David Chuka's Blog, page 14

Weekly Update from David Chuka

So what’s cooking in David Chuka’s world? Let’s find out.

First of all, my long awaited second children’s animal book – ‘I Love My Dog,’ should be ready this weekend. To say I’ve had challenges getting this book ready would be an understatement. It boils down to the fact that the illustrations for this book were not up to scratch and we’ve had to revisit the drawing board on multiple occasions. I’m hopeful the final draft being worked on will pass the test and subsequently get published this weekend.

What have I learned from this episode? Never compromise on your standards. You and I only have one chance to make a first impression and once you’ve blown that first impression, you can’t turn back the hands of time to do it again. I was almost at the brink of getting some of the images approved because I had a target of getting it published in May. However, if I had published the book with the images as they were, it would have cost a serious dent in my reputation. I’m happy I pressed the pause button and when the book is finally published, I’m confident you’ll like what you see.

 

Secondly, I’ve been writing the fifth book in the Billy and Monster series and its titled ‘Billy and the Monster Meet the President.’ In this book you’ll discover new characters, Billy telling us what he wants to be when he grows up, an incident with an explosive device and Billy meeting the President. The way things are looking, this book might be substantially longer than my previous offerings. I shared the story with my wife and her Mom and they had that ‘Wow!’ look on their faces. It should be ready end of June, just in time for July 4th.

 

Thirdly, I’ve been doing some research on how I can get my books to a wider audience. I read a research today that says about 50 plus accounts are opened daily on KDP. What that means is that the Amazon Kindle store is getting saturated and some authors will have noticed a decline in sales. Thankfully, I haven’t seen a decline in my sales. A majority of my sales come from people buying eBooks on the Kindle platform. Wouldn’t you like to walk into your local Wal-Mart, Tesco, library or bookshop and see a David Chuka book on the shelf? I know I definitely would and I’m actively working to make this happen within the next few months. If you have any suggestions or insights, please get in touch via the Contact Us page.

 

Fourthly, the third Billy and Monster book – Billy and the Monster who Ate All the Easter Eggs is now available in paperback. You can order it online at Amazon by clicking the link below.

http://amzn.to/14gDEwF

 

Finally, I discovered a story I wrote about four years ago about a sea dragon and a sea turtle who get into trouble playing hide and seek. To be honest, I had forgotten I had written this story and only found it while looking for another document on my hard drive. I emailed this story to my wife to see what she thought and she gave it the thumbs up. The working title is ‘Kojo the Sea Dragon‘. The story will be edited and published sometime in the next few months. Watch this space!

 

So that’s what’s cooking. Have a fab day!

 

Interview With Children’s Book Author Mary Ann Rogers

It’s always a pleasure to roll my sleeves up and get to work on Author Interview Thursday. Today, we have a lady whose books are easily recognizable on the Amazon store. She currently has 12 books published and I know there are many more in the oven. I believe her success amongst other things is linked to the fact that she creates book series so her fans always have a variety of books to feast on plus she has strongly branded her books with unique titles and book covers. I also have to add that she is a very generous lady and has helped me out in my journey as a children’s book author on numerous occasions. Please join me in welcoming Mary Ann Rogers.

 

Tell us about your latest book and what formats is it available in?

I love creating children’s picture books! My latest series, “Baby Animal Names,” is for toddlers and young children and I’m currently selling them in the Amazon Kindle marketplace. The pictures look great even on the older black and white Kindle.

 

What other picture books have you written?

I have created two children’s picture book series so far. My first is an interactive series is for a slightly older crowd; 6 – 10 year, and.the second is perfect for toddlers and young children, ages 2 -6. Some of my published book titles include Farm Animals, Arctic Animals, Desert Animals, Zoo Babies and Wild Babies.

 

What can a reader expect when they pick up a Mary Ann Rogers book?

My first series examines animals that live in certain areas of the world. There is a picture of each animal, and a paragraph that provides amazing facts. At the end of the paragraph, there’s a question. The reader is given 2 – 3 answers and must guess the correct one to move on. I believe the interactive feature in these books makes them unique and interesting; as well as engages the reader to provide a fun and educational reading experience. My second series is also interactive, in that it asks a question and the reader can guess before they go to the next page. However, it is on a much easier scale, as it is geared toward a much younger audience.

 

When did you know you wanted to be a writer?

For as long as I can remember, I loved books! I loved stories and information. As a child, I would read everything I could get my hands on. I particularly loved mysteries when I was in elementary school. In 5th grade I read about 500 mystery books throughout the school year! However, it wasn’t until after I was married and had kids that I decided that I could create books of my own. Once I started though, I knew it was what I wanted to do.

 

What’s the best thing about being a writer?

