Get Going on that book

So you wanna write a book. Do you want to talk about it or do it? Believe me, I've talked to many people that just want to talk about it. The idea of a completed book, saying "I'm a published author" and showing off your stuff is all good. . . but the completed project takes some discipline, work, and dedication.

Here are a few suggestions to get you going. 

1) Start with an outline. You need a map to keep you headed in the right direction. Begin with a synopsis of the book and then move on to outline the chapters.

2) Set a timeline. Most of us have full time jobs outside of writing so I recommend setting up a weekly timeline.  The first draft should take you somewhere between 90 - 180 days.

3) Begin writing and don't stop to make edits, just keep writing.

4) Once you complete your first draft go back over it and compare it to your outline. Make your revisions.

5) Have several trusted friends read your work. You may want to join a writers group for input too.

6) Enter contests.

7) Find an agent or self publish.

8) Market the heck out of your masterpiece and treat yourself to a book party! 

Happy writing! And, let me know what challenges you have.

So you wanna get published?

Where do you start when you're considering publishing a book? Write a book, rewrite a book, more rewrites, find an agent, hope for a book deal, wait, wait, wait. Maybe you get a book deal and give up 60 - 80% of your rights.....you're lucky to get an advertising or marketing budget.  And, god forbid the book goes out of print.....I know too many people that have run into this issue. 

What's the alternative? Self publishing is the new trend and even more so....ebooks. What if you could keep 60% of your sales, get free marketing, and be in control of look and feel of your book/ebook. I'm suggesting going cyber. 

There are many good publishing companies out there that will format your book into an ebook for you. SERA Publishing does work with each author on a one on one basis.  Make sure you have control over your book and make sure you get the copyright in your name. Any good publishing house should be able to do the copyright for you.

For more information go to www.serapublishing.com or email serabooks@aol.com