S.C. Jensen's Blog, page 6

Top 10 Bookish Gifts from Etsy Independent Sellers for the 2020 Holiday Season

The holiday season is fast approaching, and chances are there is a bookworm on your list that is proving troublesome to buy for. Yes, books are always a great gift idea. But it’s impossible to know what they’ve read and what they haven’t without spoiling the surprise.

Besides, most book lovers have a TBR pile that is longer than their expected life-span. New books can be a bitter sweet gift to receive for the overwhelmed reader.

So, what else do you get for the bookworm in your life?

I’ll be doing a short gift guide series for everyone who is doing their shopping online this year. And we’re going to start with independent sellers because a) we want to support as many creative business owners as we can, and b) hand-made gifts can take longer to ship!

Today, I’ve collected some of my favourite bookish gifts from independent sellers on Etsy to make your gift buying a little easier this year.

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#1 Bookish Bracelet



[image error] “She is too fond of books and it has turned her brain.” Louisa May Alcott quote bracelet from Jezebel Charms

This delightful bracelet with a quote from Louisa May Alcott’s semi-autobiographical novel Work: A Story of Experience is something any book-loving ladies in your life will appreciate. While the scene in the story from which this quote has been pulled is actually quite tragic: Christie Devon falls asleep reading by candlelight, accidently sets fire to her attic room, and is subsequently fired by her cantankerous employers. Yet the forbidden nature of reading as a woman remains a thing to be embraced by modern readers. Check out Jezebel Charms Etsy shop for more bookish jewelry and other fun quotes!

#2 Book Dragon T-Shirt



[image error] “I’m a book dragon, not a worm.” T-shirt from Koala Tee Clothing

Perhaps the bookish person in your life is much too voracious a reader to consider themselves a mere bookworm. If you know a book dragon, check out this cool unisex t-shirt from Koala Tee Clothing!

#3a Personalized Leather Bookmark



[image error] This beautiful, personalized leather bookmark is available from Anise Leathers.

Unless your reader is a spine-cracking, dog-earring misfit, they probably love bookmarks. A personalized leather bookmark is a great gift idea for any classically minded bookworm. Anise Leathers has a wonderful selection to choose from!

#3b Personalized Wire Bookmark



[image error] A stunning personalized wire bookmark from By Kauri.

If leather is not your thing, but you still love the idea of a classic, personalized bookmark check out By Kauri. This shop has a gorgeous selection of wire bookmark creations–from names and quotes, to cute kitties and mermaids–to suit your bookworm’s personality.

#4 Bool-Lover’s Face Mask



[image error] How about a bookish face mask for the readers and teachers on your holiday list? This fun, fitted mask is from EmiberbShop on Etsy.

It’s the break-out fashion accessory we never saw coming! This 2020 Holiday Buying Guide would not be complete without a stylish book themed facemask. EmiberbShop on Etsy has many fun, fitted mask designs to choose from.

#5 Bookworm Art Print



[image error] This beautiful bookworm print by artist Jorey Hurley will be a great addition to any reading nook!

Readers always have a special place they like to read best of all. Maybe it’s their bedroom, or a cozy book nook, or even a personal library! Help your bookworm add a little dazzle to their reading space with this beautiful art print by Jorey Hurley, sure to brighten up any space!

#6 Handknit Wool Socks



[image error] Cozy handknit socks are a great gift for everyone on your list, not just the readers! These beauties are from Agnes Felt in Lithuania

Personally, I think there is no greater winter gift than handknit wool socks. Readers especially will appreciate the warmth of foot cozies to protect against the inevitable frozen toes caused by an epic read-in session. Bundle up your favourite reader with a good book and warm toes, and maybe you’ll see them again in the spring time! These lovely socks are from Lithuanian fiber artist, Agnes Felt.

#7 Reading Planner



[image error] A reading journal and planner for the dedicated book worm, from StellaBookishArt.

Serious bookworms know that the only way to tackle the TBR pile in earnest is to make a plan and stick to it. If you have a truly dedicated reader on your list this holiday season, consider getting them a reading journal in which they can plan their literary adventures and reflect upon their reading in one place. This beautiful design is from StellaBookishArt.

#8 Literary Candles



[image error] Do you know someone who loves candles and books? Why not buy a book-themed scented candle for that special person on your list? Wonderland is from BookishlyUK on Etsy.

Candles are one of the most inviting additions to the winter holiday home. There is something undeniably romantic about reading by candlelight, eye-strain and potential housefires notwithstanding. There are a million candles to choose from, and giving a candle as a gift can seem to be a bit of a last-minute “I didn’t know what else to get” kind of gift. But a literary themed candle based on your bookworm’s favourite book is both charming and thoughtful! BookishlyUK has many classic-themed bookish candles to choose from.

#9 Bookish Mugs



[image error] “Go Away, I’m reading” mug by Mirkwood Scribes.

Coffee or tea? No matter what your bookworm is drinking, it is guaranteed to taste better in a bookish mug. “Go away, I’m reading” mugs (and some more colourful varieties on the theme) are very popular amongst the booknerd crowd. Mirkwood Scribes has a variety of great mugs and other merch to choose from.

#10 Book Lamp



[image error] This wooden covered, folding book lamp would be a wonderful addition to any book nook! From Artesania Maderas

There is something delightful about a reading lamp disguised as a book. This beautiful, handmade lamp has a folding wooden cover and paper pages lit from within by an LED light. It would make a whimsical addition to any bedroom or book nook! This piece is from Spanish artisan Artesania Maderas.

