. And it felt good to let go of the old paradigm and forge something from the new well.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
I am going through the process just to get the book out there and then I’ll try to find a foothold in the publishing world by reaching as many people as possible with the message and passion of my work. It is all a mirror for the evolution of humanity. We will survive with conscious, communal commitment or well all go down to the pavement.
How did you overcome that challenge?
Challenges are just debris in the road. You have to get into the lean and divert around it before it brings you down. I mean all the way to the pavement. This book publishing experience has been like the ultimate slide on a curve. The challenge of staying on top of another systematized, automated machine of the self-publishing companies making; no personal contact, a lot of automated step-by-step emails that promise and don’t deliver. You have to let go of any deadlines. The process is achingly slow.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
The sunny side of all this is the fact that I can recognize my own growth as I navigate through this maze. It’s been a steep learning curve. One that I have not honored perhaps as well as I could have. However, it makes me think in new ways, which translates to higher consciousness around the business of writing for the masses.
Of course, if you ask me what I’m trying to accomplish with this book/CD, it would have to be validation for the ideas that have had an impact on so many people already. It is a compilation of my skills, talents and shared dreams. It is the silver lining to an otherwise string of chaotic, feral, mindful ideas that I live and breathe. I am grateful for the passage on this rocky journey. It’s (self-publishing) gonna get me where I need to go.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
My advice to other writers on this path is to take a giant breath and relax into the jaws of the monster as your precious gift is being churned into printed/digitized matter.
Thanks for your insights Jennifer. This is quite interesting!
And for those of you who would like to find out more about Jennifer’s book, it is available at all major retailers such as Borders Books, Barnes & Noble, Indie booksellers, online retailers such as Amazon and through Authorhouse.com and jenniferbairpresents.com.
There is a also a companion audio-workbook and an original music CD available through these venues titled, “The Goddess Sings - An Audio Workbook and Music.”
How about you?
Do you need help getting the word out about your self-published book? Send your questions to me, and check out the free information at http://www.jexbo.com/. Thanks, and check back for another interview soon!
Self-Published Author Gretchen Hirsch Reveals Tips to jexbo's Jill Exler
In today’s interview, we talk to the author “Back Again to Me,” Gretchen Hirsch. Here are Gretchen’s tips:
Tell us about your self-published book.
My book is titled Back Again to Me, and it is available from Amazon.com. While the plot centers on a pregnant teen who is making the adoption decision, the book is largely about women's relationships as mothers, sisters, daughters, and friends.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
Although I had six books of non-fiction published traditionally, the advice I was getting from agents and editors about this novel, while good, was all over the map, and frequently the experts' opinions were diametrically opposed to one another. I decided it would be quicker and more fun to do it myself.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
The process was baby-simple, but, of course, there was a cost.
How did you overcome that challenge?
I saved up the money from other writing work and invested it in myself.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
I enjoyed having complete control over the process and making my own decisions about the cover, the typeface, and everything else related to the work. The worst part was finding errors after it was printed, even though I had gone through three rounds of proof. They aren't terrible errors, but they're noticeable to me. I should have taken up a friend's offer to proofread one more time for me instead of getting in a hurry and doing it myself.
What resources do you recommend to new authors?
Other people's books on the craft of writing. As I've attended writers' conferences, I've been struck by how much time people spend trying to get agents before they have mastered the skills of telling a good story or organizing non-fiction material effectively. As a book doctor/independent editor, I see many, many manuscripts that are full of misspellings, awkward construction, and sketchy research, so I recommend that people spend a lot of time learning the rules. I think Anne Lamott's Bird by Bird and Stephen King's On Writing are wonderful books about craft and the writer's life.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
Read the contract. Take only the parts of the publishing "package" that you need and want. Don't buy the "marketing" services. They usually consist of bookmarks, postcards, and other useless material, and if you want those things, you can create them much less expensively yourself. Be prepared to promote relentlessly. Every day. You aren't going to get reviewed, so you have to create your own word-of-mouth, and you can't do that if you don't try every avenue for promotion.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Be invested in your own success, but don't expect your self-published book to be a best-seller. If lightning strikes, that's wonderful, but very rare. Set your sights realistically and have fun.
