Author: selfpublishingadvisor

Choosing a Publisher, Jodee Speaks, Uncategorized

Top Four Reasons to Self-Publish: Part 4 – Rights

Last month, I did a series on the most popular questions self-publishing authors ask. The posts were such a hit, I’ve decided to do another series this month. Each week in August, I will discuss one of the top four reasons why you should self-publish your book.

This week, I’ll discuss book rights. (In case you missed the last three reasons, be sure to go back and view those posts: Control, Money, and Trade and Distribution.)

As a self-publishing author, you maintain all rights to your book. This gives authors the freedom to sell or keep the rights as they see fit. However, it is important to note that self-published books will be considered “previously published” if the author later chooses to sell the book to a traditional publisher.

Owning book rights such as translation rights and film rights can have a significant impact on an author’s profitability.

Authors who use traditional publishing firms often give up most of the book rights but are usually entitled to a small percentage of the profit if the firm sells the rights to someone else. Self-publishing authors have the opportunity to choose if and how to sell their book rights to ensure they are getting the best deal possible.

I’d love to know, how has owning the rights to your book influenced your publishing decisions?

ABOUT JODEE THAYER: With over 20 years of experience in sales and management, Jodee Thayer works as the Manager of Author Services for Outskirts Press. The Author Services Department is composed of knowledgeable customer service reps and publishing consultants; 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, Jodee Thayer can put you on the right path.
Conversations with a Self-Publishing Writer, Royalene Speaks, Uncategorized

Friday Conversations With A Self-Publishing Writer 8/23/13

 

Quite some time ago—back in the ‘90s—one of my close writing friends and I debated the benefits of mainstream publishing versus self-publishing. At that time we both walked away in agreement that the established publishing houses did, indeed, have an edge over the self-publishing presses. Yet, just recently, we discussed that issue again with the eye-opening conclusion that the self-publishing industry is winning this race big time—especially as writers find it necessary to retain control of their work.

Within our sphere of writer-acquaintances we knew of two authors who had published in the last year—one with a semi-major publishing house and one with an established self-publishing press. The “house” author had signed his contract two months shy of three years before his book reached bookstores. The ebook and online presence came along much later. The “press” author held her finished book in her hand 98-days after submitting the manuscript with immediate availability to bookstores, ebooks and online book sites.

That comparison alone has brought many new champions to the field of self-publishing. However, in the case of these two authors, the big factor for me was their levels of stress throughout the publishing process. The “press” author experienced a few hiccups over those 98 days, mainly caused by the learning curve of self-publishing terminologies. The “house” author found himself dealing with three different editors over that long period of time, each with their own “read” of how the book should be “strengthened.” He often felt as if he was defending himself and the way he had created his characters and storyline. That was major stress.

As my work with authors expands, I understand and appreciate that most writers—whether published authors or not—experience a form of travail in the creation of their works. Even though their objective is to publish, the release of those pages can be traumatic. So it has become my goal to do what I can to ease the pain.

Rarely, these days, do I recommend that an author seek out a publishing “house.” From my perspective the benefits of self-publishing far outweighs what little prestige remains in being identified with any of the mainstream publishers. The process of self-publishing is quick, almost painless, and greatly satisfying when Readers begin enjoying the author’s book and add reviews that reflect their appreciation. Plus, the freedom that comes with this quick-release self-publishing, immediately makes room for the next creative endeavor.

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: Carbaviud The Fuel For The Future

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:

the fuel for the future

Carbaviud The Fuel For The Future

Cindy Fleck Howlett

Publisher: Outskirts Press

ISBN: 9781432769017

I was excited to read this book. It was a confident feeling knowing that the author, Cindy Howlett, has been a nurse for thirty years. Certainly, she has knowledge in this area that I would want to know.

I am pretty well versed on carbohydrates, but the information in this book boasted my knowledge. Like eating protein helps burn fat (page 9); I did not know that.

The illustrations that were used throughout the book brought a clearer picture of what she was talking about and definitely enhanced the read. My grand-daughter actually picked up the book and read and enjoyed it without any influence. It’s hard to find an author who can successfully teach different age groups with the same format.