Conclusion

I hope this guide has helped you to find some unique gift ideas for the readers on your list this year. If the particular pieces I’ve chosen don’t appeal to you or your bookworm, fear not! There are literally thousands of handmade bookish gifts available from independent sellers on Etsy.

Please consider buying your gifts from creative businesses this season. 2020 has been difficult for everyone. Buying a handmade gift is sure to please not only the recipient of your present, but is guaranteed to bring a smile to the face of an artist or artisan who may be struggling this year.

Do you have a favourite bookish item you think others would love? Let me know in the comments!

100 Ways to Die in Space – # 1 Going too Slowly

Good morning! Today I’m sharing a fun series from another writer friend of mine called “100 Ways to Die in Space.” These articles are great for readers and writers of the Sci-Fi genre and might just prove to be a jumping off point for a new story! Be sure to drop Simon a comment and let him know which way to die was your favourite. And make a suggestion for future posts!

Welcome to 100 Ways to Die in Space Hi there bloggies, welcome to a new and fun little feature – 100 ways to die in space. Taking inspiration from a …

100 Ways to Die in Space – # 1 Going too Slowly

Creative Business 101: The Best Way to Create Valuable Content and Build Your Audience

Every creative entrepreneur wants a bigger, more engaged audience. We want more eyes on our content, more people sharing our stuff with their friends, and ultimately, more buyers for our work. But how to you go from knowing who your ideal audience is to actually building that audience for your platform?

It’s all about valuable content.

If you are new to this series, you can check out the other articles here:

Creative Business 101: Imposter SyndromeCreative Business 101: What to Say When You Have Nothing to SayCreative Business 101: 5 Toxic Myths About CreativityCreative Business 101: Defining Success as a Creative EntrepreneurCreative Business 101: Tips on How to Identify Your Audience



[image error] The Best Way to Create Valuable Content and Build Your Audience

If you are reading this piece, you should already have answered the question “Who am I creating for?” and have a pretty good idea of who your target audience or ideal audience is. If not, make sure you read the last post for Tips on How to Identify Your Audience.

In this article we will discuss:

How to provide value to your target audienceHow to take what you know about your ideal audience and apply that to ideas for creative contentHow to target multi-genre or multi-interest audiences in a cohesive way



How To Provide Value to Your Audience

When you’re starting a creative business and brainstorming ideas for what to put in your newsletters, blogs, or social media posts, it can be very overwhelming. Many entrepreneurs put off building their platforms because of this. We know what we’re “supposed to” do. But when it comes to actually doing it, we draw a blank.

If you have been dragging your feet over taking those first steps to building your audience, I have a pretty good idea why.

You don’t have anything to say.

First of all, that’s a lie. But what if I told you that your content is not really about you, anyway. Your content is about the value you provide to your audience. In order to provide valuable content for your audience, you have to stop thinking about yourself and think about them.

Why are they interested in your work? What other interests might they have that connect to your work?

Valuable content can be entertaining, educational, inspirational, or motivational. You do not have to pull ideas out of thin air. You can do things that have been done before. Find inspiration in the articles and posts that you read and love, then figure out how to make that idea work for your audience.

Valuable content is all about your audience. It is something you curate with them in mind. You are the merely the glue that holds it interesting bits together.

[image error] “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”
–Helen Keller



The Easiest Way to Create Content Catered to Your Audience

Don’t try to reinvent the wheel here. The internet has been around for a long time, and we have a pretty good idea of what kinds of articles we are drawn to when we have time to kill. And you don’t have to be some kind of super genius algorithm hacker to figure it out. Here are some easy ways to apply basic blogging techniques to your own creative content:

1. Lists

Have you ever read a Top Ten list? Lists are a great way to start producing creative content. You can make a list about anything that your audience might find interesting or entertaining. Anything, that is, that connects your audience to your work.

If you are a romance writer, you won’t probably want to post a list about the funniest ways to die. As entertaining as you might personally find this topic, it’s not about you. It’s about your audience. You want to drive the right kind of traffic to your platform.

Depending on the kind of romance you write, you could to a list of everything from romantic getaways and best valentine’s day gifts, to hilarious safe words and underrated sex toys. What would your audience like?

2. How-Tos

No matter who you are, there are some things that you are good at. Have you ever followed an online How-To type article? Did it work? Was it a terrible fail? Either way, you have material.

The How-To is a great way to bring your audience into your creative process, the good, the bad, and the ugly. Many people in your audience will be amateurs themselves, and targeting burgeoning creatives is a great way to build one leg of your platform.

If you are an artist, for example you can do an How-To for basic skills in your craft. Or you can share something that you’ve tried that didn’t work out with a “How-Not-To” twist. Or go all in on a fail and share “How to Ruin a Painting in 5 Easy Steps.”

3. Inspiration/Motivation

This is one of the most popular type of blog post, and you can spin it a number of different ways.

If you have recently overcome a challenge, share a personal anecdote and a favourite quote to let your audience know that you are in fact human. Motivational stories, even about seemingly insignificant moments, can really strike a chord with people. I shared an experience with teaching my children how to skate, and what that taught me about writing, and my followers loved it! Sharing our failures is a great way to connect with your audience.

You can also share quotes, passages, and images that have inspired your creative work. A science fiction writer might showcase futuristic landscapes by artists which have inspired them. This draws the right kind of people to your feed. If they like the artwork that inspired your novel, this will make them curious about your novel. See how it works?

