Gender: Female
Status: In a Relationship
Sign: Scorpio
City: Los Angeles
State: California
Country: US
Signup Date:
03/07/06
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04 Jun 08 Wednesday
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Tryin’ RAW
Current mood: curious
. . .Raw Foodism is a lifestyle which promotes uncooked, unprocessed and often organic foods as a large percentage of the diet. . .
So, I've decided to go at least 90% raw for a thirty day period. We'll see what happens.
My testing the "raw diet" waters pretty much began by accident. I'd arrived home late one night a couple of weeks ago and had an insane craving for either tomato sauce or tomato soup—weird, right? Anyway, not having either in the pantry, I tried to ignore it, but a couple of hours crept by and the craving wouldn't go away. So. . . I went to the kitchen and checked out what we had.
Having found some tomatoes, garlic, parsley and a few other items, I decided to blend the ingredients, and I really enjoyed the resulting concoction. I enjoyed it so much that the next morning I went to the store and bought some ingredients for more of it as well as a lot of fresh produce for more experimenting.
Although I'd heard about the raw diet a few years back after arriving in Los Angeles, I had no desire to try it. It just sounded gross and very over-the-top. Besides, I'd never had an issue with weight. But over the last few years, my metabolism has changed and I've put on a few extra pounds. Not much, but enough to make a difference in pants sizes—and having always liked my original size, I've longed to have it back.
Also, for about as long as I can remember, I've suffered from sluggishness and low energy. Because of this, I've relied on coffee and other chemical-based stimulants like Hydroxycut, Ripped Fuel, and Red Line—basically whatever I could get my hands on—in order to get through my busy schedule. I've also suffered from depression off and on throughout my life. A few months ago I weaned myself off of my medications and although I'm doing well so far, there's always that nagging fear that I'll relapse. And because I fully believe that diet affects mental health, I'm always looking to make my lifestyle more healthful.
So, after blending a second tomato drink and finding success with a gazpacho recipe that I was sure I'd hate, I gave the "supposedly energy-generating and mentally balancing" raw food diet more thought, decided to buy a raw "cookbook" and learned a bit about the philosophy behind eating raw. Everything I read made sense and the foods I was eating were so delicious and light that I decided to try eating at least 90% raw for a week. My goals? 1) To lose a couple of pounds, 2) Increase my energy, and 3) Improve mental clarity.
And the results, so far, have been amazing. . .
By day 7 of eating this way, I've lost a total of 6.5 pounds and my energy is soaring. I actually feel rested when I wake up in the morning. I don't remember ever feeling this way. I'm also feeling a bit happier for no apparent reason. Lighter. . .
My fiancé has lost 8 pounds and is also experiencing a marked increase in energy. He actually wants to go for 100% raw for these next twenty-three days. I don't think I'll ever want to do 100%. I like steak, coffee and bleu cheese dressing too much. =] Aside from that, I think that making anything too strict, especially a lifestyle—at least for me—is a recipe for failure.
Having said all of this, the pros haven't been without cons. I find grocery shopping more time-consuming and expensive. It definitely takes more planning to prepare a raw diet if you're looking to incorporate a variety of foods and tastes, which you probably should. Produce—especially organic produce—tends to be much more costly than packaged and processed foods. Not only that, but I've had to outfit my cabinets with items I'd never bought before, like agave nectar, a wide array of seeds, and raw and unrefined oils.
We're also having to rethink a lot of what we've learned about food our entire lives. The role of calories. . . The definition of healthy oils and the means of getting sufficient protein. So yeah, there have been cons, but so far they don't even come close to outweighing the pros: the resulting energy and the effortless weight loss have been incredible.
I'll follow this up with an update in another week or so. In the meantime, if any of you have had experience with the raw lifestyle, I'd love to hear from you. I still have a ton to learn and have many, many questions!
Warmly, Jennifer Minar
4:41 PM
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22 Apr 08 Tuesday
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Dramatica Pro
Current mood: inquisitive
Category: Writing and Poetry
Hey, I've had a few people ask me about the writing software, Dramatica Pro 4.0. Anyone have any experience with it? If so, your feedback would be greatly appreciated!
