S.K. Thomas's Blog, page 10
January 16, 2015
People Should Really Stop Expecting Normal from Me...
One thing leads to another, that leads to somewhere else and then before you know it you have a full blown writing career before your eyes. Your days are filled with social media haunts, writing your next great masterpiece, blogging and reading for pleasure or because you agreed to write a book review. Maybe your day consists of household chores between all your writing duties or breaks to watch a t.v. show, better yet a little time with the dogs or whatever pets you decided to dedicate your life to. Wherever your writing career stands and whatever you're doing at this very moment is freedom. Free to be standing around in your pajamas drinking coffee while scratching your tush thinking of the next great work that will get typed from your fingertips hitting those independent keys within your keyboard to form a word which creates a sentence that strings together paragraph after paragraph eventually making a chapter and so on it goes. People should stop expecting normal from me...we all know it's never gonna happen.
I began to write because it was cathartic. I began to write because I had lots of ideas. I began to write because I could no longer get a job, not even a dead end one that had crappy wages and killed my soul working ridiculous hours making other people's dreams come true. I began to write because I felt nobody was listening to what I had to say, so maybe they would pay attention if I put it on paper. People really should stop expecting normal from me...we all know it's never gonna happen.
I have friends and I'm not sure why because I'd rather write than meet them for lunch and sometimes it takes an act of God to get me out of the house. But nonetheless, I do have friends that have said, "Okay, this writing thing has been fun but when are you going back to work? Better yet, when are you going to join society again?" Last I checked I was still a part of society. I'm still helping others, still going out to exercise or errand running and yes, sometimes even meet my friends to do stuff. I might be more a member of social media society these days, but I'm still a member of the world. I may be an introverted member but that hasn't changed from when I went out and held a 9 to 5 job every day. At that time, I was just an introverted person living in an extroverted society putting myself through anguish and forcing myself to be extroverted. Now, I'm an introverted creative person living in an introverted world which suits me just fine. People should absolutely stop expecting normal from me...we all know it's never gonna happen.
Don't let people talk you out of your dreams just because they believe you're going against the grain, living your life differently from others. As writers, we are all unique in our own way. When you're living the life your supposed to be living, the world opens up. Regardless of where you are at and what your lifestyle is like, the endless opportunities will find you because your living your truth and being your true self. I am all for being fulfilled, happy and flourishing in my own unique way for I am living the life that was meant for me.
People should stop expecting normal from me...we all know it's never gonna happen.
Stay connected to the author! Find out the latest gossip, news & events: https://lnkd.in/bBmmx2B
Leave a comment, voice an opinion and start a conversation.
I began to write because it was cathartic. I began to write because I had lots of ideas. I began to write because I could no longer get a job, not even a dead end one that had crappy wages and killed my soul working ridiculous hours making other people's dreams come true. I began to write because I felt nobody was listening to what I had to say, so maybe they would pay attention if I put it on paper. People really should stop expecting normal from me...we all know it's never gonna happen.
I have friends and I'm not sure why because I'd rather write than meet them for lunch and sometimes it takes an act of God to get me out of the house. But nonetheless, I do have friends that have said, "Okay, this writing thing has been fun but when are you going back to work? Better yet, when are you going to join society again?" Last I checked I was still a part of society. I'm still helping others, still going out to exercise or errand running and yes, sometimes even meet my friends to do stuff. I might be more a member of social media society these days, but I'm still a member of the world. I may be an introverted member but that hasn't changed from when I went out and held a 9 to 5 job every day. At that time, I was just an introverted person living in an extroverted society putting myself through anguish and forcing myself to be extroverted. Now, I'm an introverted creative person living in an introverted world which suits me just fine. People should absolutely stop expecting normal from me...we all know it's never gonna happen.
Don't let people talk you out of your dreams just because they believe you're going against the grain, living your life differently from others. As writers, we are all unique in our own way. When you're living the life your supposed to be living, the world opens up. Regardless of where you are at and what your lifestyle is like, the endless opportunities will find you because your living your truth and being your true self. I am all for being fulfilled, happy and flourishing in my own unique way for I am living the life that was meant for me.
People should stop expecting normal from me...we all know it's never gonna happen.
Stay connected to the author! Find out the latest gossip, news & events: https://lnkd.in/bBmmx2B
Leave a comment, voice an opinion and start a conversation.
January 8, 2015
Self-Promotion: Introverts Behind It
Let's face it, self-promotion for any writer is a tough gig. Unless you've been in the industry on that side of the fence before, it's a learning process that internally is a hard sell for introverts of the world. We are writers and by nature more introverted than the average person. We rely on our creativity and our imaginations. Most of us suck at self-promotion, but keep trudging on as we try to transfer our creativity from writing and design to marketing and advertising. Shockingly, I've found sometimes teaming up with other introverts in certain situations is an even harder, more awkward sell. Believe me, I feel everyone's pain including my own.