Thanks for your honest tips Gretchen. To learn more about Gretchen, visit http://www.gretchenhirsch.com/.
And if you have questions about self-publishing, or want your book featured on this blog, please write to me here or at http://www.jexbo.com/. I’d love to hear from you! Thanks.
Tell us about your self-published book.
My book is titled Back Again to Me, and it is available from Amazon.com. While the plot centers on a pregnant teen who is making the adoption decision, the book is largely about women's relationships as mothers, sisters, daughters, and friends.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
Although I had six books of non-fiction published traditionally, the advice I was getting from agents and editors about this novel, while good, was all over the map, and frequently the experts' opinions were diametrically opposed to one another. I decided it would be quicker and more fun to do it myself.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
The process was baby-simple, but, of course, there was a cost.
How did you overcome that challenge?
I saved up the money from other writing work and invested it in myself.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
I enjoyed having complete control over the process and making my own decisions about the cover, the typeface, and everything else related to the work. The worst part was finding errors after it was printed, even though I had gone through three rounds of proof. They aren't terrible errors, but they're noticeable to me. I should have taken up a friend's offer to proofread one more time for me instead of getting in a hurry and doing it myself.
What resources do you recommend to new authors?
Other people's books on the craft of writing. As I've attended writers' conferences, I've been struck by how much time people spend trying to get agents before they have mastered the skills of telling a good story or organizing non-fiction material effectively. As a book doctor/independent editor, I see many, many manuscripts that are full of misspellings, awkward construction, and sketchy research, so I recommend that people spend a lot of time learning the rules. I think Anne Lamott's Bird by Bird and Stephen King's On Writing are wonderful books about craft and the writer's life.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
Read the contract. Take only the parts of the publishing "package" that you need and want. Don't buy the "marketing" services. They usually consist of bookmarks, postcards, and other useless material, and if you want those things, you can create them much less expensively yourself. Be prepared to promote relentlessly. Every day. You aren't going to get reviewed, so you have to create your own word-of-mouth, and you can't do that if you don't try every avenue for promotion.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Be invested in your own success, but don't expect your self-published book to be a best-seller. If lightning strikes, that's wonderful, but very rare. Set your sights realistically and have fun.
Thanks for your honest tips Gretchen. To learn more about Gretchen, visit http://www.gretchenhirsch.com/.
And if you have questions about self-publishing, or want your book featured on this blog, please write to me here or at http://www.jexbo.com/. I’d love to hear from you! Thanks.
Interview with Self-Published Author Shel Horowitz
In today’s interview, we talk to the author of four, self-published books, Shel Horowitz. Shel is a “green marketing expert,” and here’s what he had to say:
Tell us about your self-published book.
Four of my eight books are self-published. The most recent one is “Grassroots Marketing for Authors and Publishers.” Direct orders at http://grassrootsmarketingforauthors.com include my e-book, “How to Write and Publish a Marketable Book,” as well as another e-book called “The Missing Chapters,” which covers social media. I've also helped several people set up their own publishing companies and successfully self-publish.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
Each book has its own story. For this one, I felt that I was well known in the niche and could market it more effectively. It's not that much of a bookstore book; it lends itself better to direct marketing.
The previous self-published book, I actually had nibbles from other publishers and turned them down. Even though I knew I'd want to sell it to a larger publisher eventually, I wanted to have that conversation fro a position of strength.
And in fact, I did sell it to a large publisher; Wiley published a greatly expanded and updated edition under the title “Guerrilla Marketing Goes Green: Winning Strategies to Improve Your Profits and Your Planet” (co-authored with Jay Conrad Levinson).
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
After self-publishing four times, I've gotten a lot of the bugs worked out. Still, I'd have to say that finding markets can be challenging.
How did you overcome that challenge?
