Joylene Nowell Butler's Blog, page 20
March 21, 2014
Weird NEWS FLASHes
or for want of a better title:
The Upcoming Events in My Writing Life(not to be confused with my very quiet and uneventful non-writing life)
How's that for a title?
I've been offline for a few days due to a sick internet connection; hence, I've turned into a crud-infected blogger. I have no idea what that means, but I just read Kittie Howard's post where she talked about having crud, and I'm pretty sure I have it.
Now... (to divert your attention away from any thoughts about my mental capacity) here's a beautiful photo taken while we were in Bucerias.
A while back a dear blogger friend asked if I'd consider joining in on an anthology collaboration. She and several others were planning to write a steampunk novel. I immediately said, "Sure!" then proceeded to google the term: steampunk.
Wikipedia says:
Steampunk is a sub-genre of science fiction that typically features steam-powered machinery,[1] especially in a setting inspired by industrialised Western civilisation during the 19th century.
Let's just say that I sweated buckets coming up with a character and a storyline. I struggled, I procrastinated, and I agonized over every single word. To date, this has been the hardest thing I've ever written.
Break Time is due for release May 1st through Second Wind!
More news...
Monday, March 24th, I'm guest hosting on IWS's blog and asking the question Is Your Protagonist Appealing? And I don't mean Pretty!
Beginning April 1st, my IWSG cohorts and I, and our Captain are participating in the A-Z Challenge. Our posts will surely dazzle and amaze you, so do stop by IWSG daily.
Last but not least, I'm happy to announce that funny man Hank Quense is back by popular demand here on my cluculzwriter blog in April. Hank's has a faux news network report in store to dazzle and amaze you. Go figure!
(didn't make any of this up eiher!)
Puerto Vallarta's Melacon
The Upcoming Events in My Writing Life(not to be confused with my very quiet and uneventful non-writing life)
How's that for a title?
I've been offline for a few days due to a sick internet connection; hence, I've turned into a crud-infected blogger. I have no idea what that means, but I just read Kittie Howard's post where she talked about having crud, and I'm pretty sure I have it.
Now... (to divert your attention away from any thoughts about my mental capacity) here's a beautiful photo taken while we were in Bucerias.
A while back a dear blogger friend asked if I'd consider joining in on an anthology collaboration. She and several others were planning to write a steampunk novel. I immediately said, "Sure!" then proceeded to google the term: steampunk.
Wikipedia says:
Steampunk is a sub-genre of science fiction that typically features steam-powered machinery,[1] especially in a setting inspired by industrialised Western civilisation during the 19th century.
Let's just say that I sweated buckets coming up with a character and a storyline. I struggled, I procrastinated, and I agonized over every single word. To date, this has been the hardest thing I've ever written.
Break Time is due for release May 1st through Second Wind!
More news...
Monday, March 24th, I'm guest hosting on IWS's blog and asking the question Is Your Protagonist Appealing? And I don't mean Pretty!
Beginning April 1st, my IWSG cohorts and I, and our Captain are participating in the A-Z Challenge. Our posts will surely dazzle and amaze you, so do stop by IWSG daily.
Last but not least, I'm happy to announce that funny man Hank Quense is back by popular demand here on my cluculzwriter blog in April. Hank's has a faux news network report in store to dazzle and amaze you. Go figure!
(didn't make any of this up eiher!)
Puerto Vallarta's Melacon
March 5, 2014
IWSG: Ask PZM - Mar 2014 - Twitter pt 2
It's that wonderful time again, the time for Insecure Writer's Support Group day, compliments of our very own fierce and noble Ninja Captain, Alex J. Cavanaugh. If you think this group sounds like a good place for you and you'd like to join, click here.
It's a simple process:
"Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer - aim for a dozen new people each time. Be sure to link to this page and display the badge in your post."
Our Twitter hashtag is #IWSG
Alex's awesome co-hosts for today are Tina Downey, Elsie, Elizabeth Seckman, and Julie Flanders! Please stop by and thank them for their generous time and effort.
Thanks!
Please help us spread the word about the Insecure Writer’s Support Group Website!!!
Ask PZM: March 2014
Part 2: How can authors use Twitter effectively to create relationships with potential fans?
Last month I discussed how to create an effective Twitter profile after explaining that Twitter is a free social media site in which people send out tweets with a maximum of 140 characters, and people on Twitter can follow anyone without asking permission (except for the few people who lock their tweets, which as authors we do not want to do).
I also said that as authors we want to be public on Twitter, sharing information about ourselves, other authors, topics related to our nonfiction or fiction books, and other well-worded tweets (no vulgarities, please) that might encourage people to be interested in us and, by extension, our books.
Okay, I’m going to assume that you now have an effective Twitter profile with a good photo and a well-written bio.
What’s next?
If you already have lots of followers, that’s good. If you don’t, use the search field on Twitter to find people interested in books, the topics of your books, and other related information.
For example, put ebooks in the search field and you’ll be provided a list of tweets mentioning ebooks. Click on the Twitter username of each of those tweets and see if you are interested in following that person on Twitter.
Now there is no guarantee that a person you follow on Twitter will follow you back (especially if that person is famous). But there is a good chance the person will follow you back if the information you share is related to the information that person shares.
By using different search terms related to your interests, you can start to grow a following.
And meanwhile, the name of the game on Twitter is sharing other people’s information rather than only tweeting about yourself and your own books.
When you look at the tweets that come up following a search, check if there are any tweets that you want to retweet. (Note that you do not have to be following someone to retweet that person’s tweet.) Simply hover over the bottom of a tweet to get the RETWEET button and click.
If someone retweets one of your tweets, you can thank that person. But just tweeting “thank you” doesn’t mean a lot to people following your tweets. I like to do this kind of thank you tweet that references the tweet and the link in the tweet:
Thx@
BonnieBLatino
4 RT: Read sci fi work-in-progress THE MOTHER SIEGE on
@
Wattpad
at http://budurl.com/MSintro
Does every tweet have to have a link?
Of course not. But sharing links on Twitter is an important activity.
For example, I stay signed into my Twitter account so that, when I read an article online that has the Twitter share button, I can quickly tweet the article title and its link to my Twitter followers.
Although many people offer a formula of what percentage of your tweets should be self-promoting, I don’t have a percentage to offer. I think using commonsense is a good rule of thumb.
And one great opportunity for authors on Twitter is sharing the tweets of other book authors. As an author it is very satisfying to share the books of other authors with your own Twitter followers.
Again, there is no guarantee that, if you retweet author A’s tweet about her book, she’ll RT a tweet about your book. But I do believe that putting out goodwill into the universe can benefit you. If you have a nonfiction book – or a fiction book with nonfiction subject matter – you have numerous opportunities to share information from others that relates to your book topic.
What about the question of automatic follow back?
While this decision is up to you, I personally do not automatically follow back someone who follows me. I click on that person’s Twitter username and quickly read his or her bio. Sometimes I then click follow, and sometimes I don’t.
The reason I don’t always follow back has much to do with keeping my following and followers figures in reasonable balance. In the past at certain points Twitter has prevented me from following any more people until my followers number catches up to a reasonable balance with my following numbers.
While there are other options on Twitter, such as following trends, the most important activity is sharing information that may be of interest to your followers.
And as authors, I know you’ll understand when I recommend you stay on the spine of the “story” you’re sharing on Twitter. Thus stick to topics related to your own books and your own interests rather than tweeting all over the map on topics that will confuse your followers who expect a certain type of information from you.
Thus I stick pretty closely to tweeting about books and publishing, digital marketing and new tech options, and military topics. Even though I like art museum exhibits, I probably wouldn’t tweet about this because it is not on the spine of what my followers expect me to share.
One very important thing about Twitter:
Don’t join if you aren’t going to tweet at least a couple of times most days of the week. Twitter is a different animal than, say, Facebook, where it is not as relevant how often you share.
