Kelly Speaks, news from the self publishing world, self publishing news, Uncategorized

Self-Publishing News: 8.7.2017

august

And now for the news!

Some highlights from this month in the world of self-publishing, specifically news from or regarding self-publishing companies!

The Kobo eReader is not quite the market force it used to be; these days, in a market crowded with both high-quality dedicated e-readers (think of the Kindle, the KindleFire, and the Nook) and high-quality tablets with e-reader capabilities (think of the iPad and the Samsung Galaxy Tabs) it is more or less impossible to reach dominance. The Kobo has been in trouble for a while, but now, as  writes in his August 4th piece for GOOD E-READER, “Many users have reported that the vast majority of e-books that were made available in PDF were Freebies”–which more or less renders them unprofitable for Kobo to stock. The company may be re-evaluating its offerings and tightening up loose ends in order to make for a more profitable fiscal quarter; the associated self-publishing platform, Kobo Writing Life, has been rumored to be struggling to find new ways to compete with other similar services. By “no longer […] offering PDF files to download from their online store” it may be possible to promote non-PDF books on which they can actually make a profit. The changes will go into effect by November 1, 2017–and you can watch the GOOD E-READER blog for updates!

outskirts press one click children's

Well, here’s some good news, at last, and it comes to us courtesy of this recent addition to PRWeb.com! Throughout the month of August, Outskirts Press, a well-reviewed self-publishing company based out of Colorado, will be providing “extra motivation [for authors] to realize their publishing dreams: $300 toward the product or service of their choice. Throughout the month of August, authors who publish using either the Ultimate or Full-Color publishing package will receive $300 promotional credit to spend as they wish.” And wishes, apparently, may consist of professional copy editing, digital editions, custom book cover designs, time with one of their Personal Marketing Assistants, a carefully-planned-out PR Publicist Campaign, the production of high-quality promotional materials, and access to optional publishing package upgrades, such as their Hardback Format, Espresso Edition, and Amazon Kindle Edition services. As noted above, eligibility is predicated on the purchase of one of their Ultimate or Full-Color publishing packages, so if you’ve been thinking of going indie this month, there might just be extra incentive to go with Outskirts Press!

In case you were at risk for thinking self-publishing was a strictly Western tradition with Western problems, here’s a fantastic article from Dakarai Mashava of Zimbabwe’s Daily News, published yesterday–on the challenges facing publishers there and potential ways to combat them! In a country where street vendors are more common than they are in America, says Mashava, “Some leadings writers say book publishers should work with street book vendors as a part of efforts to bring the prices of books down.” Mashava goes on to discuss the history and present state of book piracy, which at present is seen as “one of the key problems undermining the viability of the local book industry.” No matter where you live, piracy is a problem, and the local market is, in fact, the first and primary market that self-publishing authors must master in order to sell their books. Mashava interviews both Monica Cheru-Mpambawashe (author and vice chairperson of the Zimbabwe Writers Association) and Lawrence Hoba (author) and cites the opinions of novelist Tinashe Muchuri, playwright Aaron Chiundura Moyo, and Zimbabwe Publishing House (ZPH) CEO Blazio Tafireyi to enrich our understanding of the current situation in Harare and throughout Zimbabwe, a country known for its diverse and thriving literary scene. Moyo, specifically, expands upon its implications for self-publishing authors there: “The situation is worse […] because they don’t have enough money to print as many copies at a low cost which they can supply to vendors,” Mashava quotes him as saying. For more of this fascinating story, you can read Mashava’s article on the Daily News website!

spa-news

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 Monday to find out the hottest news. If you have other big news to share, please comment below.
Kelly
ABOUT KELLY SCHUKNECHT: Kelly Schuknecht is the Executive 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, kellyschuknecht.com.
Conversations with a Self-Publishing Writer, Royalene Speaks, Uncategorized

Conversations: 8/4/2017

S. O. S. – Writers Need Help, Too.

Becoming a published author is a commitment—a big commitment—and for many of us it has been a lifetime goal. I took my first adult writing class in the mid-1970s. (You’re trying to guess my age now, aren’t you?) The instructor was in her sixties and just beginning a career in writing that she’d put on hold while raising her family. Her example of NEVER giving up on the dream of writing has continued to inspire me to this very day. She is now 103 years young and still writing! However, even with her constant encouragement there were times when I never thought I world (or could) call myself a “real writer.”