The Possibilities are Endless!

If you are interested in exploring this topic more, I’d be happy to brainstorm more ideas with you. Let me know in the comments!

[image error] “All knowledge is connected to all knowledge. The fun is in making the connections.”
–Arthur C. Aufderheide



How to Target Multi-Genre or Multi-Interest Audiences in a Cohesive Way

I said earlier that you are the glue that holds your content together. You might write in different genres or paint in different styles or record many different types of music, but in the centre of it all is you.

I know I said it’s not about you. Just listen.

The content is still not about you. It’s about your audience. But the way it all comes together and becomes cohesive? That’s all you, baby. You are the part of the equation that will keep your audience with you instead of one of those other platforms (or as well as, we can share!)

When you’re trying to find ways to tie multiple genres of work together, potentially with separate audiences, connection is the key. You need to think of ways that you can connect your interests/ideas to each other.

An author/blogger friend of mine expressed frustration with how to express three seemingly unconnected aspects of her identity in one platform. She’s a writer, a make-up artist, and a cat lover.

Any of these could be its own platform, but if she focuses on them each individually it all falls apart. She either has three separate platforms to grow, which would need separate accounts, and be completely overwhelming. Or she ends up with a random collection of make-up videos, writing updates, and cute kitty pics that looks more like a personal account than a business.

You may have many interests that inform your work, and as different as they are, you are the glue that holds them together. There is something about each of them that you connect with, and your connection is what will connect your audience.

Here were some of my suggestions to her:

Do a mood board for your current book (writing or reading) and do a post it with a make-up tutorial using the same colour schemeDo a cosplay of your favourite literary characterDress your cat as literary character (or attempt to dress your cat and take video of the calamity)Share a picture of your cat along with a cat-themed passage from a favourite novel (there are so many books with cats in them!) or a quote from a writer about catsShare a quote from a writer about beauty, identity, or strength, and share it with a look that makes you feel the same way

This technique works for multi-genre writers as well. How can you connect readers from one genre to readers from another and target them in the same post?

Share two of your favourite characters, from different genres, and compare and contrast their personalitiesCompare one of your characters to a character from a different genreAsk your followers a “Would you rather…” with a question from two different genresCompare and contrast mood boardsChose a theme and relate it to books from different genres

The ways to connect our work to our audience and our audience to us. Look for inspiration in the posts and articles that you like to read and brainstorm ways that you can do something similar in your own words.

Discussion

How are you feeling? Do you have a better idea of how knowing your audience helps you create valuable content and build your platform? What topics would you like to see next?

Upcoming articles will address:

How to Synchronize Your PlatformsHow to Turn Your Platform into a BrandHow to Convert Followers into Customersand more!

If there is anything else you want to know, please ask! Thank you for joining me in Creative Business 101. Happy creating!

Indie Feature Friday: BROKEN THINGS by A.L. Garcia

Welcome to another installation of my Indie Feature Friday series! Today I’ve got something a little different for you. I usually review SF&F books on this blog, but I’m going to shake things up with a memoir. Today, I bring you Broken" rel="nofollow">https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08G8X3M4Y/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B08G8X3M4Y&linkCode=as2&tag=scjensen03-20&linkId=c41f01caf092f8cb485db3363830bf24">Broken Things[image error]Broken Things by A.L. Garcia.

[image error] Indie Book Review with Sarah Does Sci-Fi

A.L. Garcia is a poet I discovered on Instagram, and she is US Veteran and a survivor of childhood sexual abuse. Garcia is using her platform to spread awareness of a pervasive issue which society prefers to ignore, and also to bring hope and inspiration for other survivors and to encourage them to tell their own stories.

This is a novella length memoir, but you may want to take your time with it. Broken" rel="nofollow">https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08G8X3M4Y/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B08G8X3M4Y&linkCode=as2&tag=scjensen03-20&linkId=c41f01caf092f8cb485db3363830bf24">Broken Things[image error]Broken Things is an emotionally difficult read about a subject that makes most people shut down and tune out because it’s so awful to think about. It’s not something you want to read, but something which is important to read anyway–if you can–in order to better understand the problem and hopefully to help future children.

[image error] Broken Things by A.L. Garcia

Broken" rel="nofollow">https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08G8X3M4Y/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B08G8X3M4Y&linkCode=as2&tag=scjensen03-20&linkId=c41f01caf092f8cb485db3363830bf24">Broken Things[image error]Broken Things by A.L. Garcia is a gut-wrenching story about surviving childhood sexual abuse. I read a wide variety of both fiction and non-fiction, and it has been a very long time since I’ve read anything that has upset and shaken me as much as this book.

As a parent of young children, it is particularly hard to read because Garcia’s story really highlights the way children are let down by the people they should be able to trust more than anyone. Garcia suffered physical, emotional, and sexual abuse at the hands of her father while her mother turned a blind eye. It’s heartbreaking to imagine, and the ripples such trauma has across the life of a child doesn’t end when they escape their abuser or become an adult.

While parts of Broken Things are very raw and unfiltered and painful to read, her story is not one of hopelessness. Garcia’s simple, straight-forward prose is filled with little flashes of beautiful imagery and joyful memories, too. An early love of literature informs much of Garcia’s understanding of the world in her younger years, and moments of quiet reflection on her circumstances add depth to her experience beyond the pain of abuse.