Best, Jen
3:03 PM
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05 Mar 08 Wednesday
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Q&A with Horror Novelist Michael Laimo
Current mood: creative
Category: Writing and Poetry
I recently had the pleasure of speaking with acclaimed horror novelist Michael Laimo, multi-Bram Stoker finalist and author of six novels and over 100 short stories.
Highly revered by countless fans, his work has been likened to that of Clive Barker and Stephen King's, and is considered to place among the higher ranks of the horror genre.
What's more, unlike so many horror works, Laimo doesn't solely rely on plot, he also draws highly believable, well-developed characters that readers truly care about, making his stories all the more cringe-inducing. It was a real honor to speak with Laimo. Here's what he had to say about the craft and business of novel writing.
WB: Why did you decide to become a novelist?
It was on a whim, really. All my life, I'd always sought some form of creative release. Through my early twenties, I'd played guitar in a rock band, and had pretty much burned out from that scene by the time I turned 27.
I was a big horror fan, both of movies and literature, and decided it might be fun to write some scary stories of my own. So, I sold my guitar and bought a laptop. Through a few years of trial and error, I eventually learned the basics of how to write good horror fiction, and started publishing some short stories. Soon thereafter, I wrote my first novel Atmosphere, which I eventually sold to Leisure Books after attending a pitch session with editor Don D'Auria at a convention. Since then I've sold five more novels, and over 100 short stories.
WB: What were you doing previously?
What I still do now: I work full time in NYC's garment Center. Writing is a second full time job, one that doesn't (yet) pay the bills.
WB: What formal training did you have before becoming a novelist?
Actually, none at all. I'd needed a creative outlet, and having been a voracious reader of horror fiction, I thought it might be fun to try it out myself. Little did I know what an obsession it would turn out to be. It was a very arduous process at first, learning the ropes through writing short fiction. I read a lot of fiction, and a lot of 'how to' books, and when I felt like I was finding my voice, attempted a novel, which turned out to be Atmosphere.
WB: What's a typical writing day like for you?
Very typical, for me. I commute to my day job in NYC everyday on the LIRR. That's when I get my daily quota in. One hour inbound, and one hour out. Two hours a day. I'm the ONLY person on all of Long Island who LOVES it when the train is delayed. Last week, there was a ninety-minute delay getting to work, so I got in an extra hour and a half of writing. That's huge for me.
Then, I write one day on the weekend, where I escape to the café or library for another three hours. My goal is to make certain, no matter how tired I am or if I have a headache, or whatever distractions there are around me, that I write in my allotted time. Of course, there's ALWAYS someone sitting next to me who peeks over and asks what I'm doing. I usually give them a few minutes to tell them about my work, and give them a business card. But then I get back to work!
WB: How long does it typically take for you to complete the first draft of a novel?
First draft for me comes in as a near-final draft, as I edit as I go along, treating each chapter like a short story. So, my first draft may take about ten months. Then, the last two months are spent refining what I've done, fixing my mistakes, making it as perfect as I can before delivering it to my publisher. Although, in the writing of my recently completed Return to Darkness, I chose to write the first draft completely through without stopping, with no editing, and I found it to be an exhilirating experience. So, who knows what will happen for my next book.
WB: What inspired you to write Dead Souls?
Dead Souls is a foray into religious horror. It tells two stories at once--one that takes place in the past, and one in the present. In the past, we learn the story of a minister, a religious nut who is convinced that he has cracked a code in the Bible that proves Jesus's rise from the dead was due to a clandestine practice of Egyptian black magic. Convinced that he can grant himself and his family the same immortality he believes Jesus was after, he performs the ritual on his family... with dire results.
In the present, we follow the story of a young man who receives an inheritance from a man he's never heard of before. He flees the turmoil of his life at home and enters into a realm of unimaginable horror. There's something for everyone here: zombies, black magic, suicide, crucifixions, mass murder, and much more.
Dead Souls is inspired through my somewhat vague fear of the church. As a child, I was made to go to church against my will, probably because it bored me to tears. But as I came to understand what was going on, it scared me a bit. People were worshipping a story of a man who rose from the dead. A zombie. So, I took that 'concept' if you will, and turned it into a horror story.
WB: What would you say is the "best" and "worst" aspects of this job?