First: I’d like to share my personal definition of a writer: a person who thinks and enjoys the process of discovering more, then literally must write about it. This person is filled with words that seem to spontaneously combust in the imagination and, again, must be written; then comes the moment of illumination that leads toward a writing career and authorship.

Second: We know we’re “real writers” when our immediate environment—school, family, faith and friends—hone our perspectives (plural) and nudge us toward a particular genre. Eventually, every detail of daily life becomes a potential element in what we utilize to express what we see in words, phrases, sentences and paragraphs on the written page.

However, when all of this natural ability meets real-world expectations, I’ve seen too many “real writers” set aside their talents—and their amazing work now boxed on closet shelves—and give up. That’s when I want to shake them by the shoulders and say, “GET TO your keyboard and FIGHT! Pull out your favorite piece and talk to another writer about it! Go to a writers’ conference and just listen to all the other writers who have experienced what you’re going through—then ask for their help!”

ARE YOU THE REAL WRITER WHO HAS STOPPED WRITING? Are you the “real writer” who is embarrassed to ask for help? Please listen to what I’m sharing in my blogs this month!

Every writer on this planet has experienced these same thoughts and feelings—and many of them are now utilizing their writing talents and publishing expertise to help the rest of us. Not long ago, when talking with a publishing consultant (who also happens to be a gifted writer) her words of encouragement made me think of what John F. Kennedy said when speaking to graduating students at Rice University (1962).

“We choose to go to the moon” [to be writers]. “…not because it is easy, but because it is hard, because that goal will serve to organize and measure the best of our energies and skills, because that challenge is one that we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone, and one which we intend to win.”

Now you know something else about me. I enjoy finding positive quotes that speak to me, personally, and hopefully will inspire others. That’s one of my little tricks to keep myself motivated and moving forward instead of looking back. Then, when other writers ask for my help, I can not only share practical assistance, but inspiring words.  So, I’ll close with one more quote from a favorite author, Ray Bradbury.

“Go to the edge of the cliff and jump off. Build your wings on the way down.” 

bradbury

 

⚓︎

 

Royalene

ABOUT ROYALENE DOYLE: Royalene has been writing something since before kindergarten days and continues to love the process. Through her small business—DOYLE WRITING SERVICES—she brings more than 40 years of writing experience to authors who need “just a little assistance” with completing their projects. This is a nice fit as she develops these blogs for Outskirts Press (OP) a leading self-publisher, and occasionally accepts a ghostwriting project from one of their clients. Her recent book release (with OP) titled FIREPROOF PROVERBS, A Writer’s Study of Words, is already receiving excellent reviews including several professional writer’s endorsements given on the book’s back cover.
Royalene’s writing experience grew through a wide variety of positions from Office Manager and Administrative Assistant to Teacher of Literature and Advanced Writing courses and editor/writer for an International Christian ministry. Her willingness to listen to struggling authors, learn their goals and expectations and discern their writing voice has brought many manuscripts into the published books arena.
Choosing a Publisher, elizabeth speaks, in your corner, Uncategorized

In Your Corner: Choosing a Quality Publisher

You’ve spent absolutely ages writing your book, and now it’s as perfect as it gets! Why choose a sub-par publisher who’s just going to mess it up—or worse, betray your trust—by providing a sub-par final product?

Here’s the thing: no one in their right minds does make that choice—at least, not knowingly. And there’s the rub! Sub-par publishers sometimes give off a very real impression that they’re anything but. Sometimes, they’re more convincing than the bonafide deal, the companies which are legitimate and will treat you right, but struggle to stand out in a marketplace crowded by phones, vanity presses, and other publishers who’re like as not prepared to milk you for every dollar you have, and satisfy their obligations by producing the bare minimum in terms of quality product.

