Executive editor of Carina Press, Harlequin’s digital-first imprint, and veteran of the digital publishing industry, Angela James is a long-time advocate for digital publishing. She has enjoyed nearly a decade of experience in digital publishing, including successfully launching, building and serving as executive editor for two digital-first presses. Angela frequently travels to regional, national and international writing conferences to meet with authors and readers and to drag them to the digital dark side. She’s the creator of online self-editing course, Before You Hit Send, which she offers to authors at all stages of their writing career. You can find Angela daily on both Twitter and Facebook.

Though Angela does not do much acquiring and editing these days, spending most of her time on the administrative end of things, she continues to edit a small group of authors she’s had a long-time editorial relationship with, as well as the special, invitation-only, Carina Press holiday collections. In addition, she’s been known to be seduced into editing the random novella that catches her attention while she’s browsing the submissions inbox. And Angela is still waiting for someone to write her the ultimate cowboy space opera romance adventure, in the vein of Firefly. For that particular project, she’ll give up sleep in order to edit!


1. Why did you choose to become an editor?

My original career was in occupational therapy. I took on editing a decade ago as a side-project, because I loved books and wanted to be involved in their creation. One pregnancy and a move across the state later, and I ended up taking on more editorial work while I took a “hiatus” from my OT job to be a stay-at-home mom for a few years. Things snowballed from there, and I somehow never ended up going back to my occupational therapy career, which is what I’d always intended to do, but instead developed a (mildly successful) career in editing!


2. Are there any projects you wish you could have edited?

Pretty much everything ever written by Ilona Andrews and Nalini Singh, because I love reading their work. I would love to discover a writing voice like theirs!


3. What are you reading right now (for personal reading, for fun)?

This changes just about daily. I read a lot, and I read quickly. I read 330 books in 2011, not including what I read for work. Most recently I read Fair Game by Patricia Briggs and Oracle’s Moon by Thea Harrison. I’m looking forward to the release of the latest J.D. Robb book, and I’m currently reading an older fantasy series by Jennifer Roberson.


4. How do you utilize Twitter? How do you believe it has changed the way we go about publishing books?

Twitter is a fun place for me, so I don’t consciously have a plan for it or use it ruthlessly for just one thing. I do a lot of things with purpose, but Twitter, for me, is a place to hear about the world, interact with people I like, and sometimes be a little silly. I do the occasional promotional tweet, but more often I’m talking about other people’s books. The one way in which I do use Twitter for work is to do a hashtag called #editreport where I give authors insight into what editors are thinking as they read the slush pile.

I don’t know if it’s changed how we publish books, but I do think it’s influenced how we promote them. All social media definitely has had a dramatic impact on how we market and promote!


5. If you had a crystal ball, where do you think (or hope) publishing will be in 5 yrs?

Let’s see, in 5 years I think the digital format will be at least 50% of publishing sales. I believe we’ll have seen a calming of the incredible rush of everyone and their dog to self-publish a book. Digital royalty rates at traditional publishers may be somewhat higher. Advances will be lower, as will print runs. And, sadly, even more brick and mortar bookstores will have shut their doors. But on the upside, readers will have an even more expansive selection of books to read, at a reasonable price!



Thanks so much Angela!  For my readers, what are your thoughts on the future sales #s for ebooks?  And what have your experience been regarding social media and how books get published today?  Angela will be answering questions, so you can be as specific as you want.    The winner will get to select two digital ARCs of the March/April Carina Press titles. The last day is March 1st.

Every author wants to put him/herself out there, and it’s important to build an online base. But it’s hard to get noticed on a website crowded with people doing the same thing. Twitter is a powerful tool that allows one to give updates consistently, meaning that connections are made and maintained.

For an author, this makes it easier to build a platform while writing a book.  In the long run, this effort and attention will help with promotion and networking. Yes, it can be intimidating and confusing to begin building a Twitter “empire.” The end result is a marketable writing presence before finishing one’s book.

1. Work Your Profile:

Fill out your bio with interesting information. Make it just a few lines long, but include your genre, your book’s title (or working title,) your passions, and profession. Including this information allows other Twitterers to find and add you.