Most powerfully, Garcia’s story is a direct naming and calling out of her father, who is still alive and possibly still abusing children. He has never faced charges or served jailtime, and Garcia has reason to believe she is not the only one who has suffered at his hands.

If you are hesitant to read this book, I completely understand. I only braved it after speaking with Garcia and understanding her mission to spread awareness about this issues. Having read it now, I can say I am glad that I did. It ends on a note of hope, leaving off where Garcia and her siblings manage to escape their broken home. Finishing this book feels like a weight being lifted of one’s shoulders as we see Alma grabbing her future and setting herself free.

Alma is an absolutely wonderful writer, friend, and supporter. She encourages other survivors to contact her, to share the burden of their experiences, and to find their own paths to healing. Even if you can’t bring yourself to read Broken Things, I ask that you please share this review in the hopes that other survivors might find it and reach out for support.

Discussion

I won’t be posting a formal review for this book as I can’t really get the emotional distance from the work to critique it. As an “own story” memoir, I don’t think critique is the point of the reading experience, though it is exceptionally well written and powerful.

What is the most powerful memoir you’ve ever read?

Indie Publishers of Science Fiction, Fantasy, & Horror (Part One) —

Good morning, my fellow word nerds! Today I’m sharing a fantastic list of Indie Publishers from the Conquer Books blog. This list is perfect for anyone starting to plan their holiday shopping who wants to support indie writers and publishers (I hope that’s all of you!) or for writers who are looking for places to submit their weird and wonderful speculative fiction. Enjoy!

With this list of indie press publishers, we offer resources for finding debut authors, ground breaking genre benders, and treasure troves of stories.

Indie Publishers of Science Fiction, Fantasy, & Horror (Part One) —

10 Quotes About Humanity to Inspire the Science Fiction Writer

One of the things I love best about Science Fiction is the scale of thematic elements that we get to explore. This is true for creators and consumers of SF art. Of course, the best SF still tackles tangible “real life” conflicts. Some of the most common themes in literature are equally represented in Science Fiction:

Coming of AgeCourage and PerseveranceLoveRevengeGood vs EvilRedemption

However, the scale of these conflicts is often scaled up in Sci-Fi to encompass the world beyond human experience. What does it mean to fall in love with a machine? Is humanity ultimately good or evil? Will the planet seek revenge for the things we’ve done to it? Is there any way that humanity can redeem itself?

So I’ve collected some quotes about humanity that might inspire your next creative work. Enjoy!

#1 Educated Monsters



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The more humans learn, it seems, the more monstrous we become. Tribal societies of the past were often brutal and difficult, but humans have survived by their capacity to form strong bonds and work together within our communities. It seems that the more we learn, the more we become distanced from one another. What is it about knowledge that twists our humanity? What does the future look like for our knowledge seeking species?

#2 Control Freaks



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Humans love to feel in control: of themselves, of their environments, of their destinies. But the more we try to control, the more things seem to get away from us. This quote encompasses two great thematic questions from SF works. What happens when we lose control? and How do we continue in the face of our own destruction, when our enemy is our own hubris?

#3 The Human Race



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People love to have an Other. The people who represent, to us, everything that we are not: human/animal, black/white, rich/poor, scientific/religious, liberal/conservative. We like to draw lines between ourselves and feel superior in our perceived “normalcy.” But what happens when the Other is bigger than we are? An alien species, perhaps. Or sentient beings of our own creation. What happens if we have to band together against a threat against our very humanity? Can people abolish the lines drawn in the sand between us in order to save our species? Or will we fragment and be defeated by imaginary divisions?

#4 We’re Fucked



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Perhaps the ultimate hubris of humanity is thinking we have any say in what goes on here at all? The planet has been around for billions of years, seen the rise and fall of species far more long-lived than ours. We like to think we’re pretty important, “saving” the whales, “saving” the planet. Arguably, the best way for humans to save anything is to disappear. Blink! Like the tiny inconsequential specks of space dust we really are.

#5 The Comparison Trap



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We still have a lot to learn about being human. As far as we know, there are no other species out there that are quite like us. The more we learn about other creatures, the more special we seem to become (in our own eyes, at least). The human brain is the most complex computing organ/machine there is, and even we don’t understand exactly how we work. But this won’t always be the case (hubris again!) will it? What happens when we create an intelligence beyond ourselves, and bigger than ourselves? What will we be taught about our perilous superiority then?

#5 Compassionate Intelligence



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Okay, okay. It’s not all doom and gloom. We are the ones attempting to create an artificial intelligence, so we must have some say in how it turns out. Right? What if, from the very beginning, we teach this AI compassion and kindness? How might compassionate computers, robots, and eventually sentients change the world? Hopefully they don’t decide the most compassionate outcome for earth is to eliminate humanity… Better double check that coding.

#7 Human Together



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Being human is kind of a team sport. As communal animals, the entire makeup of our brains becomes a bit off-kilter when we’re left to our own devices. This is why the dangers of distancing ourselves from others, and from our humanity, are such poignant themes in literature. Without a “you” who am “I?” What does pure isolation do to a person? Can I be human if I’m the only one left? Or am I just another animal, waiting to die upon an ancient and indifferent space rock?

#8 Human Computers



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If AI is an extension of human intelligence, are sentient robots Humanity v.2.0? Will we cause our own extinction by forcing human evolution and effectively rendering the Mother Species redundant and obsolete? For centuries now, scientists have been accused of playing God. What happens when we really do create new life? Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein offers up one suggestion, which has been explored repeatedly in SF media. But what if, like Victor Frankenstein, humans are the true monsters and our creations choose to slay us rather than worship us? Humanity is dead, long live Humanity.

