tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33392810961912619132024-03-12T22:39:54.654-04:00MUSE YOU CAN USE!GET REAL.
GO DEEP.
START WRITING.
CREATE!
LEAP FOR JOY.
SHARE WITH WORLD.Hi, this is Gina.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16883903969629644122noreply@blogger.comBlogger69125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339281096191261913.post-89075700781965130392012-07-15T12:05:00.000-04:002012-07-15T12:05:08.633-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZT_jD9CNqpwUeoOm8KksECbcwbWtkFi68QaTjK0HyPVHe1Nv0AyAnrfa-xE6gCJqIzb_wQD3cAzchX1nUZkVcpzkWMRQVsoX-uToblpOC0GdCyixTYKsybNQEXiOUmZAmB3YKdsJ4HjRr/s1600/319434_10150987452104754_197040625_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZT_jD9CNqpwUeoOm8KksECbcwbWtkFi68QaTjK0HyPVHe1Nv0AyAnrfa-xE6gCJqIzb_wQD3cAzchX1nUZkVcpzkWMRQVsoX-uToblpOC0GdCyixTYKsybNQEXiOUmZAmB3YKdsJ4HjRr/s1600/319434_10150987452104754_197040625_n.jpg" /></a></div>
I have never posted a cartoon on my blog but this one is worth posting because SO MANY people say this...Hi, this is Gina.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16883903969629644122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339281096191261913.post-24116132122653131582011-12-21T07:31:00.002-05:002011-12-21T07:34:51.141-05:00Great American Novel 2.0<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: medium; "><div class="story_headline" style="color: rgb(59, 59, 59); clear: left; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 23px; font-weight: bold; letter-spacing: -1px; line-height: 25px; margin-bottom: 5px; padding-top: 5px; "><br /></div><div class="story_subheadline" style="color: rgb(59, 59, 59); margin-bottom: 10px; letter-spacing: -1px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">It's a brave new world for anyone who has ever harbored the dream of telling a story. Technology is radically transforming the way authors and readers connect. Pittsburgh native Dmitri Ragano tells the tale of writing his mystery 'Employee of the Year' on the frontier of electronic publishing.</span></div><div class="story_subheadline" style="color: rgb(59, 59, 59); font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 18px; letter-spacing: -1px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); letter-spacing: normal; font-size: medium; "><div class="story_lastupdate" style="color: rgb(59, 59, 59); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; ">By Dmitri Ragano</span></div><div class="story_body" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 16px; "><p></p><div id="SideBox" style="margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 0px; width: 330px; float: right; "><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><img src="http://www.post-gazette.com/images5/20111218_nextpage_330.jpg" border="0" align="none" /></span></span></div><div class="story_image_byline" style="color: rgb(77, 77, 77); text-align: right; margin-bottom: 4px; margin-top: 0px; float: right; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Photo illustration by Ben Howard/Post-Gazette</span></span></div></div><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">A few years ago, in my late 30s, I realized that I wanted to write a book.</span></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I was staring into time's horizon, gearing up for the inevitable midlife crisis. I had friends my age who were taking up golf, tinkering with home remodeling or putting in extra time to climb the corporate ladder.</span></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">What I really loved hadn't changed much since I was 8 years old. I loved the world of fiction and literature. Growing up on a steady diet of Tolkien, Salinger, Bradbury, Joyce, Kafka and Beckett, I'd been trying to tell my own stories since I was old enough to spell my name.</span></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I spent my 20s and 30s learning to a make a living through an eclectic mix of barely related professions, but my dream of being an author never really died. I still wanted to find my voice and then go out and find an audience. So I decided I was going to give it a try, happily aware that this endeavor might not go anywhere.</span></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">What intimidated me about this prospect wasn't actually writing a novel; that was fun. Instead it was everything that I was supposed to do after finishing the manuscript. Contacts in the book publishing industry told me I should plunge into a grueling, endless process of random submissions to literary agents and publishing houses in hopes that, against all odds, someday, somewhere, someone out there might actually read a few pages of my book.</span></span></p><hr align="center" style="clear: both; width: 160px; size: 3px; margin-top: 1.5em; "><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">The first thing you need to do</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> is get a hundred rejection letters under your belt, they told me. I was always warned to make sure my novel was "marketable" -- it should be exactly like some other book that has sold well. It should not experiment with genres or contain any unproven themes or ideas that might scare the industry establishment.</span></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">For me, creative writing was just a hobby. So the idea that I had to spend my precious free moments butting up against a vast, depersonalized labyrinth was annoying to say the least.</span></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">It wasn't the prospect of failing that bothered me. As an unknown author, I knew I was more likely to get struck by lightning than land a book on the best seller list. (I have a screenwriter friend in Los Angeles who already was struck by lightning growing up in Florida. She's fine now and we're trying to figure what this does for her odds of a successful writing career.)</span></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">We've all heard about hit novels that made it into print through an impossibly random fluke. Stephenie Meyer's Twilight series only saw the light of day because a new assistant at a literary agency didn't realize the manuscript was way too long for young-adult submission requirements.</span></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">What really frustrated me about the impossible odds, the slush piles and the rejection slips was the fact that, like most writers, I wasn't trying to become a star. Most first-time authors just want a chance to find an audience. They know there is probably some community of readers out there that will connect with their work, they just don't know whether it's 50 readers or 50,000 readers.</span></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">So it's very important for novelists to have a quick, easy way to put a story out there to find an audience and get some kind of feedback, just like most other creative types. Actors and musicians aren't dependent on the machinery of Hollywood and Broadway to practice their art. There is a whole universe of outlets for them connect with a crowd, from the open mike night to community theater. Why should writers spend years pushing through a wall of faceless gatekeepers to get a chance at sharing their work with readers?</span></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">The importance of putting a new creation in an open forum was something I understood well from my "day job" building corporate websites. The iterative process of developing software, observing how people use it and then refining it based on feedback is the lifeblood of the Internet industry.</span></span></p><hr align="center" style="clear: both; width: 160px; size: 3px; margin-top: 1.5em; "><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">A new school of management known as </span></span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Business-agile_enterprise" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(8, 94, 57); text-decoration: none; cursor: pointer; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Agile</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> supports the theory of creating products in a rapid, flexible and interactive environment. Companies like Google, Amazon and Netflix typically roll out "beta" versions of new business lines, starting a conversation with their customers that will influence the evolution of the product without middlemen or buffers.</span></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Agile is based on interdisciplinary studies where math, computer science and biology intersect, such as Complexity Science and Chaos Theory. One particularly important influence is Cybernetics, a field with origins after World War II, conceived by a diverse group of engineers, neurophysiologists, anthropologists and psychiatrists.</span></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Cybernetics examines all systems that have goals and interact with an environment via feedback mechanisms. This includes the circular process of acting (having an effect on an environment), sensing (checking the response of the environment), evaluating (comparing the current state with the system's goal), and back again to acting.</span></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I realized that there was an obvious connection between my work in the fast-paced world of Internet software and my personal dream of writing a novel. The future belonged to innovators who could interact with their audiences in an Agile work mode.</span></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">After all, innovations like Facebook, YouTube, WordPress and Twitter give billions of people a platform to say something, tell a story, test an idea or start a conversation. The William Faulkners and Jane Austens of tomorrow will communicate their art fully expecting the benefits of cybernetics.</span></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Services like Create Space make it easier than ever for first-time authors to publish a professional-looking book for less than $1,000. E-reader devices like the Kindle, Nook and iPad reduce the distribution and inventory costs of books to practically nothing, allowing unknown authors to sell their titles for as little as 99 cents. It's true that do-it-yourself publishing has been around for a while.</span></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">But this is bigger than that. This is about critical mass of new ideas coming together at the right time.</span></span></p><hr align="center" style="clear: both; width: 160px; size: 3px; margin-top: 1.5em; "><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></p><div id="SideBox" style="width: 240px; float: right; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 0px; "><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><img src="http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/images/201112/next_book18.jpg" border="0" align="none" /></span></span></div><div class="story_image_byline" style="color: rgb(77, 77, 77); text-align: right; margin-bottom: 4px; margin-top: 0px; float: right; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "></div><div class="story_image_caption" style="line-height: 10px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-top: 1px; margin-bottom: 5px; clear: both; "></div></div><p></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">At its core, the promise of a Web 2.0 world</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> is about taking storytelling back to a time to when it was grounded in close relationships between authors and readers. Homer, Chaucer and Dante all read their stories for audiences, in their context of the social network. They received their own versions of Facebook "likes" for their authored works in the cities of ancient Greece and medieval Europe. Even after Gutenberg, most books still gained readership from town to town and colony to colony through the 17th- and 18th-century equivalent of "tweets" and "shares."