Self-publishing? But why?
       Years ago, the idea of self-publishing elicited a sniffy, eyebrow-raising response. "Surely not!" cried the congregations of writers seeking to establish themselves.
       "Seeking" is the operative word, because finding an agent, and then a publisher, is often agonizing work. Days stumble by, filled with research on appropriate agencies, outgoing query letters,  and incoming rejections. Writers become dispirited and raw. with falling self-confidence. Then buoyed somehow, we plunge ahead, seesawing into the months and sometimes years, striving toward publication like thirst-craving souls crawling toward that elusive water-hole in the desert. Then, too often, published books tumble into the remainder pile, never to be heard of again.
        Nowadays, however, self-publishing is gaining far more respect among readers. And, more important, endows writers with far more self-respect. There are cons, among which are: 1) none of us want to put independent bookstores out of business; 2) to date, self-published books are rarely sold in "real" bookstores, except on consignment arranged by peripatetic authors; 3) there are no large advances to tide authors over while writing, or waiting for sales,  4) you often give up many of your rights; and 5) you usually make less money..
        What are the pros? Among them, 1) YOU are in control, usually retaining all rights to re-publishing, "taking your book back," designing your cover and interior pages, and additional rights provided by individual self-publishing outfits; 2) you can self-publish for as little as $0 to as much as $6,000; 3) the process from submission to actual book is much more immediate; and 4) you are in charge of how and when you promote your book. But, to me, the greatest benefit is: You see your work in print.
       Self-publishing is not for everyone. Some of you are such good writers, or are writing in such a popular genre, or both, that you are snapped up by the first agent and first publisher contacted. Others of you are more confident using the traditional publishing platforms and are willing to take the time and effort to find your way there. Others want the money and prestige that the reading world gives reguarly published books.
       But most of us will never find ourselves in print that way. And we want to be in print. As for me, I sought, but did not find, an agent. Yet I wanted to accomplish publication. (And, frankly, I needed to get the book off my desk!) Am I satisfied? Oh, yes! I had a terrific experience working with Amazon. Editing help, design help, 5 day a week, 12 hour a day phone contact with my "teams." I felt respected, helped, encouraged, and confident working with Amazon staff.
      Self-publishing is a trend. Regular publishers are beginning to troll self-published books, looking for possibilities (I'm Still Alice; The Martian) And, like email in place of hand-written letters, it may be here to stay, for better or worse. Where is it leading us? Srtaight ahead? Or on the road less traveled?  
    
 Whichever path you, follow, writers, keep on it. And good luck.

May 5, 2016

Long abandoned, this blog is now being rescued. Why? Because I am finally publishing my long-incubating memoir: Salvation - A Judge's Memoir of a Mormon Childhood.  What a ride it has been! And whether it sinks or swims, the experience has been so thrilling, yet so dispiriting, so vital, yet so enervating, that I want to encourage ALL WRITERS (and yes, you are writer whether you publish or not) to keep at it, don't give up, write every day, and  "endeavor to persevere." Keep track of your life, if only for you, by blogging, journaling, writing letters, recording tapes, photographing - so that years later you will read and smile or cry, and know who you have been on your way to becoming who you are.
          So I must set an example, no?
         And as years before, I encourage all folks, writers or no, to post comments and critiques whether complimentary or curmudgeony. Connect.