#9 Idealist Humans



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Like the idea of compassionate AI, it is nice to wonder about less bleak eventualities on the human timeline. Perhaps scientists have a breakthrough on empathy research, causing people around the globe to truly feel one another’s pain? Octavia E. Butler explores this idea in The Parable of the Sower and… well, lets just say it’s not easy to be a chemically induced empath. She does pose in important question, though. If everyone were forced to literally feel the pain of those around them, how would society change? What are some other ways that humanity might rise above its petty concerns with religion, race, and nationality? Maybe there is hope for us beyond the alien invasion scenario in #3.

#10 No Hard Feelings



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Back track to #4 again, and we’re fucked. Unless humanity addresses it’s destructive tendencies, there isn’t really any way for the development of self-teaching AI to end other than in our own demise. Even we know we’re pretty bad for production in the big picture. Is there any way around being offed by our own robot babies? What redeeming feature does humanity have that no other creature can recreate? There’s an argument for creativity, I think. There’s an argument for mythology as a way to communicate with people (and possibly other species) that we don’t know. Will it be enough to save us? You tell me…

Discussion

What is your favourite book that discusses the potential and limitations of humanity in the future? Have you ever addressed these themes in your own work? Have any of these quotes inspired your next project? Let me know in the comments!

If you enjoyed this piece, be sure to check out 10 Gardening Quotes to Inspire the Sci-Fi Writer as well!

Creativity and the Fear of Being Seen: Guest Post by Katri Soikkeli

Today, I have a wonderful post on creativity and courage from one of my most favourite creative souls of all time, Katri Soikkeli. She brings a sense of whimsy and joie de vivre to everything she does and has inspired me with her kindness and her playful view of the world.

I hope, after you read this post, you will visit her website and Instagram to tell her how much you loved it! And head over to the Protagonist Crafts Etsy shop to do a little holiday shopping.

Without further ado, here is Katri!

[image error] Katri Soikkeli Bio



Creativity and the Fear of Being Seen 

If you’re sitting on a creative project that you’re afraid to share with the world, you might think the people putting themselves out there have something that you don’t. Something that makes them impervious to whatever it is that you’re afraid will ruin you as soon as you let the world see you.

I have a little secret for you. They – we – are not that different. We just made a decision.

If you don’t know me yet, I can tell you I am a published writer and I continue to write and try to get my work out there in front of people. During the corona crisis I started an Etsy shop while knowing pretty much nothing about selling handmade products, and later I started a blog that celebrates living a creative life your way. All the while I’ve been active on Instagram where I continue to share my struggles with creativity, my mental health and ADHD and life in general. Knowing this you might think I’ve been made particularly brave, or that I just have a knowing that my work is “good enough” to be shared, whatever that means.

You would be very silly to think that, but I don’t blame you.

I am a highly anxious, highly sensitive person, which doesn’t seem to be uncommon among us creatives. You should know I once got disqualified from an entrance exam because I didn’t speak up in group when it was my turn. Although it had nothing to do with creative work, that school was my dream at the time, and I still didn’t find it in me to speak up. That’s how afraid I was of people hearing my voice, of them realising they would dislike the very concept of me. That is the level of being afraid to be seen that I started from.

[image error] Katri Soikkeli, having fun at work.

If you’ve been alive on this planet for more than five years, you’ve probably heard of Dan Brown, the writer of Da Vinci Code. Most people probably have the impression that he was just hanging around, sitting on his laurels until he decided to churn out a best-selling novel that would be turned into a top-grossing film which would immediately launch him into success and into being regarded as a Real Author.

What you probably don’t know is that Da Vinci Code is Brown’s FOURTH published novel. His other best-seller, Angels and Demons, actually came out before Da Vinci Code, not after, which you might not have known either. We are not here to discuss the quality of Mr Brown’s prose, as that is a subject for another blog post which I have no intention to write, this is just a great example of how even well-known people have been plucking at their trade even before we became aware of them. Do you think Brown sat frozen at his desk, proclaiming that he wasn’t going to put his work out there until he knew he would become an instant success? I doubt it, because he would probably still be there.

Let me confirm something that you’re probably afraid of: your work isn’t perfect. Some of it might not even be great. If you’re feeling a bit rattled right now, GOOD, because that means there at least is some work for you to feel insecure about. If, on the other hand, you’ve been too paralysed to start because you can’t let even yourself see your imperfect work, please, for the love of all that’s good and beautiful in the world, remember how short and unpredictable life is. Write that stupid poem! It’s going to be terrible and then you’ll make another and another and another, and eventually one of them is going to be better!

Not saying I’m psychic, but I happen to know what’s really your problem.

Your “I don’t know how” and “I’m not as good as Jane” are just excuses, and you know what they say about fighting for your excuses? It means you get to keep them. Your real problem is that you’re scared of being seen. You don’t feel like you’re really good enough, so you’re hoping you’d come up with something that’s so great that you’d get to hide behind it, use it as a shield. You don’t want to expose parts of yourself that might be vulnerable to scrutiny, and thus you would rather suffocate them than ever give them a chance to grow. You don’t want to be seen starting out, because the world would get to see the supposedly imperfect parts of you, so you never start. But if you’re still reading this, I know there’s a small part of you that still wants to create something, maybe even change the world somehow, no matter how small portion of the world it might be.