</span></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">This isn't to say it's easy to find an audience on your own. Without the resources of a big publisher, I've realized how hard it is to get out word that my book exists. (After all, I have only a finite number of friends and relatives whom I can nag into buying a copy.)</span></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">My Internet career taught me the importance of setting specific goals that are ambitious but at least within the realm of possibility. For "Employee of the Year," I will try sell 1,000 copies total. I realize this will be really hard. After all, Nielsen Bookscan statistics show that each year only 20 percent of all books available in the U.S. sell more than 99 copies per title. When it comes to fiction, hardly any novels sell more than 5,000 copies, even with the support of a major publisher.</span></span></p><hr align="center" style="clear: both; width: 160px; size: 3px; margin-top: 1.5em; "><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">But the great thing is that</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">, regardless of whether I reach my starry-eyed fantasies, I feel like I've already succeeded in my original intent when I started writing the novel more than two years ago. I've found a way to get my labor of love to a small but warm and receptive community of readers.</span></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Since the book </span></span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Employee-of-the-Year-ebook/dp/B005UJR0RW/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1319935088&sr=8-2" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(8, 94, 57); text-decoration: none; cursor: pointer; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">went live</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> last month, I've been approached by friends, acquaintances and even a few strangers who told me they loved the twists and turns of "Employee of the Year" and can't wait for my next mystery. (I also have an uncle who thought the story was lousy. But getting his point-by-point critique was almost as much fun as the praise I've received.)</span></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">The most exciting thing about creating books in a Web 2.0 world is that it gives me the space to do what I love to do. Writers trying to tell a good story really want the chance to focus on trying to tell a good story. At the end of the day, that's all you can really ask for.</span></span></p><p></p><p></p><div class="story_end_field" style="margin-bottom: 10px; color: black; display: block; "><hr /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Dmitri Ragano,</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> a graduate of Allderdice High School, is a writer and Internet professional based in Irvine, Calif. "Employee of the Year" is available on </span></span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Employee-of-the-Year-ebook/dp/B005UJR0RW/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1319935088&sr=8-2" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(8, 94, 57); text-decoration: none; cursor: pointer; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Amazon</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> and </span></span><a href="http://www.dmitriragano.com/" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(8, 94, 57); text-decoration: none; cursor: pointer; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">www.dmitriragano.com</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">.</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><div class="story_first_published" style="margin-bottom: 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); display: block; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><i>Reprinted from Post-Gazette.com, December 18, 2011 at 12:00 am</i></span></span></div></div><span><br /><br /></span></span></div><span><br /><br /></span></span>Hi, this is Gina.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16883903969629644122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339281096191261913.post-61955794104260782912011-10-28T16:18:00.001-04:002011-10-28T16:20:07.404-04:00"Go the F**k to Sleep" wakes up book industry!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; "><p class="article" style="font-size: 12px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); ">t may have been a “fluke Hit,” but Akashic Books publisher Johnny Temple says Adam Mansbach and Ricardo Cortes’ bestselling kids book parody, <i style="font-size: 12px; ">Go the F**k to Sleeep</i>, has spent six months on the bestseller lists and has more than 500,000 copies in print. It’s so successful Akashic will publish a real kids’ book based on it next year. While the parody has also spawned a TV sit-com and a horde of copycat titles it is allowing the independent house to stabilize its finances and plan for the future.</p><div style="font-size: 12px; ">In a phone interview with Temple, he said <i style="font-size: 12px; ">Go the F**k to Sleep</i> has more than 515,000 copies in print and has been licensed internationally to 31 different territories, representing about 27 languages—including the Norwegian dialect of Nynorsk. “it’s hit the bestseller lists of Germany, Australia and the U.K.,” Temple said.</div><div style="font-size: 12px; "> </div><div style="font-size: 12px; "><div class="embed_table_right" style="font-size: 12px; background-color: rgb(238, 241, 248); border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 1px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 1px; border-top-style: solid; border-right-style: solid; border-bottom-style: solid; border-left-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(207, 211, 214); border-right-color: rgb(207, 211, 214); border-bottom-color: rgb(207, 211, 214); border-left-color: rgb(207, 211, 214); float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 10px; text-align: center; width: 250px; "><img src="http://www.publishersweekly.com/images/cached/ARTICLE_PHOTO/photo/000/000/006/6739-v1-250x.JPG" width="250" height="167" border="0" id="ARTICLE_PHOTO.6739" style="font-size: 12px; " /></div><i style="font-size: 12px; ">Go The F**k to Sleep</i> has been such a hit, it didn’t take Temple and the book’s creators very long to decide to create a “real kids book” based on the adult parody—“but with no profanity,” Temple said. In April 2012 Akashic will release, <i style="font-size: 12px; ">Seriously, Just Go to Sleep</i>, an actual kids book that will “have the biggest initial release we’ve ever had. It will likely be tens of thousands of copies with a big promotional push,” he said. Temple described the book as “100% children’s book, rated G. It’s by the same creative team and its still about a parent trying to get a kid to go to sleep.” Temple said the book has similar rhymes and drawings to the parody original, “but they’ve added visual depth and new elements that will really appeal to kids.”</div><div style="font-size: 12px; "> </div><div style="font-size: 12px; ">The book has also caught the attention of Hollywood: it’s been optioned for a film by Fox 2000 and Mansbach has sold the book’s concept to CBS for a new <a href="http://www.movieweb.com/news/jerry-oconnell-to-star-in-untitled-cbs-family-sitcom" style="font-size: 12px; text-decoration: underline; color: rgb(46, 116, 169); ">situation comedy</a> starring Jerry O’Connell about how the author of a parody kids book ends up becoming a parenting expert. It’s generated a flood of copycat titles as well as “inundating” the publisher with proposals for “kids’ parody books. It’s amazing how many people think they’ve stumbled on a new idea,” Temple said. “It’s not like <em style="font-size: 12px; ">Go The F**K To Sleep</em> is high literature, but it does have intregity,” said Temple, who was a successful rock musician before he launched Akashic, “every verse and illustration is beautifully conceived. But these copycat titles are like everything that was wrong with the music business—people copying other’s successes.”</div><div style="font-size: 12px; "> </div><div style="font-size: 12px; ">Temple praised his distributor Consortium for guiding him through the process of handling a surprise runaway bestselling hit, a process that has wrecked some small presses. Indeed he said, a bigger publisher offered the small house “a $1 million” to takeover the publication of the book. Temple turned them down and said Akashic has made far more money than that. “There was no better better ally during a stressful situation than Consortium,” said Temple. Indeed, the book has generated so much income, Temple said he can look down the road and make plans around the houses’ future and offer his hardworking staff something rare for a small house—more money.</div><div style="font-size: 12px; "> </div><div style="font-size: 12px; ">Akashic has signed with Benay Enterprises, an accounting and managing firm that manages the back office affairs of such independent publishers as Granta, Steerforth Press, Soho Press and the Overlook Press. “We’ve needed this a long time but couldn’t afford to do it,” Temple said, “I’m trying not to grow too fast. We’ve been unstable financially but now we can tuck some money away. We won’t get into bidding wars over authors but now we can pay the staff long-overdue bonuses. They work so hard—myself included—it’s just not sustainable; there’s a risk of burnout around here.”</div><div><br /></div><p style="font-size: 12px; "></p><div style="font-size: 12px; clear: both; "></div></span>Hi, this is Gina.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16883903969629644122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339281096191261913.post-50864460573792522011-09-21T08:51:00.002-04:002011-09-21T08:53:59.935-04:00UCLA Physicist Applies Physics To Best-selling Books<div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 15px; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><p id="first" style="padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: -2px; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">UCLA physicist and complex systems theorist Didier Sornette, who used statistical physics and mathematics to analyze 138 books that made Amazon.com's best-seller list between 1997 and April 2004. His team's initial results are published in Physical Review Letters Nov. 26.</span></span></p><div id="seealso" style="float: left; width: 140px; padding-top: 2px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; "><hr style="border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-top-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); height: 0px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><div style="padding-top: 10px; margin-top: -5px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></b></div></div><p style="padding-top: 5px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">"Complex systems can be understood, and the book market is a complex system," said Sornette, a professor of earth and space sciences, and a member of UCLA's Institute of Geophysics and Planetary Physics. "Each buyer is not predictable, but complex networks have a degree of predictability."</span></span></p><p style="padding-top: 5px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Best-selling books typically reach their sales peaks in one of two ways. The less potent way is by what Sornette calls an "exogenous shock," which is brief and abrupt. An example is "Strong Women Stay Young" by Dr. Miriam Nelson, which peaked on the list the day after a favorable review in the Sunday New York Times. A second example is Sornette's own 2002 book, "Why Stock Markets Crash: Critical Events in Complex Financial Systems," which spiked following a favorable review by Jon Markman on CNBC and TheStreet.com. "On Jan. 17, 2003, my book was ranked 2,000-something and then suddenly it was No. 17," Sornette recalled. "A few hours later, it was in the top 10. As a physicist, it looked to me like an exogenous shock to the system."