Link your Facebook and website.  It’s quite normal for people to not use their real names on Twitter, so your Facebook friends might not think to look for you unless this link is established.

Use a relevant photo. Even if you don’t put in a self-portrait, it’s better to put in something that will catch your followers’ eyes. Use your book cover, or find some interesting focus of your writing a la vintage Penguin covers. It can seem tempting to use a photo of your dog in a Santa suit, but when people are browsing their home page, the picture is the main thing drawing their eye. The photo only adds to the recognition.

2.      Follow the Right People:

The best way to get followers is to follow people who will follow you back. While they’re interesting to read, celebrities probably won’t return the favor. Instead, imagine you’re at a networking event, and think about who you’d interact with. Try adding local writing clubs and bookstores; then look through their followers and find other writers, readers, agents, editors or publishers to follow (and interact with them).

If you’re writing non-fiction, find people who are experts in your subject, as well as people who share the same interest. You can find them by searching via hashtags and profiles. At that level, most people will follow you back.  Twitter is a better use of time when interacting with people who are helpful vs. falling into the trap of playing the numbers game.

3.      Say Interesting Things:

You’re building an identity as a writer. So, tweeting about your toast isn’t doing much good unless you’re writing a breakfast cookbook. How about posting a sentence from your novel that you’re particularly proud of or a really interesting piece of trivia from your research? Create posts that force interaction with followers. Create a hashtag (it’s as easy as putting a # symbol in front of a word- after that it’s automatic) and use it to monitor a contest or discussion you’ve created. Post a confusing photo and ask what people think it is. Look to how companies ask questions as a marketing tool. It will result in more interactions and increased traffic to your profile.

Use hashtags liberally. Almost everything you have to say can fit into a hashtag trend, and using hashtags helps people find you. Also, look at the current trends from your home page and post your thoughts using the hashtags.

Post pictures! If you see a funny book title in the library or have a new cover design, take a picture and post it using something like Twitpic. Pictures get people’s attention and are easy for people to follow.

Think about what would make you un-follow a person and avoid doing it! Anything that would be classified as TMI or potentially disrespectful to people should stay off your feed. You don’t want to alienate followers; it’s better to put one’s best foot forward.

Try to tweet twice a day. It doesn’t have to take a lot of energy or time, it just takes a minute to post a picture or some interesting trivia.

4.      Connect Your Twitter Identity to the Rest of It:

Include your Twitter username everywhere possible. Link to your personal Twitter page in the signature of emails, include it on business cards and Facebook – and more. It’s also easy to casually mention your Twitter username upon meeting another Twitter fanatic.  

With the assistance of an app, one can even tweet updates to a blog and post tweets on Facebook. Using a browser like Rockmelt for your social media posting makes it quick to connect to Twitter. There are also programs like HootSuite that are organized so one can hit almost every social media website at once.

One final note: There are people who hate Twitter. Please don’t be one of them. It’s a powerful tool and a great way to connect with people. And almost every design feature can be worked around. You can set your followers to come to you by RSS. If you feel like you don’t have the time to tweet once or twice a day, use a program like HootSuite or SocialOomph to schedule tweets for the future or use Ping.fm to text those tweets. With just a little effort, you can make Twitter work no matter what your style is.

In the end, the most important thing to remember is to put yourself out there. Don’t be afraid to “talk” on Twitter.  Don’t be intimidated to interact with others. Be yourself and express what you’re doing. People will come and be interested. It can only do you good, I promise.

-Gwen is the wonderful intern behind the scenes, who makes life at Red Sofa Literary smoother.  She can be contacted at Gwen@redsofaliterary.com or found via Twitter at @GwenFitzgerald

As 2011 is officially over, I thought it would be a good idea to share my observations on the query process.  Specifically in regard to Red Sofa Literary.

In the world of publishing, any agent will confirm that our representative categories are often ignored.  So much that it takes a special dose of patience to avoid being frustrated. Sadly the assumption that our clearly stated submission guidelines will be honored is sometimes too much to ask. 