I market very assertively and also go after credibility-builders like awards and testimonials. And a couple of times, I've actually sold out to a larger publisher. This most recent time, when the self-published, “Principled Profit” transformed into the commercially published, “Guerrilla Marketing Goes Green,” I was able to negotiate from a position of strength, and had a very different experience than I'd had as a nobody author with Simon & Schuster 17 years ago.
All four of my self-published books have been profitable, because I keep costs down and thus can make money on a print run that a big publisher would laugh at.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
Complete control. This was particularly an issue for the earlier book, “Principled Profit.” I was writing about some concepts that were very much against conventional business wisdom, and I didn't want any editor trying to water that message down.
What resources do you recommend to new authors?
The more you know, the better your chances of success. In addition to my own “Grassroots Marketing for Authors and Publishers,” http://grassrootsmarketingforauthors.com, I regularly recommend John Kremer: “1001 Ways to Market Your Book,” Fern Reiss: “The Publishing Game: Publish a Book in 30 Days” (she has a whole series of them); Dan Poynter: “The Self-Publishing Manual”; Marilyn Ross and Sue Collier: “The Complete Guide to Self-Publishing” (and incidentally, all four of these authors and several others have endorsed my book marketing book).
I also recommend joining at least one, online self-publishing discussion group. I personally participate in two on Yahoo Groups and one on LinkedIn, and yes, I still learn things. And perhaps most importantly, whether it's myself or someone else, I strongly recommend working with an experienced book coach/shepherd.
While it adds to the cost, it also saves you from very expensive mistakes – and a good portion of the fee gets returned to you, because an experienced shepherd knows good, cheap vendors. I've saved my clients thousands of dollars and gotten them a better product than they could have on their own.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their books?
Remember that you're competing for attention with 750,000 other books published this year. That means...
Even if you're traditionally published, most of the weight of marketing falls on you. By self-publishing, so do the profits.
Fantastic advice Shel. Thanks so much! To learn more about Shel’s books, visit http://grassrootsmarketingforauthors.com/.
And if you have questions about self-publishing, or want your book featured on this blog, please write to me here or at http://www.jexbo.com/. I’m here to help! Thanks!
Tell us about your self-published book.
Four of my eight books are self-published. The most recent one is “Grassroots Marketing for Authors and Publishers.” Direct orders at http://grassrootsmarketingforauthors.com include my e-book, “How to Write and Publish a Marketable Book,” as well as another e-book called “The Missing Chapters,” which covers social media. I've also helped several people set up their own publishing companies and successfully self-publish.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
Each book has its own story. For this one, I felt that I was well known in the niche and could market it more effectively. It's not that much of a bookstore book; it lends itself better to direct marketing.
The previous self-published book, I actually had nibbles from other publishers and turned them down. Even though I knew I'd want to sell it to a larger publisher eventually, I wanted to have that conversation fro a position of strength.
And in fact, I did sell it to a large publisher; Wiley published a greatly expanded and updated edition under the title “Guerrilla Marketing Goes Green: Winning Strategies to Improve Your Profits and Your Planet” (co-authored with Jay Conrad Levinson).
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
After self-publishing four times, I've gotten a lot of the bugs worked out. Still, I'd have to say that finding markets can be challenging.
How did you overcome that challenge?
I market very assertively and also go after credibility-builders like awards and testimonials. And a couple of times, I've actually sold out to a larger publisher. This most recent time, when the self-published, “Principled Profit” transformed into the commercially published, “Guerrilla Marketing Goes Green,” I was able to negotiate from a position of strength, and had a very different experience than I'd had as a nobody author with Simon & Schuster 17 years ago.
All four of my self-published books have been profitable, because I keep costs down and thus can make money on a print run that a big publisher would laugh at.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
Complete control. This was particularly an issue for the earlier book, “Principled Profit.” I was writing about some concepts that were very much against conventional business wisdom, and I didn't want any editor trying to water that message down.
What resources do you recommend to new authors?