</span></span></p><p style="padding-top: 5px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Sales are typically greater, however, when a book benefits from what Sornette calls an "endogenous shock," which progressively accelerates over time, and is illustrated in the book business by favorable word-of-mouth. Such books rise slowly, but the sales results are more enduring, and the decline in sales is slower and more much gradual, he found.</span></span></p><p style="padding-top: 5px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">An example includes "The Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood," which reached the best-seller list two years after it was published, without the benefit of a major marketing campaign. The book was popular with book clubs and inspired women to form "Ya-Ya Sisterhood" groups of their own. A second example is Nora Roberts' novel, "Heaven and Earth (Three Sisters Island Trilogy)," which peaked only after a slow rise and also fell slowly, which Sornette attributes to word of the book spreading among friends and family.</span></span></p><p style="padding-top: 5px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The slower peaks tend to generate more sales over time, Sornette said.</span></span></p><p style="padding-top: 5px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">"Word-of-mouth can spread like an epidemic," he said.</span></span></p><p style="padding-top: 5px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The trajectories of many books' rankings are combinations of both kinds of peaks, Sornette says, which suggests that an effective, well-timed marketing campaign could combine with a strong network to enhance sales.</span></span></p><p style="padding-top: 5px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">A specialist in the scientific prediction of catastrophes in a wide range of complex systems, Sornette said his model for analyzing peaks and falls in book sales is very similar to one he uses to understand earthquakes. He has applied techniques of physics to economic data, and has developed a quantitative model that can predict the signatures of a coming stock market crash.</span></span></p><p style="padding-top: 5px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">"Is it possible to derive a quantitative law of how book sales behave?" Sornette asks. "We have derived a law of how a sale's shock to the system will jump up and decline over time. The books we analyzed behaved the same way. We can statistically predict how the system will evolve, how sales peaks can emerge, and we can predict the expected decline slope for books that rise sharply."</span></span></p><p style="padding-top: 5px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Sornette hopes this research will provide insights into complex physical systems, and will shed light on scientific questions in geophysics, biology and climatology. Sornette, who is also a research director at the University of Nice's National Center for Scientific Research in his native France, has written or co-written more than 350 papers in scholarly journals.</span></span></p><p style="padding-top: 5px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Complex systems in nature experience catastrophic events, such as earthquakes and climate change, but it can be difficult for scientists to tell whether these events are caused by natural, internal fluctuations or shocks from external forces. Sornette's team's success in distinguishing between internal and external causes suggests that it can be done for other extreme events in complex networks as well, he said.</span></span></p><p style="padding-top: 5px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">###</span></span></p><p style="padding-top: 5px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Sornette's Web site is:</span></span><a href="http://www.ess.ucla.edu/faculty/sornette/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153); text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">http://www.ess.ucla.edu/faculty/sornette/</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">.</span></span></p></span></div>Hi, this is Gina.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16883903969629644122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339281096191261913.post-21369862426618194062011-05-06T10:28:00.002-04:002011-05-06T10:31:07.260-04:00Lincoln Parks hosts Summer Writer's Workshop and Conference<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1BCV4MB9LQLRwgDyyzyhJb_DUU-RUiMen4PLbXcqgZ5IXsry-I3qHQq8eTTrLcVNF74f_8GYcGWALtls-AAgxlneAWkfp1wmxb95D4GjhjBuU9cZgJfN7ZQ3v9tFSGbZNFzNBCEP_5zgG/s1600/lincoln-park-logo.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 137px; height: 119px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1BCV4MB9LQLRwgDyyzyhJb_DUU-RUiMen4PLbXcqgZ5IXsry-I3qHQq8eTTrLcVNF74f_8GYcGWALtls-AAgxlneAWkfp1wmxb95D4GjhjBuU9cZgJfN7ZQ3v9tFSGbZNFzNBCEP_5zgG/s320/lincoln-park-logo.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603610528867787458" /></a><br />A cool summer workshop for young writers: http://www.lppac.org/workshops/Hi, this is Gina.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16883903969629644122noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339281096191261913.post-36468057285804938572011-05-05T12:17:00.004-04:002011-05-05T12:33:49.864-04:00Amazon Makes More Waves in the Publishing Industry<span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><p class="article" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"></span></p><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">It has been my pleasure to help many of my clients publish their books this past year, and a number of them have chosen to self-publish, partly due to Amazon's revolutionary free platform called Create Space. </span></span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Now, Amazon has announced that it is expanding its publishing arm once again by launching Montlake Romance in fall 2011 (with plans to deepen its category publishing to mystery, science fiction, and thrillers). This has many in the publishing business talking about the company’s hiring strategies. And agents have been eyeing the unfolding process closely, trying to gauge whether the retailer will become as viable a place for their books as traditional houses.</span></span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><b><i>Publisher's Weekly </i>reports as follows:</b><br /><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">For weeks job openings at Amazon, in both editorial and publicity, have been posted online, offering positions in Seattle and New York. Rumors have surfaced that the company is recruiting a New York publishing staff and is on the hunt for a high-level executive to be the publisher of its expanded publishing wing. Amazon confirmed that it will be handling its own distribution, and that Victoria Griffith is publisher of the new Montlake imprint. </span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">A rep for the company, who noted that Amazon "has had a New York office for some time," said that "some" of the publishing jobs with the company will be based in New York. While the rep would not comment on when Amazon will launch the other planned genre imprints, rumors have been floating that the company has already closed a deal with an author, for a sizable sum, for either its thriller or mystery imprint. </span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">A number of sources inside New York publishing houses said there was a sour feeling about the way Amazon has, to this point, gone about its employee search. The company sent a form letter to a number of senior executives, some within the same publisher, inquiring if they would be interested in working for Amazon. </span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">While some sources scoffed that a suite of Amazon imprints could establish respect in the industry—one insider said Amazon's publishing efforts would likely be seen as a “proprietary bookseller-publisher pretty far down the food chain of quality publishers”—agents were less damning. </span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">One agent noted that Amazon is uniqeuly positioned to promote authors and books in a way traditional houses are not—through content on its Web site as well as by tapping into information about its customers' book-buying habits. For this reason, this agent said, there is a certain appeal to selling a book to them. He</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:medium;"> noted, though, that “when any new publishing company or imprint is created, I generally like to wait and see how they’re going to do before placing my authors’ intellectual property there.” </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Regarding distribution, questions linger about whether print books from Amazon could find their way into Barnes & Noble or the independents, since both see the company as their most significant competition. One source said it would be presumptuous to assume that B&N would not stock a book simply because Amazon published it, while others added that, for the right title, having no distribution in B&N or the independents would not seriously damage sales anyway. </span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">B&N did not respond to e-mails about whether it will carry Montlake titles. Some independent booksellers are already saying they will never carry a book published by Amazon. "Nobody that sells books needs to do business with Amazon. We don't carry titles by our competitors. We don't carry Barnes & Noble titles. Why would we carry Amazon?" said Geoffrey Jennings of the Fairway. Kans., Rainy Day Books. He added: "It doesn't matter how big you make the press, a vanity press is still a vanity press." </span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Steve Bercu, of Austin's BookPeople, said it is unlikely he would carry an Amazon title. "They haven't exactly endeared themselves to retailers. Maybe they're looking forward to a happy future collecting sales tax when 100% of retailers aren't mad at them." </span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Another insider said he thinks Amazon will likely start to “acquire big names in the editorial ranks as well as make runs at big authors.” He added: “And I think agents would sell to them, especially since they’ll probably spend big money.” Amazon has proven recently that, for the right author, it is willing to pay a lot. </span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">After St. Martin’s Press closed a reported $4 million four-book deal with self-publishing sensation </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:medium;">Amanda Hocking, word leaked that Amazon had put in a competitive bid in an attempt to land the author. “They probably know enough about the book business by now to do as well as, or better, than the old-school houses,” said another agent, acknowledging that he would probably sell a book to Amazon. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:medium;">Of course, as the previous insider guessed, it may come down to money on the table. Yet another agent said: “The big question is whether Amazon will pay advances, and at what level. And, of course, what will their tolerance of risk be as a publisher.” </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><i>Source: Publisher's Weekly</i></span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><i></i></span></div></span></div></div></div>Hi, this is Gina.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16883903969629644122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339281096191261913.post-67180928194406997332011-04-20T07:56:00.002-04:002011-04-20T07:56:59.567-04:00CHANGE YOUR WORDS, CHANGE YOUR LIFEA SHORT VID ON THE POWER OF WORDS:<div>http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2011/04/19/the-power-of-words.aspx</div>Hi, this is Gina.