April 1, 2005 Volume 3: Issue 9

"Self Published Authors" Bi-Monthly Newsletter
Helping self-published authors promote and market their books
and share information and resources.

April 1, 2005 Volume 3: Issue 9
Dan Shaurette
editor@selfpublishedauthors.com
http://www.selfpublishedauthors.com

By Subscription Only! You are receiving this newsletter
because you requested a subscription. Unsubscribe instructions
are at the end of this newsletter.

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IN THIS ISSUE
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1. Editor's Notebook
2. Newsletter Submission Guidelines
3. Feature Article by Judy Cullins
4. New Products, Services, Downloads
5. Guest Article by Leeza Hernandez-Stelzer
6. Resource Links
7. Publicity Article by Joni Hamilton
8. Classes & Workshops
9. Interview with Francine Silverman by Dan Shaurette
10. Classified Ads
11. Commentary by Gerri D Smith
12. Subscribe/Unsubscribe Information

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1: EDITOR'S NOTEBOOK
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Welcome to the April 2005 newsletter for
SelfPublishedAuthors.com. For those of you who are new to the
subscription, I hope you will enjoy this issue. Thank you for
visiting the website and subscribing to the list.

To the regulars out there, I'm glad to see you back for another
issue. This month we have four wonderful articles, plus an
interview, as well as more great resource links.

Our Guest Article this issue is the first of a three-part series
by Leeza Hernandez-Stelzer on getting the most out of your
relationship with an art designer for your books.

If you have questions, comments, suggestions, or if you’d like
to contribute, be interviewed, add an event or have a request,
please reply to this email, or drop a line to me at:
editor@selfpublishedauthors.com

Thanks for reading and enjoy the issue!

Dan Shaurette
editor@selfpublishedauthors.com
http://www.ShauretteNet.com

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2: NEWSLETTER SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
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The newsletter for SelfPublishedAuthors.com is here to provide a
resource for all authors. Obviously, we want to help you
succeed in your writing, self-publishing efforts, and self-
promotion. I have received a few requests from fellow authors
asking what they can do to promote their books in the
newsletter.

I am always happy to help promote an author and their works in
the newsletter. That's what we're here for. That being said,
the best I can do is one of the following.

If you are interested in writing an article about your
experiences as a self-published author, I would be more than
happy to consider it for publication. If I publish the article,
I will give you space for a signature box that you could use to
promote yourself and your book.

If you would like to send me an ARC copy of your book, eBook
format preferred, I would be happy to review it and interview
you. The interview would most likely be what gets published in
the newsletter, but reviews of recommended books may also be
published. Please note, I have already been presented with some
works to read, so please query me first before sending your
books. I'd rather return a book than form a slush pile.

If you have a book signing coming up, we do try to list those
when they are timely. Remember our newsletter is published in
December, February, April, June, August, and October. If you
host a class or workshop, or have a website that promotes a
writer's resource, please let us know about it. All links about
such events are provided free of charge. Your name, location,
dates, and contact info. will be presented.

If instead you are just interested in placing an advertisement
in the newsletter for your book or website, you can read about
the rates on the website at
http://www.selfpublishedauthors.com/advertise.html -- they are
very fair (only $6 per newsletter issue for a five line ad.)
Advertising requests sent to me, however, will be forwarded on
to Christina Wheeler (contact@selfpublishedauthors.com), the
website and newsletter owner.

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3: FEATURE ARTICLE by Judy Cullins
Should Authors Have A Blog?
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Do you wonder if you should have a blog (web log) such as we saw
during the presidential conventions and on individual sites?
These bloggers went to press before the major media, which again
proves the power of the Internet. As authors, you can get wide
exposure by creating your own blog. You have already bypassed
traditional publishing, you have opened your mind to marketing
your book on the Internet, so now is the time to see if your
book fits the blog craze.

For me, who wants to share ongoing questions and answers in a
more interactive way other than my Q and A links, it is a
perfect way to stay in touch with those who need help in their
book journey.

What is Blogging?

Think of blogging as publishing. It's a mini site in a way,
where your visitors can come and interact with you, and get
answers for their questions. Even if you don't know anything
about HTML or building a web site, you can set up your own
blog under one hour.

What good is your book or business if no one knows about it?

