Books

Make Banned Books Part of Your Summer Reading
Make Banned Books Part of Your Summer Reading 1024 576 Reader Views
I am a staunch advocate for diverse and inclusive books. These books are mirrors for kids to see themselves and know that they are not alone, and windows to let kids see and learn about others. But unfortunately, these books are the ones that are being targeted for removal from school library bookshelves at an alarming rate. read more
Short Stories as Promotion?
Short Stories as Promotion? 1024 576 Reader Views
Short Stories as Promotion: Valerie Allen Provides Case Study for Promoting Creative Writing read more
Traditional or Self-Publishing: Which Path is Right for You?
Traditional or Self-Publishing: Which Path is Right for You? 1024 576 Reader Views
I came across a social media post the other day that really pushed some buttons because I see variations of it so often and it’s so self-defeating. The post was on Facebook in one of the writers’ groups I frequent, from an author who was giving up on trying to break into the traditional publishing world. read more
Are You Making the Most of Your Author Central Account on Amazon?
Are You Making the Most of Your Author Central Account on Amazon? 1024 576 Reader Views
If you list your book on Amazon, you MUST have an Author Central account. If you’re unfamiliar with the service, take the time to get informed, discover all the valuable things you can add to your page and take advantage of the benefits. If you already have an Author Central be sure to keep it current! read more
Keep Your Sensitivity In Check to Help Promote Your Book
Keep Your Sensitivity In Check to Help Promote Your Book 1024 576 Reader Views
Writers sometimes get a bad rap for being eccentric and lacking a social filter. This comes as no surprise if we take into account the amount of time writers spend inside their heads and in front of their computers, isolated within their own little worlds. read more
Avoiding Agent Scams, New and Old
Avoiding Agent Scams, New and Old 1024 576 Reader Views
I recently heard about a new kink in the old upfront-fee scam that less-than-ethical agents tend to use. I thought authors were getting wise to such things, but this scam and similar ones are getting worse if only because of they are finding new twists on old cons. read more
How to Make Editing Less Arduous
How to Make Editing Less Arduous 1024 576 Reader Views
Do you cringe at the thought of editing your manuscript? Today Dan Rice discusses how to gain valuable insight struggling through the editorial process. read more
What Goes into Making a Stunning Book Cover?
What Goes into Making a Stunning Book Cover? 1024 576 Reader Views
Covers are important. People do judge a book by the cover. If your cover is an obvious Photoshop, lots of readers will ignore it. If you are part of a marketing group, you need to have a top-five cover to ensure you are getting more clicks. I always ask myself, if I went to the bookstore and put my book on the shelf, would it stand out for the right reasons? read more
The Art of Ghostwriting
The Art of Ghostwriting 1024 576 Reader Views
Ever considered using a ghostwriter? Today Michael J. Coffino discusses the essential attributes for an effective ghostwriter-author relationship. read more
FINALISTS ANNOUNCEMENT! 2021-2022 Reader Views Literary Awards
FINALISTS ANNOUNCEMENT! 2021-2022 Reader Views Literary Awards 1024 576 Reader Views
It is our favorite time of the year again when we get to announce the finalists of our annual awards competition. We wish all the finalists’ good luck, knowing that in our hearts and minds you all are winners.   read more