authors

Patience and Character Development

Posted on by Brenda Poulos
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As an author, one of the skills I have learned is character development. In planning for my next book, I realized that the entire process of writing has helped in the development of my own character—specifically in the area of patience.

When ideas don’t come readily, I need the patience required to change directions, to write—and re-write, to let the characters evolve. 

Things like research, title selection, cover choice, and marketing take up a good deal of time.

All require patience. And patience is basically about time—about waiting—about pacing.

The more I exercise patience, the easier it is for me to concentrate and enjoy this time-consuming craft.

How about you? As an author, what character traits have you learned/developed that have made a difference in your writing?

God Bless America

Posted on by Brenda Poulos
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As I watched the fireworks on television July 4th, I enjoyed hearing three of my favorite songs of all time, God Bless America, Amazing Grace, and America the Beautiful.

Authors need inspiration and it is easy to see that these were showing their appreciation to God for the blessing of living in this great country of ours.

Whether in the form of songs, poetry, books, sculpture, or paintings, thank you to everyone who uses their talents to inspire the rest of us… to give us hope in the future… to express thanks in creative and unique ways.

Salaries for Book Editors

Posted on by Brenda Poulos
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Are you considering editing/proofreading manuscripts for fellow authors?

Last week’s post focused on certifications/requirements for book editors. This week, we focus on salaries.

My research says the average salary for book editors ranges from $45k to $85k, depending on the amount of time spent, the type of editing one does, and total business garnered. 

The hourly rate in the US is $30.

I don’t know about you, but a large percentage of authors never make that kind of money!

So, if finding and correcting other authors’ mistakes is “enjoyable,” you may want to consider becoming a BOOK EDITOR.

Want the best of both worlds?  Why not consider doing both??

Have You Heard That Word Before??

Posted on by Brenda Poulos
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An author-friend of mine and I often read each other’s work. Last week she used a word in her story that I hadn’t heard before. 

I normally use context clues to gain meaning of unfamiliar words, but in this case I still wasn’t sure. I had to look it up.

I ‘ve heard more than once that readers either skip over unfamiliar words (thus not gaining the express meaning of a sentence) or if the author uses too many of them, they put the book aside.  Sometimes they do look up the meaning. However, they become irritated if there are too many unfamiliar words in a book and most likely will not select books from that author again.

Readers, please share how you react to unfamiliar words in the books that you read. Authors really do want to hear from you. After all, we really do write for YOU!

Reach for the Stars

Posted on by Brenda Poulos
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Do you remember coming home from school with a tiny foil star for exemplary behavior or academic accomplishment?

The idea of receiving stars for “the remarkable” carries on to present day when they are even earned on the internet by people, products, vacations, songs, photographs, inventions, and so on.

We’re all aware of what they mean. We appreciate—even strive to—“earn” them.

No one is more aware of this concept than authors. Stars from reviewers translate into public awareness of them and their books, which ultimately mean sales.

We put forth our best everyday, keenly aware that our final product will be judged by our readers. Our end goal is a product worthy of those priceless five-star reviews. 

The Search

Posted on by Brenda Poulos
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My husband and I have been shopping for new entry doors for our home. Until we began this search, we had no idea how many styles and materials are available.

We made a list of manufacturers from an internet search and set out to visit as many of these in person as possible this past week.

We discovered that prices, styles, and quality vary. No surprise.

We also discovered that my husband’s preferences are different than mine. No surprise there, either.

The process reminds me of when we shop for books at a book store. We are first drawn in by the cover, then the genre, price, and so on.

That’s why I always say that you CAN judge a book by its cover—or at least it’s true that readers DO judge books by their covers–at least initially.

So draw readers inside with an amazing cover. Then, be sure what’s inside meets their expectations.

Tell Your Story

Posted on by Brenda Poulos

If you watched the Republican National Convention this past week, you heard from average Americans who had been invited to speak. We hung on their every word—a testimony to the power of story.

This experience reminded me of why biographies, autobiographies, and memoirs have become so popular. 

We all love a good story. If you have one, tell it.

If you know someone with a meaningful story, encourage them to share it.

There will always be a thread of truth that will tug at someone else’s soul—a common theme or experience that will resonate with them.

And that, my friends, has the power to echo into eternity.

Book Fairs—Is Participating Worth It?

Posted on by Brenda Poulos

I participated in a book fair at our local library this weekend. You may have had opportunities to do so in the past, also. As I talk to fellow authors, I find a wide range of answers to the age-old question: Was it worth it?

First of all, depending on the location, season of the year, and advertising used, it may be a good way to sell some of your books. 

Secondly, It gets your name out there. You have a unique opportunity to meet your potential reading audience and “sell yourself.”

Thirdly, being able to network with other authors, editors, and publishers is always beneficial. 

Fourthly, if the event is marketed well, you may gain coverage from local news outlets.

Finally, if there are speakers and mini-classes available, you will have a chance to learn and grow as a writer. 

On the flip side, most authors report few sales at these events, which may make the time and money (cost of books, shipping, and table fees–which can be anywhere from $0 to hundreds) involved prohibitive.

“Continuing Education”

Posted on by Brenda Poulos

U-Tube is a great resource for many things. My husband uses it quite often. He’s a do-it-yourselfer who finds help, directions, videos, and multiple viewpoints any time he needs it.

As an author, I find answers—and even inspiration—by regularly listening to podcasts and tutorials.

I know. You want to write, write, write without interruption. So do I.

I’ve found the only way I want to give up time for this endeavor is to simply plan it into my weekly schedule. One afternoon a week, I take off my author hat and put on my student hat.

Nothing in life is learned through osmosis (the unconscious assimilation of ideas and knowledge) as much as we’d like to think it possible.

Most authors start out writing by going to conferences and reading books on the subject of writing. But writing rules and trends change, so don’t stop learning. 

Carve out some time for continuing education each week to keep yourself “up-to-date” and in “the know.”

Rising Costs for Authors

Posted on by Brenda Poulos

I have never been one to enjoy grocery shopping.

Lately, I have disliked the task even more.

Rising prices is the main reason. 

All the foods I enjoy cost much more than they did six months ago. I find myself feeling angry, sad, disheartened.

What about authors? 

The cost of paper, publishing, editing fees, and cover design are bound to go up, too.

So should we think about raising retail prices on our books? Should we consider changing advertising strategies? Perhaps refrain from participating in so many giveaways? 

Until I started writing this blog today, I hadn’t really thought about how our current economy might impact authors’ incomes.

Should we just “ride it out” or do we need to make some changes?

If you are an author, would you please share your thoughts?