Like me, you want more people to know you, your writing talent,
and find out more about your topic. Some of you are experts in
your topic, and blogs are another way to stay in touch with your
targeted market. It's free advertising to huge numbers online.
Search engines' spiders exploring for updated content will see
yours. The World Wide Web will see you too.

Blogs help to promote yourself, your service or your book, let
your visitor see your personal side, and get your unique message
out in an interactive forum.

Fact: Buying email lists and putting ads out don't do the job
well. People won't open your email if they suspect an ad. And
spam filters make this game difficult.

More Benefits

-When you do what you do best, which is to write, you can
promote the best way.

-Unlike your ezine you send out, blogs bypass spam filters
for email.

-The RSS (real simple syndication) feeds are like a giant
octopus with long tentacles that reach out to your targeted
audience. Blogs have unlimited reach and you can create as many
as you wish.

-Blogs attract not people looking for freebies so much, but your
ready buyers - who want solutions for their problem.

-Search engines love blogs and RSS feeds

-Blogs connect like-minded, passionate people and form a loose
community

-Blogs give the author feedback that helps the promotion
direction

What will your blog do for your visitors?

Like your web site, people will only read a blog they find
interesting, entertaining, and useful. What benefit will your
blog bring your visitor? They want content just like your ezine
readers do. Decide what your topic is. It probably relates to
the book you want people to read and buy.

Where to share your blog URL

Include your blog URL address in every signature file you send
out with each email. Include it on your business cards, and
include it in your web bio you use at the bottom of each article
you write to send to opt-in ezines and top web sites.

How to Get Started

While this concept is new, and like me, you are a non-techie, do
a little research on other web sites and how other people write
their blogs and the comments visitors leave. One I recently
visited looked good for me:
http://www.marketingforsuccess.com/blog/

Helpful Sites:

FactoSystem Weblog (ASP based)
http://sourceforge.net/projects/facto/

InstaBlog
http://instablog.hit.bg/

OpenJournal
http://www.grohol.com/downloads/oj/

GeekLog - The Ultimate Weblog System
http://sourceforge.net/projects/geeklog

Blogger
http://www.blogger.com

Authors, small business people, and professionals who want
little work and a lot of web traffic and sales will want to try
out blogs.

© 2005 Judy Cullins
___

Judy Cullins: 20-year author, speaker, book coach
Helps you manifest your book and web dreams
eBk: "Create your Web Site with Marketing Pizzazz"
FREE "The Book Coach Says..." or Business Tip of the Month
www.bookcoaching.com/opt-in.shtml - mailto:Judy@bookcoaching.com
Orders: 866/200-9743 -- Ph: 619/466-0622

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4: NEW SERVICES, PRODUCTS, DOWNLOADS
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CD MP3 TALKING BOOKS - Text-to-Speech Audio Books Seller
Have you considered publishing an audio book based on your work?
CDbooks.us is offering a system for converting manuscripts and
single column PDF into near-human sounding voice, with new text-
to-speech technology. The set up fees are less than $100 and the
revenue split is 50/50, with CD MP3 Talking Books, absorbing the
cost of the Web site and voice license.
http://www.cdbooks.us

Have you used this service? Tell us about it, or recommend
another! Send an email to editor@selfpublishedauthors.com and
let us know.

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5: GUEST ARTICLE by Leeza Hernandez-Stelzer
BOOKS BY DESIGN - PART I:
Maximize Your Book-Selling Potential By Hiring A Designer
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You've heard the phrase "never judge a book by its cover," but
that's exactly what readers will do -– judge your book by its
cover. So, as a self-publishing author, you'll want to rethink
that statement.

The overall look of your book jacket is every bit as important
as your title, because it helps reflect your book's voice.
Before going to print, every self-publishing author should
consider hiring, or at least consulting with, a freelance book
designer. The process of finding an artist is easy enough. By
following some simple guidelines, you'll see that hiring a
designer -- and having a good-looking book -- can be a beautiful
investment.

Take a Look

Whether you are finishing the manuscript of your first novel, or
already working on book number two, three or four, it doesn't
hurt to ask yourself a few simple questions to see if you are
maximizing the potential of your book cover (and interior).

- Does my book cover have good visual impact?

- Does the design really grab the attention of the reader?

- Does the cover (and/or interior) design-style complement the
title and the voice of my book?

- Do I really LOVE my book design?