The best part of being a writer is being able to search your own mind for ideas, and then executing them into word form for others to enjoy. It's a great feeling on those days when the words just come out of me, and actually make sense! Then, the closure of having finished a book is a VERY rewarding experience, almost as much as seeing it in print.
The worst aspect for me is not having enough time during the day to get it all done. The two hours I write is NEVER enough! It's very frustrating to be writing in a great groove and then having to stop, only to pick it back up 8 hours later. When the flow is interrupted like that, it's quite hard to get back into. Another flow might take over, but it's almost always different than the one I stopped earlier in the day.
WB: What would you like to do if you weren't a novelist?
Be a rock star.
WB: What skills would you say one needs to possess in order to be a successful novelist?
That's a hard question to answer, because everyone is different. Some writers just have it in them. The writing comes second nature to them, and they're able to produce first draft material better than the very best outputs from others.
Still one thing we all have to have is patience and determination. One must enjoy the process of writing itself, more so than the end result of 'having written' something. This way, after a piece is done and it goes into the waiting process of acceptance/rejection, or publication, a writer may move on to another project. That's determination, and the love for writing. Never go a day without writing something, even if there are no deadlines or work to be done.
WB: What are your greatest challenges as a novelist?
Right now, making money. I'd love to do this full time someday, but I cannot afford to do so yet. One movie deal, or a nice publishing contract, and I'll be able to write two novels a year instead of one. That would be nice, as I'm not getting any younger.
WB: What are some misconceptions you believe aspiring novelists have?
Same misconception that I had. And that is that I was going to make a nice bit of change doing this. Don't get me wrong, there are plenty of bestsellers making a nice living out of this, but publishers need to fill the other 90% of the bookstore shelves. That's where the rest of us come in.
WB: Are there any books on writing that you recommend?
Honestly, read those novels from writers you admire in the genre you wish to write in. See what makes their books publishable and successful, and then try to establish a flow of your own based on the rush you got reading their books.
As well, I would urge anyone to read On Writing, by Stephen King. I've read a multitude of 'how to' books, and this one stands out as the best. I also got a lot out of Plot, by Ansen Dibell.
WB: What advice would you give aspiring writers?
Write every day. And love what you're doing. Join writer's groups, both online and with a real group. And do not get discouraged by rejection—it's all part of the process. You can learn from them!
WB: What can fans expect from you next?
Well, most importantly, my new novel, Fires Rising is in stores now. Right now there's nothing more important than for me to concentrate on getting this book into the hands of readers. I feel it's my best novel to date, my most horrific, and showcases some of my best writing. So fans can expect me to let them know about this book ;-)
I'm also working on getting my SF/Suspense novel Sleepwalker out into the mass market—this was previously published in a limited edition hardcover, with a run of only 250 now sold-out copies. There are a number of short stories due to be published in a variety of magazines. As well, the feature film based on my short story Anxiety, and filmed by Burning Grounds Independent Media, should be out late 2008.
To learn more about Michael Laimo and his work, visit his site at http://www.laimo.com/. He can also be contacted at Michael@Laimo.com or through www.myspace.com/michaellaimo.
11:14 PM
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13 Feb 08 Wednesday
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WRITER’S BREAK MONTHLY - Q/A with J.D. Rhoades & 12 Hints for Rekindling Your Creative Spark
Current mood: inquisitive
Category: Writing and Poetry
". . . NEVER HOPE MORE THAN YOU WORK." - Rita Mae Brown
To view this issue in its entirety in HTML format, visit: http://www.writersbreak.com/Monthly/index_021308.htm
- A Writer's Road to Publication, Part Deux - An Interview with Crime-Fiction Novelist J.D. Rhoades - 12 Hints for Rekindling Your Creative Spark - Write From the Ground Up - 5 Techniques to Effective Re-Writing - Bestselling Novelist Barry Eisler's 10 Points on Craft - Freelance Writer's Top 10 FAQs - Jodi Picoult's BookExpo 2007 Key Note Speech (Video)
Jennifer Minar Editor-In-Chief www.WritersBreak.com Named a 'Best Web Site for Writers' by Writer's Digest magazine, 2005-2007 "Loving people live in a loving world. Hostile people live in a hostile world. Same world." - Dr. Wayne Dyer
5:22 PM
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28 Jan 08 Monday
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"You need chaos in your soul to. . .