When I click through from a LinkedIn profile to a listed Twitter account and see that the person hasn’t tweeted in months, I know that person isn’t active on Twitter and I don’t waste one of my follows on that person.
To be someone of interest to follow on Twitter, you have to demonstrate active participation, and that means spending a few minutes almost each day participating on the site (whether on your computer or through a Twitter app on your smartphone).
And do remember to daily check the CONNECT option (next to the HOME button at the top of your screen) to see who has mentioned you in a tweet. You may want to respond to that mention via Twitter.
It’s all part of the Twitter experience. Enjoy!
P.S. I’m working on a new project and I’ve set up a Twitter account for this project. At the moment that I’m writing this article I haven’t yet started following people and tweeting more than an initial tweet (always put at least one tweet on a new account) because I’m waiting for something else to be set up. But do check out http://twitter.com/GathrBooks and click “follow.” Especially as an author you should like what’s coming soon.
TWEET #1 - How authors can use Twitter effectively. (Click to tweet)
TWEET #2 - Should every tweet have a link? (Click to tweet)
TWEET #3 - How to share information on twitter. (Click to tweet)
Phyllis Zimbler Miller on Twitter is at http://twitter.com/ZimblerMiller and she is the author of fiction and nonfiction books on Amazon. Her fiction books on Amazon can be found at www.amazon.com/author/phylliszimblermiller and her nonfiction books at www.amazon.com/author/phylliszmiller
She is also a digital marketer who blogs on book topics at www.PhyllisZimblerMiller.com and you can download a free copy of her YA short story PINKY SWEAR at http://www.phylliszimblermiller.com/keep-in-touch/
It's a simple process:
"Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer - aim for a dozen new people each time. Be sure to link to this page and display the badge in your post."
Our Twitter hashtag is #IWSG
Alex's awesome co-hosts for today are Tina Downey, Elsie, Elizabeth Seckman, and Julie Flanders! Please stop by and thank them for their generous time and effort.
Thanks!
Please help us spread the word about the Insecure Writer’s Support Group Website!!!
Ask PZM: March 2014
Part 2: How can authors use Twitter effectively to create relationships with potential fans?
Last month I discussed how to create an effective Twitter profile after explaining that Twitter is a free social media site in which people send out tweets with a maximum of 140 characters, and people on Twitter can follow anyone without asking permission (except for the few people who lock their tweets, which as authors we do not want to do).
I also said that as authors we want to be public on Twitter, sharing information about ourselves, other authors, topics related to our nonfiction or fiction books, and other well-worded tweets (no vulgarities, please) that might encourage people to be interested in us and, by extension, our books.
Okay, I’m going to assume that you now have an effective Twitter profile with a good photo and a well-written bio.
What’s next?
If you already have lots of followers, that’s good. If you don’t, use the search field on Twitter to find people interested in books, the topics of your books, and other related information.
For example, put ebooks in the search field and you’ll be provided a list of tweets mentioning ebooks. Click on the Twitter username of each of those tweets and see if you are interested in following that person on Twitter.
Now there is no guarantee that a person you follow on Twitter will follow you back (especially if that person is famous). But there is a good chance the person will follow you back if the information you share is related to the information that person shares.
By using different search terms related to your interests, you can start to grow a following.
And meanwhile, the name of the game on Twitter is sharing other people’s information rather than only tweeting about yourself and your own books.
When you look at the tweets that come up following a search, check if there are any tweets that you want to retweet. (Note that you do not have to be following someone to retweet that person’s tweet.) Simply hover over the bottom of a tweet to get the RETWEET button and click.
If someone retweets one of your tweets, you can thank that person. But just tweeting “thank you” doesn’t mean a lot to people following your tweets. I like to do this kind of thank you tweet that references the tweet and the link in the tweet:
Thx
Does every tweet have to have a link?
Of course not. But sharing links on Twitter is an important activity.
For example, I stay signed into my Twitter account so that, when I read an article online that has the Twitter share button, I can quickly tweet the article title and its link to my Twitter followers.
Although many people offer a formula of what percentage of your tweets should be self-promoting, I don’t have a percentage to offer. I think using commonsense is a good rule of thumb.
And one great opportunity for authors on Twitter is sharing the tweets of other book authors. As an author it is very satisfying to share the books of other authors with your own Twitter followers.
Again, there is no guarantee that, if you retweet author A’s tweet about her book, she’ll RT a tweet about your book. But I do believe that putting out goodwill into the universe can benefit you. If you have a nonfiction book – or a fiction book with nonfiction subject matter – you have numerous opportunities to share information from others that relates to your book topic.
What about the question of automatic follow back?
While this decision is up to you, I personally do not automatically follow back someone who follows me. I click on that person’s Twitter username and quickly read his or her bio. Sometimes I then click follow, and sometimes I don’t.
The reason I don’t always follow back has much to do with keeping my following and followers figures in reasonable balance. In the past at certain points Twitter has prevented me from following any more people until my followers number catches up to a reasonable balance with my following numbers.
While there are other options on Twitter, such as following trends, the most important activity is sharing information that may be of interest to your followers.
And as authors, I know you’ll understand when I recommend you stay on the spine of the “story” you’re sharing on Twitter. Thus stick to topics related to your own books and your own interests rather than tweeting all over the map on topics that will confuse your followers who expect a certain type of information from you.
Thus I stick pretty closely to tweeting about books and publishing, digital marketing and new tech options, and military topics. Even though I like art museum exhibits, I probably wouldn’t tweet about this because it is not on the spine of what my followers expect me to share.
One very important thing about Twitter:
Don’t join if you aren’t going to tweet at least a couple of times most days of the week. Twitter is a different animal than, say, Facebook, where it is not as relevant how often you share.
When I click through from a LinkedIn profile to a listed Twitter account and see that the person hasn’t tweeted in months, I know that person isn’t active on Twitter and I don’t waste one of my follows on that person.
To be someone of interest to follow on Twitter, you have to demonstrate active participation, and that means spending a few minutes almost each day participating on the site (whether on your computer or through a Twitter app on your smartphone).
And do remember to daily check the CONNECT option (next to the HOME button at the top of your screen) to see who has mentioned you in a tweet. You may want to respond to that mention via Twitter.
It’s all part of the Twitter experience. Enjoy!
P.S. I’m working on a new project and I’ve set up a Twitter account for this project. At the moment that I’m writing this article I haven’t yet started following people and tweeting more than an initial tweet (always put at least one tweet on a new account) because I’m waiting for something else to be set up. But do check out http://twitter.com/GathrBooks and click “follow.” Especially as an author you should like what’s coming soon.
TWEET #1 - How authors can use Twitter effectively. (Click to tweet)
TWEET #2 - Should every tweet have a link? (Click to tweet)
TWEET #3 - How to share information on twitter. (Click to tweet)
Phyllis Zimbler Miller on Twitter is at http://twitter.com/ZimblerMiller and she is the author of fiction and nonfiction books on Amazon. Her fiction books on Amazon can be found at www.amazon.com/author/phylliszimblermiller and her nonfiction books at www.amazon.com/author/phylliszmiller
She is also a digital marketer who blogs on book topics at www.PhyllisZimblerMiller.com and you can download a free copy of her YA short story PINKY SWEAR at http://www.phylliszimblermiller.com/keep-in-touch/
February 5, 2014
IWSG: Ask PZM - Feb 2014 - Twitter
It's that wonderful time again, the time for Insecure Writer's Support Group day, compliments of our very own fierce and noble Ninja Captain, Alex J. Cavanaugh. If you think this group sounds like a good place and you'd like to join, click here.
Do please check out Alex's blog. He always has nifty things to say.
It's a simple process:
"Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer - aim for a dozen new people each time. Be sure to link to this page and display the badge in your post."
Our Twitter hashtag is #IWSG
Alex's awesome co-hosts for today are Sheena-kay Graham, Julie Musil, Jamie Ayres, and Mike Swift! Please stop by and thank them for their generous time and effort.
