Author: selfpublishingadvisor

Self-Publishing Book Review of the Week

Weekly Self Published Book Review: Wally Wander

Book reviews are a great way for self-publishing authors to gain exposure. After all, how can someone buy your book if he or she doesn’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:

wally wonder

Wally Wander

NovaMelia

Publisher: Outskirts Press

ISBN: 9781432779108

“Wally Wander” by NovaMelia is the story of Wally. Precocious as a child, Wally grows up with a family who has a lot of issues. Her mother has Parkinson’s and believes that the refrigerator talks to her. A niece has Asperger’s Syndrome and has played a role in a huge family secret. Wally lives in her own world. No matter what situation her family hands to her, whether it is being shipped off to live with relatives as a child, or being put in a nursing home as an adult, Wally makes the best of each situation. Her perceptions of reality help hold her together during the times that most people would fall apart.

A family tragedy and family secrets have more of an effect on Wally’s life than she realizes. As an adult when pieces of a puzzle start falling into place, she gains a greater understanding of her family and realizes why certain things had to happen the way that they did. Wally’s own eccentricities show that she has inherited some of her family’s genetic predispositions. It doesn’t really matter to her because no matter what she will continue to go with the flow.

I enjoyed reading “Wally Wander” by NovaMelia. This novel is something out of the ordinary and I think readers will enjoy it for its uniqueness. The characters are eccentric but still likeable. There were many times where I found myself pitying Wally and the circumstances that life handed her, yet because of her strong character she didn’t let it hold her back. This perseverance gave me a great deal of admiration for her character. I think that “Wally Wander” would make a great selection for an English class or a reader’s group. I think that it will generate many interesting discussions and I would find it interesting to hear other reader’s perceptions about the story.

Kelly Speaks, Self-Publishing Week in Review

Self-Publishing Week in Review: 11/19/13

As a self-publishing author, you may find it helpful to stay up-to-date on the trends and news related to the self-publishing industry. This will help you make informed decisions before, during and after the self-publishing process, which will lead to a greater self-publishing experience. To help you stay current on self-publishing topics, simply visit our blog every Tuesday to find out the hottest news.

Self-publishing can be fun, and (for some) even profitable

This article discusses self publishing trends as well as the options available to those considering self-publishing. The author also covers important topics such as finding an audience and selling your book.
In this interview, Pastor James E. Parker talks about how self-publishing is changing the art world for the better. He shares his own self-publishing experience as well as his opinions on the publishing industry. It is an interesting read for anyone considering self-publishing.
The self-publishing industry is continuing to grow. According to Bowker, the market is up 59% compared to last year.
The Self-Publishing Book Expo marked its fifth anniversary Saturday at the Hotel Pennsylvania in New York City . The event featured panels, workshops, and addresses, as well as a host of exhibitors.

If you have other big news to share, please comment below.

ABOUT KELLY SCHUKNECHT: Kelly Schuknecht is 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.
Conversations with a Self-Publishing Writer, Royalene Speaks, Uncategorized

Friday Conversations With A Self-Publishing Writer 11/15/13

I love the concept of self-publishing!  Since I’ve been connected with my publishing staff, I’ve learned a lot and have been encouraged as if I was their only client.  Then, when mentioning my hope to branch out into children’s book writing, their genuine excitement renewed my enthusiasm and gave me the needed-nudge to move forward.  I felt sure that my stories are good, and a few other folks think so, too.  Then came possibly the best advice I’ve had so far, “When you talk with our illustrators, talk visually.”

I’ve known for a long time—and practiced—writing with visual/descriptive language is important.  It is important for me that my readers are given the best opportunity to see the scene as clearly as I have imagined it.  However, I’m not the best verbal communicator.  Talking with an illustrator whose creative language is art has become quite a challenge.  How can I be specific enough so that an artist understands my version of a “joyful expression”?  How will I share my vision of my character’s constant “happiness,” even after a scary event?  How many levels of the visual concept of “subdued color” are there?

So recently, I’ve gone to the internet bookstores for more examples.  I’ve looked at the covers and first pages of dozens of children’s books and when I come across something that speaks to what I’m hoping to develop, I’m writing out my descriptions of what I see “illustrated.”  I am also making note of the book title and author to share with my illustrator.  Some of the thoughts repeated in my descriptive sentences are eyes are a focal point for main expressions; basic shapes and sizes are comparable to reality; solid colors are better for younger eyes; and, similar to the words on a written page, blank space is necessary.

