A lot has changed since I started writing for publication over 35 years ago. Let me count the ways:
• There are more people writing books and seeking publication than ever before—so more competition.
• There are more options for authors who want to publish.
• You’ll also find more people offering a wider variety of services in all areas of publishing and not all of them are qualified.
• Authors are almost totally responsible for promoting and selling their own books.
• There is an increase in the number of people charging for book reviews.
• There’s at least one pay-to-publish company that is providing ghostwriting services.
• Some magazines now charge freelancers to place articles in their publications.
• A larger percentage of published books never see the inside of a bookstore.
• The amount of shelf life for a book in a bookstore has decreased significantly.
• There are many more options for book promotion than ever before.
What changes have you noticed since you’ve been involved in publishing? Which ones are most detrimental or most beneficial to the forward motion of your project?
From my perspective, I’m pleased that so many more people are able to live their dreams of publishing a book or seeing their articles/stories published. And I like that the competition has encouraged/forced writers to produce even better material and more professional products. The fact that we have more options is positive. HOWEVER, I believe that the overall effect of the influx of writers and authors has weakened the system some.
While quality has improved in some arenas, it has, for the most part, declined. While there are some wonderfully professional services being offered, there are more authors and writers being ripped off by unqualified, unskilled Johnny and Jill come-latelys.
And this is why publishing professionals are working harder than ever to educate newer authors as they enter into the publishing realm with their beloved projects. It is more important than ever that you heed the “author beware” signs that are flashing everywhere along your publishing path. It’s up to you to sidestep the landmines. How? Education. And never sign a contract that you don’t understand. Also, believe only what is in the contract. What someone says to you outside the contract may not be valid. If it is important, have them write it into the contract.
Maybe you’ve been scammed by someone within the publishing industry. Or maybe you dove into a contract without the proper amount of research. I’d like to hear your story. Email me PLFry620@yahoo.com. Or leave a comment at this blog. Just click on the “comment” link.
Please, if you are new to publishing—you are in the process of writing your first book, you are thinking about writing a book or your first book failed, arm yourself with knowledge. Order my book—which received dozens of 5-star reviews from the reviewers and multitudes of positive testimonials from readers. The Right Way to Write, Publish and Sell Your Book.
http://www.matilijapress.com/rightway.html
Catscapades Update
You all seem to enjoy hearing what’s going on with my latest book, Catscapades, True Cat Tales. So here is my update: I dropped a copy off at our local library yesterday. The librarian was thrilled and a patron went bonkers. I gave the patron a few promotional postcards to hand out to friends.
I took a copy by our best natural pet store and the owner started planning a catered wine and cheese event where I will sign the books.
Yesterday, also, a couple of friends and even one of my daughters emailed me to say, “I loved it. You’re right, it made me laugh and it made me cry.” “The stories are so real and so touching.” “I was reminded of my treasured cats over the years and I just couldn’t stop smiling.”
Check out this book at http://www.matilijapress.com/catscapades.html