Current mood: groggy
give birth to a dancing star."
- Nietzsche

10:39 PM
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19 Sep 07 Wednesday
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Q&A with Dr. Ken Atchity, Literary Manager & Film Producer
Q&A with Dr. Ken Atchity, Literary Manager & Film Producer
by Jennifer Minar-Jaynes
Dr. Ken Atchity is a self-defined "story merchant"--writer, producer, teacher, and literary manager-- responsible for launching dozens of books and films.
With more than forty years experience in the publishing world, and over fifteen years in entertainment, Atchity has been highly prolific, producing 26 films, including "Joe Somebody" (Tim Allen; Fox) and "Life or Something Like It" (Angelina Jolie; Fox).
As if that isn't enough, he's also authored 14 highly-praised books on writing, including How to Publish Your Novel and A Writer's Time: Making the Time to Write.
What's more, as a literary manager, Atchity has successfully built bestselling careers for novelists, nonfiction writers, and screenwriters. Clients include bestsellers Steve Alten, Jamise Dames, Noire, Dr. Dre, and Governor Jesse Ventura.
I recently had the great pleasure of talking with Dr. Atchity to get his views on what makes the ideal client, the writers who garner the most lucrative publishing deals, how to deal with the inevitable rejection writers face, and common misconceptions folks have about the writer's life.
The Interview
WB: Describe your ideal client.
My ideal client is someone who's focused on his work, not on himself, and who will do anything to improve both its quality and marketability. Who's cautious, but not paranoid. Who's obsessed by making his own time productive, and equally respecting of ours. Who doesn't call and say 'what's going on'? Who doesn't have a lazy bone in his body, and who 'considers the source' when he hears something different from what we've been telling them. Who understands that before he can have the market follow his stories, first he must tell stories the market WANTS to hear.
WB: At AEI, are you more likely to sign an author whose work can be easily adapted to the screen? Also, what are some ways of recognizing whether a book has film potential?
Yes, our favorite client is someone whose writing works for both publishing and the screen. A book has film potential if it's written following the laws of drama—which will also make it a better, more readable book.
WB: You've mentioned that AEI receives roughly 15,000 submissions a year and accepts about 50 of them. What specifically about your selections stand out to you?
What stands out is a clearly marketable concept—'high concept' if possible—that is as well executed as it is well conceived.
WB: Some writers who I've interviewed claim that even with multiple book sales, it's difficult to make a decent living. Others tell me that they've landed extremely lucrative deals--and I know this to be true of many of your clients. What are some of the main factors that play into whether a writer is offered a lucrative deal?
The most lucrative deals go to writers whose work (a) 'stands out from the pack,' usually because of its 'high concept.' And (b) whose forceful and compelling writing serves the reader, not itself.
WB: As a writer and a manager who works with many writers, what advice would you give about dealing with the rejection every writer will inevitably face during their career?
Ignore rejection, other than to compile as many as you're going to get as quickly as you can compile them. I always say there's a big blackboard in the sky with a list of all the no's you're going to get on a given project—and the final yes. The only problem is that the blackboard is invisible. Since that's the case, obviously the only way to stay sane is to get through all those no's as quickly as you can—never wasting time trying to change a no to a yes. A yes from the wrong person is much worse than a no.
WB: What are some characteristics of a writer who will have "staying power" in the industry?
A writer with staying power is always trying to make sure his craft and skill stays at the level of his ambition and vision. For that reason he values criticism more than praise, because only through criticism can an artist learn. We always point out that even the smallest remark was, after all, a reaction to something you wrote.
WB: I always recommend that writers read A Writer's Time from cover to cover if they want to learn how to "harness" their time and become more productive. For the purpose of this interview, can you give us one tidbit from the book?
A huge one: Never sit down to write without knowing what you're going to write before you sit down.
WB: Does this mean that you shouldn't outline first? Or, take notes?