I love being a writer! I think the best thing about it is it engages my creative side. Every day, all day long I am constantly seeing and hearing things that make me stop and say, “Hey, I could make that into a book!” I love living a life where I’m having fun while working!

 

Do you believe in writer’s block and what do you do to overcome it?

I have experienced writer’s block; however, for me I know it has to do with a lack of confidence and procrastination! If that happens, I stop what I’m doing and go for a walk, play with my kids, or do something that makes me happy. When I’m happy, the creative juices start flowing again!

 

What do you like to do when you are not writing?

I’m a mom of 4. And anyone who’s a mom knows that  life beyond work is usually about your kids. I love playing and engaging with my children! The life beyond writing that I want and enjoy is all about family!

 

Have your kids been an inspiration to your picture books?

My kids are a huge inspiration to me and greatly influence my writing. In fact, my son has read all my books and is continually giving me ideas for more!

 

What is your favorite film?

I have so many favourites! But, if I had to pick one, I’d probably say, ‘To Kill A Mockingbird’ is my favourite. There are so many lessons I learned from that movie! I remember the first time I watched it, it deeply influenced how I wanted to be in life.

 

Toy Story or Shrek?

Definitely Toy Story! It brings back great memories of playing with toys when I was little.

 

What can we expect from Mary Ann Rogers in 2013?

More books! I am currently researching materials for better interactive books.

 

Any advice for authors out there who are either just starting out or getting frustrated with the publishing industry?

Just keep on going! Don’t give up! Keep learning and writing and direct your attention to what you want in your business. Try not to worry about all the negatives that can challenge you and keep moving forward.

 

Anything else that you’d like to add?

I’d like to say I really appreciate my fans! I want to continually write books that readers enjoy, and hearing from my fans through reviews or my fanpage inspires me to keep writing!

 

Thank you so much for that great interview Mary Ann! It’s clear to see that you’re passionate about the books you publish and only want to create books that add value and challenge the readers. I think other authors can also learn from your success with the book series you have and your conscious decision to brand your books the way you have. You can see and get Mary Ann Rogers’ books on the Amazon store by clicking the link below

http://www.amazon.com/Mary-Ann-Rogers/e/B00AWT5LA8

 

You can also connect with Mary Ann by visiting and LIKING her facebook page at the link below

https://www.facebook.com/maryannrogersbooks

 

 

Interview With Children’s Book Author Caryn Whitfield

It’s another Author Interview Thursday and it’s a pleasure to introduce a dear friend of mine who is building up his catalog of published books at an alarming pace. I have been privileged to read several of his books and one thing I can confidently say about them is that they always contain a lesson that parents/adults will derive pleasure in sharing with their loved ones. He writes under the pen name Caryn Whitfield and if you peruse the Amazon Children’s Kindle Store regularly, I can almost guarantee you have consciously or unconsciously stumbled across one of his books. Please join me in welcoming Caryn Whitfield.

 

Tell us about your latest book and what format is it available in?

My book “Little Shy Cindy Believes in Magical Snowflakes” is truly something special. You can find it on the Amazon Kindle Store right now, and shortly it will be available in paperback. I’ve had quite a few people tell me their children like to “have it in their hands.” They love the story and the images inside and compliment about what a beautiful cover the book displays. So I’m going to deliver.

 

What can a reader expect when they pick up a Caryn Whitfield book?

It’s all about entering a world of imagination where anything is possible. It’s also about believing in yourself and the power of being positive. With each of my books, the intention is for you to learn an important life lesson that will help your little ones, or you, make better decisions that are beneficial to raising your children. They are simple to understand with fantastic images that are captivating and inviting. I want my readers to want more! It’s all about entertaining children and having a lesson taught to their children which parents appreciate.

 

What do you love best about being a children’s book author?

The chance to be a kid again! My imagination never “grew up.” This makes writing children’s stories perfect for me. I love it! I totally enjoy entertaining children and seeing them come away from each book happy, and with a special thought in their young minds that they learned something new.

 

Where do you usually write your books?

I write from the thoughts in my head and from my past experiences as a child. I have story after story filed away and something I see, hear, or do, usually triggers these memories. I’ve always got a pad of paper and a pen around, or my computer too. So I let my finger’s fly! I always think about what kids like and what lesson a parent would like to teach them.

 

What is the process from when you get an idea for a book to the point it gets published?

It takes a little bit of time, but it’s really quite simple. I just come upon an idea, and make sure I write it down. Then I start thinking about the characters and the message I want to make. It’s important my reader’s learn something positive from every story I write. Brainstorm and I will then outline the story I have in my head. I just write it. Then I go back through it to make any changes. Next, I’ll add the images and go back through the book proofing it a few times. Another set of eyes will have a look through it, proof it and give me feedback. Then so long as I am happy it’s sent for publication! If I am satisfied, then my readers will be satisfied too!

