Communication is an important part of the uniqueness of humankind. The human drive to communicate through a variety of forms, formats and media is remarkable. In the garden of Eden, God tasked Adam with naming all the animals. That desire to name, to create, and to communicate is still one of the most essential human traits, lasting from infancy through adulthood. Christians and Jews have long been known as people of “The Book.” Since the Bible is full of stories and Christians are called by Jesus to communicate the Good news, which He did through Parables, Christians are a storytelling…
Category: Writing Business
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Tips from the Pros: Susan Osborn
Greetings from Sarah Sundin! Today I have the honor of interviewing Susan Osborn. Her name is familiar to most Christian authors due to her books on writing, handy pamphlets (I have at least one), and her manuscript critique service. Susan is also a multi-published author of nonfiction books for women. Susan, how many books do you have published? What are a few of your latest titles? 31 books. My latest titles are Wounded by Words, Too Soon to Say Goodbye, and Breaking Invisible Chains, co-authored by Jeenie Gordon and Karen Kosman, published by New Hope Publishers.
The Challenge! Red Hot Marketing Idea
One of the ways of multiplying sales is to develop a challenge that the “everyday” man or woman can fit into his or her already full and responsible schedule. This is one reason books like: The Love Dare or Purpose Driven Life (and other 40 Day challenges) have done well in helping books fly off the book shelf. My friend, Arlene Pellicane, has several 30 Days to books (30 Days to Younger You; Happy Husband, etc.) My new book, Red Hot Romance Tips for Women is a 26 Day challenge to help women become a more loving wife. It is…
SUBPLOTS: The Why, What, and How – Part II
Wishing you a sunny Friday from Gail Gaymer Martin. Last month I talked about Subplots: The Why, What and How. Part I on subplots covered the purpose for using a subplot and information about both internal and external types of subplots. Today the topic extends to Part II on Subplot Ideas. Simply in review, the purpose of a subplot is: 1. Make the story more real. 2. Add greater conflict and tension. 3. Add interest by giving variety to the story —keeping this unpredictable. 4. Add texture by adding story layers — see the characters interacting with new characters and in…
BOOK MARKETING: ONE CAFE’S APPROACH
A Note from Carol We know that coupling a book signing with an event is an effect approach to promotion. Recently, I had the pleasure of doing a book signing at the 6 North Cafe in Ballwin, MO. You may wonder how that would be classified as an event. This breakfast and brunch restaurant has a rich tradition of serving customers great food, amazing coffee, and the opportunity to meet local authors. Kudos to Maria and the folks at 6 North Cafe.
Stories, Parables & Movie Scripts: Part I – Basic screenplay writing excerpted from HOW TO SUCCEED IN HOLLYWOOD (WITHOUT LOSING YOUR SOUL)
Jesus told the crowds all these things in parables, and He would not speak anything to them without a parable, so that what was spoken through the prophet might be fulfilled: I will open My mouth in parables; I will declare things kept secret from the foundation of the world. –Matthew 13:34–35 One day more than 70 years ago, two literary giants in England stood talking about language, stories, and religion. In the middle of the conversation, the taller gentleman blurted to his slightly balding companion, “ Here’s my point: Just as a word is an invention about an object…
Tips from the Pros: Darlene Franklin
Greetings from Sarah Sundin in California! How many times do we writers gripe about interruptions to our writing schedules? After reading Darlene Franklin’s interview, I realize how little I have to gripe about. This lovely multi-published novelist manages to be a productive writer, connect to her readers, and maintain a cheerful attitude—while living in a nursing home. I’m sure you’ll enjoy this chat with her. Darlene, how many books do you have published? What are a few of your latest titles? I’ve had forty books published or repackaged, plus another twenty books I’ve contributed stories and devotionals to. February has…
How to Blog About Your Book without Blogging About Your Book
Greetings from Jocelyn Green! If you’re like me, the idea of blogging about your book in an attempt to earn sales is about as appealing to you as standing on the street corner holding a sign that reads “Buy My Book!” And yet, if done strategically and with finesse, blogging is a great way to prove your credibility as an author, connect with readers, and grow your audience.
INTENTIONAL MARKETING WITH BOOKMARKS
A Note from Carol Last month, I posted about Seven Benefits of Bookmarks. Today I want to share some additional ideas for using bookmarks. These ideas are particularly geared to retailers, but some could be used by authors as well. To many of us, bookstores are like candy shops. There are so many wonderful choices, and it is difficult to see them all. How can a simple bookmark guide a book lover to that perfect book on the shelf? Here are seven ways that might be accomplished.
Tips from the Pros: Donna Goodrich
Greetings from Sarah Sundin in California! Today I have the honor of interviewing Donna Goodrich, a multi-published author dedicated to helping writers improve their craft. Donna, how did you get into writing? I’ve always wanted to write. Wrote my first poem for Memorial Day at age nine. Our pastor put it in the church bulletin; also wrote a poem for my mother for Mother’s Day that year. Sold my first poem for $1.40 at age fourteen, and my first short story at age eighteen for $12.
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