Observation #1
Here are some of the many categories of book queries received at Red Sofa – that fell outside my representative categories:

Business
College Reference
Religion/Spiritual (a ridiculous amount)
Academic
Genre Fiction (of all types)
General Fiction
Memoirs
Self-Help
Parenting
Medical
Cooking
Poetry
Wedding/Ettiquette
Screenplays

If you take a glance at my agency categories, it’ll be evident I don’t represent books of this nature.

THE LESSON:  Go to any agent’s website and consult his/her representative categories before sending a query. Definitely use the print guides, but take an extra step of visiting agency websites, in order to save time and frustration.



Observation #2
Frequency of memoir and fiction queries for Red Sofa in 2011 = 25.8%

Here’s a story: Let’s say you open a coffee shop.  The only thing you will be selling is black coffee and Americanos. Those are the only items available on the menu. Before opening, you’ve of course ensured all print and marketing materials state clearly those are the only options. Assuredly customers will understand this. Right?

Now imagine 25% of your customers attempt to order ham sandwiches and ice cream (every day), despite these items not being available. Despite the clear communication before and after opening the coffee shop. In summary, people ignore the menu.

THE LESSON: Take this “caffeinated” situation and compare it to publishing.  When agency categories are ignored, both the author and agency will walk away unhappy. The most efficient use of one’s time is to explicitly follow the submission guidelines of agents queried. Hopefully this will result in a more successful query process.



Observation #3
Does your memoir really need to be published? Specifically with a large commercial publisher. 

I have to say that with all the memoir queries received, the plethora of material is beyond depressing. Books on cancer, abuse, bad parents, death, the end of the world, mental illness, failed relationships, other world dimensions, hopelessness and more came across my desk. 

Anyone who knows me well will state that I don’t expect happy, Hollywood-like books or endings to books. But I do have to draw the line with the utterly depressive nature of today’s memoirs found in the query pile.  I madly, truly believe we do NOT need any more books with topics of this nature – unless they are innovative, different, or set a new standard.  And of course queried to agents who are actively seeking memoirs. . .

THE LESSON: As Neil Genzlinger wrote in his editorial, “The Problem With Memoirs,” on Jan. 28, 2011 (for the NY Times) “That’s what makes a good memoir — it’s not a regurgitation of ordinariness or ordeal, not a dart thrown desperately at a trendy topic, but a shared discovery.

Maybe that’s a good rule of thumb: If you didn’t feel you were discovering something as you wrote your memoir, don’t publish it. Instead hit the delete key, and then go congratulate yourself for having lived a perfectly good, undistinguished life. There’s no shame in that. “



Conclusion:

Overall I’m hoping this will encourage more than discourage. I’m constantly reminding aspiring authors that all of us are part of the book publishing process. That it’s better shared, than going about alone. The only thing those of us in publishing ask is that basic submission guidelines are followed.  

We all know that writing requires a special commitment and passion for words. So please try to appreciate (and treasure) the overall experience of writing a book, whether you’re published or not. That should be the most basic expectation when all is said and done.

Things to remember:

1.       Will readers want your book? Specifically is there an audience who will clamor to read it? If the new book idea has a limited audience, the odds of gaining the attention of an agent (or editor) aren’t very good. This especially pertains to personal memoirs, of which there needs to be a guarantee thousands of readers would want to learn your life story. And that the individuals approached (in publishing) are interested in seeing a book of this nature.

2.       Remember beta readers, as well as population segments who’d be interested in your book idea. It’s one thing to write a book, it’s another to get the input of readers who represent your audience/market. If you haven’t found beta readers within your book’s target audience, it’s time to do so. Some of the best critiques can result from this part of the writing process. 

Ex: If writing a book for teenagers, then find a few teenagers who’d happily read your book. As we all know, most teenagers have no issues in expressing their opinions. Teens who read (and possibly write themselves) will provide much needed feedback on the strength of your book.   

3.       Do the necessary homework before approaching editors and agents. I sometimes feel like a broken record, in that I’m always saying this. Yet, it seems that many writers fall into the trap of putting the figurative cart before the horse. In Mike Nappa’s book, 77 Reasons Why Your Book Was Rejected, this is a constant reminder. DO YOUR HOMEWORK–it’s not a choice, this is a mandatory requirement. (Makes me feel better that I’m not alone here.)