 

Do you believe in writer’s block and what do you do to overcome it?

Actually I’m happy to report I’ve never had writer’s block, creating children’s stories. If one idea doesn’t flow naturally, I don’t force it. It must make sense and I will just move to another idea and create a story for it. As I mentioned before, I have endless stories in my head, and whichever one will push to the front when I’m ready to write, gets written. There are many different happenings in daily life that stimulate ideas too.

What has been your most successful marketing method for promoting your books?

So far, reviews and word of mouth. As a fairly new writer to the scene I’ve discovered how invaluable it is to get the word out through Facebook groups and any other online groups. People are more interesting in purchasing my books when they see people have already reviewed it. I am very fortunate to have so many great people supporting me here. I always try and do the same in return.

 

What were some of your favorite books as a child?

Actually Dr. Seuss comes to mind. I used to read “Green Eggs and Ham” over and over while I was waiting for my sister to finish her piano lesson. I bet I can still recite the book word for word today! Another book I always remember was “The Red Balloon.” It was a children’s classic in school. Of course I loved the fairy tales too. Cinderella, Snow White and the Three Dwarfs, and Alice in Wonderland. There are just so many to mention. Great memories that inspired me to follow my dreams and become a writer. You are only a child once, but writing children’s books is a second close to being a child again.

 

Do you have any children and do they inspire your work as a children’s book author?

Oh yes, I have too many to count! Each and every day they give me a few more ideas for stories. They are also very helpful in reviewing and developing ideas. They love that I write children’s books and their eyes light up any time I read them one, and I love including them in the process. Sometimes the best way to come up with a new idea is to ask the kids! Who knows better than kids about what they enjoy, right?

 

What mistake(s) have you made while publishing your books that you would advise other authors against?

Trying to do too many things at once and disregarding what readers are specifically looking for in a good book.

 

How do you deal with bad reviews?

You have to have tough skin when it comes to getting a bad review. I personally do not address a bad review. I just try and make the next book that much better.

 

Toy Story or Shrek?

Toy Story. I love to see toys come to life as in my book, “Toys Foil Pindrop Toy Store Burglary”

 

What can we expect from Caryn Whitfield in 2013?

More and more children’s books in with various stories with lessons to be learned for children.

 

 

Any advice for authors out there who would are either just starting out or getting frustrated with the publishing industry?

Perseverance and follow your dreams. Never quit because that next move is the one that propels your success!

 

Thanks for ending on that very positive note! I like what you said there about never giving up and that inherent within every next move (if we are willing to take it), is the potential for a leap into our destiny. I have to admit that my best Caryn Whitfield book is Mikey the Backpack Monster. You can discover Caryn Whitfield’s full catalog of books on the Amazon Store by clicking the link below.

http://www.amazon.com/Caryn-Whitfield/e/B00CHVOUFQ

 

Weekly Update from David Chuka

Hello. I’ll like to start with something I posted to my Facebook wall that received a lot of LIKES.

 ‘Little drops of water make a mighty ocean. Every step you take, every action you make counts. Never give up!’

I don’t know what you’re going through today but I really want to encourage you never to allow your present circumstance define who you are. You can make it and your silver lining is on the horizon.

I’m currently working on a book about dogs that’s going to be titled ‘I Love My Dog’ The book cover is to the right and I hope you like it. Following on from the amazing success of ‘I Love Baby Animals,’ I have decided to do another animal book and I’ve really had fun discovering different dog breeds and features common with each breed.

For Billy and Monster fans out there, please don’t despair. I have not abandoned your favourite 6 year-old and his purple Monster. I have two Billy books that I’m working on. One is actually a Christmas edition and the other is themed around Independence Day. Will reveal more in the days and weeks to come.

I’d like to bring your attention to the Newsletter subscription box at the top right hand corner of this page. I have a free gift for you when you subscribe. You get a free coloring and activity book which you can print out and have your loved ones have a blast coloring  and doing the fun activities. So if you haven’t subscribed yet, do so right now! Your little ones will like the gift and you can print as many copies for them as possible.

I sometimes post exclusive announcements on my Facebook page so you need to go over there right now and click the LIKE button. Click the link below and then click the LIKE button.

https://www.facebook.com/Author.David.Chuka

The plan is to get the dog book published this week. Keep an eye out for it and have a great day.

3 Benefits of Promoting Your Kindle eBook for FREE

Hello. I haven’t blogged for about a week and it seems like forever. Promise not to make this a habit.