Do you finally want to know what the decision was that I mentioned in the beginning of this post?

Let’s go back to the entrance exams, although slightly unrelated, because that was my first decision. Ever since my horribly failed exam, I found out you get extra points if you’re the first person to speak in the group, so I decided to do exactly that the next time. It felt like throwing up. Actually, it felt like taking off my shirt, climbing onto the table to sing Happy Birthday to someone who didn’t have a birthday and THEN throwing up, but I did it anyway. Twice, because I didn’t get in that first time, although it was close. (You could say the Universe had other plans for me, because at the second school I met the father of my children. You never know when a no is actually a yes to something else.)

Other things that I have decided since then: Sending out novel manuscripts that were not perfect, connecting with other writers despite the insecurities that years of being bullied left me with, registering as a sole proprietor before having a clear idea of what I was going to be doing, changing that vague idea to another during the pandemic, starting an Etsy shop despite having kind of ugly product photos and no idea how to market a handmade business, and most recently writing this guest post despite having awful brain fog this week and no idea what to write about. [We’re so glad you did, Katri! — Sarah]

I am constantly putting myself out there and I’m terrified while doing it.

Then I go to bed and do it again the next day. Just last week I posted something that I later realised was kind of boring and uninspired, but I would have never learned that if I hadn’t written and posted it first. None of this has killed me yet and I’m slowly growing my resilience so that I spend a little less time agonising over everything I allow people see.

Putting myself out there to be seen also means that people are free to bypass me completely. It’s natural to want to be liked and approved of, our survival as a species used to completely depend on it, but once you get started. you’ll soon realise you can withstand not being applauded for everything you create. Then, one day, someone is really going to see you, and you will experience the joy of your creations resonating with another person. That is true connection, and in my opinion, the core of human experience.

You don’t want to deprive yourself of that joy. Get out there and be visible. You were made for this.

Links:

Instagram – www.instagram.com/protagonistcrafts

Website – katrisoikkeli.com

Etsy shop – www.etsy.com/shop/protagonistcrafts 

Other posts:

Creativity and mental health https://katrisoikkeli.com/creativity-mental-health/ 

Ode to uncool interests https://katrisoikkeli.com/ode-to-uncool-interests/ 

Discussion

Thank you so much, Katri, for this fabulous post! You’ll notice some similar themes here if you’ve been reading some of my posts on creativity. Allowing yourself to be seen, as Katri has put it, is an essential part of the creative process. If you have any questions for us, please drop a comment below. And, of course, don’t forget to give Katri a follow at the links above!

Creative Business 101: Tips on How to Identify your Audience

Have you ever stopped to wonder why you are a creator? Many of us create as a hobby, for personal pleasure or relaxation. But if you are starting a creative business, you need to reframe this question.

“Why do you create?” becomes “Who are you creating for?”

In this post, I will share some quick tips for identifying your audience and how to use that information to design content that will appeal to your ideal reader or customer.

[image error] Creative Business 101: How to Identify Your Audience



What is an Audience, and Why Does it Matter?

When we talk of “audience” in the world of creative entrepreneurs (or any kind of entrepreneur!) we are referring to a pool of potential buyers of our work. Your work might be a novel, a painting, or a hand-knit sweater. It could be a song you’ve put out on YouTube or a film you’ve made. Even if you are not ready to sell your work, you can still make connections with your future customers. These people are your audience.

Identifying your audience is the first step you need to take when you decide to transition from being a hobbyist to a career creator. Who are you trying to reach? The answer seems simple. We want everyone to love us and buy our stuff. We want fame and riches and global recognition of our awesomeness, right?

(Okay, if you just nodded your head, go back and read Defining Success as a Creative Entrepreneur.)

The trouble is, if you cast your net too wide it doesn’t get deep enough to catch any fish. If you try to market yourself to everyone, you end up attracting no one.

How to Identify Your Audience

You cannot market yourself or your work to everyone on the face of the planet. We all like different things, and respond to different personalities. Identifying your audience comes down to two things: who you are, and what you do. This becomes: who is going to like me? Who is going to want what I have created?

Many creators don’t really stop to think about these things until after they have completed a project. We feel inspired, we work in a wild frenzy of creative activity, and after some crises of faith and existential dread, voilà! We have a thing!

If you have never considered your audience until this moment, that’s okay. I’m going to help you out. Once you go through these tips and you do know your audience, your next project will be much easier to market!

First, let’s talk about you.

[image error] “To Find Yourself, Think For Yourself.” –Socrates



Who Am I?

I don’t necessarily mean this in a deep, existential way. But if you know exactly who you are, this part will be easy. When I ask “Who are you?” I mean “How do you present yourself to the world?” Here are some questions to consider:

How old are you?What is your gender identity and sexual orientation?What are your religious beliefs?What are your political beliefs?What is important to you?What charities and causes do you support?What kind of people do you like to be friends with?What kind of people do you not get along well with?Are you a cat person? A dog person? Do you like animals?What kinds of food do you like?

This is basic stuff, but it’s surprising how many people never really sit down and think about these things. Go back to the days of those 20 questions surveys you used to be tagged in back in the early days of social media. Take a few, just for fun.

Now how many of these basic info-bytes make it into your work? Is the protagonist in your novel similar to you or different? Do you draw themes for your art from your personal belief system? Do you curse like a sailor or prefer a family-friendly dialogue with your friends?