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16883903969629644122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339281096191261913.post-64667875855865579152011-03-16T10:15:00.009-04:002011-03-16T10:28:37.052-04:00Authors are Social Media Masters . . . or, They Should Be<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd6rFRXosDMRR1UIQAcly8VM5uKJDnZ22A7SHP0k_hKqCJFzMBS17ypH3YhqDID61UPQQddgWq7mUK8XFh6THT7xKbUk1p_zt_awr3AUM60eXPOZHo2NecQ5bWVGP_9DHNWtLXSilLjzat/s1600/images.jpeg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 237px; height: 192px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd6rFRXosDMRR1UIQAcly8VM5uKJDnZ22A7SHP0k_hKqCJFzMBS17ypH3YhqDID61UPQQddgWq7mUK8XFh6THT7xKbUk1p_zt_awr3AUM60eXPOZHo2NecQ5bWVGP_9DHNWtLXSilLjzat/s320/images.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5584683155542970898" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000066;">There are six essential elements for successful digital marketing and when used together they make for a powerful combination. Each element is important on its own, but when you use all six together you will see a strategy that is effective, scalable and long term.</span></span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000066;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 20px; font-family:Georgia, Century, Times, serif;font-size:13px;"><ul style="list-style-type: none; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border- color:initial;"><li class="first last" style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: inside; list-style-image: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 4px; margin-left: 35px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 5px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border- color:initial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000066;">Website -- A professional website is the single most important step towards your digital marketing plan. Your website is your homebase, so make sure it is updated regularly and is current. Use your site as a platform for all other activities. Post your blog and photos along with links to your social networks. Always remember your audience when developing content. If a person cares enough to come to your site, you need to make sure their trip was worth the effort.</span></span></span></li></ul><ul style="list-style-type: none; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border- color:initial;"><li class="first last" style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: inside; list-style-image: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 4px; margin-left: 35px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 5px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border- color:initial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000066;">eNewsletter -- email is still the most powerful digital tool. Every single author should have an enewsletter. You should collect as many email addresses of your readers as you can. Overtime email addresses of your readers will be a huge asset. You can communicate with your readers through a regular enewsletter sent either once a month or once every 3 months. Just keep those lines of communication open.</span></span></span></li></ul><ul style="list-style-type: none; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border- color:initial;"><li class="first last" style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: inside; list-style-image: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 4px; margin-left: 35px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 5px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border- color:initial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000066;">Blog -- A blog is the best way to share your expertise and drive traffic to your site. Use your blog on your own website along with posting it on an important high-traffic website as a guest post. Everyone needs content, and it never hurts to ask a popular blog if they want to run your blog post. Blogs don't have to be long, 500-700 words tend to be the most popular lengths.</span></span></span></li></ul><ul style="list-style-type: none; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border- color:initial;"><li class="first last" style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: inside; list-style-image: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 4px; margin-left: 35px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 5px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border- color:initial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000066;">Facebook -- Every author should have a Facebook fan page so they can socialize and communicate with their readers. It's an important element of digital marketing and honestly at 520 million people, you can't afford to ignore it. Along with being a great place to build community, Facebook fan pages also offer Insights a great tool for monitoring your audience and your interactions.</span></span></span></li></ul><ul style="list-style-type: none; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border- color:initial;"><li class="first last" style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: inside; list-style-image: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 4px; margin-left: 35px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 5px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border- color:initial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000066;">Video -- There is not a better or easier way to show your passion and personality than video. It can be fun content for your Facebook fan page, your blog, and your website. Remember to post it on YouTube as well.</span></span></span></li></ul><ul style="list-style-type: none; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border- color:initial;"><li class="first last" style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: inside; list-style-image: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 4px; margin-left: 35px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 5px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border- color:initial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000066;">Twitter -- I know many authors are intimidated by Twitter, but it's a fabulous way to share resources and develop a following. I find Twitter to be an incredible tool for listening and for doing market research. You can listen to your readers, find out what other people are doing and saying, and build a relationship with current and future readers.</span></span></span></li></ul><p style="list-style-type: none; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 14px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border- color:initial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000066;"><br /></span></span></span></p><p style="list-style-type: none; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 14px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border- color:initial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000066;">If you chose not to participate in digital marketing and social media, you are only hurting yourself and your readers. There are millions of people on social networks; they don't miss you, but you are missing out if you ignore them.</span></span></span></p><p style="list-style-type: none; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 14px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border- color:initial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000066;">Digital marketing is a wonderful way to connect with people who care about your work. Just remember that all six elements of digital marketing working together will produce the best results. There are no short cuts here, but it is all well worth the investment of time and attention.</span></span></span></p><p style="list-style-type: none; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 14px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border- color:initial;"> <span style="list-style-type: none; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border- "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000066;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">SOURCE: Fauzia Burke for Huffington Post. Burke is the Founder and President of </span></i></span></span><a href="http://www.fsbassociates.com/" target="_hplink" style="list-style-type: none; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000066;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">FSB Associates</span></i></span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000066;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">, a publicity and social media firm specializing in creating awareness for books and authors on the web. </span></i></span></span></span></p></span></div>Hi, this is Gina.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16883903969629644122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339281096191261913.post-81112734385199424132011-02-09T12:29:00.004-05:002011-02-09T12:52:27.735-05:00A NOVEL QUESTION . . . OR TWO<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgat565yKsUyEWtUnwLWpC8nym2sDIU5etV_TDgQRDRN1wKRAlplgQokETswye-EUbERC36NNdcgE3PONGFFlQWeZ8pnbhvCBQWk6ljmz9pjVQIxO92ZN7BVWyXHRoWhgtL5ogi_jAkesgG/s1600/Unknown.jpeg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 168px; height: 196px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgat565yKsUyEWtUnwLWpC8nym2sDIU5etV_TDgQRDRN1wKRAlplgQokETswye-EUbERC36NNdcgE3PONGFFlQWeZ8pnbhvCBQWk6ljmz9pjVQIxO92ZN7BVWyXHRoWhgtL5ogi_jAkesgG/s320/Unknown.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5571748959948926002" /></a><br />"Two questions form the foundation of all novels:<div><br /></div><div>What if?</div><div>What next?</div><div><br /></div><div>(A third question, What now?, is one the author asks himself every 10 minutes or so; but it's more a cry than a question.)</div><div><br /></div><div>Every novel begins with the speculative question, What if 'X' happened? </div><div><br /></div><div>That's how you start."</div><div><br /></div><div>--Tom Clancy</div>Hi, this is Gina.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16883903969629644122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339281096191261913.post-87046547522019516312010-12-06T09:09:00.003-05:002010-12-06T09:15:07.561-05:00DEJA VU - THIS SATURDAY :)<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); "><table class="uiInfoTable mvm profileInfoTable mvm mvm" style="margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-collapse: collapse; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; width: 493px; "><tbody><tr><td class="data" style="font-size: 11px; text-align: left; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 1px; padding-left: 0px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 15px; "><div><b>JOIN IN THE HOLIDAY CHEER - THIS SATURDAY @ DEJA VU</b></div><div><br /></div><div>Books make GREAT holiday gifts, and here is another opportunity for Pittsburghers to support local authors:</div><div><br /></div><div><b>HOLIDAY BOOK SIGNING</b></div><div>Saturday, December 11</div><div>11 a.m. to 4 p.m.</div><div>Deja Vu Books and Antiques</div><div>222 Bridge Street</div><div>Bridgewater, PA (Beaver County)</div><div><br /></div><div>I will be joining about a dozen other local authors at this charming indie bookstore that specializes in antique and collectible books. Stop by and do some holiday shopping!</div><div><br /></div><div><b><i>Hosted by Beaver County Wordsmiths - visit them on Facebook!