Last April, I went to a book fair in Los Angeles and it turned out to be quite a different learning experience (this is the harder, more awkward sell I was talking about in the paragraph before). My family was in tow, we had brought professionally done flyers along to hand out. We also knew radio stations were supposed to be there promoting the event. So off we went, all pumped up and ready to mingle our little introverted selves. I had decided to be the life of the party and ready to encounter whatever we were walking into while self-promoting my tush off. Upon arrival and after checking out the scene, I was shocked. This book fair was quiet, people were meandering around but they seemed sedated. It was an extreme library type atmosphere. People at booths practically whispered when other authors stopped by to talk to them. They were happily sharing, but it was definitely a meeting of the introverts without a doubt. And I definitely didn't see any radio stations promoting anywhere, believe me it was so quiet I would've heard them from blocks away. Was I sucked into a wormhole experiencing an alternate universe? My family and I shared glances, I mean this was Los Angeles after all. We were so taken back, unsure what to do next. Why not celebrate and dance in the streets? This was everyone's time to shine, get more fans and introduce their work for goodness sake. Then I turned to my family and said, "well yeah, authors and readers...makes sense." We are so used to a society of extroverts trying to sell, advertise and market while being loud, pushy and refusing to take "no" for an answer. It just seemed so surreal. In the end, we did talk with truly gifted authors. But after listening to hard rocking music and guzzling down an energy drink to pump myself up for what I thought would be a very extroverted experience, I realized all I really needed was a pillow, blanket and a good book (which we took full advantage of later because that place was quieter than the hotel we were staying in) while getting my index finger flexed and loose for the "shhhhh" that might happen in case someone there got a little too rowdy. Which I assure you, never happened. You would've thought as a fellow introvert that would've been my happy place, but it throttled my world and not in a good way. When we found out no one was allowed to share flyers within the premises unless they had rented a booth, we promptly took our energy out around the neighboring areas sharing our flyers elsewhere.
Self-promotion can seem very vain, especially to the introvert. Once I took a publishing class in which the teacher did nothing but promote herself and her author friends. Again, I quickly glanced around worrying that a wormhole had sucked me into its belly. Her bragging got old really fast and even though her intentions were good, it came off as vain and extremely hard to watch as time went on. Instead of expanding her following, she was actually turning people off. So, there is something to be said about how someone reaches an audience and how they use that time wisely.
Social media can be a huge blessing to the all around introvert. You've worked long and hard to create your body of work with an end result to share. Sharing your work can be the most gratifying moments as an author and for others to enjoy and learn from. If done correctly, both the author and reader walk away happy from the experience. We all know how satisfying that is, because then you have word of mouth to help you become the author you want to be.
It's unbelievable sometimes how much help actually shows up and is willing to lend a hand, no matter what kind of -verted someone happens to be. And if this process seems too daunting, difficult or downright painful then hiring a professional is probably the right strategy for you. Just make sure that person you hire doesn't come off overbearing, vain or oversell to the point of turning off potential readers.
Stay connected to the author! Find out the latest gossip, news & events: https://lnkd.in/bBmmx2B
Leave a comment, voice an opinion and start a conversation.
December 17, 2014
Ending the Year and "Gluttony for the Holidays"
Here we are at the end of the holiday season, New Years is coming with its grand entrance into 2015. This gets me to thinking, "How can I be a better version of myself next year as a person, writer, blogger and book reviewer with all the many hats I wear?" That is a question we all have to answer on our own. I'm not going to give you a list of things I will do, nor will I suggest a list for you. All I can wish is the best for each individual going through this on-going process. I have added a change to this blog post which is a flash fiction piece I wrote for you to enjoy "Gluttony for the Holidays". I hope everyone this holiday season realizes how blessed and lucky you are wherever your life has led you while moving forward into the future. Never give up on being a better version of yourself.
Gluttony for the Holidays by SK Thomas:
Cassie walked into her friend’s house scanning about and praying there were no cookies, candies and treats lurking where she least expected them. She didn’t even want to be a part of these festivities. The holidays were an abomination in her eyes; an ongoing problem with weight management has put her in a state of panic, fearful to gain back what she worked so hard to lose. But she wanted to support her friend who is having her first Christmas in her new house.
“Hello Cassie, I’m so glad you decided to show and enjoy the day. We’re going to have so much fun.” Amelia announced.
Cassie knew there was nothing fun about this, only people gorging and overindulging whilst pinning their weight loss hopes and dreams on New Year’s resolutions.
“Would you like something to drink? We have soda, tea, champagne or how about a spritzer?” Amelia asked.
“Water will be fine.” Cassie confided.
By this time lots of people were milling about socializing as well as being downright merry. Cassie didn’t recognize too many of them and wondered how Amelia could have so many friends that she didn’t know about. Just then she smelled it, a certain fare cooking in the kitchen as the scent came wafting out into the house making her hungry. She kept affirming to herself, “I just have to keep it together for today.” Thanksgiving hadn’t been pleasant either, she took it upon herself to stay home and sleep. Only getting up when she felt pangs of hunger, sticking to her normal cuisine and zoning out on movies waiting for the day to be over. She didn’t even want to go out and enjoy the holiday sales, the stores always have snacks or treats waiting for the cold, hungry shoppers including hot chocolate. “This temptation has haunted me my whole life and it never gets any easier. Continuously having a problem with my weight made cravings unbearable at times. My friends could always eat candy and sodas until their hearts content, but I as a child was the one constantly drinking diet soda or forced to eat salads. While my friends ate burgers and fries, I was eating healthier homemade versions that were not near as tasty or fun and highly regulated.” Cassie’s broken recording in her head reminded her to stay alert, “This temptation cannot get the best of me.”