Thanks!
Please help us spread the word about the Insecure Writer’s Support Group Website!!!
Ask PZM: February 2014
How can authors use Twitter effectively to create relationships with potential fans?This is an excellent question because it asks about creating relationships and NOT about selling books by using Twitter.
Twitter is a free social media site in which people send out tweets with a maximum of 140 characters, and people on Twitter can follow anyone without asking permission (except for the few people who lock their tweets, which as authors we do not want to do).
As authors we want to be public on Twitter, sharing information about ourselves, other authors, topics related to our nonfiction or fiction books, and other well-worded tweets (no vulgarities, please) that might encourage people to be interested in us and, by extension, our books.
(The headshot photo and header image upload fields that we are about to discuss are under PROFILE in SETTINGS, which you can get to by clicking on the tiny dial at the top of the Twitter screen when you are signed into your account.)
Your headshot photo:
Yes, some authors on Twitter do use a book cover as their headshot, but I would not recommend this. First, because you want people to connect with you as a person, not as a book cover. Second, because as more of your books are traditionally published or self-published, which book do you choose? And third, there are other ways to share your books covers on Twitter.
Your header image:
You can put a montage image of book covers behind your name in the header (recommended dimensions of 1252×626 and maximum file size of 5MB).
I tried using a montage image but I found that the book cover titles were too hard to read behind the automatically displayed bio information. Plus the montage image interfered with the clarity of the bio information (mandatory white font). I removed the book cover montage and chose a solid background for the header.
Your Twitter background:
If in SETTINGS you click on DESIGN and then scroll down to “Customize your own,” you can upload a background photo. And this is an excellent option for displaying a montage of your book covers or a single book cover.
Decide whether you want this background image to repeat across the background. If so, click on the “Tile background” option. (I test out different image sizes for the book cover I’m displaying in order to see which size looks best when tiled).
If you want a single image, decide whether you want it left, center or right.
If you do not tile your photo, you will need to choose a background color. Make sure this background color does not overwhelm your book cover image.
And everyone needs to choose a link color that can be seen clearly in your tweets.
Tip: I change my background image from time to time. For example, if I have a book available for free on Kindle for a few days, I try to remember to put that book’s cover as my Twitter background. I switch other covers for their time in the spotlight depending on other factors.
If you go to my Twitter account at http://twitter.com/ZimblerMiller it may NOT appear that the Amazon link is a hot link, but if you hover over it you will see that it is.
Also, any hashtag you use in your Twitter bio, such as #sot (supportourtroops) in my Twitter bio, is a hot link to the search results for that hashtag on Twitter. And using hashtags can be a quick way of demonstrating your interest in certain topics.
In conclusion, instead of now going on to how to create relationships on Twitter, I’m going to leave that topic for the March 2014 Ask PZM. Even for authors already on Twitter, there is info here against which to check your own Twitter profile for maximum effectiveness. (For example, can people easily see the links in your tweets? If not, change the link color.)
Next month, when everyone reading this column has reviewed her or his Twitter profile, we’ll move on to effectively using Twitter to create relationships with our potential book fans.
Phyllis Zimbler Miller is the author of fiction and nonfiction books on Amazon. Her fiction books on Amazon can be found at www.amazon.com/author/phylliszimblermiller and her nonfiction books at www.amazon.com/author/phylliszmiller
She is also a digital marketer who blogs on book topics at www.PhyllisZimblerMiller.com and you can download a free copy of her YA short story PINKY SWEAR at http://www.phylliszimblermiller.com/keep-in-touch/
Do please check out Alex's blog. He always has nifty things to say.
It's a simple process:
"Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer - aim for a dozen new people each time. Be sure to link to this page and display the badge in your post."
Our Twitter hashtag is #IWSG
Alex's awesome co-hosts for today are Sheena-kay Graham, Julie Musil, Jamie Ayres, and Mike Swift! Please stop by and thank them for their generous time and effort.
Thanks!
Please help us spread the word about the Insecure Writer’s Support Group Website!!!
Ask PZM: February 2014
How can authors use Twitter effectively to create relationships with potential fans?This is an excellent question because it asks about creating relationships and NOT about selling books by using Twitter.Twitter is a free social media site in which people send out tweets with a maximum of 140 characters, and people on Twitter can follow anyone without asking permission (except for the few people who lock their tweets, which as authors we do not want to do).
As authors we want to be public on Twitter, sharing information about ourselves, other authors, topics related to our nonfiction or fiction books, and other well-worded tweets (no vulgarities, please) that might encourage people to be interested in us and, by extension, our books.
.jpeg)
(The headshot photo and header image upload fields that we are about to discuss are under PROFILE in SETTINGS, which you can get to by clicking on the tiny dial at the top of the Twitter screen when you are signed into your account.)
Your headshot photo:
Yes, some authors on Twitter do use a book cover as their headshot, but I would not recommend this. First, because you want people to connect with you as a person, not as a book cover. Second, because as more of your books are traditionally published or self-published, which book do you choose? And third, there are other ways to share your books covers on Twitter.
Your header image:
You can put a montage image of book covers behind your name in the header (recommended dimensions of 1252×626 and maximum file size of 5MB).
I tried using a montage image but I found that the book cover titles were too hard to read behind the automatically displayed bio information. Plus the montage image interfered with the clarity of the bio information (mandatory white font). I removed the book cover montage and chose a solid background for the header.
Your Twitter background:
If in SETTINGS you click on DESIGN and then scroll down to “Customize your own,” you can upload a background photo. And this is an excellent option for displaying a montage of your book covers or a single book cover.
Decide whether you want this background image to repeat across the background. If so, click on the “Tile background” option. (I test out different image sizes for the book cover I’m displaying in order to see which size looks best when tiled).
If you want a single image, decide whether you want it left, center or right.
If you do not tile your photo, you will need to choose a background color. Make sure this background color does not overwhelm your book cover image.
And everyone needs to choose a link color that can be seen clearly in your tweets.
Tip: I change my background image from time to time. For example, if I have a book available for free on Kindle for a few days, I try to remember to put that book’s cover as my Twitter background. I switch other covers for their time in the spotlight depending on other factors.
If you go to my Twitter account at http://twitter.com/ZimblerMiller it may NOT appear that the Amazon link is a hot link, but if you hover over it you will see that it is.
Also, any hashtag you use in your Twitter bio, such as #sot (supportourtroops) in my Twitter bio, is a hot link to the search results for that hashtag on Twitter. And using hashtags can be a quick way of demonstrating your interest in certain topics.
In conclusion, instead of now going on to how to create relationships on Twitter, I’m going to leave that topic for the March 2014 Ask PZM. Even for authors already on Twitter, there is info here against which to check your own Twitter profile for maximum effectiveness. (For example, can people easily see the links in your tweets? If not, change the link color.)
Next month, when everyone reading this column has reviewed her or his Twitter profile, we’ll move on to effectively using Twitter to create relationships with our potential book fans.
.jpeg)
Phyllis Zimbler Miller is the author of fiction and nonfiction books on Amazon. Her fiction books on Amazon can be found at www.amazon.com/author/phylliszimblermiller and her nonfiction books at www.amazon.com/author/phylliszmiller
She is also a digital marketer who blogs on book topics at www.PhyllisZimblerMiller.com and you can download a free copy of her YA short story PINKY SWEAR at http://www.phylliszimblermiller.com/keep-in-touch/
February 3, 2014
I'm at IWSG today
I'm over at IWSG's site today with the post: What's Your Book About? Hope you can stop by and check it out. I know, I know. I haven't written a writing related post in a very long time.
Most of you already know we're in Bucerias for the winter getting dental work done in between soaking up the sun. (-28C at home!) If you haven't visited Bucerias, here's a few photos to entice you.
Most of you already know we're in Bucerias for the winter getting dental work done in between soaking up the sun. (-28C at home!) If you haven't visited Bucerias, here's a few photos to entice you.