</i></b></div><div></div></td></tr></tbody><tbody><tr><th class="label" style="padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 1px; padding-left: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: top; color: rgb(153, 153, 153); width: 90px; line-height: 15px; "></th><td class="data" style="font-size: 11px; text-align: left; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 1px; padding-left: 0px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 15px; "><br /></td></tr></tbody><tbody><tr><th class="label" style="padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 1px; padding-left: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: top; color: rgb(153, 153, 153); font-weight: bold; width: 90px; line-height: 15px; "><br /></th><td class="data" style="font-size: 11px; text-align: left; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 1px; padding-left: 0px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 15px; "><br /></td></tr></tbody><tbody><tr><th class="label" style="padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 1px; padding-left: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: top; color: rgb(153, 153, 153); font-weight: bold; width: 90px; line-height: 15px; "><br /></th><td class="data" style="font-size: 11px; text-align: left; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 1px; padding-left: 0px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 15px; "><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></span>Hi, this is Gina.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16883903969629644122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339281096191261913.post-41388642075728457592010-11-10T10:25:00.001-05:002010-11-10T10:28:10.041-05:00Agent Tina Wexler on 6 1/2 Ways to Impress a Literary Agent<div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); line-height: 14px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; "><span style="color:#000000;"><b><br />1. Write a really amazing query. </b>Which is to say: take your time, try describing your work multiple ways until you find the best approach, read successful queries online and have as many people as possible read yours so that you’re certain it makes sense and is a shiny apple.</span><span style="color:#000000;"><br /><br /><br /></span><div align="center"><img src="http://www.guidetoliteraryagents.com/blog/content/binary/Tina+Barbados.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#000000;"><i><b>Tina Wexler</b>, an agent at <a href="http://www.guidetoliteraryagents.com/blog/ct.ashx?id=65400e18-1441-41e2-a5fe-e31d7f1d55ab&url=http%3a%2f%2fwww.icmtalent.com%2f" style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0); font-family: verdana, arial, sans-serif; text-decoration: none; ">ICM</a>, is predominately </i></span><br /><span style="color:#000000;"><i>interested in middle grade/YA fiction and adult </i></span><br /><span style="color:#000000;"><i>nonfiction. Tina currently serves on the board of </i></span><br /><span style="color:#000000;"><i>the Rutgers University Council on Children's </i></span><br /><span style="color:#000000;"><i>Literature and is an active member of SCBWI. </i></span><br /></div><span style="color:#000000;"><br /><br /><br /><b>2. Demonstrate knowledge of an agent's list. </b>This doesn’t mean you have to read every book they’ve ever sold</span><span style="color:#000000;">—</span><span style="color:#000000;">I leave that job to my mom</span><span style="color:#000000;">—</span><span style="color:#000000;">but by showing them you know a bit about who they represent, you’re telling agents you’ve done your research on who to query.<br /><br /><b>3. Do your research on who to query.</b> Period.<br /><br /><b>4. Write a really amazing manuscript.</b> Which is to say: take your time, put your work through multiple revisions, read published works in your genre, and consider joining a critique group or finding a writing partner whom you trust who can help make your manuscript a shiny apple.<br /><br /><b>5. Be nice.</b> Agents, like most everyone, want to work with people who are personable. This does not, however, mean “Fawn over the agent” or “Send a bushel of apples to the agent.”<br /><br /><b>6</b>. Don’t ask me, “Why all the talk about apples?” because if you’ve read my client Donna Gephart's <a href="http://www.guidetoliteraryagents.com/blog/ct.ashx?id=65400e18-1441-41e2-a5fe-e31d7f1d55ab&url=http%3a%2f%2fwww.amazon.com%2fSurvive-Middle-School-Donna-Gephart%2fdp%2f0385737939" style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0); font-family: verdana, arial, sans-serif; text-decoration: none; "><i>How to Survive Middle School</i></a>, you already know it’s because I'm constantly daydreaming about Bubbe’s Jewish Apple Cake.<b> But do ask other questions you may have.</b> Be a part of the conversation. Agents want critical thinkers who take this getting-published thing seriously.<br /><br /><b>6 ½. Take this getting-published thing seriously.</b> There’s plenty of fun to be had, but remember, this is a business, not a hobby or a get-rich-quick scheme. Agents want hard workers, writers dedicated to their craft who view getting published as the first step of a long journey, writers whom they will want to be with on that journey.<br /><br /><br /><br /></span><div align="center"><img src="http://www.guidetoliteraryagents.com/blog/content/binary/Z7428.jpg" border="0" /><br /></div><span style="color:#000000;"><br /></span><div align="center"><span style="color:#000000;"><i>The biggest database of agents anywhere is</i></span><br /><span style="color:#000000;"><i>the <b>2011 Guide to Literary Agents</b>. </i></span><br /><span style="color:#000000;"><i><a href="http://www.guidetoliteraryagents.com/blog/ct.ashx?id=65400e18-1441-41e2-a5fe-e31d7f1d55ab&url=http%3a%2f%2fwww.writersdigestshop.com%2fproduct%2fguide-to-literary-agents%2f%3fr%3dwdcsblog100310Z7428" style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0); font-family: verdana, arial, sans-serif; text-decoration: none; ">Buy it here online at a discount.</a></i></span><br /></div><span style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></span></div>Hi, this is Gina.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16883903969629644122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339281096191261913.post-70834245598613123692010-11-03T09:35:00.006-04:002010-11-03T09:42:12.008-04:00FORGET YOUR TROUBLES, C'MON GET HAPPY :)<p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:'Stone Sans Sem ITC TT';font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#5D2824;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I was recently asked to take part in the 2010 </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Happiness Project</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">, designed to create the “happiest year of your life.” The project coordinator, Dr. Nancy Mramor, and I have joined a dozen other authors to present articles on the top 12 things proven by researchers to cause happiness. In this series, I report on the topic of "proximity and happiness." Consider taking a moment to read it at </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">www.drnancymramoronline.com/GinaMazza.html </span></span></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(93, 40, 36); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> . . . your happiness could depend on it!</span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:'Stone Sans Sem ITC TT';font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#5D2824;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Since we know that happiness is contagious, feel free forward this article after you read it to anyone who you want to be happy. And check out the other articles in the series at </span></span></span><a href="http://www.drmramor.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#5D2824;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">www.drmramor.com</span></span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#5D2824;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">. You can also access this article under the G-vents tab on my website </span></span><a href="http://www.ginamazza.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">www.ginamazza.com</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">.</span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:'Stone Sans Sem ITC TT';font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#5D2824;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">To your happiness!</span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:'Stone Sans Sem ITC TT';font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#5D2824;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Gina</span></span></span></p>Hi, this is Gina.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16883903969629644122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339281096191261913.post-26945486882480636542010-10-25T10:10:00.001-04:002010-10-25T10:12:03.329-04:00WRITE ON - TONIGHT :)<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, 'Nimbus Sans L', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; ">Join me for this fun writer's workshop, back by popular demand :) </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, 'Nimbus Sans L', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, 'Nimbus Sans L', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; ">THE CONSCIOUS WRITER: HOW TO BE PROLIFIC IN YOUR ART, YOUR HEART AND IN YOUR LIFE </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, 'Nimbus Sans L', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, 'Nimbus Sans L', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; ">TONIGHT: 6:30 to 8:30 Expressions Cafe and Social Club </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, 'Nimbus Sans L', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; ">Harmony, PA </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, 'Nimbus Sans L', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; ">CALL 724.452.0869 to register</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, 'Nimbus Sans L', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, 'Nimbus Sans L', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; "><div style="font-family: 'Gill Sans'; line-height: normal; font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Copperplate Light'; font-size: 15px; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#663234;">In this workshop you will learn how to:</span></b></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Gill Sans'; line-height: normal; font-size: medium; "><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; "><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: 'Copperplate Light'; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#663234;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><ul type="disc" style="margin-top: 0in; "><li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: 'Copperplate Light'; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#663234;">View the world as the fount of glory that it is, and use this as delicious fodder for your writing or chosen art<o:p></o:p></span></span></li><li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: 'Copperplate Light'; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#663234;">Rise up from the umpteen demands on your life and stake out time for your creative self<o:p></o:p></span></span></li><li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: 'Copperplate Light'; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#663234;">Attract a conscious stream of achievement with your writing endeavors<o:p></o:p></span></span></li><li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: 'Copperplate Light'; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#663234;">Widen your “PVC pipe” to higher guidance<o:p></o:p></span></span></li><li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: 'Copperplate Light'; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#663234;">Burn through the thoughtless, negative junk that others have said about your creative dreams<o:p></o:p></span></span></li><li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: 'Copperplate Light'; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#663234;">Take small yet radical steps to change things up in your life so you can swim in a stream of inspiration</span></span></li></ul></div></span></div>Hi, this is Gina.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16883903969629644122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339281096191261913.post-36134762680788914092010-10-14T11:26:00.002-04:002010-10-14T11:29:31.034-04:00The E-Books Have It!