“Our holiday dinner is ready everyone.” Amelia shouted as she took Cassie’s arm and showed the way to the dining area. When they rounded the corner, Cassie gasped. Her eyes grew big as her heart sank. Cassie had never ever seen such a spread when suddenly she felt nauseated. An eight foot table stood before her filled with goodies bulging right to the edges and not an inch to spare.
“It’s alright, darling. Now just find a seat, sit yourself down and enjoy these blessings. You don’t have to eat a lot, but we do want to see you enjoy your food.” Amelia acknowledged.
“I can’t, you don’t understand…this is too much temptation. It’s going to ruin all my hard work and efforts.” Cassie pleaded with her.
She looked at Cassie with sympathy in her eyes and said, “It’s going to be all right. Please just try to have a good time.”
Cassie hesitated while staring at the table with all the usual holiday fare, glazed this and succulent that filled with sugar laced treats and salty filled eats. Down farther along the way were opulent sauces and sumptuous spreads. Her eyes widened, her mouth began to salivate when something in her mind snapped as she quickly grabbed a plate layering it with edible eats, high heaping mounds as tall she could stack. The plate soon became too cumbersome as pains shot through her arm; it became a balancing act that just took a little twist of her wrist and caused no harm. After all, as she peered down the elongated table there still seemed to be miles of smorgasbord to enjoy like a children’s holiday fable. She plunged her spoon through some fruity, marshmallow goop before smacking it down on her plate and then back for another scoop. She dug into the goop again making her second spoonful a direct detour heading straight for her mouth. The constraints were lifted and freedom rang as she moaned whilst waking her taste buds with a bang. She sucked on the serving spoon licking it clean before returning it to the bowl from which it came for once not having a care in the world. Not thinking of the others, she moved down the line double dipping unapologetic for whoever it bothers. Her eyes grew ever so big as she gently tucked her fingers into a soft and warm presence giggling with delight. Dinner rolls were her favorite as she commenced tearing one open, dousing it into quick melting butter she happily shoved it into her dark tunnel of terror. “No, no, no.” She scolded lapping up the butter that tried to escape, swiping the edge of her lip with her tongue as she made her way down to the last leg of the trip. Aligning pieces of desserts spiraled all together matched in a row to make a nice looking flower. Her second plate towered much like the first, she couldn’t wait to sit down and eat until she felt like she was giving birth.
“Cassie?” she heard when she whipped around to see everyone motionless, staring at her from afar.
She froze embarrassed as her memory had slipped upon forgetting these people were here when her mind flipped. “My what they all must think, this pig in a trough like I have never ate.”
“Cassie, Cassie!” She blinked when she heard her friend call out, her daydream faded in the wake of Amelia’s shout.
“Yes?” she asked wondering what her friend could possibly want, when Amelia pointed. Cassie followed her friend’s finger slowly glancing down as she came to the realization it was just a dream after all, there was still nothing on her plate.
She looked at her friend sad and distraught, “I’m sorry Amelia, but I really have to go.”
“No Cassie, it’s ok, I’ll fix you a plate myself.”
“I tried for you, but I just really need to leave.” Cassie insisted.
“I’ll help find your coat and see you to the door then.” Amelia insisted wishing she could do more for her friend.
Cassie went on a search into the bedroom scurrying almost frantic to get out of this uncomfortable situation. She made her way across the room lurching forward when she spotted her coat. Leaning back and moving off the bed she stopped suddenly, the mirror held her attention. Her reflection horrid as it seemed to tease, it seemed as if her weight went up like she was busting at the seams. As she stood inspecting herself at every angle, she contemplated how much weight she gained through her imaginary food gorge while sitting at the table. “Look at you, fantasizing about chowing down like the cow that you are.”
Silently, Amelia hung back watching from the doorway as her friend gaped at herself in the mirror. “She is so painfully thin, a walking skeleton.” Tears threatened to burst forth as she insistently held them back. “She is here wasting away and not even I could get her to eat on this gluttonous holiday.” Amelia fearfully admitted to herself as a sense of hopelessness overwhelmed her.
Stay tuned for a continuation article on my blog Jan. 8th after the holidays.
Stay connected to the author! Find out the latest gossip, news & events: https://lnkd.in/bBmmx2B
Simply post a comment to start a conversation.
Gluttony for the Holidays by SK Thomas:
Cassie walked into her friend’s house scanning about and praying there were no cookies, candies and treats lurking where she least expected them. She didn’t even want to be a part of these festivities. The holidays were an abomination in her eyes; an ongoing problem with weight management has put her in a state of panic, fearful to gain back what she worked so hard to lose. But she wanted to support her friend who is having her first Christmas in her new house.
“Hello Cassie, I’m so glad you decided to show and enjoy the day. We’re going to have so much fun.” Amelia announced.
Cassie knew there was nothing fun about this, only people gorging and overindulging whilst pinning their weight loss hopes and dreams on New Year’s resolutions.
“Would you like something to drink? We have soda, tea, champagne or how about a spritzer?” Amelia asked.
“Water will be fine.” Cassie confided.