January 8, 2014
IWSG: Ask PZM: January 2014
Dear readers,
I'm posting a previously aired blog because I think it's important, and because I'm sicker than a dog and for the past few days I've been in various airports in North America and haven't been able to obtain a strong internet connection, nor rid myself of this nasty head cold. Ever taken 3 flights in one day while your ears screamed, "Help! Help!"
So, I feel bad that I'm going back to bed and not reading all your blogs and reader comments. Please know as soon as I shake this thing, I'll be back as your #1 fan. I also hope to share with you the beauty of Bucerias, Nayarit, Mexico, where we will be for the next 2 months.
Stay strong and well, everyone.
It's that wonderful time again, the time for Insecure Writer's Support Group day, compliments of our very own fierce and noble Ninja Captain, Alex J. Cavannaugh. If you think this group sounds like a good place and you'd like to join, click here.
Do please check out Alex's post today. He's always got nifty things to say.
It's a simple process:
"Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer - aim for a dozen new people each time. Be sure to link to this page and display the badge in your post."
Our Twitter hashtag is #IWSG
IWSG co-hosts this month are: Bob Milne, River Fairchild, Julie Dao,and Sarah Foster!
Now that the INSECURE WRITER'S SUPPORT GROUP Website is a reality, please help us spread the word.
ASK PZM: October 2013
Q. What are the advantages of being your own publisher if you buy back the rights to your book? Do you buy all your books back? How do you distribute the book without the help of the publisher?
While I am not an expert on these questions nor am I a lawyer, I do have experience having rights reverted to me from a traditional publisher. So let’s explore these questions together.
There are many elements of the above questions:If your books are not in ebook format and the publisher has no plans to put your books in ebook format, I would say definitely get back the rights to all your books and put these in ebook format.
If your ebooks are controlled by the publisher and you cannot add links for each new book inside your other ebooks or decide yourself on enrolling in Amazon’s KDP Select, etc., you might want to get back the rights.
(I got back the rights to a self-published ebook when I learned I had lost the ability to make changes in the ebook. This was because my ebook was uploaded to the ebook converter’s KDP account instead of my own account.)
If your paperback books are no longer available except as used books, I would say that you should get back the rights to all your books in this case also. If the publisher still offers some of your books as new, then you might want to keep those books with the publisher until this is no longer true.
If your publisher is not doing a good job of marketing but you are marketing your own books, it may not be necessary to get back the rights. You simply go on marketing your own books.
In terms of distribution – you can republish your paperback books basically for free via Amazon’s CreateSpace (I recommend this site because, besides using it myself, new books are listed on Amazon almost immediately) and choose the expanded distribution for a very minimal amount.
I did this for my Jewish holiday book SEASONS FOR CELEBRATION (originally published in 1992 and co-authored with Rabbi Karen L. Fox) when the rights reverted to us. This way we could make the book available on Amazon as new rather than having an Amazon listing that only used books were available.
Obviously if your publisher has your books in major retail outlets (such as actual book stores) and your books are selling through these outlets, you may not want to get your rights back. This is because on your own you are probably less likely to get retail outlets to carry your books.
On the other hand, if there is only one copy of your book in retail outlets and that copy does not sell because no one can find it on the shelves, then perhaps distribution through a traditional publisher does not have that much to offer you.
The problem is that there is no crystal ball – you cannot know for sure what is the right thing to do about getting your rights back. And the publishing landscape changes so quickly that there are very few “for sure” landmarks.The one thing you can be sure of is that you are more passionate about your books than a publisher. If having the rights to your own books means you can have the books available as new (rather than only listed as used) on online book sites and have ebooks available, then seriously consider this option.
P.S. And if you sign a contract with a traditional publisher, make sure that contract includes a specific time when the rights revert to you (and which rights revert).
Q: Have there been changes on Wattpad for publishing works-in-progress?
Yes, there have been some important changes. You can read my blog post about this at http://budurl.com/Wattpadchanges
Phyllis Zimbler Miller is the author of fiction and nonfiction books and the co-founder of the online marketing company www.MillerMosaicLLC.com She blogs on author and book topics at www.PhyllisZimblerMiller.com
If you have a question for Ask PZM in November, contact Joylene at cluculzwriter at yahoo dot com and she'll pass it along to Phyllis.
I'm posting a previously aired blog because I think it's important, and because I'm sicker than a dog and for the past few days I've been in various airports in North America and haven't been able to obtain a strong internet connection, nor rid myself of this nasty head cold. Ever taken 3 flights in one day while your ears screamed, "Help! Help!"
So, I feel bad that I'm going back to bed and not reading all your blogs and reader comments. Please know as soon as I shake this thing, I'll be back as your #1 fan. I also hope to share with you the beauty of Bucerias, Nayarit, Mexico, where we will be for the next 2 months.
Stay strong and well, everyone.
It's that wonderful time again, the time for Insecure Writer's Support Group day, compliments of our very own fierce and noble Ninja Captain, Alex J. Cavannaugh. If you think this group sounds like a good place and you'd like to join, click here.
Do please check out Alex's post today. He's always got nifty things to say.
It's a simple process:
"Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer - aim for a dozen new people each time. Be sure to link to this page and display the badge in your post."
Our Twitter hashtag is #IWSG
IWSG co-hosts this month are: Bob Milne, River Fairchild, Julie Dao,and Sarah Foster!
Now that the INSECURE WRITER'S SUPPORT GROUP Website is a reality, please help us spread the word.
ASK PZM: October 2013
Q. What are the advantages of being your own publisher if you buy back the rights to your book? Do you buy all your books back? How do you distribute the book without the help of the publisher?
While I am not an expert on these questions nor am I a lawyer, I do have experience having rights reverted to me from a traditional publisher. So let’s explore these questions together.
There are many elements of the above questions:If your books are not in ebook format and the publisher has no plans to put your books in ebook format, I would say definitely get back the rights to all your books and put these in ebook format.
If your ebooks are controlled by the publisher and you cannot add links for each new book inside your other ebooks or decide yourself on enrolling in Amazon’s KDP Select, etc., you might want to get back the rights.
(I got back the rights to a self-published ebook when I learned I had lost the ability to make changes in the ebook. This was because my ebook was uploaded to the ebook converter’s KDP account instead of my own account.)
If your paperback books are no longer available except as used books, I would say that you should get back the rights to all your books in this case also. If the publisher still offers some of your books as new, then you might want to keep those books with the publisher until this is no longer true.
If your publisher is not doing a good job of marketing but you are marketing your own books, it may not be necessary to get back the rights. You simply go on marketing your own books.
In terms of distribution – you can republish your paperback books basically for free via Amazon’s CreateSpace (I recommend this site because, besides using it myself, new books are listed on Amazon almost immediately) and choose the expanded distribution for a very minimal amount.
I did this for my Jewish holiday book SEASONS FOR CELEBRATION (originally published in 1992 and co-authored with Rabbi Karen L. Fox) when the rights reverted to us. This way we could make the book available on Amazon as new rather than having an Amazon listing that only used books were available.
Obviously if your publisher has your books in major retail outlets (such as actual book stores) and your books are selling through these outlets, you may not want to get your rights back. This is because on your own you are probably less likely to get retail outlets to carry your books.
On the other hand, if there is only one copy of your book in retail outlets and that copy does not sell because no one can find it on the shelves, then perhaps distribution through a traditional publisher does not have that much to offer you.
The problem is that there is no crystal ball – you cannot know for sure what is the right thing to do about getting your rights back. And the publishing landscape changes so quickly that there are very few “for sure” landmarks.The one thing you can be sure of is that you are more passionate about your books than a publisher. If having the rights to your own books means you can have the books available as new (rather than only listed as used) on online book sites and have ebooks available, then seriously consider this option.
P.S. And if you sign a contract with a traditional publisher, make sure that contract includes a specific time when the rights revert to you (and which rights revert).
