You’ve probably heard the saying, “It takes a village.” It’s in reference to raising a child, but from my experience, the same can be said for launching a book.
When I quit teaching in 2007 to give writing a fair shot, I had no idea what I was doing. There are days I still feel that way. I’ve always enjoyed learning, so digging into the particulars of writing a novel was rewarding. And even though it had been a dream of mine to be a published author since I was twelve, I was almost more afraid of being published than not.
Hang with me and I’ll explain.
Attending writer’s conferences is part of the process. It is an opportunity to learn the craft, make connections, and become familiar with marketing. Learning the craft was the easy part for me. As a former teacher, it came naturally. Making connections? Not so much. I’m an introvert at heart. Every time I walk into a crowd of strangers, I feel like I’m back in the sixth grade. That was when we moved to another town mid-year, and I was the new geek-student. I still shudder to think about it. However, I’ve overcome that. Well…for the most part.
What I really feared was the dreaded marketing. Published authors at those writer’s conferences talked a lot about how much work it was to market a book, especially since most publishing houses have passed that chore onto the author. It didn’t help that I was coming into this game a little late in life. What my brilliant virtual assistant can do in five minutes takes me at least an hour. And just when I think I’m getting the hang of something, it changes.
A couple years ago when I was getting ready to launch Surrendered, I naively asked my publisher if a book launch was the same thing as a release. For those of you not aware, a book release is merely the day it becomes available for purchase. Silly me, I thought that was the day my book “launched.” I had a lot to learn, and fortunately for me, my publisher is a very patient woman, who desires to see good Christian books available for readers.
Here I am in the midst of book launch number three, if you don’t count my Christmas novella All That Glitters. You may have been following me over the past few weeks. I’ve been very active. Hopefully, not obnoxiously so. But what I feared the most—being responsible for all the marketing of my books—has not come to pass. With age comes maturity (I hope), and with maturity comes knowing my limitations. If wasn’t for the “village” working behind the scenes on my behalf, I’d be sunk.
Hats off to my Street Team. They’re small in number, but they are mighty in support and encouragement. In case you’re unfamiliar with what a street team is, let me explain. They are a group of fans, readers, and/or reviewers who come alongside an author to help where needed. Cheerleaders, for lack of a better word. If I didn’t have them in my corner, I’d be writing in isolation.
This last year, I wised up and brought in a virtual assistant. She has saved my sanity. Of course, I’m now totally dependent on her. Denise is a creative young woman who is always there to help whenever I need it. With her alongside, I have more time to write, and my husband says I’m much easier to live with.
And then there is my publisher. Celebrate Lit is a small publishing house, but it’s the perfect place for me. I believe God, in His great wisdom, brought me to Sandra Barela because He knew I needed someone who would be more than a publisher. She’s an encourager, supporter, and creative genius. And I am blessed to call her my friend.
We all have our giftings, and we all have our limitations. Know what yours are, and let others come alongside to lift you up when you need it. That’s part of the body of Christ. It just may be that when you reach out to someone else for help, you’re blessing them in some way, too.
Comments 4
It is amazing watching you grow. When you started writing at age 12 I thought you were brilliant. The stories you wrote were as good as any I had read. Of course I am 2-1/2 years older. I didn’t know much. Along the way you shared stories you wrote. They were brilliant also. Then I read the finished book. Of course they were better, but they are also brilliant.
Author
Not that you’re biased or anything. Thanks for that, big sis. You’re a treasure. Love you.
You have done well and it’s good to see your success–and read your books. I support Celbrate Lit too and am happy you found such a good match.
Author
Thank you, John. You have been there almost from the very beginning. I still remember the first time I met you at your Shy Writer’s class at Mount Hermon. You’ve been a blessing. Always so encouraging and supportive.