I recommend this book. It’s not a long read, but it sure is packed full of useful information to use for yourself and your loved ones. Very well done.

Kelly Speaks, Self-Publishing Week in Review

Self-Publishing Week in Review: 8/20/13

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.

Why is self-publishing still scorned by literary awards?

This reporter brings up a very interesting, and true, point: as an increasing number of self-publishing authors climb the bestseller lists, book prizes will have to rethink their entry criteria. Currently, most literary awards are closed to self-published books.

Self-Published Author Takes Two Spots in iBookstore Top 10

Supporting the point that self-publishing authors produce quality, in-demand books, this article talks about a self-published author who recently took two spots on a top 10 list. That is a major accomplishment for any author, self-published or not.

Cozy Mystery Rises on Self-Published Bestsellers List

Here is yet another self-publishing success story. This mystery author recently took three spots on MediaBistro’s Self-Published Bestsellers List. If you are planning to self-publish a book, you should frequently check out the list to stay up to date on industry trends. It is helpful to know which books readers are enjoying and what other authors are writing.

Self-published author wins $25,000 PEN prize

Sergio de la Pava’s self-published book “A Naked Singularity” recently won the PEN/Robert W Bingham award, winning the author $25,000. The Robert W Bingham prize is the most lucrative award given by PEN, and it is often awarded to writers published by small or unconventional presses that take risks on unfamiliar names.

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 8/16/13

What a joy to be completing yet another memoir!  When a ghostwriter is invited into a person’s life, it is like becoming an adopted child who just happens to have a passion for writing.  The excitement really explodes when that memoir becomes a self-published book—156 pages of adventure—true-life risk, reward, romance, beautiful moments and tears.

When I re-read last week’s blog, I couldn’t believe that I left out one significant category to consider when writing your memoir—pets!  For many people the critters in our lives become like family, maybe even closer than some family members.  Their daily walk with us—their unconditional love and acceptance—enhance our lives in varying degrees as well as bring smiles to visitors and neighbors.  So, I’ve developed a little “What my pet means to me,” list to help folks recall those little details about their pet that have added so much to their lives.

  • How did this animal come into your life?
  • If it is a dog, cat, horse, goat, pig, (etc.) what breed is it?  Was that important to you?  Why?  Why not.
  • Did this pet have a “story” before coming into your household?
  • What are the human characteristics that you see in your pet?  (loyal, courageous, shy, happy, playful, dedicated, helpful, ornery, a clown, rescuer, fearless, etc.)
  • What greeting (type of greeting) do you receive from your pet?
  • When did you first realize this special connection to your pet was more than an owner/pet relationship?
  • How would you describe that connection and its development over time?
  • What unique expression(s) or action(s) communicate this connection?
  • What events—during the life of this pet—have demonstrated this connection?  (brought you to someone who needed help; rescued you; alerted you to something you can’t explain; etc.)
  • There are now verified benefits to inviting a pet into your life.  Review these and express your personal experience with your pet as you recognize these benefits in your own life.
  • Social benefits:  Members of families feel closer to one another and generally happier; Pets are excellent topics of conversation; Friendly interaction with other people—pet owners and non-pet owners alike.
  • Physical benefits:  Calming effect, especially after a major physical event; Decreased blood pressure and stress levels; Reduction of minor health issues and/or need to see a doctor; Increase in physical activity, strength and wellness.
  • Emotional benefits:  Unique companionship after the loss of a family member or close friend; Less depression, anxiety and fear; A consistent uplifting effect that carries over to a willingness to step beyond ourselves and help others.

Although yet-to-be-completed, I have one client who is using this list to write a book dedicated to her best friend—a dog whose breed will remain unidentified until the whole story is lived, written, edited and self-published.  This author often tells me that she knows that God, Himself, sent this animal into her life for many purposes and, “some (if not most) of those purposes just might bless other people, too.”

These types of projects are just one of the many reasons I love working with self-publishing authors.  What they reveal are the moments in life when a person actually stops, identifies and shares the beautiful things in life—the gifts that enrich us and bring us joy.

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.