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; "><div style="font-size: 12px; ">Thinking of publishing your book in e-format? <i>Publisher's Weekly </i>reported today that while sales in the print trade segments shrank in August, e-book sales had another strong month, jumping 172.4%, to $39 million, according to the 14 publishers that report sales to the AAP’s monthly sales estimates. </div><div style="font-size: 12px; "><br /></div><div style="font-size: 12px; ">For the year-to-date, e-book sales were up 192.9%, to $263 million. AAP said that of the approximately 19 publishers that report trade sales, revenue in the January to August period was $2.91 billion, making the $263 million e-book sales 9.0% of trade sales. </div><div style="font-size: 12px; "><br /></div><div style="font-size: 12px; ">Compare that to the end of 2009, when e-book sales comprised 3.3% of trade sales. Wow! The face of publishing continues to morph!</div><div style="font-size: 12px; "><br /></div><div style="font-size: 12px; ">Gina </div><div style="font-size: 12px; "><br /></div><div style="font-size: 12px; "><br /></div><div><br /></div><p style="font-size: 12px; "></p><div style="font-size: 12px; clear: both; "></div><div class="article_related" style="font-size: 12px; margin-top: 20px; margin-bottom: 15px; "></div></span>Hi, this is Gina.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16883903969629644122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339281096191261913.post-72615235430170597822010-09-14T15:08:00.004-04:002010-09-14T15:13:13.858-04:00PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR "WAKE"<div style="font-family: 'Gill Sans'; font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(107, 57, 20); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(107, 57, 20); font-size: 18px; "><br /></span></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Gill Sans'; font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(107, 57, 20); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(107, 57, 20); font-size: 18px; ">What a summer! Glad to live it, glad to leave it behind. (Many of you have shared a similar sentiment!) Holding steadfast to the principles in my book, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(107, 57, 20); "><i>Everything Matters, Nothing Matters </i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(107, 57, 20); font-size: 18px; ">has helped in navigating the miasma. Now it's a brand new day and the future is golden. Do you feel this, too?</span></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Gill Sans'; font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6B3914;"><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(107, 57, 20); font-size: 18px; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(107, 57, 20); font-size: 18px; ">During retreat time in Sedona recently, 350 of us pondered big questions about how to best live a sacred, profound and creatively fertile life, and help others do so, as well. We were encouraged to "pay attention to our wake" . . . that is, the trail we leave behind (like waves left by a boat) as we walk through our days. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 18px; ">Do you leave a trail of grievances or miracles? Judgement or love? Fear or courage? </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 18px; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 18px; ">As we lean into the autumn season, my intention is to live these answers with you. Here are a few places where I'll be during the coming weeks . . . or, as always, feel free to respond to this post or FB me!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:180%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6B3914;">Women Etcetera! Expo ~ Pittsburgh 2010</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6B3914;"><b><i>Author Showcase: Women Writers Discuss Their Books</i></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6B3914;">October 2, 1:30 p.m. (event is all day)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6B3914;">The Mall at Robinson</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6B3914;">Pittsburgh, PA</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6B3914;">FREE admission! FREE parking!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6B3914;">To learn more: <a href="http://www.womenetcetera.com/">www.womenetcetera.com</a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6B3914;">Women Etcetera! has assembled professionals from a wealth of industries to create a day of rejuvenation, education and entertainment--with an emphasis on health, happiness, style and a balanced life. Fitness sessions, fashion shows, live radio broadcasts, health screenings, local women's rock bands, local authors and more.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6B3914;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: GillSans; font-size: 24px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Gill Sans'; font-size: medium; color: rgb(107, 57, 20); "><div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6B3914;">Biz Chicks LunchMix, Lunch and Learn Program</span></div><div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6B3914;"><b><i>Who Do You Think You Are?</i></b></span></div><div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6B3914;">Wednesday, October 20, 1 p.m.</span></div><div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6B3914;">Law Offices of Meyer, Unkovic & Scott LLP</span></div><div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6B3914;">535 Smithfield Street, 12th Floor</span></div><div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6B3914;">Pittsburgh, PA 15222</span></div><div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6B3914;">$15 for members / $20 for non-members</span></div><div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6B3914;">RSVP: <a href="mailto:bas@muslaw.com">bas@muslaw.com</a> or 412.456.2587</span></div><div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6B3914;">If you don't know about Pittsburgh's BizChicks, you should! So...do you need a little dose of chutzpa to awaken to your greater self? Join me as I ask the provocative question, "Who do you think you are?" and presents 7 concepts that will help you live the fullest expression of the answer. </span></div><div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6B3914;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6B3914;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Copperplate Light';color:#000000;"><br /></span></span></div></span></div><div>Expressions Cafe and Social Club</div><div><b><i>The Conscious Writer: How to be Prolific in your Art, </i></b><b><i>your Heart and in your Life</i></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6B3914;"><div class="MsoNormal">Monday, October 25, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Corner of Spring and Mercer Streets</div><div class="MsoNormal">Harmony, PA 16037</div><div class="MsoNormal">Fee:<span> </span>$40 (includes a copy of E<i>verything Matters, Nothing Matters: How to Live with Exquisite Calm, Euphoric Creativity and Divine Clarity</i>)</div><div class="MsoNormal">RSVP: 724.452.0869</div><div class="MsoNormal">Back by popular demand, I will be offering my creativity workshop in this charming, intimate log cabin setting. Come and discover how to view the world as the fount of glory that it is, and rise up from the umpteen demands on your life to stake out time for your creative self. Bring your writing journal or laptop. Coffee and sweet treats will be available for purchase.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Write on, Gina</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(107, 57, 20); "><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; ">Gina's public appearance/speaking gig wardrobe is provided exclusively by personal stylist Bear Brandegee. Visit </span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(107, 57, 20); "><a href="http://www.bearbrandegee.com/"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; ">www.bearbrandegee.com</span></span></i></a><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; ">.</span></span></i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(107, 57, 20); "><br /></span></div></span></div></span></div></span></span></div></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6B3914;"><br /></span></div>Hi, this is Gina.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16883903969629644122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339281096191261913.post-87095153068085719792010-08-13T14:30:00.007-04:002010-08-13T14:36:50.506-04:00Friday the 13th . . . Good Luck for Writers!<span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:arial;font-size:12px;"><div style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; color: rgb(19, 102, 168); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I read this note from the editor of WritersMarket.com today and wanted to pass it along to all of you. As writers (and in life), we make our own good luck. Remember that . . . and after you're done working, play the lottery tonight! </span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; color: rgb(19, 102, 168); "><br /></div><div style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; color: rgb(19, 102, 168); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Write on, Gina</span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; color: rgb(19, 102, 168); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; color: rgb(19, 102, 168); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size:medium;">Over the years, I've met many writers who think their struggles as a writer are merely luck—bad luck. It doesn't matter how many stories exist to the contrary, these writers are convinced that finding success is like winning the lottery. And maybe there's something to that.</span></div><p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; "><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></o:p></p><p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; "><br /></p><p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I suppose if I was a writer who thought getting published was all about luck that I wouldn't invest too much energy on revision. After all, a lucky writer will find the right editor to fix up any manuscript flaws, right? I guess I wouldn't waste time building a platform or developing an audience either, because that surely comes to writers who are already lucky and/or published, which is the same as lucky.</span></p><p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; "><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></o:p></p><p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; "><br /></p><p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">There are examples of writers getting lucky, but let's face it: Most success stories come from writers making their own luck through working at their craft, networking (online and off), and persevering. Don't let yourself get caught in the trap of thinking you're not lucky enough to make it as a writer; you can make yourself lucky starting now.</span></p><p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; "><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></o:p></p><p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; "><br /></p><p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Until next we meet, keep writing and marketing what you write.</span></p><p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; "><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></o:p></p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><div><br /></div>Robert Lee Brewer<br />Senior Content Editor<br /></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Writer's Market</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span><a name="www_writersmarket_com_Sub_1" href="http://links.mkt230.com/ctt?kn=53&m=4536693&r=Njg3NTE0MDU5S0&b=0&j=MTYxODMwOTk1S0&mt=1&rt=0" style="color: rgb(19, 102, 168); text-decoration: none; font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">WritersMarket.com</span></a></span>Hi, this is Gina.