The more you know, the better your chances of success. In addition to my own “Grassroots Marketing for Authors and Publishers,” http://grassrootsmarketingforauthors.com, I regularly recommend John Kremer: “1001 Ways to Market Your Book,” Fern Reiss: “The Publishing Game: Publish a Book in 30 Days” (she has a whole series of them); Dan Poynter: “The Self-Publishing Manual”; Marilyn Ross and Sue Collier: “The Complete Guide to Self-Publishing” (and incidentally, all four of these authors and several others have endorsed my book marketing book).
I also recommend joining at least one, online self-publishing discussion group. I personally participate in two on Yahoo Groups and one on LinkedIn, and yes, I still learn things. And perhaps most importantly, whether it's myself or someone else, I strongly recommend working with an experienced book coach/shepherd.
While it adds to the cost, it also saves you from very expensive mistakes – and a good portion of the fee gets returned to you, because an experienced shepherd knows good, cheap vendors. I've saved my clients thousands of dollars and gotten them a better product than they could have on their own.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their books?
Remember that you're competing for attention with 750,000 other books published this year. That means...
- Your book has to be as good as or better than commercially published titles: in its ideas, content, execution, editing, and both cover and interior design.
- You MUST budget sufficient time and money for marketing. Don't spend it all on production.
- Be realistic. In most cases, you won't be on Oprah, you won't be a New York Times bestseller (though you could crack Amazon), and you won't have a line around the block for your book-signings.
- Don't be seduced by low unit costs for big, print runs. Spend more per book and print smaller numbers, but make the numbers work. If it takes off, you can easily go back to print. If it sells slowly, you won't have the problem of tying up huge amounts of capital and floor space in slow-moving inventory.
- For most of us, alternative channels are far more important than bookstores.
- Your ISBN matters a lot. If you are working with a so-called (falsely labeled) "self-publishing company" that buys warehouse quantities of ISBNs and provides you one, you're not a self-publisher. You've published with a subsidy publisher. That decision will have repercussions for the entire life of your book (mostly negative ones). There are some books that are suited to subsidy publishing, but don't delude yourself that you're a publisher if you go that route. When you get your own ISBN block from Bowker, select your own editors, designers, and printers, and control all the rights, THEN you're a publisher.
Even if you're traditionally published, most of the weight of marketing falls on you. By self-publishing, so do the profits.
Fantastic advice Shel. Thanks so much! To learn more about Shel’s books, visit http://grassrootsmarketingforauthors.com/.
And if you have questions about self-publishing, or want your book featured on this blog, please write to me here or at http://www.jexbo.com/. I’m here to help! Thanks!
Interview with Self-Published Author Felicia Coley
Today in our self-published author interview-series, we talk to the author of “How to Stylishly Fall From Grace,” Felicia Coley. Here’s what Felicia had to say about the self-publishing process:
• Tell us about your self-published book.
“How To Stylishly Fall From Grace” is the journey of Zoe Chapman, a fashion-forward maven with a penchant for Broadway plays (and a collection of shoes to-die-for) who gets to answer the question: why would a woman who has it all, walk away from it all?
Synopsis: Zoe Chapman is a bit of a snob when it comes to zip codes, food and personal hygiene. Making no apologies, she prances through life as a fashion-forward, independent gal with a penchant for Broadway plays.
It's at one of her Broadway play excursions that she meets a charming guy. Beau Sampson is instantly drawn to Zoe, and a year-long, long-distance relationship blossoms. He woos her with weekend "play dates" and whirlwind reservations for two, which eventually sweeps Zoe off her feet. Or so she thinks, until she relocates her life, wardrobe and shoes to New York City to live with him...
"How to Stylishly Fall From Grace" details a young woman's life-transforming journey, going from thriving in the city that never sleeps, to barely surviving in a sleepy city obsessed with naps. Even with a background of management credentials and model looks, Zoe is forced to find the true meaning of her worth - Because "shoes to die for" should never be part of a woman's epitaph.
• Why did you decide to self-publish?
Blame it on my Type A personality. Also, the publishing industry seems to be enamored by celebrity scandal, so I did not want to get lost in the mountain of writers looking for that one publishing company to take notice. I believe in myself, so it only made sense to make it happen.
