James’s Comments (group member since Jul 08, 2020)

James’s comments from the Christian Writing & Reading Community group.

Until recently, I have not submitted one of my books for a book award. Do book awards matter? My answer is maybe.

In my opinion, many book awards are a prestige game. However, book awards could be a smart marketing move. Here is why:

Increased Visibility: Awards can amplify your reach, helping your book get noticed by readers, industry professionals, and media outlets.

Credibility and Recognition: Winning or being nominated lends legitimacy to your work, signaling to readers that your book is a quality read.

Sales Boost:Awards can lead to a spike in sales, especially when paired with promotional efforts.

Networking Opportunities: Many award events allow for connections with fellow authors, publishers, and potential partners.

What do you think? Do book awards matter? What awards are best for Christian authors?

Caylin,
I have yet to host an in-person book launch. However, I am planning on having one for the book that I am currently writing. Please let me know how yours turns out. Another author told me that her in-person launch party was very successful because she shared it to social media. She used a phone for the Instagram Live for the whole hour of the launch party. Sounds like a great idea.
James

Welcome, Mylee. Congratulations on your book. God's blessings to you and your writing ministry.

It's fantastic!

Hello Kofi,
Welcome to the group. God’s blessings on you and your writing career.
James

On Writing Well by William Zinsser is also an excellent resource for a writer.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...

JD,
Welcome to the group. There have been so many books that have left a lasting impact on me. It is difficult to narrow it down.
James

If you are serious about Christian writing, then you should read Christian Writers Market Guide. The 2025 edition is out now.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...

We have a dozen or more FREE paperback copies of my latest book, The Overcomer. These books were provided by my publisher as review copies. If you would be willing to leave a review on Amazon and Goodreads, I would be very happy to mail you a FREE paperback copy. Please comment below or direct message me with your shipping address. If you have any questions about the book, please let me know. Thank you for your consideration.
James

Kailynn,
Welcome! God's blessings to you as you serve Him.
James

Outstanding! Great trailer.

Martha,
I tried to open this with my phone and my computer but it will not open. Can you repost it from somewhere else like maybe YouTube? I would love to see your trailer.
James

One of my favorites is a little book by Jerry Ross titled Did God Put a Book Inside of You? You can find out more information about it here:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...

Jon,
Your book sounds wonderful. I hope to read it soon. Welcome to the group. God's blessings to you!
James

Martha,
Welcome to the group. I enjoyed your first book and look forward to the second. God's blessings to you as you serve Him.
James

I believe that all authors should be avid readers. Other authors also share this sentiment.

“If you want to be a writer, you must do two things above all others: read a lot and write a lot. There’s no way around these two things that I’m aware of, no shortcut.” Stephen King

“The only way anybody ever learns to write well is by trying to write well. This usually begins by reading good writing by other people, and writing very badly by yourself, for a long time.” Ursula K. Le Guin

“Read, read, read everything – trash, classics, good and bad, and see how they do it. Just like a carpenter who works as an apprentice and studies the master. Read! You’ll absorb it. Then write. If it is good, you’ll find out. If it’s not, throw it out the window.” William Faulkner

What books would you recommend for authors?

Gary,
Great trailer!

Merci,
Welcome to the group. God’s blessings to you!
James

Has anyone here had much success marketing books with a book trailer? I would love to see some of your trailers. Here is the trailer for my latest book:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_1oeP...

Please share your trailers.

Caylin,
Welcome to the group. I enjoyed your book. Keep up the great work as you serve Him.
James