In a sense, you’re in a double-bind as a self-publishing company! The onus should be on the publisher to provide the best possible product they can with the funds available … but because it’s difficult for regulators to enforce this—and because publishing, especially self-publishing remains ahead of the curve in regards to legislative oversight*—the reality is that you, the author, are ultimately the one person you can trust to make sure you get the best deal possible.

* One day legislation may in fact catch up to the ever-evolving products and services which have risen along with the Internet, but that day is not today.

decision making

You want a quality publisher who will give your book the attention that it deserves.  How to ensure this happens?

  1. Spend time researching your publishing options.
  2. Learn what your publisher will do for you before your book is published, while your book is published and after your book is published.
  3. Think through what’s important to you and what you need (as opposed to those nice things you really, really want but can get by without).
  4. If you need someone available to help you, be sure you choose a publisher that offers help and support.
  5. If you know you need an amazing cover design, choose a publisher that offers a custom-designed cover. Same goes for marketing services, formatting, and everything else. Do you have the necessary skills? No? Make sure your publisher does—and for a reasonable price.
  6. Don’t turn your book over to just anyone. Your book is your book, not something you can afford to let anyone else ruin.

You’ve spent the time getting it just right … and now it’s time to find that company which will treat your book with the dignity and respect it deserves. Not to mention, which will treat you the same way.

You are not alone. ♣︎

Elizabeth

ABOUT ELIZABETH JAVOR: With over 18 years of experience in sales and management, Elizabeth Javor works as the Manager of Author Services for Outskirts Press. The Author Services Department is composed of knowledgeable publishing consultants, pre-production specialists, customer service reps and book marketing specialists; together, they all focus on educating authors on the self-publishing process 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, Elizabeth Javor can put you on the right path.
Self-Publishing Book Review of the Week, Uncategorized, weekly self published book review

Tuesday Book Review: “The Still Sad Music”

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:

the still sad music shawn merritt

The Still Sad Music

by Shawn Merritt

Publisher: Outskirts Press

ISBN: 9781478787570

Synopsis*:

The Still Sad Music, resembling in style works by James Joyce, Virginia Woolf, and F. Scott Fitzgerald, is a gripping novel about the erratic life of Jeffrey Killingsworth, a fascinating, tragic figure who essentially staggers through life victimized by misfortune, persecuted by mental illness, and ravaged by drug addiction. In a state of constant crisis, Jeffrey is forced to consider several different lifestyles that will all produce very different results. Will he escape the madness? Will he choose to live cleanly and learn to cope with his misfortunes or will he continue to numb the pain with drugs and ultimately die for his addiction?

 * courtesy of Amazon.com

Featured Review:

The Still Sad Music documents the erratic life of Jeffrey Killingsworth, a fascinating, tragic figure who staggers through life victimized by misfortune, persecuted by mental illness, and ravaged by drug addiction. In a state of constant crisis, Jeffrey is forced to consider several different lifestyles that will all produce very different results. Will he escape the madness? Will he choose to live cleanly and learn to cope with his misfortunes, or will he continue to numb the pain with drugs and ultimately die for his addiction?
Author Shawn Merritt is currently enrolled in the English Literature PhD program at Georgia State University, and will graduate at the end of spring 2018. The Still Sad Music, his debut novel, is a dark and enthralling tale reminiscent in style of James Joyce, Virginia Woolf, and F. Scott Fitzgerald.

reviewed by Asli Fratarcangeli of Yah Gotta Read This

 

Here’s what some other reviewers are saying:

I thought the book was excellent, an exciting emotional roller coaster, with great character development and a theme that impacts one’s soul.

– Amazon Reviewer

Powerful,riveting, very well written. I highly recommend. It will touch your soul.

– Amazon Reviewer

Book Trailer

tuesday book review

Thanks for reading!  Keep up with the latest in the world of indie and self-published books by watching this space!

