Ask Sheila

Question: I keep hearing I need an “author platform” to improve my book’s chances of success. What is an author platform, and how do I start building one?   Answer: Your author platform is your ability to reach potential reader...

Question: What is Amazon Author Central, and how do I claim my author profile page?   Answer: Authors worldwide understand the importance of including Amazon.com in their book distribution plans, as it continues to be the world’s largest o...

Question: How can I find the right professionals to help ensure my published book meets all industry standards?   Answer: When you write and publish a book, the hope is to have your story, narrative, or message resonate with readers by entertain...

Question: How can I get a meaningful endorsement or testimonial for my book, and who should I ask?   Answer: There are many assets authors can acquire that will enhance a book’s sales potential, such as reader reviews, awards, and endorsem...

Question: How can I get started with blogging, and what types of things can I write about?   Answer: Having a strong online presence is more important than ever for authors, as digital marketing continues to be an essential component of an effec...

Question: How can I acquire more reader reviews for my book?   Answer: No matter a book’s publishing path and genre, reader reviews are an essential component of the marketing plan and overall success. This is because readers often rely on...

Question: What is the proper font, spacing, and overall format to use when submitting a book manuscript to an agent or publisher?   Answer: Formatting may not be something you think about as you draft your book manuscript, and that’s okay....

Question: How can I find a ghostwriter that is a good fit for my book idea?   Answer: Is there a message or story you are longing to share with the world, but are uncertain how to turn that idea into something others can benefit from and enjoy?O...

Question: How can I get more traffic to my author website where people can see my book?   Answer: The book market is a crowded place with thousands of new books released into the market every day. This can make it challenging for new or lesser k...

Question: How can I create an effective social media presence while keeping it manageable and easy to maintain long-term?   Answer: Any successful book marketing plan is one that includes both offline and online efforts. In-person events and sp...

Question: How can I use artificial intelligence (AI) to assist with writing, editing, and marketing my book/s?   Answer: You may not realize it, but you are likely already utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) in many facets of your life throu...

Disclaimer: This article provides an overview of the basic principles of publishing contracts and rights reversion in the United States. The material contained in this article is NOT legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client or other confi...

Question: What does it mean when writers are told, “show, don’t tell”, and how can this technique be used in storytelling?   Answer: The best stories are those that fully immerse readers and keep them engaged from start to fini...

Question: How can speaking engagements help create awareness and sales for my book, and where can I find speaking opportunities?   Answer: There are many ways, both online and offline, that authors can create awareness for their work and develop...

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and provides an overview of the basic principles of wills, trusts, and Literary Executors for authors. The material contained in this article is NOT legal advice, and does not create an attorn...

Question: What is direct selling for authors, and how can it be beneficial to an author’s distribution plan?   Answer: With all of the books competing for reader attention in the marketplace, it can be difficult to stand out and get notice...

Question: What is the Pomodoro Technique, and how can I use it to improve my writing productivity and get my book finished?   Answer: Writing a book can be very challenging, not only because the task of writing takes skill and effort, but becaus...

Question: How do I create an engaging setting and world for my story?   Answer: Writers can use many elements and techniques in their storytelling to draw readers in and take them on a memorable journey. A story’s setting and world are ju...

Question: What are beta readers, and how can I find a few to read my manuscript and provide feedback?    Answer: Before publishing a manuscript, there are several stages of editing and revisions an author must go through to produce the best...

Question: What are some great swag or merchandise ideas that I can give away or sell alongside my book?   Answer: In-person events such as festivals, fairs, signings, and conventions continue to be one of the most effective ways authors ca...

Question: What is the best way to find an agent to represent me and pitch my book to traditional publishers?   Answer: Acquiring literary agent representation can be a very long and challenging process for authors, but is a critical step for tho...

Question: What are the benefits of having a sell sheet for a book, and what should be included?   Answer: A must-have marketing asset in any author’s toolbox is the sell sheet. Also called a one sheet or sales sheet, this document is...

Question: How can I create a proposal for my nonfiction book that agents and publishers won’t be able to resist?    Answer: A nonfiction book proposal can be the ultimate selling tool when pursing a traditional publishing path. I...

Question: How can I make my book title stand out and grab reader attention, while also describing what my book is about?   Answer: One of the most important marketing decisions you will make prior to publishing your book is choosing your book&r...

Question: I’m not very experienced with social media and have no idea what to post. What can I share that will engage readers and help me build a following?   Answer: Having a meaningful presence on social media is an essential part of a s...

Question: I’ve finally completed my book manuscript! So, now what? Do I need to get it edited? Look for a publisher?   Answer: Congratulations on completing your manuscript! You are in an elite group of writers and should be incredibly pro...

Question: I’ve been trying to get my book into bookstores. Any ideas that can help?   Answer: Many authors dream of seeing their books on the shelves of their local bookstore or retail chain. It’s a commendable goal, but one where a...

Disclaimer: This article provides an overview of the basic principles of copyright and fair use in the United States. The material contained in this article has not been reviewed by counsel and in no way should be considered legal advice, and does no...