Ex:  Sending a query to an agent or editor that is outside his/her book categories=an immediate rejection. A good publishing experience requires one works with individuals who share the same goal(s).  If your book idea doesn’t mesh with an agent or editor’s categories, it’s not a good foundation for a positive publishing experience.

4.       Remember that publishers are looking at the bigger picture (in publishing), as well as agents. Do you truly believe your book will sell thousands (upon thousands) of books? Do you have a large enough writing platform to turn the heads of editors and agents? Can you write and do it well? Do you have more than one book in you? Is the publishing process a long-term goal you’ll stay committed to, or is it just a hobby? As Mike Nappa aptly states, publishers need to believe they’ll make a profit on your book. If one is lacking a noticeable writing platform, the ability to write, and/or commitment to helping ensure a profit will be made, there’s a good chance it’ll be hard to win an agent or editor over.  So go back to points #1, #2 and #3. Then make a plan and prepare accordingly.

Questions? Thoughts? It’s always a treat hearing your feedback, your personal experiences.

As many of you know, one of the books I consistently recommend is GET KNOWN BEFORE THE BOOK DEAL by Christina Katz. I personally believe it’s one of the best reference books for building a platform, let alone experiencing a good writerly experience.  From the first page of that book, it’s evident that Christina practices what she preaches;  that she wants to make sure other writers have the best experience possible with their own personal writing paths.

So imagine my excitement upon receiving her newest book, THE WRITER’S WORKOUT. Over the last week I’ve taken the time to read Christina’s book, and am extremely impressed with the thoroughness of its content. So much information is covered, with every single idea and suggestion very accessible.

You can read the book from front to back, open at random pages, or read the specific sections (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter).  It’s your choice.  One entry a day = the perfect addition to one’s daily writing routine. Yet another reason to add Christina’s book to one’s writing reference library.

There is much to be appreciated about THE WRITER’S WORKOUT.  The “sticky brain” approach, the 500-word dash, the suggestion of saving documents and blog posts that inspire you (to be read again later), honoring introspection (during the writing process), the benefits of “social artistry,” and more.  Christina even includes various exercises for developing one’s book ideas, one’s network, and more.  I especially like her “Take 25 Actions” exercise.  (A great idea!)

THE WRITER’S WORKOUT is an interactive book that only requires you the writer, and a willingness to learn and execute new practices to one’s writing routine.  In the long run, one’s writerly life will benefit from these exercises.

So, do know it should be no surprise that THE WRITER’S WORKOUT will be required reading for my future clients – and highly recommended to my current ones too.

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Last but not least, here are some pages I highly recommend from THE WRITER’S WORKOUT:

#14 – Solvency Plan
#19 – Culture a Body of Work
#21 – Writing Markets
#33 – Target Specific Markets
#38 – Dismantle Dismal Thinking
#49 – Awaken Your Senses
#62 – Lead Later
#81 – Serve Up
#83 – Unblock Yourself
#85 – Settle In
#107 – Prospect From Yourself
#110 – Dig Deeper Say More
#117 – Transform Impatience
#141 – Stockpile Resources
#144 – Stay Strong, Carry On
#177 – Don’t Rush Ripe (seriously folks, a must read)
#186 – Evaluate Your Visibility
#237 – Personal Not Egomanical
#266 – Keep it Professional
#280 – Benefits of Traditional Publishing
#285 – Benefits of Self-Publishing
#295 and #297 – Strut Your Social Side (pts. 1 & 2)
#308 – Go Global
#321 and #323 – Update Your Platform (pts. 1 & 2)
#364 – Flex Your Ideas
 

So enjoy!  And go find Christina’s book, as it hits bookshelves this week! :)

Spunk and Bite – by Arthur Plotnik

There are many reasons to check out this book. The primary reason being that its title is the perfect reflection of what one can gain from reading it. As an agent, I’m always looking for fresh, smart, NEW material. Writing with a little edge and “spunk” is the way to go about it.

One of my favorite discussions in this book focused on the element of surprise in writing; in that surprises are necessary; that they are part of being human. Plotnik goes on further to discuss how one accomplishes this feat; with very much an effective bit of advice for any aspiring author.