• What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
Being a writer, the challenge of technically creating the book made for many frustrating days. My laptop was powered by Linux, but the POD company required Word document formatting. After several attempts from well-meaning spirits, I finally found Earth Angel/Graphic Designer Robyn York who converted the formatting for me.
• What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
The unbelievable power of sisterhood throughout the 'sphere! From shoe designers to sister bloggers, they stepped up to make the nine-month delay of the book's release a worthwhile wait!
• What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
Patience is the key. Your plans in the release may not be the best-laid, so accept the unexpected delays as "false labor." Through the frustration, nausea - and yes, tears - the birth of your book is the most amazing thing to experience!
• Is there anything else you would like to add?
Never take advice from anyone who has never done what you are attempting. And keep plenty of Kleenex on hand, for the tears of joy and pain!
That’s great advice Felicia. Thanks so much for sharing! If you’d like to read Felicia’s book, it is available It is available here and at https://www.createspace.com/3393284.
And if you have questions about self-publishing, or want your book featured on this blog, please write to me here or at www.jexbo.com. I’m here to help! Thanks!
• Tell us about your self-published book.
“How To Stylishly Fall From Grace” is the journey of Zoe Chapman, a fashion-forward maven with a penchant for Broadway plays (and a collection of shoes to-die-for) who gets to answer the question: why would a woman who has it all, walk away from it all?
Synopsis: Zoe Chapman is a bit of a snob when it comes to zip codes, food and personal hygiene. Making no apologies, she prances through life as a fashion-forward, independent gal with a penchant for Broadway plays.
It's at one of her Broadway play excursions that she meets a charming guy. Beau Sampson is instantly drawn to Zoe, and a year-long, long-distance relationship blossoms. He woos her with weekend "play dates" and whirlwind reservations for two, which eventually sweeps Zoe off her feet. Or so she thinks, until she relocates her life, wardrobe and shoes to New York City to live with him...
"How to Stylishly Fall From Grace" details a young woman's life-transforming journey, going from thriving in the city that never sleeps, to barely surviving in a sleepy city obsessed with naps. Even with a background of management credentials and model looks, Zoe is forced to find the true meaning of her worth - Because "shoes to die for" should never be part of a woman's epitaph.
• Why did you decide to self-publish?
Blame it on my Type A personality. Also, the publishing industry seems to be enamored by celebrity scandal, so I did not want to get lost in the mountain of writers looking for that one publishing company to take notice. I believe in myself, so it only made sense to make it happen.
• What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
Being a writer, the challenge of technically creating the book made for many frustrating days. My laptop was powered by Linux, but the POD company required Word document formatting. After several attempts from well-meaning spirits, I finally found Earth Angel/Graphic Designer Robyn York who converted the formatting for me.
• What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
The unbelievable power of sisterhood throughout the 'sphere! From shoe designers to sister bloggers, they stepped up to make the nine-month delay of the book's release a worthwhile wait!
• What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
Patience is the key. Your plans in the release may not be the best-laid, so accept the unexpected delays as "false labor." Through the frustration, nausea - and yes, tears - the birth of your book is the most amazing thing to experience!
• Is there anything else you would like to add?
Never take advice from anyone who has never done what you are attempting. And keep plenty of Kleenex on hand, for the tears of joy and pain!
That’s great advice Felicia. Thanks so much for sharing! If you’d like to read Felicia’s book, it is available It is available here and at https://www.createspace.com/3393284.
And if you have questions about self-publishing, or want your book featured on this blog, please write to me here or at www.jexbo.com. I’m here to help! Thanks!
Interview with Self-Published Author Timothy M. Braun
As part of our self-published author interview series, today, we talk to fiction writer Timothy M. Braun. Timothy wrote, “When The Angels Cry-The Story of Arielle.” Here’s what the author had to say about his novel and the self-publishing process:
Tell us about your self-published book.
The purpose of my fiction novel is to acknowledge the small, daily miracles in our lives that most of us write off as coincidences. In the Foreword, I give several accounts of these in my own life, which I now believe were actually divine interventions. In the winter of 2008, I had a cardiac arrest out in the desert of Arizona, miles from nowhere, and survived. I detail the several, unbelievable coincidences that had to come together in those critical minutes for me to be alive today. As only about eight percent of cardiac arrests outside of a hospital survive, it was pretty miraculous.