Question: If I want to make changes to a book that is already published, can I update the book or republish it?   Answer: When you write and publish a book, you are sharing your ideas, messages, creativity, and voice with the world. It can seem...

Question: I am completing a poetry book and wonder which is the best publisher for spiritual poetry, and, is an audiobook or podcast a better format than a book?   Answer: In the publishing world, poetry is categorized as its own genre due to th...

Question: What are some budget-friendly ways to promote a book that is already published?   Answer: The great news about book marketing is that no matter how long your book has been out in the marketplace, it’s never too late to put some e...

Question: Why do book categories matter, and how do I know which categories to select for my book?   Answer: Books can be about many different things: a fairytale romance, a post-apocalyptic world, a true story of triumph, or steps for self-imp...

Question: How can I improve my craft and become a better writer?   Answer: Great writing isn’t just about using ideas, words, and sentences to communicate or tell a story; it’s about knowing how to put these and other elements toget...

Question: I'm trying to self-publish a Sci-Fi book and found someone to do book cover artwork, but she's asking me for a template for style and sizing. Not sure how to answer this...can you help me?   Answer: Using the right dimensions or s...

Question: I have a great idea for a book but don’t know how to begin writing. Where should I start?   Answer: Having a great idea for a book is a wonderful gift, but can feel overwhelming if you’ve never written a book before! There...

Question: What are some ways authors can use content samples from a book in their marketing efforts?   Answer: An amazing book description, dynamic author website, and solid social media strategy should all be enough to entice readers to buy you...

Question: How do I write a great author bio for my book cover and website?   Answer: Your author biography or “About the Author” is your chance to let the reader know a little bit about you and any relevant information or credential...

Question: Where can I find a professional book cover designer?   Answer: Authors are tasked with making many important marketing decisions throughout the writing and publishing process. One of the more critical marketing decisions is the design...

Question: What are “hashtags”, and how and where should I use them?   Answer: The term “hashtag” may sound a little advanced or mysterious, but it’s really just a simple way to categorize online content to make it ...

Question: What are some important things to consider before I start writing my book?   Answer: Congratulations on having an idea for a book and preparing yourself to write an amazing manuscript! We know it can be tempting to dive right into you...

Question: How can I find out about upcoming book events such as festivals and conventions where I can sell my book?   Answer: In-person events such as festivals, fairs, signings, and conventions can be a very effective way to create awareness f...

Disclaimer: The costs associated with writing, editing, publishing, and marketing a book can vary widely. Any cost estimates or cost ranges provided below are based on what you might expect to pay in the United States. You must conduct your own rese...

Question: How can I stay on track with my writing and get my book finished?   Answer: Many writers underestimate the amount of time and dedication required to complete a book manuscript. The writing process can differ greatly from writer to writ...

  Answer: Writing a great book and getting it into the hands of readers can be a long, challenging journey. The writing process itself can be lonely and daunting, and with so many options for publishing, distribution, and mar...

Question: How can I start collecting people’s email addresses for email marketing purposes?   Answer: Email marketing has the power to be more effective than social media and paid advertising, and can help you connect with your audience be...

Question: What is “Save the Cat”, and how can I use it to outline my story?   Answer: Fiction writers often hear the terms “story structure”, “plot structure”, or “story arc”, but sometimes underes...

Question: How do I get my book made into a TV show or movie?   Answer: The demand from Hollywood for interesting ideas and stories has never been greater, and industry decision-makers love to find adaptable content in books. This is great news f...

Question: How do I write a great back cover blurb and book description?   Answer: We all know first impressions matter. When it comes to books, the first impression will often determine whether a book browser will be converted into a book buyer....

Disclaimer: This article provides an overview of the basic principles of copyright in the United States. The material contained in this article is NOT legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client or other confidential relationship between the...

Question: What are the best ways to present a book at a reading or book club?   Answer: In-person events continue to be one of the most effective ways authors can reach readers because readers love meeting authors face-to-face. These events give...

Question: How do you convert a written manuscript into an audiobook?   Answer: Audiobooks continue to be a growing segment of the publishing industry and are the ideal entertainment medium for commuters, busy individuals, the vision impaired, an...

Question: Where is the best place to find book illustrators?   Answer: Obtaining high quality illustrations is a critical part of publishing children's books, comics, and graphic novels. Knowing how to find the right artistic fit for your story ...

Question: How can I create or build my own author website?   Answer: An author website acts as a central “hub” for all other marketing, promotional, and branding efforts. It’s a place where potential readers, industry decision-...

Disclaimer: This article provides an overview of the basic principles of Bible copyright in the United States. The material contained in this article is NOT legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client or other confidential relationship betwe...

Question: What do I do to monetize my book?   Answer: Only a small percentage of authors are able to earn a comfortable living through just their books. Most authors must maintain other sources of income through unrelated careers or part-time jo...

Bi-weekly, ALC's Manager of Author Education Sheila Manna candidly weighs in on questions asked by you, the ALC community. She's tackling it all — book reviews, writing fiction based on real life, overcoming writing obstacles, understandin...