By this time lots of people were milling about socializing as well as being downright merry. Cassie didn’t recognize too many of them and wondered how Amelia could have so many friends that she didn’t know about. Just then she smelled it, a certain fare cooking in the kitchen as the scent came wafting out into the house making her hungry. She kept affirming to herself, “I just have to keep it together for today.” Thanksgiving hadn’t been pleasant either, she took it upon herself to stay home and sleep. Only getting up when she felt pangs of hunger, sticking to her normal cuisine and zoning out on movies waiting for the day to be over. She didn’t even want to go out and enjoy the holiday sales, the stores always have snacks or treats waiting for the cold, hungry shoppers including hot chocolate. “This temptation has haunted me my whole life and it never gets any easier. Continuously having a problem with my weight made cravings unbearable at times. My friends could always eat candy and sodas until their hearts content, but I as a child was the one constantly drinking diet soda or forced to eat salads. While my friends ate burgers and fries, I was eating healthier homemade versions that were not near as tasty or fun and highly regulated.” Cassie’s broken recording in her head reminded her to stay alert, “This temptation cannot get the best of me.”
“Our holiday dinner is ready everyone.” Amelia shouted as she took Cassie’s arm and showed the way to the dining area. When they rounded the corner, Cassie gasped. Her eyes grew big as her heart sank. Cassie had never ever seen such a spread when suddenly she felt nauseated. An eight foot table stood before her filled with goodies bulging right to the edges and not an inch to spare.
“It’s alright, darling. Now just find a seat, sit yourself down and enjoy these blessings. You don’t have to eat a lot, but we do want to see you enjoy your food.” Amelia acknowledged.
“I can’t, you don’t understand…this is too much temptation. It’s going to ruin all my hard work and efforts.” Cassie pleaded with her.
She looked at Cassie with sympathy in her eyes and said, “It’s going to be all right. Please just try to have a good time.”
Cassie hesitated while staring at the table with all the usual holiday fare, glazed this and succulent that filled with sugar laced treats and salty filled eats. Down farther along the way were opulent sauces and sumptuous spreads. Her eyes widened, her mouth began to salivate when something in her mind snapped as she quickly grabbed a plate layering it with edible eats, high heaping mounds as tall she could stack. The plate soon became too cumbersome as pains shot through her arm; it became a balancing act that just took a little twist of her wrist and caused no harm. After all, as she peered down the elongated table there still seemed to be miles of smorgasbord to enjoy like a children’s holiday fable. She plunged her spoon through some fruity, marshmallow goop before smacking it down on her plate and then back for another scoop. She dug into the goop again making her second spoonful a direct detour heading straight for her mouth. The constraints were lifted and freedom rang as she moaned whilst waking her taste buds with a bang. She sucked on the serving spoon licking it clean before returning it to the bowl from which it came for once not having a care in the world. Not thinking of the others, she moved down the line double dipping unapologetic for whoever it bothers. Her eyes grew ever so big as she gently tucked her fingers into a soft and warm presence giggling with delight. Dinner rolls were her favorite as she commenced tearing one open, dousing it into quick melting butter she happily shoved it into her dark tunnel of terror. “No, no, no.” She scolded lapping up the butter that tried to escape, swiping the edge of her lip with her tongue as she made her way down to the last leg of the trip. Aligning pieces of desserts spiraled all together matched in a row to make a nice looking flower. Her second plate towered much like the first, she couldn’t wait to sit down and eat until she felt like she was giving birth.
“Cassie?” she heard when she whipped around to see everyone motionless, staring at her from afar.
She froze embarrassed as her memory had slipped upon forgetting these people were here when her mind flipped. “My what they all must think, this pig in a trough like I have never ate.”
“Cassie, Cassie!” She blinked when she heard her friend call out, her daydream faded in the wake of Amelia’s shout.
“Yes?” she asked wondering what her friend could possibly want, when Amelia pointed. Cassie followed her friend’s finger slowly glancing down as she came to the realization it was just a dream after all, there was still nothing on her plate.
She looked at her friend sad and distraught, “I’m sorry Amelia, but I really have to go.”
“No Cassie, it’s ok, I’ll fix you a plate myself.”
“I tried for you, but I just really need to leave.” Cassie insisted.
“I’ll help find your coat and see you to the door then.” Amelia insisted wishing she could do more for her friend.
Cassie went on a search into the bedroom scurrying almost frantic to get out of this uncomfortable situation. She made her way across the room lurching forward when she spotted her coat. Leaning back and moving off the bed she stopped suddenly, the mirror held her attention. Her reflection horrid as it seemed to tease, it seemed as if her weight went up like she was busting at the seams. As she stood inspecting herself at every angle, she contemplated how much weight she gained through her imaginary food gorge while sitting at the table. “Look at you, fantasizing about chowing down like the cow that you are.”
Silently, Amelia hung back watching from the doorway as her friend gaped at herself in the mirror. “She is so painfully thin, a walking skeleton.” Tears threatened to burst forth as she insistently held them back. “She is here wasting away and not even I could get her to eat on this gluttonous holiday.” Amelia fearfully admitted to herself as a sense of hopelessness overwhelmed her.
Stay tuned for a continuation article on my blog Jan. 8th after the holidays.
Stay connected to the author! Find out the latest gossip, news & events: https://lnkd.in/bBmmx2B
Simply post a comment to start a conversation.
December 11, 2014
The Arduous Uphill Battle for Authors? Amazon Kindle Unlimited & Ebook Subscription Streaming
Before typing this blog post, I let out a huge sigh in frustration as I gather my thoughts. I take a sip of coffee weighing how to tackle this article with so many facets and yet as an author myself, I wonder where these big, conglomerate companies have left us as independent authors.