If you answered 'yes' to any of these questions, that's great!
You clearly are working with a company with a good designer who
understands you and the nature of your project.

If you answered 'no' to one or more of the questions, read
through the following guidelines to see how you can help your
book be the very best it can be visually.

Getting Started

Approaching a designer doesn't need to be an intimidating
experience -– if you know how to make the first move. Yes,
artists can be odd, quirky or different, but that's what you
also want for your book -- individuality.

Where To Look

Find a designer through recommendations from other authors,
publishers who hire freelancers or Web sites. Many Web sites
have a resources page and usually list reputable designers and
illustrators. Also, check writer's organizations, forum pages
or chat rooms.

What To Look For

You are looking for a designer who can offer good, all-around
service, especially if the designer is an independent
freelancer. Look for the five Ps:

- Presentation: A designer's portfolio is the best way to judge
quality of work, style, creativity and consistency.

- Punctuality: It's difficult to know if a designer works well
to deadline. Ask for a reference or testimonial from the
designer's clients. A good review helps gives peace of mind,
especially when you're the one writing the checks.

- Price: Watch out for freelance designers who promise you
packages that sound too good to be true. Either the designer
is so desperate to sign you up as a client because he can't
get work or the designer may have an unclear understanding of
the book-design process and has set himself unrealistic
targets. For printers and publishers with in-house designers,
design is not the sole source of income. Rather, the service
is an added feature, so they can afford to lower the price.
On the rare occasion you do find someone who is offering a
genuinely fabulous price - tell no one!

- Professionalism and Personality: Good customer service begins
at the telephone and e-mail stage and is a sure way to gauge a
person's manner. It helps to be friendly, but make sure your
designer maintains a professional manner. He should be willing
to discuss and consider any visual ideas you may have for your
project with respect.

Take note if a designer offers a research service to you, too,
indicating she is aware of your competition and thinking of a
way to make your book stand out in the marketplace.

If you are not directly in contact with the designer assigned to
your book make sure the third-party liaison understands exactly
what it is you wish to achieve.

Making Contact

Once you have found a designer, e-mail is the quickest and
easiest way to set up the initial communication. Introduce
yourself and offer a paragraph explaining your book. Mention you
are looking for design services and ask to set up a telephone
call to discuss your project and the designer's availability.

A designer's schedule may not coincide with your deadline.
Some authors wait up to six months for a finished product, so
always check up front. Note, too, that rush jobs can mean an
added expense in the project fee.

The Phone Call

Let the phone call serve as an opportunity to see if designer
and author 'connect' and to clarify the main details of the
project.

Good rapport is important right from the start. If there is
something you are not sure about, you should feel open enough to
discuss it with your designer and vice versa.

Give yourself at least an hour for this first call and use the
time to ask more about offered services.

Don't expect a final price quote over the phone at this stage.
Usually, a designer will need to compile a proposal that
outlines the services you have requested.

Ask to see samples of work. If you need an illustrator, ask for
two or three samples of previously published work that
demonstrates her style(s). If she is new to the industry and
isn't yet published, don't write her off. Ask to see samples
from a personal portfolio. You may be tapping into a new talent,
who could save you money. Just make sure the designer has
something to show you.

Experience always is preferred, but if a talented person can
show he is aware of current trends and standards in the
industry, he may be worth considering.

Most designers have Web sites to look at. If not, just ask for
her to send samples in the mail. Look for consistency in quality
of design. Some authors prefer to see one style, others like to
see a variety of work. It's a personal choice.

Project Quotes

Prices vary from one client to the next. Some designers offer
packages, others work on an hourly rate ranging from $25 to $150
per hour, sometimes more. A proposal supplied by a designer will
outline costs, but if you think a price is more than you
initially expected, simply ask the designer to explain the
outline and ask for ideas on how to cut-back to meet your
budget. There's always more than one solution to a beautifully
designed book. If your designer is creative enough, she should
be able to come up with an alternative and affordable design.

Remember to ask about deposits, when final payments are due and
cancellation policies as well.

You may decide -- after some research -- that your budget, time
constraints or specific needs allow you only to utilize the
package your printing company offers. That's okay, just do some
homework first. Ask to be involved with part of the design
process and discuss the possibility of reviewing and approving
the design before letting the book go to print.