I’d like to share something noteworthy with you. I ran a free promo on Amazon which allowed people to download free copies of I Love Baby Animals last week over a  three day period to their Kindle or Kindle app. Over those three days, I had 7,985 downloads. Following the downloads, this book started gaining serious traction and ended up as the Number ONE best-seller in 2 categories on the Amazon US Store. ILBA was the Number 1 in the Zoo and Animals (Non-Fiction) categories for almost a week. I checked this morning and it seems we’ve slipped to Number two, so please help me share this book with your friends and let’s get it back to Number One.

Sometimes, people question the logic behind doing a free promo. I think its three-fold.

First of all, as a new author whose relatively unknown, doing these free days will allow my books and my name get to a wider audience who hopefully after enjoying the free book, will give my other titles a chance.

Secondly, Amazon’s algorithm actively promotes a book if it has a successful promo period. My understanding is that above a thousand downloads is good. Above five thousand is better and above ten thousand is bananas! Now I have to admit that I’ve had varying degrees of success with free promo days. There are various factors that will make a book attract a massive avalanche of downloads. One of them and I believe this is highly critical, is the title and cover of the book. There is just something cute and heart warming about this book cover that has made it a success. I met a lady on Goodreads who said she actively promoted it (without my knowledge) on her website as she just liked it. Now if my cover was bland, I don’t think this would have happened. Only God knows how many other people saw this book and promoted it to their followers on Twitter, Facebook or their blog. I wrote a blog post ‘How to Improve Your Kindle eBook Sales,’ which explains the evolution of this book.

The third reason why free promo periods are good is because customers who read and enjoy your book can leave a good review. The social proof from other readers serves to convince other people to buy and read your book. Over this promo period and following it, I have received 22 glowing reviews mostly made up of 4 and 5 stars. I’ve had only three 3 star reviews on this book. Below are some of the reviews I received in the last week.

 

In reading this to my daughter she discovered some new-to-her baby animal names, some surprising such as the dolphin baby name, calf. She loved the cuteness of the baby animals, as well as the information provided. – Joy

 

I got this book for my six year old daughter, but I enjoyed reading it with her. The sentences aren’t too long or too difficult for her to read, so it was easy to read along while I read to her. - Minimoe1974

 

While kids will probably know the names of the adult animals they will probably not know what a baby alligator, hedgehog or llama is called. I personally didn’t know so it was a surprise to me. This book is super cute with a drawing of the adult animals and a photo of the baby animals. Kids will love the surprise factor as each animal is revealed. I enjoyed this book and think it will be a hit with kids.- Rebecca of Amazon “The Rebecca Review”

 

I have to admit that reading reviews from people who I have never met who endorse books that I worked really hard to produce is a truly rewarding and humbling experience. Reading such reviews just gives me the motivation to write more books and improve on my previous books.

If you’ve ever wondered if doing a free promo on Amazon was worth it, I hope my little piece here has opened your eyes to the possibilities. Will gladly answer any questions or comments you have.

Interview With Children’s Book Author Beth Dexter-Smith

Its Author Interview Thursday! I’m super excited about today’s guest because I met her at the London Book Fair and her story is one that personally inspired me a lot. I have to admit that it was serendipitous the way we met and I know I’ll be cheering her every move as she’s very talented and has some interesting projects in the pipeline. You can read my London Book Fair – Wednesday post to see how I met Beth Dexter-Smith. Her recently published book is now available in big UK retailers like Waterstones and WH Smith. Please join me in welcoming Beth.

 

Tell us about your latest book and what format is it available in?

‘Where’s the Scone?’ is a soft backed pre-school counting book that involves lots of weird and wonderful animals eating wacky food such as 5 yeti sucking spaghetti! There’s also a list of items in the back of the book that have been hidden within the illustrations that children can look for when they’re reading the book. It’s available from WHSmith’s, Waterstones and Amazon’s on-line shops.

 

What can a reader expect when they pick up a Beth Dexter-Smith book?

Strong characters, an original take on a traditional theme and humour!

 

What do you love best about being a children’s book author?

Having an excuse to write about things that entertain me and seeing the expression on childrens’ faces when they enjoy something I’ve written.

 

Where do you usually write your books?

On a sunny sofa looking over my garden.

 

What is the process from when you get an idea for a book to the point it gets published?

I normally think about an idea for a week or two and let it ferment so that when I put pen to paper I have become consumed by the idea and don’t normally stop writing until I have a completed draft. I then read it to my husband and children before making any tweaks that I think are necessary. My publisher uses his contacts in schools to get feedback from parents and children to inform any further changes. In ‘Where’s the Scone’ for example I had ‘deer swilling beer’ which was changed to ‘bees nibbling cheese’ following such feedback. My publisher then produces the illustrations which we develop together to make sure that the pictures marry up well with the text and then when we’re both happy, a small number of books are produced. These are used to obtain pre-orders; the number of which will inform the final print run.