Other sections I appreciated in Plotniks’ book include: methods to avoid “geezer” writing, the avoidance of overusing words, the use of tenses (dead on!), and usage of tropes. In summary, Spunk and Bite should be required reading for anyone who claims to have aspirations of getting published. Especially if desirous of standing out amidst the many queries agents and editors receive.



Keep It Real – by Lee Gutkind

I couldn’t agree more with Lee Gutkind. As with anything one does, it’s better to be true to one’s self vs. manufacturing something that isn’t reflective of the creativity within. In addition, keeping it real means bringing a good business brain to a career of writing; which includes a meticulous plan and perseverance.

One bit of advice provided by Gutkind was the 5 Rs of Creative Nonfiction: a Real-life perspective, Reaching out, Research/Reportage, Reading, and ‘Riting. I won’t delve into all the details here, so check out this Keep It Real, let alone this section.



Essential Guide to Getting Your Book Published – by Arielle Eckstut and David Henry Sterry

This is a great collaboration between Arielle and David. So much that I ended up writing in the book AT THE BOOKSTORE. As it’s a natural tendency of mine to write in the margins of books. When that happens, I know the book has struck a note with me. There are so many good things about this book, that do know it’ll be a regular book I encourage writers to read from here on out. So much good advice, especially on writer/agent/editor communication. In summary, add this book to you reference shelf.


And stay tuned, as I’m reading Christina Katz’s new book (I’m SO excited!!!)–to which you can expect more later about it. . . .

Now that I’m wrapping up a busy fall, and since it’s that time of the year to discuss “best of” lists, here are a few folks I learned about in 2011. People that I’m highly encouraging you to check out.  Why?  Just because I liked them.  It’s that simple.  Nothing more, nothing less.

And while you’re at it, remind yourself to take a moment to support your surrounding creative community.  Throw a few dollars towards those artists, and of course encourage others to check them out.



URSULA MURRAY HUSTED:

I met her at the Comic Con at the Soap Box Factory.  She was such a delight to meet.

Her website: www.ursulamurrayhusted.com















BIG TIME ATTIC: 

Kevin and Zander, the brains behind this entity are very talented artists.  Very approachable, professional, and guys you should keep your eyes on.  I see continued success for them.  I also met them at the event at the Soap Factory.

Their website: www.bigtimeattic.com

















D.C. ICE

Ever seen an artist, one whom you’d take all their pieces if given the chance? D.C. Ice falls into that category for me. I stumbled across her work at the A to Z Gallery while waiting for my dear friend Kara Hendershot.   

I enjoy her illustrations, her understated and dark approach to discussing larger themes, and the overall presentation when her pieces are on display.  So much that I can’t even choose which piece I’d want if I had to choose one.  She’s also someone to keep an eye on.

Her website:  www.dcice.com












BEIJO BRASIL

This is jewelry, and it rocks my world.  While running an errand at the Electric Fetus several months ago, I saw some of their pieces on display.  I’ve looked at their work many times since then.

The studio is based in Sonoma, CA - and there are many reasons I appreciate their work; the simplicity, the perspective brought to each piece, the unique designs & themes, and the gorgeous craftmanship.  Yes, this isn’t a book, but when  a book lover is willingly looking at these and inspired, it’s evident there’s something special here.

Their Facebook Page (as they are distributed at various places): Beijo Brasil












So with the new year, here’s my gentle nudge that not only should you shop local bookstores, but support your local and visiting artists.    If the true integrity of art is going to stay in intact, in any medium, get to know the people who are making it happen.    Here’s to a great 2012!

This experience was so awesome, that I felt it would behest me share some of my notes regarding Craig’s thoughts on being a writer (& the overall experience), magic squares and easter eggs.  Yes, easter eggs.


His thoughts on the Writing Experience:

Craig Thompson emphasized how Comic Art can be the best of both worlds – writing stories and creating illustrations.   He reminded us that either would be a singular challenge; and that doing both would be doubly difficult.