The idea is to not become a control freak. At some point you
have to respect and trust the designer -- but, at least, aim to
confidence that when you see your tome come off the press, you
will really LOVE your book!

-------

* In our issues to come, look forward to the next two parts of
* this series on book art design from Leeza.

Part II: I Have A Designer, We Have An Agreement, Now What?
Understanding the process of taking your book from manuscript
to print and how to get the most out of your designer.

Part III: Basic Design Tips
Learning typical design terminology and the basic principles of
effective book design PLUS ways to save money and still have
good design.
___

Leeza Hernandez-Stelzer, Art Director of Conker Tree Design,
Graphics & Illustration believes all books on all budgets
deserve good design. Visit http://www.conkertree.com,
e-mail: info@conkertree.com or call (908) 392-2337.

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6: RESOURCE LINKS
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RESOURCE CENTER AT SELFPUBLISHEDAUTHORS.COM
Add a link to your business or website if it provides a writers'
resource, such as POD, self-publishing, agents, freeware or
shareware for writers, a writers' group, etc. This will provide
a valuable resource for writers, as well as drum up new business
for you. Just visit http://www.SelfPublishedAuthors.com and
click the link to the "Resources" on the home page. If you would
like to be added to an existing resource page or have an idea
for a new page, please send an email to Christina Wheeler at
contact@selfpublishedauthors.com

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7: PUBLICITY ARTICLE: Courtesy of Joni Hamilton
Write Your Book for One Audience, But for MANY Markets
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Kind permission to reprint this article was provided by
Joni Hamilton of Ink Tree ltd.

You want to write a book – a very exciting and challenging
undertaking. Good for you. You have a great book idea – an idea
that you believe needs to be in print. You believe that other
people have an interest in what you have to say. You believe
that many people will buy your book, and if you do the job of
writing correctly, many people WILL buy your book.

It is your dream to have your book in every bookstore in the
country, perhaps even in several countries. But wait, have you
planned beyond bookstore sales? Many authors are unaware that
there are many markets for books beyond the bookstores. The
bookstores may be your first market, but there are many other
"hidden" markets, and here are some key book marketing tips to
help you tap into those markets.

Let's begin with the job of writing the book. When you put "pen
to paper", it is important that you focus on one audience but
write for many markets. Let's begin by identifying why you are
writing a book. Some people merely want to be a published
author, giving them claim to a copyright and their name on a
book. That is satisfaction enough. They don't care about the
financial return or the development of writing or publishing as
a career. Other people just want to write a family history and
sell it to their extended family. Some people are interested
only in selling to the attendees of their seminars. Many others,
however, want to sell thousands of books in as many markets as
possible. Decide at the beginning of the writing process why you
are writing so that you can determine whether or not you are
creating a business venture.

Once you have established your reason for writing, move on to
what you are writing about. Don't try to be all things to all
people or the encyclopedic source of all information on a
subject. Choose an area of a subject with which you are very
familiar and develop your topic well so that you don't overwhelm
or bore your readers. For instance, if you are writing a
cookbook, don't try to be The Joy of Cooking – that's already
been done. Instead, write about a category of recipes, such as
heritage recipes, or recipes of a region or culture, or recipes
from famous restaurants, etc. Your goal is to make your book
different, and better, than other cookbooks.

Having now decided on the why and the what, focus on the who,
meaning who will buy your book. You believe that many people
will be interested in your book, but let's define "many". Do you
mean all of the people in your interest group, your church or
your workplace, or do you mean everyone? A word of caution,
though - there is NO book that is for everyone. Sure, everyone
may need your book but not everyone will want it. If your book
is a healthy lifestyle cookbook, everyone might need it, but
only people who actually want to be healthy will buy it. Do
some research on who those people are and where they are likely
to actually buy your book. Understand their demographics: age
group, income level, shopping habits, activities, etc. Now write
for them. What information are your target readers looking for?
Is their a gap in the information about a subject that is very
familiar to you or in which you have the credentials to fill the
gap? Make sure that your book solves a problem or problems for
the reader, or make sure that your book will increase the well
being of the reader. Avoid falling into the trap of writing to
make yourself feel better – you are not the one who will buy
your book. Or if you are, you are the only buyer that you will
have!

The why, what and who now being defined, you can turn your
attention to the where you can sell your book. Because there are
many markets for books, decide early in the writing process just
what those markets are and write to sell your book in those
markets.