 

Do you believe in writer’s block and what do you do to overcome it?

Absolutely-it’s the result of self-imposed pressure to keep producing great ideas. I tend not to write for a while and let my ideas build up and then I have a period of time when I’m quite productive and write quite a lot. When I’m writing I can’t read other books as I find this too distracting and I always try to jot down any ideas I get, however small and undeveloped, as my memory is abysmal!

 

What were some of your favourite books as a kid?

The Borrowers, Anne of Green Gables and anything by Enid Blyton

 

Congratulations Beth on recently publishing your first book. Can you describe to us that moment when you held your book in your hands for the first time?

It was very surreal. It took a year exactly to get the book (I met my publisher at the 2012 London Book Fair and he gave me my book at the 2013 LBF) and there were a few times along the way when I thought it might not happen so my overriding feeling was one of relief. It was later that week when it finally sank in that I was a published author and the excitement and pride came when I started showing my book to my family and friends.

 

What mistake(s) have you made while publishing your latest book that you would advise other authors against?

The process of working with my publisher was very collaborative and I don’t feel that any mistakes made. I initially thought that the book might work better as a board book but it forms part of a pre-school series that My Little Big Town has produced and they look great together.

 

There is a big debate going on about the virtues of self publishing versus traditional publishing. What’s your take on this debate?

I think most authors would opt for traditional publishing because it’s like getting a vote of confidence from the industry. There is less financial exposure for the author and one assumes that the publishing house will have the resources and contacts to illustrate, produce and market the finished book more effectively than a sole trading author. That said there have been many examples over the last few years of self-published books that have been huge; ’50 Shades of Grey’ which started life as free download being a perfect example. The beauty of self-publishing is that it allows books to be produced that take more risks than the conventional publishing industry which, in my opinion, is far too conservative.

 

Toy Story or Shrek?

Toy Story-I have a soft spot for Mr Potato Head!

 

Which are scarier, dragons or monsters?

Dragons. Monsters are always drawn to look too fluffy and cutesy in childrens’ books which annoys me. Children love to be frightened and I think we try to mollycoddle them too much.

 

What are your best memories from your childhood?

Walking on the moors, holidays with the Lewises (great family friends), playing in the woods and having the time to daydream.

 

What is a typical day for Beth Dexter-Smith?

I stay in bed for as long and then have a manic rush to get my children to school/childcare before starting work at the North York Moors National Park. On a non-working day mornings are spent taking the children to various activities and then in the afternoon we’ll head off in the camper-van onto the moors, go out on the bikes or see friends. I love pottering in the garden and cake so I will jump at the chance to visit any establishment that sells plants and buns! We have a great walled garden in Helmsley that is fantastic on both fronts!

 

Have your children inspired any of the characters you’ve written about?

Yes. I was really shocked at how adverts and many traditional fairytales condition girls into thinking that their sole purpose in being is to look pretty and find a husband. Julia Donaldson is very good at making her lead characters female but I really wanted to create a strong role model for young girls like my daughter which is where Stud Metal Mary the Rock n Roll Fairy came from.

 

What can we expect from Beth Dexter-Smith in 2013?

Stud Metal Mary the Rock n Roll Fairy is due out later in the year and I’m currently working on a sequel which I’m hoping my publisher will take forward.

 

Any advice for authors out there who would like to get their books traditionally published?

Do listen to constructive criticism and try not to be too precious about your work then go to the London Book Fair and make the effort to approach publishers and agents and sell your work. Don’t be shy-it’s a difficult thing to do and you’ll probably have several rejections but don’t give up. Many of the best known authors were rejected more than 10 times before they found a publisher willing to take them on. Good luck!

 

Thank you so much Beth for taking the time to be with us this Thursday. You know a lot of people are afraid of rejections and allow it to stop them from even getting on the starting line. I admire the fact that you went to the London Book Fair with the sole intention of getting a book deal and almost a year to the day, you’re back at LBF but as a published author whose books will be sold nationally and internationally. Dreams really can come true if we just believe! You can find out more about Beth by visiting her Facebook page at the link below.

https://www.facebook.com/WheresTheScone

 

 

London Book Fair 2013 Summary – Wednesday

This is the final entry for my London Book Fair 2013 journal. This day was very interesting as I met a couple of people whose path I suspect I’ll likely cross again. We’ll see….

 

Wednesday

I had to admit that when I got home on Tuesday, my head was throbbing with all the info I had gotten plus the fact that I had stood up for about 2 or more hours. I had to attend to some personal matters in the morning and subsequently ended up arriving at Earls Court just after 2 o’clock.

