Yesterday, we talked about writing contests and how sometimes the awards are not an indication of excellence. But does this mean that you should avoid entering contests with your book? Certainly not. Here’s why:
• The “award” notice pasted on the cover of the book might cause more readers to purchase it.
• If the book garners several awards, this might catch the attention of a publisher.
• An awards and accolades page at your website is impressive.
• Every time you receive an award, this gives you a reason to send press releases, place announcements in your club and organization newsletters and solicit other publicity on behalf of your book.
I’m all for anything that is legal and moral if it brings attention to your book. So go ahead and enter your book in credible contests and take advantage of the possible glory. How do you tell if a contest is credible?
1: Check with one (or more) of the warning sites:
http://www.anotherealm.com/prededitor
http://www.sfa.org/for-authors/wrier-beware
http://www.todays-woman.net/poetry-scams.html
http://www.writersweekly.com/whispers_and_warnings.php
2: Do your own Internet search to discover complaints.
3: Beware of contests that charge huge fees.
4: Do a search to discover which contests are the most prestigious. You’ll discover several directories of contests.
5: For the best possible outcome for your book, enter the most reasonable categories offered.
How many of you have won contests with your books or your unpublished manuscripts? Share your experience here. Leave your comment here or email me at PLFry620@yahoo.com