Q: Have there been changes on Wattpad for publishing works-in-progress?
Yes, there have been some important changes. You can read my blog post about this at http://budurl.com/Wattpadchanges
Phyllis Zimbler Miller is the author of fiction and nonfiction books and the co-founder of the online marketing company www.MillerMosaicLLC.com She blogs on author and book topics at www.PhyllisZimblerMiller.com
If you have a question for Ask PZM in November, contact Joylene at cluculzwriter at yahoo dot com and she'll pass it along to Phyllis.
December 4, 2013
IWSG - ASK PZM: December 2013
It's that wonderful time again, the first Wednesday in the month, Insecure Writer's Support Group day, compliments of our very own fierce and noble Ninja Captain, Alex J. Cavannaugh. If you think this group sounds like a good place and you'd like to join, click here.
Do please check out Alex's post today. He's got an announcement to make AND some niffy surprises.
It's a simple process:
"Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer - aim for a dozen new people each time. Be sure to link to this page and display the badge in your post."
Our Twitter hashtag is #IWSG
IWSG co-hosts this month are: Julie Flanders, Heather Gardner, Kim Van Sickler and Elsie is Writing!
Now that the INSECURE WRITER'S SUPPORT GROUP Website is a reality, please help us spread the word.
ASK PZM: December 2013
Q: The internet is constantly changing, so what worked yesterday is old news today. How does that affect marketing?
<!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Calibri; panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-unhide:no; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; margin-top:0cm; margin-right:0cm; margin-bottom:10.0pt; margin-left:0cm; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} .MsoChpDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; mso-default-props:yes; font-size:11.0pt; mso-ansi-font-size:11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} .MsoPapDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; margin-bottom:10.0pt; line-height:115%;} @page WordSection1 {size:612.0pt 792.0pt; margin:72.0pt 90.0pt 72.0pt 90.0pt; mso-header-margin:36.0pt; mso-footer-margin:36.0pt; mso-paper-source:0;} div.WordSection1 {page:WordSection1;} </style></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal">This is an excellent question because it is something that everyone who uses online marketing, not just authors, has to continually consider.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Who remembers MySpace?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If any authors are currently participating on this site (which still exists, because I just checked), these authors are probably not optimizing their book marketing outreach.</div><div class="MsoNormal">There are always new relationship sites coming online that could be helpful for reaching our target reading audiences.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But we can’t be everywhere at once, especially if we also want time to write our books.</div><div class="MsoNormal">This means that we need to keep a pulse on what new site is taking off and which new site is probably not going to be worth our time investment.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JMhzrHRReEI..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="146" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JMhzrHRReEI..." width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />For example, I think that Pinterest can be a good site for authors because it does not take a lot of time to participate and keywords can help people find Pinterest boards and pins.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the other hand, I’m not sure that being active on Pinterest helps sell books. But what is good about Pinterest is that if, for example, your blog posts with photos have the “Pin it” share option, it is easy for people to share.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Besides free online marketing options changing all the time, paid advertising options also change.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For example, Facebook now has very detailed paid advertising options and Twitter is increasing its focus on paid tweets.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UKCWp7nMTLA..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UKCWp7nMTLA..." /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />Numerous experts give free webinars on these subjects (think Mari Smith for Facebook) and, if you can listen to some webinars live or on replay, the investment in your time can be worthwhile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Plus certain paid webinars may also be worth your time and money.</div><div class="MsoNormal">You do not have to be an expert about all the major social media marketing opportunities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But it does make sense to keep up with major changes that can help you promote your books.</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2ytyhWw0BlM..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2ytyhWw0BlM..." width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Q: How should an author encourage readers to read their book and write a review if they loved it?</b></span><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><b> </b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b> <style><!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"Cambria Math"; panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} @font-face {font-family:Calibri; panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-unhide:no; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; margin-top:0cm; margin-right:0cm; margin-bottom:10.0pt; margin-left:0cm; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} .MsoChpDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; mso-default-props:yes; font-size:11.0pt; mso-ansi-font-size:11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} .MsoPapDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; margin-bottom:10.0pt; line-height:115%;} @page WordSection1 {size:612.0pt 792.0pt; margin:72.0pt 90.0pt 72.0pt 90.0pt; mso-header-margin:36.0pt; mso-footer-margin:36.0pt; mso-paper-source:0;} div.WordSection1 {page:WordSection1;} </style></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal">One way of doing this is to ask for a review if a reader loved your book.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can put a link at the end of an ebook or physical book that goes directly to the review page of your book on Amazon or Goodreads or wherever you want to send readers to write reviews.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Yes, the link will not be clickable in a physical book or on some ereaders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But if you use a shortened URL such as bit.ly for the long permalink to the review page, readers should be able to easily type the shortened URL into their browser windows.</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OMp88SOToZg..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OMp88SOToZg..." width="320" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Q: What about marketing ideas related to holidays?</b></span><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><b> </b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="MsoNormal">Definitely utilize holidays that relate to your books. For example, in connection with Veterans Day I tweeted the Kindle link to my ebook SOLOMON’S JUSTICE: A PTSD SHORT STORY.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Of course, tweeting in connection with holidays is a simple marketing step.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Use your imagination to come up with other ways to attract attention.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Perhaps you have a mystery novel that includes a recipe for holiday cookies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe an online kitchen utensil site would be interested in selling your book with a shoutout for the recipe and the kitchen utensils needed for the recipe.<br /> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal">Obviously these kinds of cross-promotions need to be planned months ahead of time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now would be a good time to plan for Thanksgiving in 2014.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DHPxk_b0UGA..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DHPxk_b0UGA..." width="320" /></a></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />When considering cross-promotional opportunities, remember that the starting point is what can you do for the other person.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The second consideration is what the other person can do for you.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C8eZnXUP21k..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C8eZnXUP21k..." width="320" /></a></div></div><br />TWEET #1 - <span style="font-size: medium;">How does the changing internet affect marketing? (<a href="http://clicktotweet.com/LYVMS" target="_blank">click to tweet</a>)<b> </b></span><br /><br />TWEET #2 - <span style="font-size: medium;">How to encourage readers to write a review. (<a href="http://clicktotweet.com/11e0z" target="_blank">click to tweet</a>)</span><br /><br />TWEET #3 - <span style="font-size: medium;">Need some marketing ideas related to holidays? (<a href="http://clicktotweet.com/sy5fQ" target="_blank">click to tweet</a>)</span><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span> <style><!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"Cambria Math"; panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} @font-face {font-family:Calibri; panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-unhide:no; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; margin-top:0cm; margin-right:0cm; margin-bottom:10.0pt; margin-left:0cm; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {mso-style-priority:99; color:blue; mso-themecolor:hyperlink; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; color:purple; mso-themecolor:followedhyperlink; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} .MsoChpDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; mso-default-props:yes; font-size:11.0pt; mso-ansi-font-size:11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} .MsoPapDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; margin-bottom:10.0pt; line-height:115%;} @page WordSection1 {size:612.0pt 792.0pt; margin:72.0pt 90.0pt 72.0pt 90.0pt; mso-header-margin:36.0pt; mso-footer-margin:36.0pt; mso-paper-source:0;} div.WordSection1 {page:WordSection1;} </style> <br /><div class="MsoNormal"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VmwNHPYCUHQ..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VmwNHPYCUHQ..." /></a></div><br />Phyllis Zimbler Miller is the author of fiction and nonfiction books, and she blogs on book-related topics at <a href="http://www.phylliszimblermiller.com/&... <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: left;"></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i> </i></span></span></div></div></div>
Do please check out Alex's post today. He's got an announcement to make AND some niffy surprises.
It's a simple process:
"Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer - aim for a dozen new people each time. Be sure to link to this page and display the badge in your post."
Our Twitter hashtag is #IWSG
IWSG co-hosts this month are: Julie Flanders, Heather Gardner, Kim Van Sickler and Elsie is Writing!