Many writers ask, 'How can you outline without having written?' I think an outline is most useful when you've written at least a third of your book or script, then need to make sure you 'have the rest of it' before you risk writing off in a wrong direction. The more professional you become, however, the more you'll follow the advice in Writing Treatments That Sell: How to Create and Market Your Story Ideas to the Motion Picture and TV Industry, writing a treatment of your book or script before you commit the time and emotional energy to the work itself.
WB: You've also said that having too much time to write is much more dangerous to getting the story out in an exciting way than having too little time to write. Please explain.
The most dramatic writing comes from pressure, and there's no better pressure than the pressure of self-imposed discipline focused on time. Limiting the time you're actually at the computer produces the strongest results. While you're NOT there writing, 'the back of your mind' will be working overtime to make that writing time more productive when it comes around again.
WB: I've heard many writers rave about your book, How to Publish Your Novel. After reading it myself, I now understand what an amazing resource it is for those who are looking to have their novels published. What inspired you to write it?
I was inspired by answering the same questions over and over again, and hearing my partner and staff do the same. Since nothing annoys me more than wasted time, I figured it was time to put all we know into the book—for the same reason, I wrote A Writer's Time, Writing Treatments That Sell and How to Escape Lifetime Security and Pursue Your Impossible Dream: A Guide to Transforming Your Career.
WB: You've worn many hats. What have you most enjoyed doing and why?
I most enjoy reading a fabulous new manuscript that I KNOW I can develop into a successful book and film.
WB: What, in your opinion, are some of the best ways for a writer to hone his skills?
Almost nothing is better than reading successful books or scripts in the same genre as you are writing in. Next is getting professional editorial guidance from a company that knows what it's doing like the Writer's Lifeline, Inc.
WB: What are some misconceptions you think those who aspire to write fiction full-time have about the writer's life?
That it's easy. That it's sexy. That all you do is lounge around most of the time doing nothing.
WB: Do you have a favorite quote, or words you live by?
Go for it!
Jennifer Minar-Jaynes is a Los Angeles-based writer and the editor-in-chief of www.WritersBreak.com. She can be contacted at jminar@writersbreak.com.
6:51 PM
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07 Apr 07 Saturday
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WRITER FRIENDS: Book Recommendation
Hi guys. Several of you have asked me for recommendations on good writing books, so I'm going to post some recs here on a regular basis.
How to Publish Your Novel (get more info by clicking the image below) is my absolute favorite for aspiring novelists because it explains everything you need to know in order to get your first novel commercially published.
You'll learn about creating quality submission packages, how to pinpoint the best agents and publishers for your particular book, how to understand contract terms, where to find necessary resources. . .
It's also a great read--not dry like a lot of writing "how to's."
Happy Easter & Happy Writing! Jen

10:11 PM
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30 Mar 07 Friday
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Interview w/ a Top Literary Agent
Hi guys,
Next week I'm interviewing a top literary agent for www.WritersBreak.com. If there are questions you've been dying to have answered regarding agents, the agenting process and/or getting published in general, please respond by Sunday evening.
Have a WONDERFUL weekend!!
xoxo Jen

7:26 AM
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25 Mar 07 Sunday
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If you change the way you look at things. . .
the things you look at change.
- Wayne Dyer (One of my heroes)

11:18 PM
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22 Mar 07 Thursday
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Happiness does not consist in pastimes and amusements but. . .
in virtuous activities.
- Aristotle Have a GREAT day, guys! :)
1:20 AM
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Happiness is where we find it. . .
Current mood: happy
Category: Blogging
. . . but rarely where we seek it.
- J. Petit Senn
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12 Mar 07 Monday
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Terrific Weekend!
Current mood: peaceful
Category: Movies, TV, Celebrities
Had a beautiful weekend. It began with a gumbo party at my agent's house in Hollywood. Met some excellent writers there. Clients of his that I was lucky to connect with. Had a fantastic time.
Then, on Sunday, after a great morning of writing, I headed to the casino... and that, too, went well... until the last two hours of my 9-hour stint. I won't bore you with bad beat stories, but I WILL tell you that my final bust out was to a pretty interesting guy.
See, this guy sits down and I think I know him from somewhere but had no idea where. But he looked A LOT like Casper Van Dien.
So, I ask, "Has anyone told you that you look like Casper Van Dien?"
He says, "Not really, but I get other people."
I ask, "Like who? Who do you get?"
