I recently had a reader reach out with a few questions regarding their own book idea. I thought I’d share our conversation, in the event it could help any of you would-be authors get your dreams out into the world. … More Reader Q&A: Self Publishing
I am absolutely floored by this review of The Denim Jungle I just received from the 24th Annual Writer’s Digest Self-Published Books Awards. And it couldn’t come at a better time. Last week was the one-year anniversary of finally having my book (MY book!) in my hands, and tomorrow is the sixth anniversary of losing Sue, who inspired me … More WOW! Writer’s Digest Review of The Denim Jungle
The world could do with a little more creative generosity, don’t you think? What do I mean by creative generosity? Giving of your imagination and creative talents for no other reason than to be happy and help make other people happy. There’s a writer who frequents our local park, gifting poems to people as writing practice … More Creative Generosity
Many of you have been coming to me with book dreams in hand, wanting to know my tips for how to get published. I’ve posted quite a few resources here, but if you truly want to create a physical book that you can hold in your hands, here’s the one question you need to answer first: Do … More 8 Reasons to Self Publish (and 3 Reasons NOT to)
Ever since I published my children’s book, would-be writers have been coming out of the woodwork asking for advice. And I couldn’t be happier to help. I want to see more dreams take flight! That’s why I’ve created a new Writing & Publishing page under “The Archive” section (to the right, up top), to share resources for aspiring authors. … More Resources for Aspiring Authors
My birthday (the big 4-0!) has added an extra patina of sentimentality and reflection to this holiday. In honor of this milestone—punctuated by finally unlocking the “author” achievement—I’ve assembled my own 12 days of Christmas* Thankfulness. Day 1: Cathy Taylor Day 2: Sue LaGow Day 3: Ryan Hylland Day 4: Jackie Phillips Day 5: Szaba … More 12 Days of Christmas Thankfulness: Day 8
Five years ago today, I said goodbye to my mother-in-law. I made her many promises that day, not the least of which was fulfilling her dream for The Denim Jungle.
They say, “Don’t judge a book by its cover,” but in fact we all do. Take for example the books above, all of which come up when you search Amazon for “cover design.” One topic. Five very different covers. And five rather different judgements we automatically assign to each. Self-publishing friends, those judgements transform into sales. … More Cover Design
What a week, you guys! I seriously can’t even believe everything that’s happened in the past five days. Sunday: Received all final art assets for The Denim Jungle. Monday: Learned InDesign to layout the book for printing. Tuesday: Finalized the layout files with an old design friend. Wednesday: Received proofreader approval. Thursday: Uploaded the files … More WHAT A WEEK!!
It’s been almost five years since The Denim Jungle germinated inside me. It began as a promise and grew to be guide, challenger, and teacher. At times, it was downright maddening and frustrating. I would’ve given anything to just be done with it. But throwing in the towel was never an option. It was a mysterious inevitability inside me, … More Book Writing Postpartum
My Castle Heart Publications 