These are all important clues in order to answer the next question.

Who is my Audience?

It can be difficult to make the leap from “Who am I?” to “Who do I create for?” because it isn’t always a conscious part of the process. Think of a particular piece or project you want to find an audience for. Think of one, ideal person coming along and seeing your work and thinking “Yes! This is exactly what I’ve been looking for!” Who are they? Who will get the most out of everything you’ve put into this piece?

AgeGenderSexual OrientationLevel of EducationPolitical ViewsIncome LevelReligious ViewsWhat is important to them?

Your audience might be exactly like you, or they might be quite different. For writers, your audience might be more similar to your protagonist than to you. For example, if you are a middle aged woman writing a YA romance, your work is more likely to appeal to a 15 year old girl than someone who is married with children, and a full time job.

On the other hand, if you are writing a science fiction novel about climate disaster and you are passionate about saving the environment in real life, your audience will likely share this passion with you.

Example: The Timekeepers’ War by S.C. Jensen

I am going to demonstrate the different between “Who am I?” and “Who is my audience?” by using myself and my first book as an example. You don’t need to have read The Timekeepers’ War in order for this to make sense. [If you have, great! You’re my favourite ;)]

QuestionsS.C. JensenAudienceAge?3618-45, geared toward 20s or people who remember their 20sGender?FemaleMainly womenRace?WhiteAny, characters are racially diverseSexual Orientation?BisexualAny, queer friendlyLevel of Education?Bachelor’s DegreeAny, but must be curious, have a strong vocabulary, and be interested in exploring “big” ideasLevel of Income?Upper Middle ClassAny, especially people who have experience with povertyReligious Beliefs?AtheistAtheist, agnostic, or spiritually curiousPolitical Beliefs?LiberalSocialist, or people who like to explore many political models and belief systemsInterests?reading, SF&F, outdoor activities, cooking, new medicine and scienceSF&F, readers, dark humour, sci-fi concept art, alien species, post-apocalyptic preppersPlace in life?married, homeowner, business owner, mother, well-balanced and contentyounger, still trying to figure out where they fit (or remember this feeling), ambiguous identity, searching for meaning in life, discontent, questioning everythingDiscovering your audience example, The Timekeepers’ War by S.C. Jensen

You can see where there are a few places where my audience and I diverge from one another. Partly this is because people change, and we often draw on past experiences in our creative work. Sometimes it is easier to discuss difficult themes and ideas after the fact, and our work will resonate with both people who are currently experiencing similar issues or who have in the past.

Remember, the more specific you can be in identifying your audience the easier it will be to market your creative business or product.

[image error] “Your Attitude is an Expression of Your Values and Expectations.” –Zabid Abas



I Know My Audience, But How Does This Help Me?

Once you know who your ideal audience is, it’s time to produce some content that will interest them. If you are stumped about what to write about on your blog or socials, imagine your audience. What is your ideal reader/buyer interested in right now?

Does your work tie in to any current public events?What interests do they have?Have you read any books or seen any movies that would appeal to them?Can you provide insight into a problem they might be facing?

You must use what you know about your ideal audience and apply that to everything you put out into the world. Your content is the bait you use to lure future customers to your feeds. People can’t buy your work if they can’t find you, and they won’t buy your work if they don’t find a personal connection with what you post.

How Do I Cater My Content to My Audience?



As a Writer:



book reviews in the genre you write intop 10 books you look forward to reading this yearcurrent events with parallels to your novelpersonal stories that parallel the issues your characters deal withentertaining tidbits in your shared interest categoriesbook nerdy posts about how to select your next read, organize your bookcase, or how to handle the emotional turmoil of a book buying ban



As an Artist:



behind the scenes in your studiosketches to finished pieceother artists who inspire youpractical guidance on how to select a piece of art, how to hang a artwork, how to critique a work of artnews stories that connect with themes in your workpersonal stories that your ideal buyer will relate to



As a Musician:



behind the scenes in your studiolive recordingsfootage from performancesstories about your experiences as a performernews stories that connect with themes in your workvenues reviews for areas you have performed in or would like to perform in

These are some idea to get you started, but as you can see knowing your audience is the key to producing creative content that works.

Be Valuable

In Creative Business 101: Defining Success as a Creative Entrepreneur we discussed the importance of providing value in your content. In order to do this, you must know who your audience is and what is valuable to them.

Use your platforms with intention, and focus on the platforms you feel most comfortable with. I spend most of my time on Instagram and WordPress, because this is where I like to hang out. Others enjoy the Twitter or Facebook experience. You don’t have to do everything at once, but whatever you do, you must product content designed to appeal to your ideal audience.

Discussion

Is there anything else you need to know about identifying your audience? Let me know in the comments and we can brainstorm!

If this article was helpful to you, please like and share so that it is easier for others to find.

As always, thank you for reading!

Revenge of the Aughts

This is an interesting perspective on the careers of Bestselling authors who fall victim to One-Hit-Wonder syndrome. I wonder if the pressure to recreate that first success, either from their publishers or in their own heads, contributes to creative stagnation. Independent authors have an advantage here, I think, in that we have the freedom to keep trying until we find our groove, collecting readers along the way. The steadily prolific writers are the ones I look up to more so than the chart toppers. What do you think?

The world changed when Twilight was published on October 5, 2005.

Not so much with Midnight Sun, August 4, 2020.