About a month after being discharged from the hospital with a new pacemaker/defibrillator implanted in my chest, I had a very vivid dream. This was memorable as I am one of those people who never remember my dreams, but this one, I did. When I got up, I immediately wrote four pages of notes on a legal sized notepad. The dream had every chapter, the names of the characters and the name of the book. Those notes became my novel.
This may sound unbelievable, and I may sound like a religious zealot, but I'm not. Although I would describe myself as spiritual, I'm not religious. I've probably been to church three or four times in the past forty years. I wasn't a writer, but the story was so inspirational, it had to be written. I was driven.
The novel, "When The Angels Cry-The Story of Arielle," is about a very special little girl, who comes into the life of Rebecca. Rebecca had a wonderful life; a brand new, beautiful baby boy, a loving husband and a great job as an ER nurse. She had it all. She enjoyed an existence most people only dreamed about--until early one morning it all came crashing down. She found her son dead in his crib from S.I.D.S. She cursed God, the heavens and all who resided there. How could He do this to her? Her depression so engulfed her, there seemed no end to her sorrow. After months of begging Rebecca to see a doctor or therapist, her husband left her.
A year after her son's death, she apologized to God and asked for His forgiveness. Her life was forever changed. Then, she finds an infant, Arielle, on her doorstep, but possessing something so mysterious she can't bring herself to believe.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
I decided to self-publish after sending out dozens of query letters to agents and receiving the standard, “It’s not what we are looking for” response. I knew from research that it was almost impossible for new authors, especially older ones, to get published through conventional means.
When I looked at the statistics of percentage of queries that are accepted by agents (1-2%), multiply the percentage of books agents accepted that they sell (25%??), then the percentage of those books published by mainstream publishers that sell over five thousand books (13-14%), it doesn’t take long to figure out first-time authors are better off publishing and marketing their work by themselves. At least you are in charge of your own fate.
After speaking to some first-time, traditionally published authors and doing more research, I also found that most of them didn’t make much, if any, money on their hard work. The publishers didn’t put any money or effort into marketing, and they were very upset at the contracts they had to sign. There was no control, no money, no recognition, and lots of frustration.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
My biggest challenge was the editing process. Each time I thought the book was ready for printing, I would find several more mistakes, typos, or problems with continuity. It was very time consuming but definitely worth the time and effort to put forth a quality product.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
I would probably have to say the educational process I had to undergo to learn how the publishing industry works, and at the same time, the most frustrating. I spent a lot of time just learning about the differences between “self-publishing” and “subsidy” or “vanity” businesses and the costs. I wanted to find the best place to have a superior product printed at the most competitive price. I understand companies making money on the processes of making a book; I refuse to keep paying them down the road for each copy I order.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
Do your homework first. There is a lot of information to digest, but it will be to your advantage in the end. Position yourself to make as much money as you can from the sales of your book. Learn marketing, as it will be your biggest challenge after your book is published.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
My book has been out almost a week, and I’ve pretty much gone through my first two orders of 135 books. I am placing my third today. That will make two hundred books that I hope will be gone by next week after two, book signings. Our new publishing company, Sangre de Cristo Publishing, Inc., will have another book out soon, “The Contest,” a mystery/suspense novel. If anyone would like to contact me about our publishing company or for information on self-publishing, contact me at sangredecristopb@aol.com. More information about my book can be seen along with a sample chapter at www.whentheangelscry.com.
Thanks so much Timothy. Your novel sounds very interesting.
How about you? Do you have questions about self-publishing and selling books online? Please write to me here or at www.jexbo.com. I’m here to help! Thanks!
Tell us about your self-published book.