Self Publishing Advisor

selfpubicon1

Uncategorized

Self-Publishing News: 7.31.2017 – July Round-Up

And now for the news!

Some highlights from this month in the world of self-publishing, wrapping up what’s new for you and yours in July 2017.

Self-publishing is a process, one that can transform lives–and this is what Maggie Bowers’ article this week in the Newnan Times-Herald affirms, as it chronicles the experience of author Angie Gallion. Gallion, who elected to self-publish her first three novels–Intoxic, Purgus and Icara–speaks to the stigma often associated with indie books (“‘It has gotten a bad reputation because there really are people who use the option just for fun […] There are unedited and badly written books out there.'”) as well as the benefits (“There is also a world of ‘undiscovered’ amazing writers worth reading, Gallion said, and she is proud to be a part of that group.”) before Bowers moves on to include another author in the conversation, columnist Lee St. John. We love what St. John has to say about going indie!

‘I enjoy meeting newbies who are also trying to understand this business,’ St. John said. ‘We share and support each other because we know how hard it is to be even somewhat successful. Success to me, as a humorist, is reading my stories in groups and watching the laughter erupt.’

Kudos to St. John, Gallion, and their ever-evolving writer’s community. You can find the rest of Bowers’ article, including St. John’s reflections on the challenges of self-publishing, online at the Newnan Times-Herald.

Novelists aren’t the only ones moving away from traditional publishing methods and exploring the wilds of self-publishing–comic writers and artists are, as well! So declares Cam Petti in his piece for Adventures in Poor Taste (AIPT), a popular go-to website for purveyors of comics, graphic novels, gaming concepts, film and television bytes, as well as general pop culture commentary. Petti, for context, is writer and co-creator of the comic Skeleton Bay Detective Agency, where he is backed-up by artist Taylor Carlise and colorist Brittany Peer. In this article–the fifth, as you will notice, in a series–Petti unpacks the process of getting their first comic out there in the world, sans traditional comic publisher. Not only is this piece a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of the comic-making industry–which has always been a fluid and adaptive place–but it’s a rousing affirmation of the values which lead many of us into self-publishing to begin with, and the talent and elbow grease required to get us out on the other side of the forest. Come for the comic process, and stay for Petti’s insights into Kickstarter vs. Patreon vs. the world! You can find the whole article at the link.

To end the month on a note of dark humor, we bring you our last piece for the week: Jonathan Kile’s bleakly hilarious foray into the world of vanity presses who remind him of those Nigerian (or Ivory Coast, or et cetera) scammers which offer to arrange X in order to give you Y ridiculous amount of money. But of course, as Admiral Akbar warns, always remember:

general ackbar it's a trap

Alright, that’s our meme out of the way for the day. But in all seriousness, Kile’s piece is both useful and revelatory. He debunks some of the myths of self-publishing (“Self publishing is about retaining control over these steps. It’s work and it takes time, practice, repetition, and likely a few books to become successful”) and points readers toward useful resources (including the latest Author Earnings report).  He reminds readers that it’s okay–more than okay, encouraged!–to seek out specialized assistance on those elements of your book you’re not quite skillful enough to practiced enough to make look professional, like the cover art and jacket design. But he also comes down hard on vanity presses who promise the moon and can’t deliver, who outsource their advertising, outreach, and support to unscrupulous call centers, and who ultimately seem about as legitimate as my cat.

So basically, don’t spend money on something which doesn’t bring in good reviews, or which stinks of scam artists looking to make a buck. This might seem like common sense, but as Kile warns, sometimes authors are just desperate or inexperienced enough to fall for the ruse. Catch up on all his thoughts on the matter at Creative Loafing, and do your due diligence!

spa-news

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 Monday to find out the hottest news. If you have other big news to share, please comment below.
Kelly
ABOUT KELLY SCHUKNECHT: Kelly Schuknecht is the Executive 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, kellyschuknecht.com.