Observing Craig’s process on how HABIBI came together was amazing.  He implemented calligraphy throughout the book, going as far to state it was “music for the eyes.” So much that comics can be the figurative sheet music when one adds this special touch.

I especially appreciated his commentary of pen vs. pencil during the illustration process.  He seems to prefer pen & ink, as it will “confirm” the words and images in one’s book, i.e. keeping the “mark” that’s been made.  Irrevocably this process will take a writer one step closer to finishing a work in progress.  Thereby, allowing the book (and art) to take a life of its own.

As one’s work-in-progress evolves, the next challenge is maintaining one’s personal life, of which Craig deftly handled that topic.  Being a person who gets to work with writers, it astounds me that ANY writer is able to accomplish such a fine balance.  From my point of view, creating a book (which is very private process) and maintaining life’s daily challenges amid the interruptions is an incredible feat.


Magic Squares

During his presentation, we learned that HABIBI was inspired by 1001 Arabian Nights.  Craig wanted to write a book that was more political, more realistic.  A book with a slight edge of fantasy.  A book bigger than himself.   He accomplished all of these goals; taking it a step further within HABIBI by reflecting “human ugliness and sacred beauty simultaneously.”

One of the tools in ensuring this success was the use of magic squares, otherwise known as mathematical narratives.  Showing the audience a 3×3 square, Craig stated this was how he laid out the laid out HABIBI’s storyline.  At that point, the crowd even seemed to do a breath intake.

Beyond. Amazing. 

I won’t go into how this method influenced Craig’s overall writing process – just know we all agreed it was sheer genius.  (I’m still in awe of this portion of Craig’s lecture btw)

Finding that “Easter Egg”

Have you ever attended a book lecture where the world seems to open up – and an entirely new perspective is imprinted on the brain?  If not, I hope that day arrives for anyone who is reading this post.

My moment happened of clarification happened at Craig’s lecture; for many others in attendance, they stated the same thing.  Yet again confirmation of the how incredible a writer Craig Thompson is; plus a piece of wisdom every writer should aspire to.

What is the “Easter Egg” in a book?  It is a special hidden element that some readers will recognize and connect with on a hidden level.    Maybe it’s a particular plot, character, theme, etc.  The end result is the narrative reaching the reader at an entirely unexpected new level; becoming a catalyst in regard to one’s life decisions, reading habits, creativity and more.

Since I’m going to put everyone on the spot about this concept, it’s important that I mention my Easter Egg experience, which happened at the age of 14.  The book was THE AWAKENING.  It forever changed my outlook on adulthood, on major life decisions, on what one wants (or doesn’t want), and on the effects of societal influences.  THE AWAKENING represented another important thing too; that the talented author, Kate Chopin, probably never imagined she’d polarize readers with her only published book– let alone never write another novel again.  I could ramble incessantly about this book, and how it forever changed her life – and my own.  Instead, I now realize it was my “Easter Egg” moment as a reader.

My question for you. . .

For readers: What are your Easter Egg moments with books? Did it happen in early childhood, or did it happen with maturity (as a reader, as a person).  What was that book?  What insights did you gain from it?  Did others feel the same way?

For writers: Have you been able to connect to readers at such a level?  Is your creative work reflective of only YOUR experience(s), or is there a universal appeal to readers?

I’m going to close out for now, as once again I have magic squares and easter eggs on the brain.  What are your Easter Egg moments?  And for anyone who has seen Craig Thompson speak, what was your experience like?

Thus, I’m sending a gentle nudge (to everyone) to take the time in stepping away from this mad dash.  For writers, their books will benefit.  For agents and editors, our ability to think clearly and make sound decisions will continue.  This is precisely why writers’ conferences exist.  They exist to educate and inspire authors – and to remind those of us who love the publishing industry why we’re involved to begin with.

If anyone reading this blog has followed my agency for any period of time, it’s not required (on my part) that I confirm my belief that we all support and help grow our local writing communities.  The process is easily accomplished by buying books locally, attending book events, creating new book events and writing opportunities, and forming a strong alliance & network for anyone who loves books & writing.

This Fall I was extremely honored to participate with the Women of Words Conference and the MN Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators.  Both were wonderful experiences – and ones that I’ll never forget.    So much that I was reminded again of the strength and vitality of Minnesota’s writing community.  Plus, I got to learn a few new things myself!

