Authorship is more than writing a book, just as parenting is more than giving birth.
Way too many people dive into the world of publishing without understanding the industry and their responsibility as a published author. At least, parents have life experiences, models/examples, mentors and so forth to help them through the difficult process of parenting a child. Some of them even take courses and read books and articles on parenting. Most of them also hang out with other parents of same-age children and pick-up tips from moms and dads in the trenches.
Unless you’ve been embedded in the publishing industry at some level, however, the only things you know about it are probably what you read in major and local newspapers—Such-and-such a resident has just published a book; book signing scheduled. Or you might read that another bookstore has closed, there’s an increase in books published each year or you’ll spot an ad for a local publisher who will publish your wonderful book for a fee.
Most authors know nothing about book promotion or even that it is necessary to promote your book. They come into the business expecting to be celebrity authors right out of the chute. The reality of the publishing industry affects different authors in different ways. Once they get involved and discover what is expected/required of them, if they desire some level of success, there are generally two responses. While some of them step up to the plate and begin studying the publishing industry and start pursuing authorship as a business instead of a right to passage, others refuse to conform. Can you guess which of these authors will succeed?
Are you in the process of writing a book for publication or are considering it? Don’t spoil your chances of success. Start NOW learning the ropes.
- Join writers’ groups and organizations and mingle with other authors.
- Pursue the resources and information provided through these means.
- Subscribe to meaningful newsletters and magazines.
- Educate yourself by reading books on the topic by professionals, attending writers’ conferences and other lectures.
- Pursue your own research.
- Frequent informative blog sites designed for authors.
- Have your book professionally edited before even thinking about publishing it.
Start by reading Publish Your Book, Proven Strategies and Resources for the Enterprising Author by Patricia Fry. This book is available at Amazon.com in print, audio and Kindle. Or order the print version here: http://www.matilijapress.com/PublishYourBook.html
Klepto Cat Mystery Series Update
If you’re ready for a break and want a light, fun read—download my Klepto Cat Mystery series for your Kindle. Although each book in the series is a stand-alone book, you might enjoy reading them in order—Catnapped, Cat-Eye Witness and then Sleight of Paw. If you’ve already read all three, watch for Undercover Cat to be published soon. If you enjoyed reading these books, please post a review at Amazon.