Tag: conversations

Conversations with a Self-Publishing Writer, Royalene Speaks, Uncategorized

Conversations: 9/1/2017 (on Labor Day!)

SEPTEMBER HOLIDAYS CELEBRATE WRITERS!

Labor Day

Many years ago, at a writing workshop, one of the author/speakers shared the following words, which continue to inspire me today: When no one is watching, always write from your heart and with excellence; for those pages become the fruit of your labor.

Do your friends (and family) understand the labor intensive work you’re doing when you’re writing? Unless they are also writers, most folks have no clue. However, not long after I heard the above statement, I adopted the Labor Day Holiday as one of significance for me and I’ve used its history to help “other people” gain a better understanding of my profession as a WRITER. Here are a few thoughts for you to share with others, too.

labor day

  • The first Labor Day holiday was celebrated on September 5, 1882, in New York City, a highly promoted event connected to factory labor union workers who were definitely under-appreciated at the time.
  • The idea to celebrate “workingmen” and their labor quickly spread across the country and by 1885 most every industrial center across America participated.
  • The celebration of Labor Day soon expanded to workers in every physically laborious industry from laundry workers to construction and dock workers.

The component of Labor Day that speaks to me—as an author—is the basic definition: Labor Day “honors the contributions that workers have made to the strength, prosperity and well-being of their country.” It honors “the vital force of labor in the U.S. that has contributed substantially to the highest standard of living and the greatest production the world has ever known.”

Writers, and the labor we engage in on a daily basis, are absolutely part of that “vital force of labor” who make valuable contributions matching that definition to a “T.”

The greatest contribution we offer to the world is IDEAS!

  • Author Jean-Jacques Rousseau was a prolific writer in the 18th century who greatly influenced many of the writers of the U. S. Declaration of Independence.
  • Benjamin Franklin’s writings not only influenced the early U.S. colonies (politically) but gave clear ideas for the development of the Postal Service
  • Thomas Paine in his books, The Rights of Man and Common Sense, continue to contribute to the “prosperity and well-being” of the world.
  • George Orwell’s novel, 1984, remains a best seller today as it offers a thought-provoking “what if” scenario.

YOUR WRITING LABORS are producing more IDEAS right now. Whether in the genre of Memoir, like Anne Frank (The Diary of a Young Girl) or the realm of other worlds like Ray Bradbury (Fahrenheit 451) and C.S. Lewis (The Narnia Chronicles), the writing we accomplish today will sow ideas into the future for generations yet unborn.

I am often asked why I believe so much in self-publishing and the answer I offer contains all of what I’m sharing today. I believe every writer is inspired to create the specific piece they’re working on. However, traditional publishing simply takes TOO LONG to get books “in print,” their selection process DROPS TOO MANY excellent authors, and their books have a finite lifespan. With the support of self-publishing presses our books can literally STAY IN PRINT, period. ⚓︎

 

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.
Conversations with a Self-Publishing Writer, Royalene Speaks, Self-Publishing, Uncategorized

Conversations: 8/18/2017

S. O. S. – Writers Need Help, Too – Part III

The manuscript is finished! Woo Hoo! Now you’re ready to PUBLISH! The writing was so much fun! Where do we go from here?

The “big” traditional publishing houses today literally have hundreds of back-logged books waiting for their editorial staffs to “review” manuscripts and make their changes according to the “standard” of every specific genre.

First, I NOT want my book to be changed. My editor and I have completed it just the way I want it and no other editors are required.

Second, contracts with the traditional publishers give them full latitude in selecting a book cover. Nope—I do not want that, either. I have very specific ideas for the cover design.

help wanted

So, let’s look at the options today’s self-publishers offer. Again, this will require a bit of Internet Research to find the BEST FIT for me and my book.

  • After making a list of the Self-Publishing companies that look best to me I begin calling their main telephone lines and asking to speak to a Publishing Consultant.
    • I compare the publishing consultant to a National Park Service trail guide who, before I embark on my highly anticipated journey, will give me the “lay of the land.”
    • This person will walk me through the pros and cons of each publishing option available within their specific company.
    • He/she listens to what my manuscript is about and guides me to the best options for my particular manuscript needs.

The best Publishing Consultant I’ve ever enjoyed working with literally held my client’s hand through the whole start-up process. Her conversations with him extended over several weeks, which is exactly what he needed in order to make the best decisions for his book(s). She looked at the initial manuscript pages we submitted, listened to my client’s purpose for writing the book, and guided us to the very best options, which included personal cover design, extra help with photography placements, and layout design. My client gave her rave reviews in a letter to company’s owner.

Even though I sincerely believe that most of my clients would develop ulcers if they attempted to publish totally independently, to be fair, I will also mention the self-publishing “tools” to be considered. They include: Amazon’s CreateSpace and Kindle Direct Publishing, Barnes & Noble’s PubIt, Smashwords, and others. IF a client has little or no financial support for their writing efforts, or they have something short they want to publish—something that will possibly attract Readers to their major book(s)—I believe these are good options to consider. However, there is no Publishing Consultant to walk you through this forest.

Working with a Self-Publishing Company, and their publishing staff of experts, is (in my opinion) the best option for today’s authors. If finances are a concern, many have “gift cards” available (given by supportive family and friends) which can be applied to any of the publishing needs. The helping hand of the Publishing Consultant is priceless—and is included in the publishing package you select. ⚓︎

 

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.
Conversations with a Self-Publishing Writer, Royalene Speaks, Uncategorized

Conversations: 8/11/2017

S.O.S. – Writers Need Help, Too – Part II

jump skydive

SO you’ve “jumped off the cliff” and are diligently working to complete the book that’s been humming in your brain for years! You’ve outlined the plot from beginning to end. You’ve fleshed out the characters and built intrigue into their personalities. You’ve done your research and created multiple files of information about places, things, even weather patterns. The manuscript is almost complete, but you just can’t seem to quit writing it. Something is missing. Do you put those beautifully written pages in the drawer and wait—wait for the day, week, month or year when you’ll know what’s missing and can complete it?

