IWSG: C-C-C-Changes to the Publishing Industry
Our Insecure Writers Support Group question for this month is There have been many industry changes in the last decade, so what are some changes you would like to see happen in the next decade?
As someone whose been around the industry block for more than one decade, I’ve seen more changes than most, from submitting typed pages in a manuscript box to doing editor pitches on Twitter (not me, per say. I’m not that evolved). I’ve barely caught up to the changes in the last year let alone ten! Publishing is in its own Industrial Revolution started in the digital era and exploding with self-publishing. We went from having the Big Six to the Six Billion Pound Gorillas Amazon and Facebook collecting cover charges at every door. But what I’d like to see is more industry changes within our own author ranks. That’s why I’ve been busy One Clicking.
Diversity wasn’t something that hit me personally and professionally until Romance Writers of America was right in the middle of a huge upheaval going into 2020 on behalf of systematically stifled non-White authors. This is the industry change that’s been long overdue and will outlast this decade. So many brilliant, talented voices are finally being recognized and explored by new readers. THIS! This is what the new decade needs. Do a search on Twitter to discover lists of wonderful Black authors in every genre from Fiction to Fantasy and YA that are hitting bestseller lists because readers are finally aware of them. Support Black authors/Authors of Color by buying their books and reading them, by retweeting and reposting, by leaving reviews and recommendations, by asking for them in bookstores.
Children and young people, as well as adults, need to read more about characters like them, as well as those who are different, who are brave, are loved, who struggle and who succeed. Change this new decade by celebrating ALL authors with stories to tell. I’m looking forward to reading them!
The Insecure Writer’s Support Group
Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!
Posting: The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer - aim for a dozen new people each time.The awesome co-hosts for the July 1st posting of the IWSG will be Jenni Enzor, Beth Camp, Liesbet @ Roaming About, Tyrean Martinson, and Sandra Cox!
Let’s rock the neurotic writing world!
Twitter hashtag is #IWSG
As someone whose been around the industry block for more than one decade, I’ve seen more changes than most, from submitting typed pages in a manuscript box to doing editor pitches on Twitter (not me, per say. I’m not that evolved). I’ve barely caught up to the changes in the last year let alone ten! Publishing is in its own Industrial Revolution started in the digital era and exploding with self-publishing. We went from having the Big Six to the Six Billion Pound Gorillas Amazon and Facebook collecting cover charges at every door. But what I’d like to see is more industry changes within our own author ranks. That’s why I’ve been busy One Clicking.
Diversity wasn’t something that hit me personally and professionally until Romance Writers of America was right in the middle of a huge upheaval going into 2020 on behalf of systematically stifled non-White authors. This is the industry change that’s been long overdue and will outlast this decade. So many brilliant, talented voices are finally being recognized and explored by new readers. THIS! This is what the new decade needs. Do a search on Twitter to discover lists of wonderful Black authors in every genre from Fiction to Fantasy and YA that are hitting bestseller lists because readers are finally aware of them. Support Black authors/Authors of Color by buying their books and reading them, by retweeting and reposting, by leaving reviews and recommendations, by asking for them in bookstores.
Children and young people, as well as adults, need to read more about characters like them, as well as those who are different, who are brave, are loved, who struggle and who succeed. Change this new decade by celebrating ALL authors with stories to tell. I’m looking forward to reading them!
The Insecure Writer’s Support Group
Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!
Posting: The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer - aim for a dozen new people each time.The awesome co-hosts for the July 1st posting of the IWSG will be Jenni Enzor, Beth Camp, Liesbet @ Roaming About, Tyrean Martinson, and Sandra Cox!
Let’s rock the neurotic writing world!
Twitter hashtag is #IWSG
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