I was surprised I found a seat for the ‘Making the Right Choice as a Self Publishing Author.’ I guess some people were still recovering in their hotel rooms. Actually what happened was that as soon as I got there, a lady seating on the second row got up.

5 seconds pause.

No one attempts to take the seat, so I walk majestically to take the seat. Woohoo! No standing today.

I loved Jeremy Thompson’s (Managing Director at Troubador Publishing) presentation. He was very straight forward and said what the current situation in the marketplace was. He also highlighted what services his company could offer and peppered his presentation with a few stories. It did get me thinking about using them to publish my books as I’m not impressed with the quality of CreateSpace books. Not to say CreateSpace is bad but they offer a one size fits all and especially with children’s books, you want to aim for something eye-catching and oozing quality. I was torn between going to visit various stands or stay for the next session. I’m glad I chose the latter.

It was a Q&A chaired by Gareth Howard and Hayley Radford. The special guests on the panel were Daniel Cooke from Generation Publishing and Mark Lefebvre from Kobo. As an industry insider, Daniel said he really couldn’t see physical books being done away with. Hayley gave useful advice on approaching a literary agent or publisher.

Gareth gave some advice regarding contracts. Even though he is a lawyer by profession, he gave an example of not knowing the legal or economic implications of a client of his who was negotiating passing on the translation rights of his book to another party. This is where a literary agent is very necessary as they understand the market and can fight your corner for you. He also talked about how the job of his company was to hound (professionally) journalists to read and review a book. As an author, it wouldn’t really be in good taste to hound a journalist as they’ll hate you. However, a third party doing this is okay as the journalist understands they’re just doing a job.

Mark encouraged us to publish our books on all platforms. I can see where he’s coming from with that advice but honestly and from my experience, I think the other self publishing platforms like B&N, Kobo, iBooks etc., really need to offer an enticing package to authors that will attract them away from Amazon’s KDP platform. Until they do so, it just makes pure economic sense to stay with KDP.

There was a drinks session after this seminar as it was the last seminar at the AuthorLounge area. While waiting to ask Hayley Radford a question, I noticed this lady with a badge that had ‘My Little Big Town’ on it. I approached her and asked if she was affiliated with them and she said YES! Beth Dexter-Smith  then proceeded to show me a physical copy of her book, ‘Where’s The Scone,’ which she just saw for the first time that day. I told her I had been to and meet the folks at MLBT. She said she had approached Calvin the year before at the Author Lounge when authors where allowed to pitch their ideas to publishers and a year later…bam! She has a published book that will be sold in all the major retail stores very soon. (As I write, I can see that the book is now available to buy on the Waterstones and WH Smith websites…that is huge!).  She encouraged me to go to the MLBT stand one more time and it was nice to do that as I got the opportunity to take pictures with Calvin, Letitia and Beth. Calvin was a kind to sign a copy of Gorgeous George and the Giant Geriatric Generator which he illustrated and was written by Stuart Reid. I’m almost through reading it and will likely do a post about it later.

 

I went back to AuthorLounge and had the opportunity to speak to Hayley. She informed me of a new website I believe she’s starting that will marry agents with authors – litfactor.com. thereafter, I made my way out of the hall and into the London evening sunshine.

 

All in all, these last 3 days were a blast! I got to meet some really wonderful people, learned some valuable stuff and got a peek into the publishing world. Over the next coming months I’ll be implementing what I learned at the event. Can’t wait to attend LBF 2014!

Free Kindle Book Download – Billy and Monster’s New Neighbor Has a Secret

I don’t think I’ve this on the blog for a while but I’m happy to say that you can download a free copy of the latest Billy and Monster Book – Billy and Monster’s New Neighbor has a Secret.

You can download this book today and tomorrow and Wednesday…and also Thursday!

I have never had a book on free for this long and I’m doing a mini experiment I’m hopeful will lead to more exposure for the book.

This is the fourth book in this series and in it Billy introduces us to the neighbors who live on his street. We also get to meet Billy’s new neighbor Sally who has a secret. You really have to get your own copy of this book to find out what it is.

Can you please do me a favor? I would like you to leave a review on Amazon once you’ve read it. It really would mean the world to me.

Get your own copy at one of the links below

US – http://amzn.to/YhwNAH

UK – http://amzn.to/106tsBP

Thanks for your support and do have a lovely day.

Billy and Monster’s New Neighbor Has a Secret is LIVE!

I love days like today. It is with great pleasure that I’d like to introduce you to the latest Billy and Monster Book  titled ‘Billy and Monster’s New Neighbor Has a Secret.’

What can you expect in this episode? Well, in this fourth episode in the very entertaining series for kids of all ages, Billy and Monster get to meet a new neighbor who has a secret.