He says, "Brian Austin Greene... Sometimes that guy from REBA. And, sometimes, when my hair is short, I get Matt Damon."
Not thinking that he looked anything like the others, I said, "No, I think you look a lot more like Casper Van Dien."
And he said, "Yeah? Well, I'm that guy from REBA."
He wasn't kidding. And the jackass (j/k--he was a very sweet guy) beat out my QQ with an unsuited 4/7. Runner, runner--the turn and river were 7's, and he landed a set.
He said he might crash my poker party next weekend. Well, I hope so. I want my money back! And my pride... I need vindication. Sweet revenge. ;)
Btw, he said he's not on MySpace yet, but that there are people posing as him. So, if he's currently one of your MySpace friends...

2:08 AM
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11 Mar 07 Sunday
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Loose Change (Very Interesting...)
Current mood: contemplative
Category: Blogging
I find this to be extremely interesting.
What do you think?
Loose Change
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07 Mar 07 Wednesday
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MARKETING TIPS
Current mood: determined
Category: Writing and Poetry
I'm compiling marketing tips for an article for my site, www.WritersBreak.com and would love your contributions. I find that many writers are lost when it comes to marketing which is unfortunate considering that it's the only way their work will be noticed... and bought, so I'm starting a series of marketing articles for my subscribers and visitors to the site. I'll also post here once the article is up on Writer's Break and offer reprints to my list of online editors. If you contribute, your submission should look like the below, so that you get credit for the inclusion: YOUR TIP HERE A little about how and/or why this is important... - Author Doe Title of Latest Project/Book www.AuthorDoe.com Your contribution can be related to book and/or article marketing & feel free to post more than one. Thanks!! xoxo Jennifer Minar
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06 Mar 07 Tuesday
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Sell More Books!
Current mood: determined
Category: Writing and Poetry

Do you want to sell books? Lots of books? If so, you have to become a tireless self-promoter. Not good at self-promotion? Not a problem. You can learn. The first thing to realize is that there are no guarantees a book is going to sell just because it's well-written. However, it is guaranteed to sell if it's marketed well. A tireless promoter consistently contributes to the progress or growth of whatever he's promoting and is constantly coming up with more ways for getting his products in front of potential customers. As an author, you're promoting books. As a tireless promoter, you're always finding ways to get your books noticed. Be your best salesperson. And remember, no one's going to care more about your books than you. "But my publisher will do this for me," you may say. "I'm an author, not a salesperson or marketer." True, a good publisher will take care of some promotion, but if you're not Grisham or Steele, or any other household name, the person ultimately responsible for selling books is you. If you're the author and publisher, the ball is solely in your court. A tactic is a plan for attaining a particular goal. Below are some conventional and guerrilla, or not so commonly used, tactics for marketing your books on- and offline. Conventional Tactics Stay Educated & Connected. Educate yourself about the industry. Read books and articles; attend conferences. Learn what is working for other authors and use this information when developing your own marketing campaign. Visit writing-related web sites and read as many articles as you can. Talk to other writers, join trade and social associations, attend conferences, book fairs, and writer's groups. Network, network, network. Not only can other writers become part of a support group for critiques and bouncing ideas off of, knowing them can open many doors. For instance, you can find writers who may be interested in co-publishing a newsletter, or who would be interested in developing co-op ads and cross-promoting. Find writers who share your interests and keep in touch often. Gather testimonials. Compile testimonials you receive from readers and experts. Use them in newsletters, in ads, on your web site, and in media kits. Testimonials are powerful. They can give a potential customer the extra confidence he needs to buy your books and will encourage retail buyers to take a second look. Remember: If they don't show up at your door unsolicited, solicit them! Launch A Press Release Campaign. Find an angle and write a short press release. In fact, write many. A well-written press release about a powerful story will raise reporters' eyebrows. Distribute the release to local media and through one of the wires. It doesn't cost much and the results can be amazing. A couple to research: http://www.enewsrelease.com/, http://www.pressreleasenetwork.com/, and http://www.prweb.com/. Get Reviewed. Constantly seek out reviews. Reviews and testimonials can be invaluable. Moira Allen provides tips on getting your book reviewed at http://www.writing-world.com/selfpub/reviews.shtml. Keep in Touch with Decision-Makers. Retail buyers and potential customers are decision-makers. 