The purpose of my fiction novel is to acknowledge the small, daily miracles in our lives that most of us write off as coincidences. In the Foreword, I give several accounts of these in my own life, which I now believe were actually divine interventions. In the winter of 2008, I had a cardiac arrest out in the desert of Arizona, miles from nowhere, and survived. I detail the several, unbelievable coincidences that had to come together in those critical minutes for me to be alive today. As only about eight percent of cardiac arrests outside of a hospital survive, it was pretty miraculous.
About a month after being discharged from the hospital with a new pacemaker/defibrillator implanted in my chest, I had a very vivid dream. This was memorable as I am one of those people who never remember my dreams, but this one, I did. When I got up, I immediately wrote four pages of notes on a legal sized notepad. The dream had every chapter, the names of the characters and the name of the book. Those notes became my novel.
This may sound unbelievable, and I may sound like a religious zealot, but I'm not. Although I would describe myself as spiritual, I'm not religious. I've probably been to church three or four times in the past forty years. I wasn't a writer, but the story was so inspirational, it had to be written. I was driven.
The novel, "When The Angels Cry-The Story of Arielle," is about a very special little girl, who comes into the life of Rebecca. Rebecca had a wonderful life; a brand new, beautiful baby boy, a loving husband and a great job as an ER nurse. She had it all. She enjoyed an existence most people only dreamed about--until early one morning it all came crashing down. She found her son dead in his crib from S.I.D.S. She cursed God, the heavens and all who resided there. How could He do this to her? Her depression so engulfed her, there seemed no end to her sorrow. After months of begging Rebecca to see a doctor or therapist, her husband left her.
A year after her son's death, she apologized to God and asked for His forgiveness. Her life was forever changed. Then, she finds an infant, Arielle, on her doorstep, but possessing something so mysterious she can't bring herself to believe.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
I decided to self-publish after sending out dozens of query letters to agents and receiving the standard, “It’s not what we are looking for” response. I knew from research that it was almost impossible for new authors, especially older ones, to get published through conventional means.
When I looked at the statistics of percentage of queries that are accepted by agents (1-2%), multiply the percentage of books agents accepted that they sell (25%??), then the percentage of those books published by mainstream publishers that sell over five thousand books (13-14%), it doesn’t take long to figure out first-time authors are better off publishing and marketing their work by themselves. At least you are in charge of your own fate.
After speaking to some first-time, traditionally published authors and doing more research, I also found that most of them didn’t make much, if any, money on their hard work. The publishers didn’t put any money or effort into marketing, and they were very upset at the contracts they had to sign. There was no control, no money, no recognition, and lots of frustration.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
My biggest challenge was the editing process. Each time I thought the book was ready for printing, I would find several more mistakes, typos, or problems with continuity. It was very time consuming but definitely worth the time and effort to put forth a quality product.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
I would probably have to say the educational process I had to undergo to learn how the publishing industry works, and at the same time, the most frustrating. I spent a lot of time just learning about the differences between “self-publishing” and “subsidy” or “vanity” businesses and the costs. I wanted to find the best place to have a superior product printed at the most competitive price. I understand companies making money on the processes of making a book; I refuse to keep paying them down the road for each copy I order.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
Do your homework first. There is a lot of information to digest, but it will be to your advantage in the end. Position yourself to make as much money as you can from the sales of your book. Learn marketing, as it will be your biggest challenge after your book is published.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
My book has been out almost a week, and I’ve pretty much gone through my first two orders of 135 books. I am placing my third today. That will make two hundred books that I hope will be gone by next week after two, book signings. Our new publishing company, Sangre de Cristo Publishing, Inc., will have another book out soon, “The Contest,” a mystery/suspense novel. If anyone would like to contact me about our publishing company or for information on self-publishing, contact me at sangredecristopb@aol.com. More information about my book can be seen along with a sample chapter at www.whentheangelscry.com.
Thanks so much Timothy. Your novel sounds very interesting.
How about you? Do you have questions about self-publishing and selling books online? Please write to me here or at www.jexbo.com. I’m here to help! Thanks!
Self-Published Author Interview Series - Terri Sanchez
As part of today’s self-published-author interview series, we talk to Terri Sanchez, author of the fiction novel, “Mirrored Minds.”
Tell us about your self-published book.