Billy and Monster live on a beautiful street with some very interesting neighbors like Mr Forgetful, Miss Squeaky and Mr GrumpDaddy whose been banned from the local butchers. Why? Because he always gives them grief when he goes to get some beef.

On a Saturday morning while playing racing cars with Monster, they hear a knock at the door. Billy’s Dad opens the door and they’re introduced to their new neighbors – The FeelGoods.

After an incident involving screams and flowing streams of tears, Billy goes to Sally FeelGoods house to make peace.

And then he discovers that Sally has a COLORFUL secret that leaves Billy’s mouth open as wide as the Grand Canyon. You really have to get the book at the link below to see what the secret is.

US – http://amzn.to/YhwNAH

UK – http://amzn.to/106tsBP

Let me give you some background on some of the characters in this story. The interesting neighbors you see at the beginning of the book were originally created for a set of rhyming books which I intend to publish at some point. I created these characters in December 2012 and I just saw a review from someone on Amazon who said he hoped I would develop some of the new characters introduced in this book. I will definitely take this into consideration.

I always have a bit of butterflies when I publish a book as I can only hope and pray that the story is accepted and loved by old and new fans of Billy and Monster. I hope you like this story too.

I’ll happily to entertain any questions or comments you may have.

Interview With Children’s Book Author Stuart Reid

I’m really excited about this week’s Author Interview! If you’ve read my most recent blog posts, then you’re aware that I attended the London Book Fair 2013 which turned out to be a very rewarding experience. Well, today in the hot seat is a man who was one of the speakers at LBF. Stuart Reid is a man whose life story would make for a great movie. His passion for improving literacy levels in children plus his generous and engaging persona made his presentation one of the stand-out memories for me at the London Book Fair. Stuart is a well known children’s book author in the United Kingdom and has read his books to more than 30,000 children! Please join me in welcoming Stuart Reid.

 

Tell us about your latest book and what format is it available in?

My second book Gorgeous George and the Zigzag Zit-faced Zombies came out in the shops in January. It’s available from all good book shops (and the rubbish ones too), as well as Kindle and other e-book formats I’m completely unaware of. I let my publisher deal with all that. I think there’s an app too (whatever an app is). It’s an everyday tale of bums, bogeys and big bottom burps, and takes place in the town of Little Pumpington, also the setting for my first book Gorgeous George and the Giant Geriatric Generator. Presenting in schools, I came to realize that kids love zombies. They might be little but most of them have seen Shaun of the Dead or played zombie games on the internet so writing a zombie book for the under 12’s was a logical step.  

 

What can a reader expect when they pick up a Stuart Reid book?

A spectacularly over-the-top storyline, lots of laughs and bucket loads of toilet humour. Poo, pee and pumps are universal and kids still laugh at the same stuff I used way back last century.  

 

What do you love best about being a children’s book author?

I was a serious business professional for over 25 years before I realized that I’d stopped having fun. I thought the tie around my neck was stifling my creativity so when I finally decided to take it off my imagination just exploded out the top of my head. Now I can wear shorts everyday; I can be as silly as I like and I get paid for it. I lick poo nearly every day and I’ve bought my third whoopee cushion this year (I go through them quite quickly). After I’ve performed my 25 shows at the Edinburgh Festival, I’m going to try to work a slot into my new show where I will drink my own wee.  

 

Where do you usually write your books?

Anywhere. I’m not restricted by needing perfect calm and stillness and a lovely view from my writing room balcony. When I’m in the zone, I take my laptop everywhere and I can shut out every distraction around about me.  

 

What is the process from when you get an idea for a book to the point it gets published?

For me, it’s never a straight line. I always have dozens of ideas kicking around and usually several projects on the go at one time. I keep notes on every idea that leaps into my head and later on some of them will find a way into one of my books. Currently I have two books published, three with my publisher ready to go in the next 12 months, three e-book short stories coming out (first one is already out), one very serious adult book based on my next door neighbour’s dad diaries, as a POW in Germany, currently with three publishers and another children’s book that I’m not sure what will happen to it.  

 

Do you believe in writer’s block and what do you do to overcome it?

Writer’s block is probably different for every writer but I tend to blame myself for painting my plot into a corner. I’ve found that if I have a chat with my children, whilst wearing a large, and ridiculously stupid, sock puppet on my hand, the answer will always present itself. So far, this has always resulted in at least the next three or four chapters becoming perfectly clear.  

 

What were some of your favorite books as a kid?

My favorite book when I was younger was The Twits by Roald Dahl. It’s so dark, the characters are so weird and I loved the thought of Mrs Twit feeding Mr Twit worms in his spaghetti. Gluing birds to branches, ripping off their feet and then baking them is inspired.  