I've been told because of Scribd and Oyster most e-book retailers have had declining sales. And then there was KDP Select which made some authors happy, but annoyed me because they insisted on exclusivity. But the latest and out of nowhere change in the e-book business came overnight after Amazon launched Kindle Unlimited. In their quest to squash the competition and keep their reign as "King of the Mountain", they have launched their version of e-book streaming. What does this all mean for the average author out there trying to make a living? It means buckle up because this is going to be a bumpy ride.
I love Amazon, but there are some major problems with Kindle Unlimited: such as, if I understand correctly, payments are based on getting a small fraction of the total earnings that will hurt our royalties enormously. And, as authors we get sucked into this streaming segue, much the way music, movies and tv has gone. We are on the verge of losing any control over how our work is distributed and if we make any money for our hard and intense labor at all.
Are we lost in a maze of overwhelming obstacles and what can be done about it?
In my research, I've learned that we need to keep pushing ahead and writing on, diversifying distribution seems to be a key asset and think outside of the box when it comes to advertising and marketing. If we allow any big business to take our control and leave us powerless sucking us into their vortex, that could possibly break our hopes and dreams while big business just keeps dominating the industry and getting fat off our royalties.
With so many well-written e-books, we can figure out the best decisions for us as individuals running a business. As a writing community of authors, we all have similar goals and should pull together to help and support one another. After all, without us little authors producing these amazing works of literature there would be nothing left to fight for in the book publishing industry.
Stay connected to the author! Find out the latest gossip, news & events: https://lnkd.in/bBmmx2B
Leave a comment, voice an opinion and start a conversation.
I've been told because of Scribd and Oyster most e-book retailers have had declining sales. And then there was KDP Select which made some authors happy, but annoyed me because they insisted on exclusivity. But the latest and out of nowhere change in the e-book business came overnight after Amazon launched Kindle Unlimited. In their quest to squash the competition and keep their reign as "King of the Mountain", they have launched their version of e-book streaming. What does this all mean for the average author out there trying to make a living? It means buckle up because this is going to be a bumpy ride.
I love Amazon, but there are some major problems with Kindle Unlimited: such as, if I understand correctly, payments are based on getting a small fraction of the total earnings that will hurt our royalties enormously. And, as authors we get sucked into this streaming segue, much the way music, movies and tv has gone. We are on the verge of losing any control over how our work is distributed and if we make any money for our hard and intense labor at all.
Are we lost in a maze of overwhelming obstacles and what can be done about it?
In my research, I've learned that we need to keep pushing ahead and writing on, diversifying distribution seems to be a key asset and think outside of the box when it comes to advertising and marketing. If we allow any big business to take our control and leave us powerless sucking us into their vortex, that could possibly break our hopes and dreams while big business just keeps dominating the industry and getting fat off our royalties.
With so many well-written e-books, we can figure out the best decisions for us as individuals running a business. As a writing community of authors, we all have similar goals and should pull together to help and support one another. After all, without us little authors producing these amazing works of literature there would be nothing left to fight for in the book publishing industry.
Stay connected to the author! Find out the latest gossip, news & events: https://lnkd.in/bBmmx2B
Leave a comment, voice an opinion and start a conversation.
December 3, 2014
NanowriWhat?
As one holiday closes and another begins we find ourselves at a crossroad. The end of Nanowrimo and the beginning of "what the *blank* was that all about?!"
I have never taken part in the unending discussion or writing of Nanowrimo, however, I question a novel in one month? This sounds ludicrous or maybe I just have slow typing skills. I also found most writers either love it or completely despise it. I did come up with a few good ideas of how to accomplish this deadline and hand in some pretty good work though.
1) A writer could type one chapter at a time, meanwhile handing it over to an editor and having a whole team of skilled people behind the scenes running through your novel busting out several drafts. Then, diligently working to fix more errors and actually piecing it together to form a well written novel by deadline time.
2) One could hand in their book they wrote months or even years ago, but never got around to publishing. This would be a good time allowing your novel to see the light of day.
3) Someone could actually not type, but instead use a voice activated system where you could speak your novel into existence.
As a singular person, sitting at a computer and typing everything out on a laptop, one month just doesn't seem like enough time to put out quality and well thought out work.
I did talk to a few authors who actually participated in Nanowrimo and they enlightened me. So much so, I might have to give it a whirl next year. They said, "It's a great way to get that first draft done under a time crunch if a person usually procrastinates. It's also a great way to be part of a community of writers brought together by their love and passion of writing."
At the end of the day, if Nanowrimo brings unity, a sense of community and sparks of passion for what we as writers love to do on a daily basis then who can really discredit or complain about Nanowrimo.
Stay connected to the author! Find out the latest gossip, news & events: https://lnkd.in/bBmmx2B
Simply post a comment to start a conversation.
November 21, 2014
Too Many Books, Not Enough Visine
There is an endless supply of books out there while people look for reviewers all the time. Hence, too many books and not enough Visine, especially for those brave and courageous book reviewers who love to read. No longer are they under siege with stacks and towers of books around them lost in their own forts coming out only for coffee, snacks or even bathroom breaks as they are hunkered down in a library toiling away page after page. They sat there disheveled and stressed questioning if deadlines could be met while worried the magazine, newspaper or whatever press agency they worked for will go to press before they can eloquently give their well-executed review. No, today book reviewers have never ending emails and lists of books with author websites, social media haunts and links to find the coveted book online. Always in the comfort of their own home with all the lead way they could ever possibly imagine. They can easily set up their review, post it online anytime with the understanding that the internet will post it for them (immediately, if not within a 24 hour period). Then, plug a mention on the latest social media and they are off and running to get the next adventure on the list.