PLEASE—don’t file that manuscript away! You’ve already sown your heart—and many hours of your life—into those pages. Take a big breath, and seek editorial help. Yes, I’m an “editor,” and IF we’re a good match, I’d love to help you. However, the purpose of this blog is to give you a few tips in finding THAT RIGHT MATCH so that your dream of publishing this book (and future ones, too) will become reality.

  • With the speed of the Internet these days, your query to find “manuscript editors” or “writing coaches” or “writing consultants” will give many options. Warning: beware of those who call themselves superstar editors. Their fees will match their opinions of themselves.
  • If your manuscript is a specific genre, search for “best” or “excellent” editors in that genre.
  • Personally, I prefer to talk with prospective clients either in person or by telephone. This first “consult” should always be FREE. If someone wants to charge you for that time, it is a good indication that they are more interested in your $$ than assisting you complete your book.
  • BE READY to give a clear, concise, conceptual idea of your story’s theme and the main characters who will be living the story.
  • Prepare a list of questions that can be asked of each person you interview. This should include questions such as:
    • Why are you in the editing profession?
    • How many clients have you done work for; and may I speak with any of them?
    • What do you consider as your editing strengths? Weaknesses?
    • What are your fees?
  • KEEP IN MIND that, even though you’ll be hiring an editor, you’re actually building a partnership. You and the editor you select will be co-workers, and that person must share the vision you have for your work. He/she will also:
    • Make sure your storyline “flows” through the pages with clear, concisely written sentences that convey what YOU want them to say.
    • That the voice of each character speaks to the reader as you (the author) intends.
    • If the manuscript is non-fiction, they will ensure that your voice—your speaking patterns—are maintained. This is vital when you are asked to speak at book signings, conferences, etc.

Bottom line: Seeking editorial assistance is one of the best decisions writers can make. Not only does it rescue that precious piece writing from the Land of the Lost File Drawers, but it opens the path to publishing an excellent book that Readers will enjoy for generations. ⚓︎

 

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.
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.
Conversations with a Self-Publishing Writer, Royalene Speaks, Uncategorized

Conversations: 7/28/2017

IT’S JULY!

TIME TO CELEBRATE OUR FREEDOM TO WRITE! IV

My focus this month on the Freedom Legacy today’s writers have available to and for all of us has been an encouragement for me. I hope it has been for you, too. However, I would be remiss if I did return to the fact: Freedom is not “Free.” The Legacy of Freedom we carry forward today has come at a price—both ancient and recent. The cost has been dear, yet what we continue to experience through the written works of every author before us, only fortifies the foundation that supports us today.

Early Publishing in the Colonies: The American colonies found immediate publishing Freedoms with printing press pamphlets and writings from American authors such as Captain John Smith, Thomas Ash, William Penn and others. Histories, poetry and Bibles (or Bible sections) were the most frequently published. At this same time, England continued to restrict their printing by confining the presses to four locations where the government could monitor what was produced.

One of the first African American authors, Phillis Wheatley, published hephillis wheatleyr book—Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral—in 1773, three years before our Independence Day. She was born in Senegal (West Africa), sold into slavery at age seven, brought to American and was purchased by a Boston merchant. By age 16, she spoke fluent American-English and began writing poetry. Even though George Washington told her “the style and manner [of your poetry] exhibit a striking proof of your great poetical talents,” Wheatley still had to defend herself in court to prove that she’d written her book. This event became possibly the first “court recorded” recognition of African-American literature.

More Recently: Esmat Qaney of Afghanistan is a  novelist and short story writer. Because his work was judged “hostile” by the Afghan government, copies of it were burned, and Qaney was forced to flee from his country (1980) and subsequently settled in Pakistan. Then again, after publishing a collection of his short stories (Send Charity, God Bless You), the new authorities in Afghanistan—the Taliban—found that book to be “an insult” and decreed that Qaney and his publisher were “apostates.” All available copies were seized and burned. As far as I was able to research, Qaney remains in hiding, leaving his family behind.

In China, Wang Yiliang, a poet and essayist was involved in underground literary activities (1980s). He was kept under constant surveillance, was regularly interrogated and jailed, and he was banned from publishing any of his works. By early 2000, Wang was arrested for “disrupting social order” and sentenced to two years of “re-education through labor.”

And if you’re a writer in North Korea today, your chances of being published are practically zero. One “fiction” novel has been smuggled out, title: The Accusation, Forbidden Stories From Inside North Korea by Bandi (pseudonym). Kirkus Review says that this novel is, “Of more journalistic and sociological than literary interest, without the inventiveness of recent writing [techniques] south of the 38th parallel—but still an important document of witness.”

And so it must be. Writers who feel the palpable heartbreak of hundreds, thousands, millions of others, must tell the world what is happening whether through fiction, non-fiction or poetry. It is only through the courage and tenacity of such authors that Franklin D. Roosevelt’s hopes can be realized. He once wrote that he looks forward to a world founded on the essential human FREEDOMS and “the first is freedom of speech and expression.”

Returning to thoughts of my own FREEDOMS here in these United States of America, I am so thankful that what I write can and will be published, when I decide to publish. I will continue writing until I can write no more, and when I’m no longer able, maybe someone will pull out a desk-drawer manuscript of mine and publish it for me. I believe this is the deep desire of all creative artists. It is yours? Do something about it today. Write! Publish! …and write some more! ⚓︎

 

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.