It is likely that the first market that will come to mind is
traditional book stores, and of course they can be a vital part
of your sales. Do your research in getting to know your
competition on the book store shelves, i.e., look at the other
books that have been written in your genre. What writing style
is most appealing to a wide audience? Is there a gap in the
information provided in the other books? Are there problems that
have not been addressed? Find the needs and fill them. When you
are satisfied with the information that you are providing, think
about what will attract the book store buyers. They will want to
know about your planned publicity campaign. If you want people
to buy your book in book stores, you are responsible for letting
people know that your book is available, thereby driving buyers
to the stores.

Besides book stores, books are purchased in the nontraditional
book market by display retailers, book clubs, catalogs, gift
retailers, volume buyers (think Costco and Price Club),
corporations, foundations and foreign markets. These markets are
considered "hidden" because they exist outside the usual
bookstore market, yet they account for many millions of dollars
each year in book sales. In fact, we sell thousands of books to
buyers like these every year (for more about our Book Marketing
tips and secrets click here: Book Marketing Tips). These
markets, however, do not buy any and every book. They are
looking for books that appeal to their customers.

For instance, if you are writing a book about spiritual
experiences, think about which of those markets will likely buy
your book. Will you approach book clubs? If yes, which book
clubs – those that specialize in spiritual books only, or those
that market to the general public? Will you approach the gift
market or catalogs? Each market evaluates its purchases for its
own clientele. Book clubs that target the religious book reader
have a greater interest in spiritual books than do general
interest book clubs. Volume buyers, catalogs and gift buyers
(unless they target a religious market), display retailers and
corporations will very seldom buy a spiritual book. Foreign
markets, however, are often very interested.

Even if your book is written for the general book trade, you can
still think of corporations that might be able to use your book
as a promotional item. Make a list of corporations that could be
interested in your book and make sure that your writing supports
their products or philosophy, and that what you are writing
about will solve some problems for the corporate clients. For
instance, one cookbook was targeted at busy people who want to
follow a healthy lifestyle. It became a bestseller very quickly
in the traditional book trade, but sales exploded when it was
sold to pharmaceutical companies who used the book as support
information for clients who needed to achieve a healthy weight.
The book also sold successfully in foreign markets, to catalogs,
as fund raisers and to shopping malls as a customer reward.

The point is: you need to know how to slant your writing for
your markets. You can sometimes get around the road blocks by
giving your book the look and feel of a gift book rather than
one that is a "serious read". Don't give your book the look and
feel of a thesis. Many volume buyers are looking for broad
interest books that people buy on impulse as gifts. This
approach to writing increases your market tremendously, so if
you want to appeal to a very large audience, approach your
subject from a much "lighter" angle.

However, if you are a professional speaker who knows that you
have a very good chance of selling your book to your seminar
attendees, and perhaps to the corporations who hire you, writing
for a very broad market is not necessary. You are not even
trying to sell to the impulse buyer. Your buyer is already
looking for a source of expertise such as yours.

If you are planning to sell your book primarily from a website
to a specific type of buyer, someone who is searching the
internet for answers to a concern or problem, you can be as
specific as you like. The general public, again in this
instance, is not your market – you already have enough buyers to
make you very successful.

So, before you begin the writing process, make an outline of
your book. Then, look at your list of potential buyers. Have you
filled their needs? If not, can you add information or chapters
to your book that will increase the likelihood of sales to those
buyers? If you want to sell thousands of books, think about the
end user of your book and write for them, not for yourself. That
is the ultimate book marketing tip. See you on the bestseller
list!

© Copyright 2004 Ink Tree Ltd.
___

Ink Tree Ltd. helps authors publish, market and sell books.
We have all the tools you need to succeed in book publishing.
Let us help you make your book a success.
http://www.inktreemarketing.com

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8: CLASSES & WORKSHOPS
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JUDY CULLINS' TELECLASS #2:
How to Write your eBook and Print Book at the Same Time
April 28, 2005 - 5pm PT / 8pm ET
Cost: $39.95 (Includes $24.95 eBook plus free report
How to Get Testimonials from the Rich and Famous.)
For more information or to register:
Call toll-free 866-200-9743 or visit
http://www.bookcoaching.com/teleclasses.shtml

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9: INTERVIEW with Francine Silverman by Dan Shaurette
------------------------------------------------------------

Francine Silverman is the author of CATSKILLS ALIVE and LONG
ISLAND ALIVE, both of which are available at her home page at
www.nystatetravel.com. She is also the Editor/Publisher of Book
Promotion Newsletter, a bi-weekly ezine for authors of all
genres, found at http://www.bookpromotionnewsletter.com.