My book is a fiction novel entitled “Mirrored Minds” and was written under the pen name of Terri Lee (my first and middle names). The book is currently available in independently owned bookstores in Grand Rapids and on my website at www.mirroredminds.com. It will soon be available at Borders, Waldenbooks and more through my distributor, Partners Book Distributing Inc., Holt Michigan.
The book’s main character is Madelyn Grayson who has lost her family as well as her memory in a tragic accident. Madelyn’s struggle with her unknown past ultimately forces her to make a choice - should she continue trying to recapture her former self or forge ahead with a new beginning? Her life unfolds within the text culminating in an unpredictable twist.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
My decision to self-publish came about through conversations with other writers on social networking sites and from reading blogs and articles appearing on the Internet. Furthermore, I felt the time it would take to query numerous agents would further delay getting my book out in the market, and I was anxious to place it in the hands of readers.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
I thought my biggest challenge came in educating myself in the processes of the publishing world, establishing resources I could trust to edit, provide cover art/photography, graphic design and print manufacturing while keeping my costs reasonable. Now, I believe my biggest challenge exists in changing the minds of the public who still seem to view self-published novels as a grade below books distributed through traditional publishing companies.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
The best part of self-publishing has been the gratification I felt when I finally saw my words in print in an actual perfect bound book with my title, my name and artwork that I chose held in my hands.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
Don’t cut corners just to get your book out there. Producing a quality book will bring about a greater satisfaction to both you and your readers.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I’d like to suggest to my peers a caution that I also remind myself of everyday as I move forward in the writing world. Have patience! It takes time for a book to take hold. Take pleasure in the small successes that come from the positive comments you receive from the readers that enjoy your book. Persevere!
Thanks so much for your inspirational words Terri! Good luck with your book sales!
Do need assistance marketing and selling your self-published book online? Check out the free marketing we offer self-published authors at www.jexbo.com or send me a note. I can help! Thanks!
Tell us about your self-published book.
My book is a fiction novel entitled “Mirrored Minds” and was written under the pen name of Terri Lee (my first and middle names). The book is currently available in independently owned bookstores in Grand Rapids and on my website at www.mirroredminds.com. It will soon be available at Borders, Waldenbooks and more through my distributor, Partners Book Distributing Inc., Holt Michigan.
The book’s main character is Madelyn Grayson who has lost her family as well as her memory in a tragic accident. Madelyn’s struggle with her unknown past ultimately forces her to make a choice - should she continue trying to recapture her former self or forge ahead with a new beginning? Her life unfolds within the text culminating in an unpredictable twist.
Why did you decide to self-publish?
My decision to self-publish came about through conversations with other writers on social networking sites and from reading blogs and articles appearing on the Internet. Furthermore, I felt the time it would take to query numerous agents would further delay getting my book out in the market, and I was anxious to place it in the hands of readers.
What was your biggest challenge to overcome in self-publishing your book and why?
I thought my biggest challenge came in educating myself in the processes of the publishing world, establishing resources I could trust to edit, provide cover art/photography, graphic design and print manufacturing while keeping my costs reasonable. Now, I believe my biggest challenge exists in changing the minds of the public who still seem to view self-published novels as a grade below books distributed through traditional publishing companies.
What has been the best part about self-publishing your book and why?
The best part of self-publishing has been the gratification I felt when I finally saw my words in print in an actual perfect bound book with my title, my name and artwork that I chose held in my hands.
What advice do you have for other writers who are self-publishing their book?
Don’t cut corners just to get your book out there. Producing a quality book will bring about a greater satisfaction to both you and your readers.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I’d like to suggest to my peers a caution that I also remind myself of everyday as I move forward in the writing world. Have patience! It takes time for a book to take hold. Take pleasure in the small successes that come from the positive comments you receive from the readers that enjoy your book. Persevere!
Thanks so much for your inspirational words Terri! Good luck with your book sales!
Do need assistance marketing and selling your self-published book online? Check out the free marketing we offer self-published authors at www.jexbo.com or send me a note. I can help! Thanks!
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!
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