After the fact, here are several things that come to mind:

1.       As a writer it’s 110% essential one builds a strong network of fellow writers and publishing types to collaborate and interact with.    

Any writer’s conference or writing organization can provide that needed opportunity. Especially since choosing any book publishing route can be a long, drawn-out process.   Attempting to get published without a network is never a good idea; as there will be hurdles to overcome, which can be discouraging for any aspiring author.

If you need an additional reason, you should remember that editors and agents have always tried to support and communicate with one another – as we too know that the overall publishing world can come across as overwhelming.   I’d hope everyone would follow our example.

2.       Constantly educate yourself.   

For anyone who has played a sport – or was involved in the creation of something – there is always a need to stay abreast of the newest information, newest ideas, and methods of perfecting one’s performance.

The same goes for writing.  Any of us would hope that we improve in the craft of writing over a noticeable period of time.  The best way to go about accomplishing this goal is participating (and even contributing) to writer’s conferences and organizations.    Every student needs a teacher.  And every teacher needs a refresher course – to which joining a strong writing organization or conference allows that opportunity.

3.       Celebrate the small successes.

We all know that Rome wasn’t built in a day.   If one compares his/her writing life to the growth of a large city, the overall general process takes time. . . and requires lots of patience.

Develop reasonable timelines for the goals you want to accomplish; whether it’s in regard to writing, building an author platform, and/or finding an agent.   Try to not panic during the process – and most importantly take a moment to celebrate even the smallest accomplishments.  I’d personally suggest a cupcake for each moment – but that’s me.

What has your experience been regarding writer’s conferences and being involved in local writing organizations? What have you learned from the overall process?  And most importantly, how are you sharing your experience with others?

I can’t wait to hear what you have to say!

Right now I’m very excited about the 2012 happenings in my own literary/ publishing world. The mad dash begins in January – and I’m assuming the pace will be as equally interactive when 2012 rounds out.

To those who are saying “Hey it’s still 2011!?!” – I understand. Yet, in the world of publishing, one needs to think outside the present. Especially when determining when to take a book idea to publishers (who are usually buying books 1-2 years before they’re published), and being able to juggle the busy admin duties of “the sofa” during that time.

One of the newest additions to my calendar is teaching a class at the The Loft Literary Center next April. Instead of being a class intended for adults, it’ll be a class for older teenagers. The class will cover the business of publishing, as there’s an entirely new generation of aspiring writers. Many who  grew up reading Harry Potter, Twilight, Diary of Wimpy Kid and more. They are avid readers, know technology (better than most adults it seems), and already bring a discerning taste on what they want to read. . . or write.

Going back to the reference of bringing a forward thinking mind to publishing - this new generation is already preparing to enter our literary world. Do you hear me everyone? These smart young adults are getting ready to navigate the figurative publishing waters.

Several reasons why this is awesome:  Many teens are tech savvy. They also grew up in a time when the Young Adult sections doubled, sometimes even quadrupled, in titles offered. Plus, it’s normal for many teens to be running their own websites; some are already successful at it. (Do I even to start dropping names here?) And last but not least, these up and coming pre-adults are ready to learn how the cogs of publishing turn – ultimately hoping to  learn how a book is published, how it reaches readers, and how to successfully & skillfully put an idea on paper.

Yes, timing is everything. And right now the time is to give the teens a chance to learn how and why book publishing thrives. My theory is that this time/value investment will result in a larger segment of readers and more books sold,  as well as additional proof that publishing will never die – especially to some of the naysayers who believe such a myth.

Yes, I’m excited. But really my main goal is to share the same passion I had as a teenager. Forget zombie contagions. I’m all about the reading and writing contagion.

As Dr. Seuss aptly stated in “Oh, The Places You’ll Go!”

You have brains in your head.
You have feet in your shoes.
You can steer yourself
any direction you choose.
You’re on your own.
And you know what you know.
And YOU are the one who’ll decide where to go.

Are those of us in publishing (from any role) ready?   I know I’m excited to see what comes of these future adults.  What about you?