Is this really the truth about reviewers today? Since the boom of e-books and uploading electronically, book reviewers are still under stress and tension of too many books and not enough Visine. As I myself have shopped my books around to book reviewers, finding out they get so bombarded that they have to implement a set of rules with many specifications to help the process along faster. Beware, if you’re not a follower of guidelines then it will be deleted immediately while they move on to the next. I’ve seen blogs and websites of book reviewers shut down simply because there were too many books and not enough Visine to go around. This is not a time to get ill or limp along for any reason as a book reviewer, because you will get run over by the ample requests that can’t possibly be kept up with when someone is laid up in bed too sick to handle the work load. And I've seen websites stop accepting review requests temporarily for such instances.
I saw a need, so I threw my hat into the ring. I became a book reviewer (after several authors liked and appreciated my reviews) while I took a break from my next novella.
I'm here to report that I learned a thing or two:
1) You’re only as overloaded as you allow yourself to be – Book reviewing should be fun and enjoying someone’s creation as you get sucked into the world of their imagination is really fun.
2) I set up my review request site very simply. There are no major rules or implications, just simply fill out your information. When I can get to it, I will be more than happy to contact you through email. No muss, no fuss.
3) If I’m not interested in your book for whatever reason, probably nothing to do with you anyway, I will not read it. But will be happy to let you know, so you’re not waiting around wondering.
4) And when I can get it done, I will get it done. I will be more than happy to stay in contact and follow, friend or whatever you do on social media while trying to give an honest and authentic review.
Overall, I think it depends on the person conducting the book reviews and what their schedule is like. Whether they have a job besides their writing career and/or family obligations. I was very pleased to learn the best thing about book reviewing is getting to read a lot of different authors, especially indie. These are creative individuals who are writing for the love and pleasure of it. Whether it’s the beginning writer making their first entrance into this scene or the starving artist hoping that this particular book will get them where they finally need to go. These are people who really need and value a book review, because every review gets them one stepping stone closer to their goal and overall dream. These are people who give you (the book reviewer) time to enjoy the book and drink it in like a fine wine. Usually there are no deadlines looming and I find myself wanting to keep in touch with them long after the experience is over. For them, I’d be more than willing to run out of Visine and have way too many books to keep enjoying! After all, if you read books that everyone else is reading, you can only think what everyone else is thinking.
Stay tuned for a continuation article on my blog Dec. 4th due to Thanksgiving Holiday.
Go to http://www.skthomasauthor.com for all things SK Thomas
Simply post a comment to start a conversation.
Is this really the truth about reviewers today? Since the boom of e-books and uploading electronically, book reviewers are still under stress and tension of too many books and not enough Visine. As I myself have shopped my books around to book reviewers, finding out they get so bombarded that they have to implement a set of rules with many specifications to help the process along faster. Beware, if you’re not a follower of guidelines then it will be deleted immediately while they move on to the next. I’ve seen blogs and websites of book reviewers shut down simply because there were too many books and not enough Visine to go around. This is not a time to get ill or limp along for any reason as a book reviewer, because you will get run over by the ample requests that can’t possibly be kept up with when someone is laid up in bed too sick to handle the work load. And I've seen websites stop accepting review requests temporarily for such instances.
I saw a need, so I threw my hat into the ring. I became a book reviewer (after several authors liked and appreciated my reviews) while I took a break from my next novella.
I'm here to report that I learned a thing or two:
1) You’re only as overloaded as you allow yourself to be – Book reviewing should be fun and enjoying someone’s creation as you get sucked into the world of their imagination is really fun.
2) I set up my review request site very simply. There are no major rules or implications, just simply fill out your information. When I can get to it, I will be more than happy to contact you through email. No muss, no fuss.
3) If I’m not interested in your book for whatever reason, probably nothing to do with you anyway, I will not read it. But will be happy to let you know, so you’re not waiting around wondering.
4) And when I can get it done, I will get it done. I will be more than happy to stay in contact and follow, friend or whatever you do on social media while trying to give an honest and authentic review.
Overall, I think it depends on the person conducting the book reviews and what their schedule is like. Whether they have a job besides their writing career and/or family obligations. I was very pleased to learn the best thing about book reviewing is getting to read a lot of different authors, especially indie. These are creative individuals who are writing for the love and pleasure of it. Whether it’s the beginning writer making their first entrance into this scene or the starving artist hoping that this particular book will get them where they finally need to go. These are people who really need and value a book review, because every review gets them one stepping stone closer to their goal and overall dream. These are people who give you (the book reviewer) time to enjoy the book and drink it in like a fine wine. Usually there are no deadlines looming and I find myself wanting to keep in touch with them long after the experience is over. For them, I’d be more than willing to run out of Visine and have way too many books to keep enjoying! After all, if you read books that everyone else is reading, you can only think what everyone else is thinking.
Stay tuned for a continuation article on my blog Dec. 4th due to Thanksgiving Holiday.
Go to http://www.skthomasauthor.com for all things SK Thomas
Simply post a comment to start a conversation.