I was obsessed with the Twilight series when it first came out in the middle of the aughts (or the 00’s) decade. SO romantic! SO exciting. I started the first chapter at the bookstore and read it all the way to the cash register. I read and reread all four books, watched the movies, and even read the leaked draft of Midnight Sun which Meyer put on her website after it was shared online against her wishes.

Then, like many book series, movies, video games, and music that I am absolutely obsessed with, it faded. Most of my other media loves continue to burn but pre-Midnight Sun, I knew I had outgrown Twilight as a reader.

I don’t like it when people criticize what others read, especially…

View original post 976 more words

Indie Feature Friday: THE AWAKENING by Natasha Oliver

TGIF, my friends! Today, I have another fantastic indie book to share with you. I’ve been reading a lot of Science Fiction from independent and small press writers this year and I have been so impressed! My Indie Feature Friday posts will highlight the cream of the crop. So if you love books, science fiction, and supporting indie authors, be sure to follow along!

[image error] Indie Book Review with Sarah Does Sci-Fi

Today I’m reviewing Awakening: The Evolved Ones Book One by Natasha Oliver.

[image error] Awakening: The Evolved Ones Book One by Natasha Oliver
Click through to Amazon

Natasha Oliver was born in South Carolina, USA, and has lived and worked in Japan, Singapore, and throughout Southeast Asia for more than 16 years. Most recently, she has spent the last two years in London, England but is in the process of moving home to the US as we speak. Natasha earned a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing at Goddard College and a Bachelor of Science in Marketing at Lehigh University, and will be teaching Creative Writing at Full Sail University in Orlando, Florida next year.

You can check out what she is up to on her website www.natashaoliver.com or on Instagram @natasha_oliver_author.

Indie Book Review: Awakening by Natasha Oliver

If you love fast paced, urban fantasy with a Sci-Fi twist have I got a book for you!

The Blurb:

In a world where humans are evolving, people are more curious than afraid. They look for answers from a handful of scientists who try to uncover why some develop abilities yet the vast majority do not. For most humans, it’s an exciting time, but for Evolved Ones – EOs – it’s a game of hide and seek that ends with far too many of their kind disappearing, permanently. Four years ago, Rox awoke without a single memory and the involuntary ability to heal. Speech and most of her higher level cognitive functions were working, but everything about herself felt unfamiliar. Plagued by insecurity and confusion, she leaves the only home she can remember in search of her true identity.

from Amazon

The Set Up

Rox is on the run, desperate to escape the people chasing her and to find out who she really is. From the very first page, we are sucked into Rox’s quest to rescue herself from a personal hell. She is stuck in limbo, being used by everyone who promised to help her find her identity, and she doesn’t even know if there is anything to discover. The unknown threatens to destroy her.

The Characters

I am a sucker for great characterization. Even in stories where nothing much is happening, if the characters are well developed and embarking on a personal journey, I am happy to move along with them. Oliver takes this skill to the extreme. She handles a large cast of characters with in-depth, emotionally driven character arcs. Each of the characters is fully developed, with a unique personality, compelling backstory, and complex motivations. You’ll even love the unlikable ones!

The Execution

This book grabs you, shakes you, and drags you along with it. Break-neck pacing, fever-pitched emotions, and non-stop action, Awakening has “Blockbuster Movie” written all over it.

This is an absolute must read for anyone who likes action-packed Sci-Fi with a heavy dose of raw emotion and character depth to go with it.

You can easily pick this book up and read it straight through. It is hard to put down, even if you know you have to wake up early. I might have had a rough morning or two because I was up reading after the kids went to bed!

I am dying for the next book, which is coming out March 7, 2021 and is available for pre-order now!

[image error] Sacrifice: The Evolved Ones Book Two by Natasha Oliver
Click through to Pre-Order today!



[image error] Acceptance: The Evolved Ones Book Three by Natasha Oliver
Coming Soon…



Technical Details

Natasha Oliver is represented by Marshall Cavendish International (Asia), so she is not technically an indie author. However, as her publisher doesn’t deal in fiction outside of Asian markets, Oliver has to act as an indie. Hybrid publishing is becoming more and more common, and I want to support my small press authors too.

The editing and formatting of Awakening is as flawless as the writing. I know you won’t be disappointed with this book!

5 Stars for Awakening by Natasha Oliver

I have said before, I will only be reviewing the best of the books I read for Indie Feature Friday. So you already know ahead of time that I loved this book. If you love science fiction, science fantasy, or urban fantasy, this fast-paced SF thriller is a must read.

A Note on Reviews:

Did you know that reviews are essential to independent authors’ visibility?

If you buy an indie book, first of all “THANK YOU!” from all of us. It’s a tough go out there competing with big publishing houses and their million dollar marketing plans. Any support you can give us has a huge impact.

Second of all, please leave an honest review on Goodreads and wherever you purchased your copy. Indie authors read your reviews! If you loved it, great! Tell us why so we can try to do it again. If you didn’t, that’s okay, too! Please tell us what didn’t work so that we can do better next time.

More Reviews

If you liked this review, check out the others in my Indie Feature Friday series!

Grinders by C.S. Boyak (SF/cyberpunk/detective)The Fadian Experiment by W.A. Ford (SF/urban fantasy/science fantasy/distopian)Prophecy by Caroline Noes (SF/space opera/aliens)

Thanks for reading! If you’ve read Awakening, let me know what you thought in the comments. Which indie author would you like to see me review next?