Month: October 2011

Cheri Speaks

The One Thing Every New Author Should Do

Publishing a book can a be scary process. There are so many decisions that impact the success of your book: cover illustrations, price, distribution channels, marketing efforts, etc. The good news is that you don’t have to make these decisions alone, and you can get helpful advice for free. (Yes, free.) All you have to do is talk to other writers. Most authors will eagerly share their advice and experiences because they understand how confusing the publishing process can be and they know how exciting it is to see your book in print. Here are a few questions you should ask as you begin the publishing process.

What were your goals?

What did you find helpful?

What do you wish you had done differently? The same?

How did you decide to [insert your topic of choice]?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Learn everything you can about their books and publishing experience. It will help you as you make decisions throughout the publishing process.

To find a published writer, look for people in your writing groups or writing classes. You can also reach out to local writers, and ask to talk with them. Most authors will be flattered that you value their opinion and will enthusiastically answer your questions. Good luck!

Cheri Breeding ABOUT CHERI BREEDING:
Since 2005 Cheri Breeding has been working as the Director of Production for Outskirts Press. In that time, she has been an instrumental component of every aspect of the Production Department, performing the roles of an Author Representative, Book Designer, Customer Service Representative, Title Production Supervisor, Production Manager and, Director of Production. She brings all that experience and knowledge, along with an unparalleled customer-service focus, to help self-publishing authors reach high-quality book publication more efficiently, professionally, and affordably.
Wendy Speaks

A Summary of Frankfurt Book Fair 2011

Frankfurt Book Fair is the biggest book and media fair in the world, with over 7,500 exhibitors from more than 110 countries. This year’s event took place from October 12 to 16. Here are a few of the highlights from the 2011 event.

The Tools of Change Conference talked about the importance of e-books and social media marketing. Click here to read the full story in Publishers Weekly.

Macmillan Bello and Curtis Brown announced that they will be publishing several out-of-print books in a digital format. Click here to see the full story featured on The Guardian.

Tons of publishing professionals attended this year’s conference. Click here to read about one agent’s experience.

And the good best news for authors and other publishing professionals… The fair was upbeat despite the struggling economy. Click here to read the story by The Bookseller.

 

ABOUT WENDY STETINA:
Wendy Stetina is a sales and marketing professional with over 30 years experience in the printing and publishing industry. Wendy works as the Director of Author Services for Outskirts Press. The Author Services Department is composed of knowledgeable customer service reps and publishing consultants; and together, they all focus on educating authors on the self-publishing process in order to help them publish the book of their dreams. Whether you are a professional looking to take your career to the next level with platform-driven non-fiction, or a novelist seeking fame, fortune, and/or personal fulfillment, Wendy Stetina can put you on the right path.
Self-Publishing Book Review of the Week

Self-Publishing Weekly Book Review: Love Child

Book reviews are a great way for self-publishing authors to gain exposure. After all, how can someone buy your book if they don’t know it exists? Paired with other elements of your book promotion strategy, requesting reviews is a great way to get people talking about what you’ve written.

When we read good reviews, we definitely like to share them. It gives the author a few (permanent) moments of fame and allows us to let the community know about a great book. Here’s this week’s book review by Midwest Book Review:

Love Child

A.M. Torres

 Publisher: Outskirts Press

ISBN: 9781432764111

When life is violent, it can be hard to continue on. “Love Child” follows the tragedy of Tommy as he copes with his suicidal, depressed mother and the abuse that is entering his life as he finds himself under the control of a cruel relative. Seeking to protect his sister from the brutality of it all, Tommy sees no end in sight. A tragic story of standing up for oneself and his loved ones, “Love Child” is a fine and very much recommended read.

Book Marketing, Book Promotion, Book Signings, Kelly Speaks

Frankfurt Book Fair 2011

Book fairs are a great way to promote your book and learn about the publishing industry. Frankfurt Book Fair begins today, October 12th, and lasts until October 16th.

The Frankfurt Book Fair has over 7,300 exhibitors and approximately 290,000 visitors. The exhibitors and visitors travel from over 100 countries to attend more than 3,000 events occurring at the book fair.

The Frankfurt Book Fair is a great place to make deals and establish or develop contacts. The event features seminars, conferences, readings and much more.

For information on attending the event, please visit http://www.frankfurt-book-fair.com/en/.

Also, if you are a visitor or exhibitor at the Frankfurt Book Fair, I’d love to hear about your experience. Please share your comments below.

ABOUT KELLY SCHUKNECHT:
Kelly Schuknecht works as the Vice President of Outskirts Press.  In addition to her contributions to the Outskirts Press blog at blog.outskirtspress.com, Kelly and a group of talented marketing experts offer book marketing services, support, and products to not only published Outskirts Press authors, but to all authors and professionals who are interested in marketing their books and/or careers. Learn more about Kelly on her blog at http://kellyschuknecht.com.
Book Marketing, Cheri Speaks

How to Choose A Genre for Your Book

Once you decide to publish your book, you must choose a genre. This sounds like an easy decision, but it can be one of the most confusing for new authors. Below are six tips to help you choose a genre that will make your book successful.

Wait Until the Manuscript is Finished

Many authors want to decide the genre of their book when they begin working on their manuscript. However, our books  often take on lives of their own and turn out different from what we expected. For instance, you may  start out writing an adult novel but later realize that it would be a great read for young adults. Don’t try to label your book to soon. Trust the creative process.

For Once, General is Better

You may think that a specific genre will help you market your book, but this is one case where general is better. If you choose a genre that is too specific, you may discourage certain buyers from purchasing your book. Don’t limit your readers by being too specific.

Think of Key Words

In today’s world of technology, readers often find books by searching key words. Consider who you want to find your book. What would they type into a search engine? However, don’t let this confuse you will being overly specific.  You want to pick a genre that is effective but not limiting.

You Can Choose More Than One

Many publishers let you choose up to three genres. The first one should be general: fiction or non-fiction. The second and third can be more specific. For instance, you may label your book as Fiction – Mystery or Fiction – Young Adult.

Search Online

Visit the websites of online retailers and search the genre you are considering for your book. Would you want your book placed next to these titles? What does your book have in common with these titles? How is it different from these titles?

Talk to Someone at Your Local Bookstore and Other Authors

The people who work at your local bookstore are up-to-date on publishing trends and can offer great advice when you are considering a genre for your book. Also, ask other authors about their experiences. It is always beneficial to seek tips from published authors. They can provide insight that no class or book can offer.

Cheri Breeding ABOUT CHERI BREEDING:
Since 2005 Cheri Breeding has been working as the Director of Production for Outskirts Press. In that time, she has been an instrumental component of every aspect of the Production Department, performing the roles of an Author Representative, Book Designer, Customer Service Representative, Title Production Supervisor, Production Manager and, Director of Production. She brings all that experience and knowledge, along with an unparalleled customer-service focus, to help self-publishing authors reach high-quality book publication more efficiently, professionally, and affordably.