November 13, 2014
You are a Creative Genius – Pay? Who Said Anything about Pay?
Virtual Tip Jar Option
Life Behind the Scenes : Storytelling & Telling Stories
In this virtual maze of e-books everyone wants to get paid. Why do so many authors give their books away totally free? Well, there are a few reasons. They want people to read it, build a reputation and get their books out there through word of mouth. In 2012, 51% of people grabbed online books for free. In 2013, 55% of readers got theirs for free. Readers are getting savvy and waiting for the freebies and there’s nothing wrong with that on their part. But as authors, it’s a growing trend we can’t afford. Authors pimp out their books, working diligently to grab the reader’s attention thrashing past the millions of other e-books to make their baby look like the Holy Grail. Most authors do it to help their book along making them as alluring, provocative and downright irresistible to anyone who will listen. Your book has to get that reader into bed, gently tuck them in and whisk them off to another world through their imagination. After all, the reader needs to feel like they’re gaining something for supporting you. So, why don’t we give readers another option for your hard work like through a virtual tip jar?
Changes are Afoot
In the last couple of years, a new type of payment has emerged. The virtual tip jar is gaining steam and becoming more popular as an option that could possibly change how we all make a living in this creative realm. I personally like the idea of a tip jar. For instance, you grab my book, I entertain you and then you decide what my entertainment is worth. Artists are heading in this direction and some restaurants are starting to do it, so why not e-books? It gives both the author and reader freedom of leaving it open ended. It also creates a limitless feeling where a reader might tip more than you really think the story is worth. For example, if your e-book is selling for $2.99 but the reader enjoyed the story so much they decided to give $15.00, that’s the beauty of letting others decide what your creativity is worth.
Anonymous Quote that rings so true:
A reader is often a fan of authors, but I am a fan of the reader.
The reader is the one who breathes life into the pages that we give birth to, after all.
Tip Jar in Action
Why don’t we value our creativity and our books more as authors? Some do, Ksenia Anske, who is a writer and author, is a great example of how she uses the tip jar method on her website. Even though you can download her books for free she says, "If you think my writing is worth your money and you want to support me then donate. She also admits that the more tips she gets, the more time she will have to write which produces far more for her fans to read without crashing on their couch since she is getting paid."
Smashwords is a good promoter of this concept, under the category “You Set the Price”. I have recently started to allow the tip jar for my books, Pawned Queen and Transcending Queen, through them within the last month. I have seen positive improvement in sales so far, although Smashwords works a little differently as they allow the author to recommend a price, but the reader still has the final say regarding what they are willing pay. They are required to pay in advance, however they still get options and have to physically change the price if it is not suitable for them before advancing on. Unfortunately, Amazon doesn’t have a pay method like this yet.
The Wrap Up
The tip jar method is giving readers the option to sustain you and partake in your journey even if you aren’t a well-known author. The reader is happy and feels satisfied knowing they can contribute in your success while taking the pressure off paying beforehand for an unknown author, if you set up your own tip jar system like Ksenia Anske has and I plan to do in the future. On the other hand, the writer also feels content and elated for receiving compensation for their hard work while building their brand as an author.
What is your opinion? Share your thoughts on this discussion in the comment section below.
Stay connected to the author! Find out the latest gossip, news & events: https://lnkd.in/bBmmx2B
Life Behind the Scenes : Storytelling & Telling Stories
In this virtual maze of e-books everyone wants to get paid. Why do so many authors give their books away totally free? Well, there are a few reasons. They want people to read it, build a reputation and get their books out there through word of mouth. In 2012, 51% of people grabbed online books for free. In 2013, 55% of readers got theirs for free. Readers are getting savvy and waiting for the freebies and there’s nothing wrong with that on their part. But as authors, it’s a growing trend we can’t afford. Authors pimp out their books, working diligently to grab the reader’s attention thrashing past the millions of other e-books to make their baby look like the Holy Grail. Most authors do it to help their book along making them as alluring, provocative and downright irresistible to anyone who will listen. Your book has to get that reader into bed, gently tuck them in and whisk them off to another world through their imagination. After all, the reader needs to feel like they’re gaining something for supporting you. So, why don’t we give readers another option for your hard work like through a virtual tip jar?
Changes are Afoot
In the last couple of years, a new type of payment has emerged. The virtual tip jar is gaining steam and becoming more popular as an option that could possibly change how we all make a living in this creative realm. I personally like the idea of a tip jar. For instance, you grab my book, I entertain you and then you decide what my entertainment is worth. Artists are heading in this direction and some restaurants are starting to do it, so why not e-books? It gives both the author and reader freedom of leaving it open ended. It also creates a limitless feeling where a reader might tip more than you really think the story is worth. For example, if your e-book is selling for $2.99 but the reader enjoyed the story so much they decided to give $15.00, that’s the beauty of letting others decide what your creativity is worth.
Anonymous Quote that rings so true:
A reader is often a fan of authors, but I am a fan of the reader.
The reader is the one who breathes life into the pages that we give birth to, after all.
Tip Jar in Action
Why don’t we value our creativity and our books more as authors? Some do, Ksenia Anske, who is a writer and author, is a great example of how she uses the tip jar method on her website. Even though you can download her books for free she says, "If you think my writing is worth your money and you want to support me then donate. She also admits that the more tips she gets, the more time she will have to write which produces far more for her fans to read without crashing on their couch since she is getting paid."