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16883903969629644122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339281096191261913.post-25905090002604743182010-06-22T08:58:00.001-04:002010-06-22T09:00:42.841-04:00City of Alchemy<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); "><h3 class="UIIntentionalStory_Message" ft="{"type":"msg"}" style="font-size: 13px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; "><span class="UIStory_Message">The amazing young sage Tone Anogianakis flew to da 'Burgh from Vancouver last week to interview me about EMNM, higher consciousness, PGH's role in the planet's spiritual evolution, conscious parenting and other topics. Filmed at the West End Overlook....</span></h3></span></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://tonefloreal.com/city-of-alchemy/">City of Alchemy</a>Hi, this is Gina.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16883903969629644122noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339281096191261913.post-91172559771799082692010-04-28T07:38:00.002-04:002010-04-28T07:47:38.128-04:00Looking for a Book Publicist?Hey all,<div><br /></div><div>As a publishing consultant, I help match up prospective (and current) authors with whatever resources they need to get their message out into the world. If you have a writing project in the works and need an assist connecting with literary agents, small presses, larger publishing houses, POD companies, printers, typesetters, graphic design wizards and publicists, I'd be happy to work with you.</div><div><br /></div><div>Over the years, my author clients have asked me to directly serve as their agent or publicist. While I would love to be all things to all people, I can't . . . heck, no one can. Yes, I can make valuable contacts for you and get your ball rolling in the proper direction. With that in mind, here is a link to a pretty good list of reputable book publicists. Check it out!</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, serif; font-size: small; "><a href="http://bookmarket.com/101pr.htm">http://bookmarket.com/101pr.htm</a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>Hi, this is Gina.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16883903969629644122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339281096191261913.post-12678296126832896522010-04-19T10:22:00.001-04:002010-04-19T10:23:47.924-04:00Need a Shot of Creative Juice?I will be a guest on the Living at Yes radio show tonight @ 6. See Twitter banner on the right-hand column of this blog to connect!<div><br /></div>Hi, this is Gina.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16883903969629644122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339281096191261913.post-79636468542846200662010-03-23T17:05:00.002-04:002010-03-23T17:06:33.305-04:00Considering Publishing on Amazon Kindle?<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; "><table width="96%" border="0" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; "><tbody style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; "><tr style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; "><td width="28%" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 102, 0); ">Kindle Bestsellers</td><td width="28%" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; "> </td><td width="4%" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; "> </td><td width="40%" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 102, 0); ">Top Movers & Shakers</td></tr><tr style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; "><td valign="top" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; "><ol style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; margin-top: 4px; padding-top: 0pt; "><li style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; "><strong style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo</strong> - <em style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">Stieg Larsson</em>(Knopf)</li><li style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; "><strong style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">The Last Song</strong> - <em style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">Nicholas Sparks</em> (Grand Central)</li><li style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; "><strong style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">The Help</strong> - <em style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">Kathryn Stockett</em> (Amy Einhorn Books/Putnam)</li><li style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; "><strong style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">Shutter Island</strong> - <em style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">Dennis Lehane</em> (HarperTorch)</li><li style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; "><strong style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">Split Image</strong> - <em style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">Robert B. Parker</em> (Putnam)</li></ol></td><td valign="top" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; "><ol start="6" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; margin-top: 4px; padding-top: 0pt; "><li style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; "><strong style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">The Girl Who Played with Fire</strong> - <em style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">Stieg Larsson</em>(Knopf)</li><li style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; "><strong style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks</strong> - <em style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">Rebecca Skloot</em> (Crown)</li><li style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; "><strong style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">The Last Surgeon</strong> - <em style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">Michael Palmer</em> (St. Martin's Press)</li><li style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; "><strong style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">Fantasy in Death</strong> - <em style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">J.D. Robb</em> (Putnam)</li><li style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; "><strong style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">The Silent Sea</strong> - <em style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">Clive Cussler</em> (Putnam)</li></ol></td><td style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; "> </td><td valign="top" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; "><ol style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; margin-top: 4px; padding-top: 0pt; "><li style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; "><strong style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">Vows of Silence: The Abuse of Power in the Papacy of John Paul II</strong> -<em style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">Jason Berry</em> (Free Press) +8400%</li><li style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; "><strong style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">The Politically Incorrect Guide to the Vietnam War</strong> - <em style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">Phillip Jennings</em>(Regnery Press) +3800%</li><li style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; "><strong style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">Arthur and George</strong> - <em style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">Julian Barnes</em> (Knopf) +2400%</li><li style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; "><strong style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">Marshall's Law</strong> - <em style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">Denise A. Agnew</em> (Samhain) +1900%</li><li style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; "><strong style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">True Story: Murder, Memoir, Mea Culpa</strong> - <em style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">Michael Finkel</em> (Harper Perennial) +1900%</li></ol></td></tr><tr style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; "><td colspan="4" valign="top" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; height: 0px; ">For more information on how to publish your titles on the Amazon Kindle, <a href="http://click.publisherslunchdaily.com/cp/redirect.php?u=NTAwNnwzNDQ4OXxpbnNwaXJlQHpvb21pbnRlcm5ldC5uZXR8NDE1OTA5fDc2MDE2NDcwfDYxNjgzOA==&id=3754051" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; ">please click here</a>.</td></tr></tbody></table></span>Hi, this is Gina.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16883903969629644122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339281096191261913.post-65247989024244655452010-02-21T16:02:00.002-05:002010-02-21T16:04:09.593-05:00Are you ON THE VERGE of a creative breakthrough?Don't miss this evening program on March 2 in Pittsburgh. <div>Created and produced by yours truly.</div><div><br /></div><div>ON THE VERGE</div><div><br /></div><div>Check it out: www.epiphanyworks.org/events.html</div>Hi, this is Gina.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16883903969629644122noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339281096191261913.post-12195840055965410362010-02-11T08:14:00.003-05:002010-02-11T09:57:17.464-05:00Creating a Virtual Book Tour<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif; font-size: 19px; "><h3 style="margin-top: 12pt; margin-right: 0in; margin-left: 0in; page-break-after: avoid; font-size: 13pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Calibri, sans-serif;font-size:130%;color:#1F497D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal;"> <!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:17.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Garamond"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; "><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Garamond">My friend and colleague, Linda Handley, recently published an endearing children’s book, <i>Squeeky and Louie</i></span><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Garamond">, in honor of her father, F. R. Handley. (All proceeds from its sale benefit the American Cancer Society.) Linda had the brilliant idea to take Squeeky and Louie on a virtual book tour and was kind enough to share her process for doing so with all of you.</span></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Garamond"><b>What is a Virtual Book Tour?<o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Garamond">A virtual book tour is when an author visits websites, blogs and forums instead of bookstores, cafes and universities that a brick-and-mortar book tour would include. During each stop of the virtual book tour, an author "visits" a different website, blog or forum and may: be interviewed, post an original article or essay (guest post), have their book reviewed, answer questions from the blog's readers or any combination of the above. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Garamond"><b>Creating a Virtual Book Tour<o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Garamond">When creating a virtual book tour it is important to have a well thought out and organized tour. Here are five steps to get you started.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Garamond"> 1. Review your current contact and inform them that you are doing a tour; invite them to join you by 1) posting content to their own blog, 2) getting the word out to their social networks or 3) giving you general support.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Garamond">2. Search other blogs, forums and networks for additional sites that may be interested in hosting you. Keep in mind that you want to stay in your target area and not just invite everyone.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Garamond">3. Keep a schedule of your dates, keeping in mind that you will need to monitor and respond to comments.