I’ve also decided to consult with the person who will be my self-publishing marketing assistant for this project, as well as a friend who is a marketing director in the corporate world.  So far, two excellent suggestions have been made: 1) Think Like a Mother.  2) Research Early Childhood Learning.  When the mother is shopping, will she imagine herself reading this book to her child?  Will it “teach” something of value—something that most mom’s want their child to appreciate?  Can the parents point out basic colors and shapes?  Are the characters realistic enough for a child to begin associating the picture book image with the real thing?

Discovering all these levels of needed development for my “simple, fun” children’s story has surprised me.  But I am not discouraged.  In fact, I’m more excited about this project than ever because now I feel I’ll be able to give my grandchildren something even more valuable—something that might survive even to the next generation.

Royalene ABOUT ROYALENE DOYLE: Royalene Doyle is a Ghostwriter with Outskirts Press, bringing more than 35 years of writing experience to authors who need “just a little assistance” with completing their writing projects. She has worked with both experienced and fledgling writers helping complete projects in multiple genres. When a writer brings the passion they have for their work and combines it with Royalene’s passion to see the finished project in print, books are published and the writer’s legacy is passed forward.
Self-Publishing Book Review of the Week

Weekly Self Published Book Review: Jump-Starting Real Job Creation in America: At No Increase to the National Debt While Achieving a Balanced Annual Federal Budget Within Five Years

Book reviews are a great way for self-publishing authors to gain exposure. After all, how can someone buy your book if he or she doesn’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:

Jump-Starting Real Job Creation in America At No Increase to the National Debt While Achieving a Balanced Annual Federal Budget Within Five Years

Jump-Starting Real Job Creation in America: At No Increase to the National Debt While Achieving a Balanced Annual Federal Budget Within Five Years

Gary R. Patterson

Publisher: Outskirts Press

ISBN: 9781432780586

In “Jump-Starting Real Job Creation in America,” Gary R. Patterson presents a clear and comprehensive analysis of the complex issues facing America’s job market. He introduces the flaws in the job creation principles of both the Democrat and Republican parties in light of their current interpretation of Keynesian consumer-driven demand.
After an in-depth discussion of the issues, difficulties, status, and stance taken by politicians, Democrats and Republicans alike, Patterson demystifies the formidable interrelated economic challenges threatening the country. His analysis includes: Job creation, tax reform, entitlements, eliminating the Annual Trillion Dollar Federal Deficits and balancing the Annual Federal Budget. Once he has defined the problems, Patterson offers common sense, achievable solutions that are financially plausible, actuarially and demographically vindicated.
He explicitly suggests, a private sector job creation initiative that would reduce the financial risk of employers hiring new workers based on creating a sustained jobs creation tax credit.
Patterson’s writing is articulate, well-organized, idealistic, and authoritative with a reader-friendly format with specific topical headings within the each chapter that help the reader capture the essence of the following text. His Interpretation and communication is written simply, is thought-provoking and analytical in his signature style. There is an even flow and pace of writing which aids the reader in their understanding. Extensive footnotes and multiple tables provide detailed clarification, statistics, comparisons, and source documentation.
Gary R. Patterson provides an update for seasoned experts and students of political science and economics and a workable introduction for less experienced readers in his book “Jump-Starting Real Job Creation in America.”

Uncategorized

NaNoWriMo 2013 Check-In

It’s hard to believe, but it is already the middle of November; that means NaNoWriMo is already almost half way over! That’s right, you’re already half way done.

Today, I’d like to encourage you to check in with yourself and take a look at your NaNoWriMo progress and re-evaluate your goals. Whether you started the first half of the month strong and are struggling to stay motivated or your life prevented you from accomplishing your NaNoWriMo goals so far and you want to get back on track, this check-in will help you achieve your writing dreams.

1) Where are you at?

NaNoWriMo challenges you to write a 50,000-word novel between November 1st and November 30th. Take a look at your manuscript, and see where your word count is so far. Also, consider what other work you’ve done, such as research and brainstorming. Now, congratulate yourself on your progress. Whether you’ve completed 500 words or 25,000 words, you should be proud of yourself for working towards your goal.

2) Re-evaluate your goals.

In the beginning of NaNoWriMo, you probably set writing goals. Perhaps you set daily word count goals, or maybe you aim to write for a certain number of hours per week. With the NaNoWriMo deadline fast approaching, it is time to re-evaluate your goals. First, figure out what you have left to accomplish. Then, set new goals. If you are behind, you may need to commit more time to writing for the rest of the month.

3) Relax and write.

NaNoWriMo should be a fun challenge, so stop stressing. Grab a latte. Turn on your computer, and let your inner voice take over. You can spend all the time in the world planning and setting goals, but if you don’t actually sit down and write, you will never finish your manuscript.

I’d love to know, how is your NaNoWriMo project going?

ABOUT KELLY SCHUKNECHT: Kelly Schuknecht is 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.