Now that the INSECURE WRITER'S SUPPORT GROUP Website is a reality, please help us spread the word.
ASK PZM: December 2013
Q: The internet is constantly changing, so what worked yesterday is old news today. How does that affect marketing?
<!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Calibri; panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-unhide:no; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; margin-top:0cm; margin-right:0cm; margin-bottom:10.0pt; margin-left:0cm; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} .MsoChpDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; mso-default-props:yes; font-size:11.0pt; mso-ansi-font-size:11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} .MsoPapDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; margin-bottom:10.0pt; line-height:115%;} @page WordSection1 {size:612.0pt 792.0pt; margin:72.0pt 90.0pt 72.0pt 90.0pt; mso-header-margin:36.0pt; mso-footer-margin:36.0pt; mso-paper-source:0;} div.WordSection1 {page:WordSection1;} </style></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal">This is an excellent question because it is something that everyone who uses online marketing, not just authors, has to continually consider.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Who remembers MySpace?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If any authors are currently participating on this site (which still exists, because I just checked), these authors are probably not optimizing their book marketing outreach.</div><div class="MsoNormal">There are always new relationship sites coming online that could be helpful for reaching our target reading audiences.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But we can’t be everywhere at once, especially if we also want time to write our books.</div><div class="MsoNormal">This means that we need to keep a pulse on what new site is taking off and which new site is probably not going to be worth our time investment.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JMhzrHRReEI..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="146" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JMhzrHRReEI..." width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />For example, I think that Pinterest can be a good site for authors because it does not take a lot of time to participate and keywords can help people find Pinterest boards and pins.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the other hand, I’m not sure that being active on Pinterest helps sell books. But what is good about Pinterest is that if, for example, your blog posts with photos have the “Pin it” share option, it is easy for people to share.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Besides free online marketing options changing all the time, paid advertising options also change.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For example, Facebook now has very detailed paid advertising options and Twitter is increasing its focus on paid tweets.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UKCWp7nMTLA..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UKCWp7nMTLA..." /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />Numerous experts give free webinars on these subjects (think Mari Smith for Facebook) and, if you can listen to some webinars live or on replay, the investment in your time can be worthwhile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Plus certain paid webinars may also be worth your time and money.</div><div class="MsoNormal">You do not have to be an expert about all the major social media marketing opportunities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But it does make sense to keep up with major changes that can help you promote your books.</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2ytyhWw0BlM..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2ytyhWw0BlM..." width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Q: How should an author encourage readers to read their book and write a review if they loved it?</b></span><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><b> </b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b> <style><!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"Cambria Math"; panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} @font-face {font-family:Calibri; panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-unhide:no; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; margin-top:0cm; margin-right:0cm; margin-bottom:10.0pt; margin-left:0cm; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} .MsoChpDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; mso-default-props:yes; font-size:11.0pt; mso-ansi-font-size:11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} .MsoPapDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; margin-bottom:10.0pt; line-height:115%;} @page WordSection1 {size:612.0pt 792.0pt; margin:72.0pt 90.0pt 72.0pt 90.0pt; mso-header-margin:36.0pt; mso-footer-margin:36.0pt; mso-paper-source:0;} div.WordSection1 {page:WordSection1;} </style></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal">One way of doing this is to ask for a review if a reader loved your book.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can put a link at the end of an ebook or physical book that goes directly to the review page of your book on Amazon or Goodreads or wherever you want to send readers to write reviews.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Yes, the link will not be clickable in a physical book or on some ereaders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But if you use a shortened URL such as bit.ly for the long permalink to the review page, readers should be able to easily type the shortened URL into their browser windows.</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OMp88SOToZg..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OMp88SOToZg..." width="320" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Q: What about marketing ideas related to holidays?</b></span><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><b> </b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="MsoNormal">Definitely utilize holidays that relate to your books. For example, in connection with Veterans Day I tweeted the Kindle link to my ebook SOLOMON’S JUSTICE: A PTSD SHORT STORY.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Of course, tweeting in connection with holidays is a simple marketing step.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Use your imagination to come up with other ways to attract attention.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Perhaps you have a mystery novel that includes a recipe for holiday cookies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe an online kitchen utensil site would be interested in selling your book with a shoutout for the recipe and the kitchen utensils needed for the recipe.<br /> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal">Obviously these kinds of cross-promotions need to be planned months ahead of time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now would be a good time to plan for Thanksgiving in 2014.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DHPxk_b0UGA..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DHPxk_b0UGA..." width="320" /></a></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />When considering cross-promotional opportunities, remember that the starting point is what can you do for the other person.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The second consideration is what the other person can do for you.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C8eZnXUP21k..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C8eZnXUP21k..." width="320" /></a></div></div><br />TWEET #1 - <span style="font-size: medium;">How does the changing internet affect marketing? (<a href="http://clicktotweet.com/LYVMS" target="_blank">click to tweet</a>)<b> </b></span><br /><br />TWEET #2 - <span style="font-size: medium;">How to encourage readers to write a review. (<a href="http://clicktotweet.com/11e0z" target="_blank">click to tweet</a>)</span><br /><br />TWEET #3 - <span style="font-size: medium;">Need some marketing ideas related to holidays? (<a href="http://clicktotweet.com/sy5fQ" target="_blank">click to tweet</a>)</span><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span> <style><!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"Cambria Math"; panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} @font-face {font-family:Calibri; panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-unhide:no; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; margin-top:0cm; margin-right:0cm; margin-bottom:10.0pt; margin-left:0cm; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {mso-style-priority:99; color:blue; mso-themecolor:hyperlink; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; color:purple; mso-themecolor:followedhyperlink; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} .MsoChpDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; mso-default-props:yes; font-size:11.0pt; mso-ansi-font-size:11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} .MsoPapDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; margin-bottom:10.0pt; line-height:115%;} @page WordSection1 {size:612.0pt 792.0pt; margin:72.0pt 90.0pt 72.0pt 90.0pt; mso-header-margin:36.0pt; mso-footer-margin:36.0pt; mso-paper-source:0;} div.WordSection1 {page:WordSection1;} </style> <br /><div class="MsoNormal"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VmwNHPYCUHQ..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VmwNHPYCUHQ..." /></a></div><br />Phyllis Zimbler Miller is the author of fiction and nonfiction books, and she blogs on book-related topics at <a href="http://www.phylliszimblermiller.com/&... <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: left;"></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i> </i></span></span></div></div></div>
November 6, 2013
Ask PZM: November 2013 - IWSG
It's that wonderful time again, the first Wednesday in the month, Insecure Writer's Support Group day, compliments of our very own fierce and noble Ninja Captain, Alex J. Cavennaugh. If you think this group sounds like a good place and you'd like to join, click here.
It's a simple process:
"Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer - aim for a dozen new people each time. Be sure to link to this page and display the badge in your post."
Our Twitter hashtag is #IWSG
IWSG co-Hosts this month are CD Coffelt, Tina Downey, Isis Rushdan, and Michelle Wallace!
Please stop by and thank them for their time and effort. CD, Tina, Isis, and Michelle! You guys rock!
ASK PZM: November 2013
1. What do you think is the most misunderstood facet of the book marketing industry?
Book marketing takes a long-term commitment (basically forever) by the author –regardless whether traditionally published or self-published –and this means continually working on book marketing, even if a few minutes each day.
This also means being open to new book marketing opportunities. An author cannot be content with only offline activities (book signings, book fairs) – instead an author must also embrace new online activities. And authors should not abandon their older books when promoting new books. In fact, here is a personal example of utilizing new opportunities for book marketing as well as promoting older books with newer books:
I have just adapted the screenplay “Hot Potato” that I wrote with my husband (and which is in the book FOUR COMEDY SCREENPLAYS on Amazon) into a novella on Kindle. (See http://amzn.to/16gMBaS)
Why did I do this? Because I wanted to share this story I really like in an easily accessible format – and because this ebook is one more opportunity to promote all my other books and ebooks on Amazon.
