FRIDAY STIR FRY: Book Signings

 I don't like doing book signings. There I said it. (Hiding under my desk until the storm passes)

"What?? But, you are passing up the opportunity to meet your fans and sell some books." 

Uh, I don't have any fans except for a few friends and family. I also hate small talk. And I don't like sitting at a table smiling at strangers while they pick up the free candy and bookmarks I have scattered around. And then they move on with barely a glance at my books. I feel like I must give off a smell of desperation. "Please kind person, buy my book I slaved over for years. I know you'll love it as much as I do." 

And my bank account will enjoy the meager amount I will profit from a sale. That last sentence is meant as a joke. There is no money in writing anymore, unless you are Stephen King or Patterson or some celebrity with a juicy memoir people want to read. 

And then when it's all over, I end up packing up the same number of books I brought. But not as much candy or bookmarks. 

Maybe I would feel different if I showed up and there was a line out the door waiting on little old me. 

But, I doubt it. 

I'll keep writing and self publishing, but don't expect to see me sitting behind a table.

FRIDAY STIR FRY - Top Ten Reasons To Self-Publish

http://www.morguefile.com

As I mentioned last week, my publisher closed shop, leaving me with three options: One - look for another publisher. Two - give up and tell everyone that I once was a published author or; Three - self publish Beyond The Horizon. Here are my top ten reasons I chose the last option.

     10.  I have more control over how my work is presented.
       9.  No pesky contracts.
       8.  I'm learning something new, which is a good thing at my age.
       7.  I've discovered friends with hidden talents like cover design and editing.
       6.  I'm finally going to have a print copy of my book for myself, friends, and family.
            (BTH was e-book only)
       5.  I'm testing out different ways to sign my autograph.
       4.  I can still say I was traditionally published - although I don't think that carries as
            much weight as it used to.
       3.  I can work at my own pace and set my own deadlines.
       2.  I can keep more of my royalties. Yea, money!

       And the number 1 reason: No more rejection letters!

I will never forget the excitement of FINALLY landing a publishing contract and all I learned along the way. But, publishing has changed and unless you are a celebrity like Bruce Jenner, with a tell all book, or a well established author, the big houses aren't interested. And the small publishing companies are struggling.  

If you are like me and just have a story begging to be read, self publishing might be our best option. 

         .