“The thing is to get it out. An unpublished book does not sell.”
The opening statement is by Dale T. Phillips, author of How to be a Successful Indie Writer as well as many books of genre fiction. This topic is in uppermost in my mind since I’m moderating an Upper Hudson Sisters in Crime panel on Indie publishing (See below for details.)
I would add that an unpublished book is not read.
Not everyone who comes to my writing workshops want to publish their writing, and some are interested in short forms, essays and articles. There is a market for free-lance writers, and it can often pay well and give you the satisfaction of seeing your writing out there. (Subscribe to Amber Petty ’s newsletter for leads.)
Those who want to publish need to understand the business of writing, whether they decide to go with traditional publishing or pursue self-publishing. (There is also paid publishing and hybrid publishing, but those are for another discussion.)
Traditional publishing sometimes offers the satisfaction of print placement on store shelves nationwide, mainstream media attention, and acceptance from the literary establishment. But it can take 3-6 years for the book to come out with a traditional house, and they can hold a book for longer, not publish it right away.
When you self-publish, you are in control and decide the timing, the content, and the budget. You can correct or update you writing instantly, but you also are responsible for the editing (developmental and copy editors), proofreaders, and every other aspect from formatting to book cover design. For most of these tasks, as Jacqueline Boulden, a panelist in this Saturday’s program says, you “hire the best people you can.” Two other panelists, Christy Logan and Syrl Kazlo, moved from traditional to indie publishing, finding freedom as well as more money.
For some, the dream of traditional publishing is significant. It can be a challenging path to publication, but there are lots of resources out there. In fact, another Chapter of Sisters in Crime, The Grand Canyon Writers, is offering a program, “How I Got Published,” with four award-winning authors discussing traditional and indie publishing.
Of course, to publish, you must get it out–not just formatting the product, but in producing the writing. I’ve shared tips about developing a writing routine and honoring your writing dreams. The important thing is to get the writing out.
Keep writing and keep in touch, Ellen
P.S. Those of you who live in the Albany, NY area can get your writing out by participating in my Writing Intensive Workshop this spring. We’ve got a great group of new and returning participants, but there’s room for more and they’re accepting late registrations.
UPCOMING PROGRAMS
Virtual:
The Ins and Outs of Indie Publishing Panel, Sat, Feb 15, 11:15 AM ET
Upper Hudson Sisters in Crime
Have you ever wondered what’s involved in self-publishing your work? Have you ever considered doing it yourself? Three Upper Hudson SinC members who took the plunge will share their experiences in the “wild” world of self-publishing. Upper Hudson SinC members Syrl Kazlo, Jacqueline Boulden, and Nina Pietrafesa will discuss why they decided to make the move, some of the responsibilities involved, and the pros and cons of self-publishing versus traditional publishing. Join us for what is sure to be a fascinating and informative program.
How I Got Published Panel Discussion, Thurs, Feb 27, 7:00 PM ET
Grand Canyon Sisters in Crime
Do you know what it takes to be published in today’s competitive market? Both indie and traditionally published, award-winning and bestselling authors, who will share their publication debut experiences, and how they made it happen.
In-Person:
INTENSIVE WRITING WORKSHOP, tarts Monday, March 3, 6:30-8:30 PM ET
Writing generates more writing. Take your writing to the next level with this session using techniques to deal with issues writers confront, including facing the blank page, building writing skills, and finding their voice. Whether you work in fiction or nonfiction, this class can inspire and improve your work. You’ll be able to focus your own project, using techniques to increase the quality and quantity of your writing. (8 weeks)
Registration is through the BSCD Continuing Ed Program. Late registrations accepted, but space may fill up if participant limit is met.