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Garamond">4. Promote your tour on your web site, social networks, blog and press releases.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Garamond">5. Thank the tour host and do any necessary follow-up.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Garamond">6. <span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Have an electronic copy of your media kit accessible on your web site or blog. This allows for easy sharing of your book information and you as an author.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Garamond, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; ">Tips provided by Lee Drozak of My Office Assistant: <a href="http://www.myofficeassist.org">www.myofficeassist.org</a>.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Garamond"><i> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; ">Read more about Squeeky and Louie:</span></i></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Garamond"><i>Squeeky and Louie</i> is a children's tale about two gray mice and their adventures with Gus the Cat. "What are little, loving mice going to do when they want to come out and play? This turns out to be an easy problem to solve. Well, with a little clever help the two mice lead the reader on a tale of adventure." The simple text is joyous and engaging, but this is really a story told through the marvelous illustrations. Youngsters will love all the captivating facial expressions and wonderful humorous detail on each page. <i>Squeeky and Louie</i> is a timeless classic to share with friends, family, and future generations. Visit <a href="http://www.squeekyandlouie.com">www.squeekyandlouie.com</a>.</span></p> <!--EndFragment--> </span></span></h3><div style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><div style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-family: 'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif; font-size: 14pt; "><div style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-family: 'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif; font-size: 12pt; "><div class="Section1" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: 0in; margin-left: 0in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin-top: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#1F497D;"><br /></span></p></div></div></div></div></span>Hi, this is Gina.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16883903969629644122noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339281096191261913.post-20616092625347065162010-02-01T13:40:00.004-05:002010-02-01T13:46:29.309-05:00Ten Changes in Publishing Since 2000<span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana;font-size:12px;">A lot has changed in the writing industry since <a name="www_writersmarket_com_Subscrib" href="http://links.mkt230.com/ctt?kn=3&m=4339076&r=Njg3NTE0MDU5S0&b=0&j=MTUwMTI4OTIyS0&mt=1&rt=0"><u>WritersMarket.com</u></a> started in 2000 (the same year that my first book, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;font-size:12px;"><i>The Highest and The Best,</i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana;font-size:12px;"> was released). Most of us used dial-up to search the Internet for publishers and agent. Social network wasn't in the English vernacular yet (Facebook didn't even start until 2003)</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:12px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana;font-size:12px;">Here are a few other things that <i>have </i>changed in the past 10 years, according to <a name="www_writersmarket_com_Subscrib" href="http://links.mkt230.com/ctt?kn=3&m=4339076&r=Njg3NTE0MDU5S0&b=0&j=MTUwMTI4OTIyS0&mt=1&rt=0"><u>WritersMarket.com</u></a>:<br /><ol><li>Many publications and publishers accept electronic submissions, whether via e-mail or online submission forms.</li><li>More than ever, writers have to brand themselves.</li><li>Writers must do the work of marketing and promoting themselves to agents, editors, publishers, and--ultimately--readers. (Wondering how? We recommend <a name="www_writersdigestshop_com_prod" href="http://links.mkt230.com/ctt?kn=8&m=4339076&r=Njg3NTE0MDU5S0&b=0&j=MTUwMTI4OTIyS0&mt=1&rt=0"><u>Get Known Before the Book Deal</u></a>.)</li><li>Personal sites and blogs have made it easier than ever for writers to develop an audience.</li><li>Ad-based print resources (i.e., Magazines and Newspapers) have struggled to adjust to the Internet with new content strategies and pricing models. (Market Watch, exclusively for<a name="www_writersmarket_com_Subscrib" href="http://links.mkt230.com/ctt?kn=3&m=4339076&r=Njg3NTE0MDU5S0&b=0&j=MTUwMTI4OTIyS0&mt=1&rt=0"><u>WritersMarket.com</u></a> subscribers gives you insight on the latest changes.)</li><li>Due to the tough economic times, publications are relying more and more on freelancers. (With over 8000 listings, <a name="www_writersmarket_com_Subscrib" href="http://links.mkt230.com/ctt?kn=3&m=4339076&r=Njg3NTE0MDU5S0&b=0&j=MTUwMTI4OTIyS0&mt=1&rt=0"><u>WritersMarket.com</u></a> can help you find these opportunities.)</li><li>The proliferation of online content has opened up more opportunities than ever for writers from all backgrounds.</li><li>There are more online tools than ever to help writers research and write more efficiently and knowledgeably.</li><li>Social media offers easy and ground-breaking ways to network with publishing professionals, other writers, and potential interviewees. (If you're not already a member, join the <a name="writersdigest_ning_com_" href="http://links.mkt230.com/ctt?kn=1&m=4339076&r=Njg3NTE0MDU5S0&b=0&j=MTUwMTI4OTIyS0&mt=1&rt=0"><u>Writer's Digest Community</u></a>. You'll become a part of a supportive and creative community dedicated to the art and craft of writing.)</li><li>Businesses and organizations now rely on great content to attract new customers, sell products, and spread important messages--the trend of content marketing. (Wonder how much you should charge for this content? The "How Much Should I Charge? Rate Card" gives you answers!)<br /></li></ol><br /></span></div>Hi, this is Gina.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16883903969629644122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339281096191261913.post-23032245678629254352010-01-12T08:53:00.003-05:002010-01-12T09:00:06.664-05:00Words of Writing Wisdom for Twenty TenAs we begin this new decade, we're reminded of how fast time flies. Have you set fresh writing goals for 2010? Don't break that resolution before even the first of the year's 12 months is over. Take courage from these words by one of my favorite writing teachers, Natalie Goldberg:<div><br /></div><div>"As writers we live life twice, like a cow that eats its food once and then regurgitates it to chew and digest it again. We have a second chance at biting into our experience and examining it . . . This is our life and it's not going to last forever. There isn't time to talk about someday writing that short story or poem or novel. Slow down now, touch what is around you, and out of care and compassion for each moment and detail, put pen to paper and begin to write."</div><div><br /></div><div>Onward and upward!</div><div>Best, Gina</div><div><br /></div>Hi, this is Gina.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16883903969629644122noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339281096191261913.post-36819853381754314522009-12-19T15:03:00.005-05:002009-12-21T08:16:15.568-05:00What Writers REALLY Want for Christmas<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Garamond;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">I’ve had several requests to revive a little Muse You Can Use ditty that I wrote circa the winter solstice in 2003. So here it is, my gift to all of you fabulous writers out there:</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Garamond;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; ">12 Days of Writers’ Wishes</span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Garamond;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">In honor of the season (and because “public domain” copyright law permits derivative works, ha, ha), I’m revising the lyrics from “The 12 Days of Christmas” to offer inspiration to those of you who’ve been working with the word this year. </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Garamond;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">I’ve omitted the “my true love gave to me” portion because we writers know that no one – not even our truest loves – can give us what it takes to inventively emote on the page. That gift comes from within and above. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Garamond;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">I’ve also deleted the “days” idea (wow, this looks nothing like the original work!) and replaced each verse with things that writers REALLY want—none of that piping and drumming nonsense. Of what use are milking maids or geese-a-laying anyway, unless you own a cow or have a fetish for large waterfowl?</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Garamond, serif;font-size:large;">What remains after all this editing are 12 gifts that I hope you will receive in the coming year, if you so desire!</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Garamond, serif;font-size:large;">12 Drummers Drumming = 12 percent (or more) royalties</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Garamond, serif;font-size:large;">11 Pipers Piping = 11 hours of heavenly solitude to write, write, write</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Garamond, serif;font-size:large;">10 Lords a Leaping = 10 larger-than-life fiction characters leaping off the page, including one bad-ass antagonist and a main character who makes your heart melt</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Garamond;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">9 Ladies Dancing = 9 muses dancing in your head, rousing your imagination all year long</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Garamond, serif;font-size:large;">8 Maids a Milking = milking each of your first-rights-only articles 8 times through serial rights</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Garamond, serif;font-size:large;">7 Swans a Swimming = 7 article acceptance notices swimming in your e-box</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Garamond, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">6 Geese a Laying = 6</span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">th</span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> sense about when your project is rightfully “done,” and the patience to keep incubating until it is</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Garamond, serif;font-size:large;">5 Golden Rings = 5 testimonials from readers saying how much they enjoyed reading you</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Garamond, serif;font-size:large;">4 Calling Birds = 4 call-in talk show offers, at least one in syndication</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Garamond, serif;font-size:large;">3 French Hens = 3 AAR literary agents offering representation (I don’t mean to infer that agents are hens)</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Garamond;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">2 Turtle Doves = 2 editors-in-charge of imprints, cooing for your manuscript (auction!)</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Garamond, serif;font-size:large;">A Partridge in a Pear Tree = a screen adaptation and a call from Oprah’s executive producer</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Garamond, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">HAPPY, HAPPY BLESSED HOLIDAY EVERYONE!</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Garamond, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Gina</span></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->Hi, this is Gina.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16883903969629644122noreply@blogger.com0