It is from the ezine's articles by over 300 authors of every
genre and status of publishing, that she collected and edited
the shared experiences of promotion and marketing into a new
book, BOOK MARKETING FROM A-Z. She arranged the articles by
subject into alphabetical order: A for Advertising, B for Book
Signings, through Z for Zero Promotion. The 400-page paperback
was published in March 2005 by Infinity Publishing and is
available at http://www.buybooksontheweb.com (Category:
Marketing).

DS: Francine, thank you for this opportunity to interview you.
In a marketplace full of books on strategies for marketing your
book, what is it you believe this book delivers that the others
may not?

FS: Thank you, Dan, for letting me talk about BOOK MARKETING
FROM A-Z with your readers. I don't agree that there is a
marketplace full of books on promotion, certainly nothing
compared to the proliferation of books on writing and books for
businesses on marketing products. Those that do exist are
written by one or two authors and tips from guest authors are
often buried in the text. What sets my book apart is that it's
written by 325 authors of all genres, with one to 100 titles,
and from all over the English-speaking world. These are authors
like you and me but with innovative ideas. The alphabetical
order is unique and designed for ease of use.

DS: You started the Book Promotion Newsletter out of your own
need to find out the pros and cons of different marketing
methods. Was this collection of articles just a natural
evolution from that need?

FS: Every new subscriber receives a questionnaire to complete,
which forms the basis of Book Promotion Newsletter. I wrote the
Q&A because I had burning questions about promoting, but after
publishing the ezine for two years, had enough material for a
book!!

DS: At 400 pages, it is quite a solid and large paperback book.
Editing this book must have been a fun challenge. Did you find
yourself having material from every angle of the process
available to you? Do any sections have a lot of coverage?

FS: It was great fun , matching each anecdote to a category.
Yes, I was surprised at the many categories that developed -
some 35 to 40. The section with the most coverage is Internet,
since it has several sub-divisions.

DS: Besides being a guide book writer, you have also written for
newspapers. Has all of your writing been focused on travel?

FS: I worked for years as a feature writer for newspapers,
interviewing people and covering events. My interest in travel
developed later on.

DS: Do you still write travel articles? Is writing about book
promotion or keeping the newsletter active taking over more of
your time?

FS: No, I no longer write travel articles. The newsletter is
almost a full time job, and now I'm busy promoting the book.

DS: How long have you been writing professionally, and do you
think your purpose has changed over time?

FS: I starting writing as a child but wasn't published until
after I was married. Where I was once enamored of newspaper and
freelance writing, I am now fascinated with book promotion.

DS: What's next for you? Is there another genre that you have
thought about tackling next?

FS: I am hoping that Book Marketing from A-Z will sell well
enough to warrant a sequel.

DS: Was Infinity Publishing your first choice for a POD
publisher, and what do you think of your publishing experience
with them?

FS: So far I am very pleased with Infinity Publishing. It was
fortunate that a subscriber who works there suggested that I
consider Infinity.

DS: Did you submit your manuscript to traditional houses before
deciding to self-publish? Did you have an agent?

FS: The book was originally in the hands of a small traditional
publisher until it was discovered that it had another book on
marketing, and dropped mine. I never used an agent.

DS: With the resources of your newsletter, support of your
members, and knowledge accumulated in your book, do you find
yourself marketing this book differently than your NY travel
books?

FS: Absolutely. When the guidebooks were published in 2003, the
ezine was in its infancy, there was a shortage of material on
book promotion, and I was limited because of their local nature.

DS: Do you travel often to promote your book, or focus on other
means?

FS: The book just came out and I haven't done any traveling yet.
But I do plan to attend some book festivals.

DS: Is there anything in particular, an author or favorite book
that influenced and inspired you?

FS: I was inspired by the book marketing gurus - John Kremer,
Dan Poynter - who carved a niche early on.

DS: What would you say has been the hardest part of writing?