 

What has been the most successful way of marketing your books?

I believe that I am one of Britain’s most enthusiastic and inspirational presenters. I like to go out and meet my target audience face to face, tell them how fantastic my books are (and books in general) and then talk and talk and talk and talk to the children until they give up and promise to buy a copy.  

 

How do you prepare for a presentation at a school?

I’ve started wearing Hawaiian shirts, which is always good fun. I also make sure I have enough false teeth and I finally wrap a balloon around one of my jobbies (if you are English and not sure what a jobby is, come to my show at the Edinburgh Festival in August).  

 

What is the most memorable question you’ve been asked while doing a school presentation?

Have I ever been locked in a fridge?  

 

What mistake(s) have you made while publishing your books that you would advise other authors against?  

Never, ever give up your £100k job in Dubai, return to the UK and take a year off to write absolute nonsense for children, unless you are certifiably insane and prepared to allow your wife and children to go hungry and shoeless, as you follow ‘your dream’. One prerequisite to all of the above; belief and the love of a good woman.  

 

There is a big debate going on about the virtues of self publishing versus traditional publishing. What’s your take on this debate?

The glut of self-published books is definitely lowering the overall standard of literature and perhaps risking the relationship and trust with their reader. A good self-published author should always be aware of the value in a strong recommendation and build up their fan-base through positive word-of-mouth. On the flip side, I am continually frustrated to see second rate actors and Z-list celebrities publishing their books through the traditional publishers, as the publishers jump on that ‘known brand’ commodity. The fact that everyone in Britain has a decent education means that the entire population think they can write a book. I had to laugh when Pippa Middleton’s book sold less than 500 copies, despite the fact that publisher paid her £400,000 advance. I should probably stop here, as in the last two paragraphs I may have upset self-published authors, the traditional publishing industry and the Royal family.

 

Toy Story or Shrek?

Shrek, without doubt. Anyone who farts in the bath always gets my vote.  

 

Which are scarier, dragons or monsters?

Monsters. Dragons are usually predetermined large, reptilian beasts but a monster can be anything. I love the idea of the Weeping Angels in Dr Who; you can’t even see them move!  

 

Farts, poo or bogeys; which are the most disgusting? They’re not disgusting at all; for me, they are the source of limitless good fun. If you’re offended or disgusted by farts, poo or bogeys, and I laugh at them, at least we know that I’m a happier person.  

 

Farts, poo or bogeys; which are the funniest to write about?

That’s unfair. That’s like asking me to choose between my children; I love them all as much but in different ways. My second book Gorgeous George and the Zigzag Zit-faced Zombies   is pretty much about children eating their own bogeys, it’s something I see nearly every day in schools. i have a few chapters about poo and pumps in my first book bit I was holding myself back. Arthur Smith, one of the geezers on Grumpy Old Men, loves the line ‘wrapped in a blanket of rancid cabbages.’   

What is a typical day for Stuart Reid?

Coffee, emails, school visits, coffee, Facebook, Twitter, a poo round about 11am, more coffee, emails, interviews, invoices, count my book sales and a large pile of cash, write my blog, Facebook again and a wee read of someone else’s book at bedtime.    

 

Have your children inspired any of the characters you’ve written about?

My eldest girl is similar to Allison, in the Gorgeous George books. It wasn’t intentional but they are both opinionated and strong-willed but with a sensitive streak. Both Allison and my daughter are very sensible that way; girls are always more mature than boys. In fact, that doesn’t change into adulthood.

 

What can we expect from Stuart Reid in the next 24 months?

I’m working on a monthly series of Gorgeous George short stories released on various e-book formats as 99p pocket money book and there are three more Gorgeous George full length novels coming out. Snotasaurus is my first book aimed at a younger market and is due out in November. I love this one and have high hopes for it.  Gorgeous George and the Giant Geriatric Generator won the Silver Seal at the Forward National Literature Awards but I think Snotasaurus might pick up a few more prizes. I’ve already mentioned my show at the Edinburgh Festival and I’m hoping my POW War Diaries is published before the end of 2014.

 

Any advice for children book authors out there who are just starting out?

Never give up. If you have belief in your abilities and feedback is still good, keep going. It’s okay to change direction now and again but keep moving forward.   Wow! Stuart my ribs are almost aching from that interview. I think I now see why you are one of the most popular presenters in the UK and kids love your books. It’s so clear to see that you love what you do and the awards and requests for your time are a clear testament to that. You can get a copy of Stuart’s books at your local bookstore and also order one online. You can see Stuart live at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival this August. You can discover more about Stuart by visiting one of the links below

Website – www.stuart-reid.com

Twitter – @stuartreidautho

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/stuart.author

Feel free to drop a comment below or ask Stuart a question.