How? Because I have links at the end of the novella for all my other books. Thus each ebook on Kindle is a marketing opportunity for all my other ebooks.
2. Do you think because of the negativity surrounding book reviews that their value is diminishing?
No, I do not think the value of book reviews is diminishing. Regardless of how much, for example, Amazon search algorithms take the number of reviews into account, reviews can be useful for multiple purposes.
One such purpose is that there are sites that will not list your free or bargain books unless you have a certain number of reviews and often with a certain star ranking.
Another example is that you may want to use quotes from reviews for promotional purposes.
And regardless of the controversy over reviews, I suspect many people look at the number of reviews a book has as part of the decision as to whether to purchase a book. If there are no reviews, I suspect potential readers may ask themselves: Has anyone even read this book?
In other words, we authors have to keep up our efforts to get reviews for all books.
3. Are the fees to have your book submitted for a book award worth the expenditure?
I think this is a personal decision depending on your marketing budget. Even if your book wins an award, will that award translate into sales?
The answer to this may partially depend on how you “advertise” that book award. And does that award mean anything to your target readers?
Personally, unless you have a large marketing budget, I think it comes down to whether the money required to submit your book to award competitions could be better spent on promotional opportunities that are directed towards your target readers.
4. Most authors seem to market their books primarily to other authors; what's the effectiveness of such efforts?
I am not sure that fellow authors are the best target market for buying our books. After all, we are writing our books for readers who aren’t necessarily authors, so shouldn’t we be marketing to those readers who like our genre?
In addition, many authors are so busy writing and promoting their books that these authors may not have as much time to read books (or the budget to buy books) as readers who aren’t authors.
Then there is the issue of not reading certain books while writing your own in the same genre.
For example, I am writing a dystopian thriller, THE MOTHER SIEGE, on Wattpad chapter by chapter (see http://budurl.com/MSintro). While I have read dystopian novels, I am purposely not reading very successful ones now because I am concerned that I might unwittingly mimic too closely the work of other authors.
And, of course, we want readers to suggest our books to their friends as well as to book clubs, so we should be promoting our books to these potential influencers.
TWEET #1 - What's the most misunderstood facet of the book marketing industry? (click to tweet)
TWEET #2 - Is the value of book reviews diminishing? (click to tweet)
TWEET #3 - Should we register and pay a fee for as many book awards as we can? (click to tweet)
Phyllis Zimbler Miller is the author of fiction and nonfiction books on Amazon. Her fiction books on Amazon can be found at www.amazon.com/author/phylliszimblermillerand her nonfiction books at www.amazon.com/author/phylliszmiller She is also a digital marketer who blogs on book topics at www.PhyllisZimblerMiller.com and you can download a free copy of her YA short story PINKY SWEAR at http://www.phylliszimblermiller.com/keep-in-touch/
November 2, 2013
Buzz Deal on Dead Witness
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TWEET #1 Mystery Thriller DEAD WITNESS on sale until November 16 $1.99 (click to Tweet)
TWEET #2 On Sale until Nov 16th, Mystery Thriller DEAD WITNESS, $1.99 (click to Tweet)
October 15, 2013
FNN Interviews the author of WOTAN'S DILEMMA
<!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Verdana; panose-1:2 11 6 4 3 5 4 4 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} @font-face {font-family:Verdana; panose-1:2 11 6 4 3 5 4 4 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} @font-face {font-family:"ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3"; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:roman; mso-font-pitch:auto; mso-font-signature:0 0 0 0 0 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-unhide:no; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; margin:0cm; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} p.Body, li.Body, div.Body {mso-style-name:Body; mso-style-unhide:no; mso-style-parent:""; margin:0cm; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt; font-family:Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family:"ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; color:black;} .MsoChpDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; mso-default-props:yes; font-size:10.0pt; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;} @page WordSection1 {size:612.0pt 792.0pt; margin:72.0pt 72.0pt 72.0pt 72.0pt; mso-header-margin:36.0pt; mso-footer-margin:43.2pt; mso-paper-source:0;} div.WordSection1 {page:WordSection1;} </style> <div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="color: blue;">Today, a third-degree mishap for your reading pleasure.</span> </span></div><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> </span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X0nirEqzvfE..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="166" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X0nirEqzvfE..." width="400" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;"></span></div><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><a href="http://hank-quense.com/wp/faux-news-n..." target="_blank">Faux News Network </a>presents a special report from our cultural reporter Marcia Hammerhead. Today, Marcia will interview an author who has just released a new book.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> </span> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QjKhoVLPW8o..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QjKhoVLPW8o..." width="320" /></a></div></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Marcia Hammerhead:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Today, I'm interviewing a virtually unknown writer named Hank Quense whose latest book is Wotan's Dilemma.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mr Quense, I must warn you that I love literary works such as Milton's Paradise Lost and Melville's Moby Dick plus artistic masterpieces like Ravel and Respighi symphonies and most operas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also despise genre </span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">fiction and I'm afraid the very title of your book smacks of some horrid little genre story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Am I correct in my analysis?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> Hank Quense: Yes, you are to a certain extent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wotan's Dilemma is a blend of scifi and fantasy, but it's not horrid.</span><br /></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oIUqQnMzZMM..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oIUqQnMzZMM..." width="266" /></a></div></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">MH: Oh dear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Two trashy genres in one book?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This could be even worse that I first imagined.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I'll decide if it's horrid or not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can you gives a brief synopsis of this wretched story.</span></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">HQ: Wotan's Dilemma is a retelling of an ancient story known as the Rhinegold Myth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Basically, I used the storyline the opera composer, Richard Wagner, used for his Ring Cycle of operas, reset it in the future instead of the Dark Ages, changed the fantasy creatures to aliens and transformed the morbid tale into comedy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Other than that it's pretty much the original myth. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> </span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pvlnZea9KZ8..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pvlnZea9KZ8..." width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">MH: I can't believe your chutzpah!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You dare to change a classic masterpiece into genre claptrap.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You should be flogged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Ring Cycle is a classic and my favorite series of operas and yet you desecrated it?</span></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: left; text-indent: 18pt;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">HQ: Well, not exactly. I didn't rewrite the music, I only changed the storyline.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Especially the ending.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wagner composed great music, but his story-telling skills left much to be desired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had to change the ending, because Wagner's doesn't make sense.</span> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5SloIomDlrs..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5SloIomDlrs..." width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;"></span></div></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">MH: I am shocked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Shocked, that you haven't been denounced by opera lovers everywhere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How dare you change the ending the of the world's greatest set of operas?</span></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">HQ: It had to be done, Martha.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also made Brunnhilde the main character and gave her a quest: to understand and experience mortal love. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> </span> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IwsAvV_oqgE..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IwsAvV_oqgE..." width="131" /></a></span></div></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">MH: It's Marcia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How can Brunnhilde be on a quest when she dies in the last scene?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">HQ: She doesn't die in my story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She lives to go on with her quest.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> </span></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A1p17Lt8o9s..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A1p17Lt8o9s..." width="320" /></a></div></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">MH: Obviously, your genre drivel must be withdrawn from publication and all copies destroyed before it damages Wagner's reputation.</span></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">HQ: I see no reason to un-publish it, Mary.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> </span> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ysC_olDS4G4..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ysC_olDS4G4..." width="320" /></a></div></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">MH: It's Marcia, not Martha or Mary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You must un-publish the book.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Ring Cycle has no humor in it. It isn't meant to be a comedy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It isn't meant to be scifi.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It's meant to be a turgid piece of horror, bloodlust and godly vengeance filled with great music.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It can brook no mockery such as your novel.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">HQ: Have you read my book, Martina?</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> </span> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cF7DOVh2WVU..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cF7DOVh2WVU..." /></a></div></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">MH: My name is Marcia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course I haven't read it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told you earlier, I despise genre fiction.</span></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">HQ: If you haven't read it, how do you know I didn't improve Wagner's story?</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> </span> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q2jgQPxhESw..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="357" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q2jgQPxhESw..." width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">MH: It's impossible to improve on perfection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since this interview has degenerated into quibbles, my readers will learn nothing of importance and it may actually insult their intelligence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This interview is over.</span></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">HQ: Thanks for interviewing me, Madeline.</span><br /></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"></div><div align="center" class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: 18.0pt;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SGb6BNMobS0..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SGb6BNMobS0..." width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">~ ~ ~</span></div><div align="center" class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: 18.0pt;"></div><div class="Body" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 18.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Faux News Network: despite Ms Hammerhead's prejudice, FNN is thrilled that the author agreed to be interviewed and insulted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To learn more about <a href="http://strangeworldsonline.com/wp/?pa... style="color: #000099;">Wotan's Dilemma</span></a> click on the title.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> </span> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E5JxYd7c_fI..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="21" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E5JxYd7c_fI..." width="320" /></a></span></div><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">TWEET #1 - FNN's revealing yet weird interview with Hank Quense. (<a href="http://clicktotweet.com/AT849" target="_blank">click to tweet</a>)</span> <span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> </span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">TWEET #2 - Shocking revelation about whacking author Hank Quense. (<a href="http://clicktotweet.com/83bRI" target="_blank">click to tweet</a>) </span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">TWEET #3 - Delightful and crazy author Hank Quense interviewed. (<a href="http://clicktotweet.com/9C88x" target="_blank">click to tweet</a>)</span> <span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> </span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> </span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8hwoNRYPkCg..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8hwoNRYPkCg..." /></a></div></div></div>
October 6, 2013
Ask PZM: October 2013
Q. What are the advantages of being your own publisher if you buy back the rights to your book? Do you buy all your books back? How do you distribute the book without the help of the publisher?