1001 Ways to Market Your Books (Open Horizons, 1998) author John Kremer suggests that authors start a promotional newsletter that can be sent to this audience. Send it to wholesalers, retail buyers, past customers and prospects. Write Free Articles. We've published several articles on Writer's Break (http://www.writersbreak.com/) about the advantages of submitting your articles to other web sites and publications that offer a generous byline. In the byline, you'll want to include your site URL and information on your books. "But why should I give my articles away?" you may ask. Two words: free exposure. Exposure leads to awareness. Awareness sells books. Create a Web Site. Though it can be a time-consuming venture, a web site is a great way to give readers and people in the industry the opportunity to get to know you and your work better. A good web site can open many doors. Not only can you sell more books with a web site, you can swap ads and barter space. Do Interviews. Accept interview requests no matter the size of the publication. Not only will you get better at giving interviews, your books will receive more exposure. Again, exposure leads to awareness. Awareness sells books. Guerrilla Tactics A guerrilla, by definition, is one who carries on, or assists in carrying on, irregular warfare. The below can be considered guerrilla tactics because in this business, they're seldom used. Sell Books in Person. Selling books in person can be very lucrative. In his book, Kremer gives the example of how author/publisher Gary Provost began selling his book, The Dorchester Gas Tank. He'd work a busy Boston corner every day and peddle his books, selling 20 to 25 books a day-more than most books sell in a single day. Best Selection, Lowest Prices, & Free Shipping! Kremer also mentions another author who managed to sell 70,000 copies within ten months by loading her van and visiting grocery stores, gift shops, and health clubs. If you don't feel uncomfortable about going door-to-door, why not try it? You can even autograph them; people love autographed books. They may buy one for their spouse, another family member, or just for their bookshelf. Remember, though, when face-to-face with your audience, to convey professionalism and passion for your book. If you do, your prospect will be more likely to buy. Create an Affiliate Program. Affiliate programs give web site and ezine owners the incentive to help you sell more books. Have Magnets Made. Do you commute long distances? If so, you may want to get automobile magnets that read "Visit www.yourwebsiteaddress.com" or "Check out MY BOOK'S NAME at Amazon!" How many drivers see your bumper everyday? If you're like me, thousands. Talk about some cheap exposure! Plus, if you're commuting during the same hours each day, the same people are seeing your ad over and over again. At some point, these people will become curious enough to visit your site or Amazon's. Leave Review Copies. Leave copies of your books in doctor's waiting rooms, in libraries, at tanning salons, hair salons, the county tax office. You never know who will pick it up and begin talking about it. Also, give copies to clerks at bookstores. If they read it and like it, they could create a buzz with their higher ups. Use Promotional Tools in Untraditional Ways. Have bookmarks, flyers, and business cards made. Believe me, you can use them in several ways. Stick bookmarks or business cards in with your monthly bills. Leave them with tips at restaurants. These tools are low-cost items, and you never know whose interest you'll generate on the other end. Have your friends and family do this too. The more potential customers you reach, the more who will have the opportunity to buy. Again, the idea is exposure. Generate interest. Leave Bookmarks in Best-Sellers. I recently read a thread about this on one of my online writer's news groups. Approach the manager at a local bookstore and ask if you can stick a bookmark into each of the store's bestsellers. If the manager is amenable, you may want to find out if you can also stick them into books of your genre. You already know a few things about the person on the other end. He buys books, and in the latter case, he buys the types of books you write. Visit local entrepreneurs. Ask if you can leave an attractive bowl somewhere in their stores, and place a handful of free bookmarks in it. Everyone's a potential customer or knows potential customers. These are just a few tactics for selling more books. Some may be good options for you, some may not. Try a few. Good luck! And here's to selling more books! Publishers/Writers, Feel free to reprint the above in your print and/or online publications. I just ask that you: 1) not manipulate the article in any way, 2) include the resource box below, and 3) if using online, provide me with a URL to its home on your website. Jennifer Minar is a Los Angeles-based freelance writer and the editor-in-chief of www.WritersBreak.com. She can be contacted at jminar@writersbreak.com.
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