Smashwords is a good promoter of this concept, under the category “You Set the Price”. I have recently started to allow the tip jar for my books, Pawned Queen and Transcending Queen, through them within the last month. I have seen positive improvement in sales so far, although Smashwords works a little differently as they allow the author to recommend a price, but the reader still has the final say regarding what they are willing pay. They are required to pay in advance, however they still get options and have to physically change the price if it is not suitable for them before advancing on. Unfortunately, Amazon doesn’t have a pay method like this yet.
The Wrap Up
The tip jar method is giving readers the option to sustain you and partake in your journey even if you aren’t a well-known author. The reader is happy and feels satisfied knowing they can contribute in your success while taking the pressure off paying beforehand for an unknown author, if you set up your own tip jar system like Ksenia Anske has and I plan to do in the future. On the other hand, the writer also feels content and elated for receiving compensation for their hard work while building their brand as an author.
What is your opinion? Share your thoughts on this discussion in the comment section below.
Stay connected to the author! Find out the latest gossip, news & events: https://lnkd.in/bBmmx2B
November 6, 2014
Life Behind the Scenes : Storytelling & Telling Stories
I've decided to write a blog. I mean everyone else does it why shouldn't I? On my adventure so far I have met a lot of people, learned lessons and taken quite a bit of crap for wanting to do things my way. This blog will be a behind the scenes look at what else but life behind the scenes as a writer, author, book reviewer, marketing novice, blogger and freelancer.
It will be unedited (damn I wish, as a writer I always feel compelled to edit) but it will be real, raw and honest. I will post every week, on Thursdays unless otherwise notified.
It's so easy to sit behind the scenes especially in this age of social media, yet so hard to get noticed. I feel sometimes that no one is listening because everyone else is trying to yell just as loud to get heard and noticed. All us writers and authors out there trying to get creativity noticed in this ever changing book market, we're forging on new frontiers because change is happening right now and it's not small changes but huge, sweeping changes moving rapidly. However, I know people are listening to others because I talk and network with new humans all the time, people who have taken notice or just like my creativity.
It makes me ponder, being a writer before social media and before computers how isolating that must of been and listening to crickets most of the day. They were not able to connect to others unless they used a phone or went to a meeting. Showing up at a writers meeting, if they had one for writers where they lived, probably went much like a meeting for someone with addictions. "Hello, my name is Henry, I'm passionate and addicted to writing. So addicted I don't leave the house and have lost all my friends to the imaginary characters in my head." While the group would chant, "Hello Henry", as they drop their heads in shame knowing exactly what he was talking about. I remember those days using a typewriter...I don't know about you but I don't type without errors, constantly starting over going through tons of paper or using so much whiteout I would eventually have a buzz. I would end up at a meeting, "Hello, my name is...and I used to be a writer but now I have a whiteout addiction." For those of you who don't remember whiteout, it is a liquid correction fluid to prevent the total annihilation of the paper you were working on.
So, even though we are in the most amazing times for book publishing and forging new rules in the book industry while having it easier than our ancestors. We are still in this crazy tidal wave within the sea of creative individuals trying (almost begging) to be seen and heard behind the scenes of storytelling and telling stories.
SK Thomas is a writer, author, book reviewer and the curious creative complex brain behind this blog. Connect @skthomasauthor or http://www.skthomasauthor.com to learn more about her Pawned Queen Thriller Series.
It will be unedited (damn I wish, as a writer I always feel compelled to edit) but it will be real, raw and honest. I will post every week, on Thursdays unless otherwise notified.
It's so easy to sit behind the scenes especially in this age of social media, yet so hard to get noticed. I feel sometimes that no one is listening because everyone else is trying to yell just as loud to get heard and noticed. All us writers and authors out there trying to get creativity noticed in this ever changing book market, we're forging on new frontiers because change is happening right now and it's not small changes but huge, sweeping changes moving rapidly. However, I know people are listening to others because I talk and network with new humans all the time, people who have taken notice or just like my creativity.
It makes me ponder, being a writer before social media and before computers how isolating that must of been and listening to crickets most of the day. They were not able to connect to others unless they used a phone or went to a meeting. Showing up at a writers meeting, if they had one for writers where they lived, probably went much like a meeting for someone with addictions. "Hello, my name is Henry, I'm passionate and addicted to writing. So addicted I don't leave the house and have lost all my friends to the imaginary characters in my head." While the group would chant, "Hello Henry", as they drop their heads in shame knowing exactly what he was talking about. I remember those days using a typewriter...I don't know about you but I don't type without errors, constantly starting over going through tons of paper or using so much whiteout I would eventually have a buzz. I would end up at a meeting, "Hello, my name is...and I used to be a writer but now I have a whiteout addiction." For those of you who don't remember whiteout, it is a liquid correction fluid to prevent the total annihilation of the paper you were working on.
So, even though we are in the most amazing times for book publishing and forging new rules in the book industry while having it easier than our ancestors. We are still in this crazy tidal wave within the sea of creative individuals trying (almost begging) to be seen and heard behind the scenes of storytelling and telling stories.
SK Thomas is a writer, author, book reviewer and the curious creative complex brain behind this blog. Connect @skthomasauthor or http://www.skthomasauthor.com to learn more about her Pawned Queen Thriller Series.
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