While I am not an expert on these questions nor am I a lawyer, I do have experience having rights reverted to me from a traditional publisher. So let’s explore these questions together.
There are many elements of the above questions:
If your books are not in ebook format and the publisher has no plans to put your books in ebook format, I would say definitely get back the rights to all your books and put these in ebook format.
If your ebooks are controlled by the publisher and you cannot add links for each new book inside your other ebooks or decide yourself on enrolling in Amazon’s KDP Select, etc., you might want to get back the rights.
(I got back the rights to a self-published ebook when I learned I had lost the ability to make changes in the ebook. This was because my ebook was uploaded to the ebook converter’s KDP account instead of my own account.)
If your paperback books are no longer available except as used books, I would say that you should get back the rights to all your books in this case also. If the publisher still offers some of your books as new, then you might want to keep those books with the publisher until this is no longer true.
If your publisher is not doing a good job of marketing but you are marketing your own books, it may not be necessary to get back the rights. You simply go on marketing your own books.
In terms of distribution – you can republish your paperback books basically for free via Amazon’s CreateSpace (I recommend this site because, besides using it myself, new books are listed on Amazon almost immediately) and choose the expanded distribution for a very minimal amount.
I did this for my Jewish holiday book SEASONS FOR CELEBRATION (originally published in 1992 and co-authored with Rabbi Karen L. Fox) when the rights reverted to us. This way we could make the book available on Amazon as new rather than having an Amazon listing that only used books were available.
Obviously if your publisher has your books in major retail outlets (such as actual book stores) and your books are selling through these outlets, you may not want to get your rights back. This is because on your own you are probably less likely to get retail outlets to carry your books.
On the other hand, if there is only one copy of your book in retail outlets and that copy does not sell because no one can find it on the shelves, then perhaps distribution through a traditional publisher does not have that much to offer you.
The problem is that there is no crystal ball – you cannot know for sure what is the right thing to do about getting your rights back. And the publishing landscape changes so quickly that there are very few “for sure” landmarks.
The one thing you can be sure of is that you are more passionate about your books than a publisher.
If having the rights to your own books means you can have the books available as new on online book sites and have ebooks available, then seriously consider this option.
P.S. And if you sign a contract with a traditional publisher, make sure that contract includes a specific time when the rights revert to you (and which rights revert).
Q: Have there been changes on Wattpad for publishing works-in-progress?
Yes, there have been some important changes. You can read my blog post about this at http://budurl.com/Wattpadchanges
Phyllis Zimbler Miller is the author of fiction and nonfiction books and the co-founder of the online marketing company www.MillerMosaicLLC.com She blogs on author and book topics at www.PhyllisZimblerMiller.com
TWEET #1 "Buy back the rights of your book" (click to Tweet)
TWEET #2 "What if You market Your book" (click to Tweet)
TWEET #3 "Get the rights back for your book" (click to Tweet)
TWEET #4 "Are you more passionate about your book than your publisher?" (click to Tweet)
If you have a question for Ask PZM in November, contact Joylene at cluculzwriter at yahoo dot com and she'll pass it along to Phyllis.
While I am not an expert on these questions nor am I a lawyer, I do have experience having rights reverted to me from a traditional publisher. So let’s explore these questions together.
There are many elements of the above questions:
If your books are not in ebook format and the publisher has no plans to put your books in ebook format, I would say definitely get back the rights to all your books and put these in ebook format.
If your ebooks are controlled by the publisher and you cannot add links for each new book inside your other ebooks or decide yourself on enrolling in Amazon’s KDP Select, etc., you might want to get back the rights.
(I got back the rights to a self-published ebook when I learned I had lost the ability to make changes in the ebook. This was because my ebook was uploaded to the ebook converter’s KDP account instead of my own account.)
If your paperback books are no longer available except as used books, I would say that you should get back the rights to all your books in this case also. If the publisher still offers some of your books as new, then you might want to keep those books with the publisher until this is no longer true.
If your publisher is not doing a good job of marketing but you are marketing your own books, it may not be necessary to get back the rights. You simply go on marketing your own books.
In terms of distribution – you can republish your paperback books basically for free via Amazon’s CreateSpace (I recommend this site because, besides using it myself, new books are listed on Amazon almost immediately) and choose the expanded distribution for a very minimal amount.
I did this for my Jewish holiday book SEASONS FOR CELEBRATION (originally published in 1992 and co-authored with Rabbi Karen L. Fox) when the rights reverted to us. This way we could make the book available on Amazon as new rather than having an Amazon listing that only used books were available.
Obviously if your publisher has your books in major retail outlets (such as actual book stores) and your books are selling through these outlets, you may not want to get your rights back. This is because on your own you are probably less likely to get retail outlets to carry your books.
On the other hand, if there is only one copy of your book in retail outlets and that copy does not sell because no one can find it on the shelves, then perhaps distribution through a traditional publisher does not have that much to offer you.
The problem is that there is no crystal ball – you cannot know for sure what is the right thing to do about getting your rights back. And the publishing landscape changes so quickly that there are very few “for sure” landmarks.
The one thing you can be sure of is that you are more passionate about your books than a publisher.
If having the rights to your own books means you can have the books available as new on online book sites and have ebooks available, then seriously consider this option.
P.S. And if you sign a contract with a traditional publisher, make sure that contract includes a specific time when the rights revert to you (and which rights revert).
Q: Have there been changes on Wattpad for publishing works-in-progress?
Yes, there have been some important changes. You can read my blog post about this at http://budurl.com/Wattpadchanges
Phyllis Zimbler Miller is the author of fiction and nonfiction books and the co-founder of the online marketing company www.MillerMosaicLLC.com She blogs on author and book topics at www.PhyllisZimblerMiller.com
TWEET #1 "Buy back the rights of your book" (click to Tweet)
TWEET #2 "What if You market Your book" (click to Tweet)
TWEET #3 "Get the rights back for your book" (click to Tweet)
TWEET #4 "Are you more passionate about your book than your publisher?" (click to Tweet)
If you have a question for Ask PZM in November, contact Joylene at cluculzwriter at yahoo dot com and she'll pass it along to Phyllis.