FS: The hardest part of writing is selling it.

DS: Besides the advice compiled in your book about marketing, do
you have any advice for other aspiring authors?

FS: Do everything in your power to learn the ropes - read books,
attend seminars, network with other authors, and don't be shy.
When your book is published, you will need to promote it.

DS: I wish you all the best and good luck in the future. Thank
you again, Francine.
___

To find out more about Francine Silverman, her books, and her
newsletter, visit her website at
http://www.bookpromotionnewsletter.com. BOOK MARKETING FROM A-Z
published by Infinity Publishing is available at
http://buybooksontheweb.com/description.asp?ISBN=0-7414-2431-2
for $18.95.

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10: CLASSIFIED ADS
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LISTINGS:

ADD YOUR BOOK LISTING & AUTHOR BIO:
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SHAURETTENET: The Home Page of Dan Shaurette
- His Novel, LILITH'S LOVE - http://www.Liliths-Love.com
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All this and more at: http://www.ShauretteNet.com

YOUR ADVERTISEMENT COULD BE HERE!

Contact Christina Wheeler for more information:
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11: COMMENTARY by Gerri D Smith
Your Thoughts Are Powerful
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"You create your thoughts, your thoughts create your intentions,
your intentions create your reality. Learn to act as if the life
you visualize were already here."
-- Dr. Wayne W. Dyer

The only thing between you and your desire to be successful and
wealthy is one single fact: You are not successful or wealthy
because of how you think. This little known fact keeps many from
reaching their goals of success and wealth.

Are you sabotaging yourself from reaching your goals? Do you
find yourself spending lots of time doing things to change what
you dont like in your life? Most problems are caused by the way
you think. If one thing doesnt work, you may try something new,
then something else, and still another something.

The trick to solving problems is to understand what is going on
in your mind. Focus on your thoughts and become aware of how
many of your thoughts hold you back or push you forward.
Understanding your thoughts helps you answer any problems you
may have, too. This leads you tol understand your dreams and
goals.

All thoughts begin in your subconscious mind. Before they can be
expressed in your physical world, you must know how to set them
in motion. This in turn, produces a certain result. What then,
is the missing ingredient? How do you set your thoughts in
motion?

There is no other way then this: you need to think differently.
If your old ways of thinking arent working, you must learn a new
way to think. And if you are to be, do, and have all that you
wish for - success, wealth, health, positive relationships, you
name it - you must learn to think in a different style that
works. When you enhance the new understanding of your thoughts,
there is nothing in your life that cannot be accomplished.

In order to do this, you must wake up and mentally watch your
thoughts. Just thinking that you wish to be successful and
wealthy is not enough, You must also see it. When you watch
yourself think, your mind is open to receive the answers you
desire. This new way of thinking is based upon the true
understanding of your mind and the way you think. Its magical!

You are at the mercy of your thoughts. You can't stop them -
so you must be aware of them and understand them. This powerful
insight awakens you. With this kind of power over your thoughts,
you magically know whats happening in your life.

In order to achieve your dreams, you must live in a constant
state of awareness. Be totally surprised about everything
around you. When you learn to think in this new way, you start
living the kind of life you wish. You change because your way of
thinking changes. You get ideas youve never had before. You see
things, people, places, and events in a whole new way.

You also become aware of opportunities. Learn how to identify
them for what they are and how you want them to benefit your
life. Remember, the only barrier between you and what you desire
is your lack of understanding. Knowledge alone of a certain
thing isnt always the answer. Understanding is the knowing how
and why a certain thing happens. Success lies just beyond your
thoughts. Know that this understanding is what inspires you to
accomplish what you really desire in life. And if you are
satisfied with yourself -and-your thoughts, there is nothing you
cannot do or be because your thoughts are powerful!

© Copyright 2004 Gerri D Smith
___

Gerri D Smith publishes and hosts a Free monthly newsletter to
inspire, motivate, and encourage individuals, small business
owners, and entrepreneurs to reach for their dreams. An internet
resource creating multiple ways for you to unlock the doors to
success and wealth. You deserve to be successful and rich.
Visit: http://www.distinctivebusinesswomen.com
Or, send your correct email address to:
gerri@distinctivebusinesswomen.com?Subject=Subscribe

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12: Subscriber Management / Contact Information
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