Question: What is essential for a book launch?   Answer: A book launch is a momentous occasion and serves not only as a means for releasing your book into the world, but also as a celebration for your amazing accomplishment. Congratulations on r...

Question: I'm currently struggling with why I should write my book and why anyone other than family would want to read it.   Answer: First, please know you are not alone in feeling this way. Most writers go through periods of serious self-doubt,...

Question: I am considering writing a novel based on my traveling experiences but not as an autobiography. Do you have any advice on how I can formulate my experiences into a fictional format?   Answer: It is very common for writers to use real l...

Question: How can we get a review in a newspaper or magazine? Libraries rely on these reviews before choosing to order copies of my books.   Answer: Book reviews are an essential element when trying to increase interest in your book, whether bui...

Question: What is the best way to find information and answers on the Author Learning Center website?   Answer: The Author Learning Center offers a vast library of resources covering topics related to writing, editing, publishing, and marketing....

Question: What can I do to get my book out there? What are some great, affordable methods of advertising?   Answer: To advertise something means to pay an outlet to publically promote your product. While there are plenty of free ways to promote ...

Question: What are the 3 best speech recognition tools for authors?   Answer: Adding a speech recognition tool to your writing toolbox can be beneficial for many reasons. Also known as “dictation software”, this technology converts s...

Question: What is the best source of information for someone who has never made a podcast? A step-by-step process would be great.   Answer: Podcasts are a fast-growing communication medium and can be a great way for authors to connect with reade...

Question: What is the best introduction for the next book when continuing the story from your first book?   Answer: It sounds like you are writing a sequel. By definition, a sequel is a publication that continues the story or develops the theme ...

Question: I have a book for children published on Amazon for age 6 to 12, what is the best way to promote it?   Answer: Book marketing can present some unique challenges for children’s authors because your book has to appeal to two groups ...

Question: I have had a severe hiatus from my writing schedule because of a crisis in my life. What are some best practices to get back on track and get my mind back into the game?   Answer: It’s not uncommon for writers to hit serious road...

Question: I have a self-published book that needs a marketing plan. What’s the number one, foolproof, best first step?   Answer: Two words – target audience. According to UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultur...

Question: I have two nearly completed manuscripts and I’m only interested getting them out as eBooks. How can I set about accomplishing this?   Answer: It’s no secret that eBooks have experienced growing popularity in recent years. T...

Bi-weekly, ALC President Keith candidly weighs in on questions asked by you, the ALC community. He's tackling it all — pen names, character development, editing tips, publishing options, marketing considerations...and more! Got a quest...

Question: How do you figure out which literary agent to go with? Are some better than others for the subject matter you are writing about?   Answer: The relationship between author and agent is symbiotic and represents a partnership, so it needs...

Question: I would like your advice on how to organize research when writing a novel.   Answer: Fiction writers are tasked with making their creations as authentic and relatable as possible, while also making them fun and engaging. The stori...

Question: How can I get my book edited without shelling out a fortune?   Answer: A well-crafted, polished manuscript won’t happen in the first draft. Period. Getting your story ready for readers requires thorough editing and revision. Give...

Question: How can an author use Kickstarter to fund a self-published book best?   Answer: From start-up companies to music, films to books, people use crowdfunding to finance their passions and creative projects. Authors can use crowdfunding sit...

Question: I would like to see a more comprehensive webinar on writing CONFLICT in fiction.   Answer: Thank you for the suggestion. This is something we will consider, as conflict is an essential element in any good story. Conflict arises wh...

QUESTION: I have written and published 4 books and I'm working on fifth. I have no idea on how to write a book outline.   ANSWER: Spoiler alert - Not all writers use outlines. Some prefer to swing from the hip. This method of winging it or ...

QUESTION: I don’t know anyone who personally believes they can write a “perfect” query letter. Can you give some guidance, with examples of good vs. bad?   ANSWER: If you’re struggling with crafting the “perfec...

QUESTION: I am a new author. Are there tax deductions available to authors?   Disclaimer: This article provides general self-employment tax information that may apply to writers and authors in the United States, depending on tax filing stat...

QUESTION: When should one use an addendum?   ANSWER: The front and back matter of a book contain important information about the author, publisher, and subject matter. These elements make a book appear more professional. They also provide reader...

QUESTION: How do you write a hook strong enough to make an agent fall in love with your characters and/or plot in the first five pages?   ANSWER: Literary agents receive an overwhelming amount of manuscript submissions on a weekly basis and lack...

QUESTION: Like many writers, I hate to grapple with the synopsis. I can write an interesting novel, I can almost manage an intriguing query, but the synopsis is torture…Are there any tricks to getting a synopsis as short and meaningful as poss...

QUESTION: Is it wise to use some tools from writing fiction while writing non-fiction?   ANSWER: There is a definitely a place for fiction writing elements and techniques in certain types of nonfiction. Creative nonfiction (CNF), also called nar...

QUESTION: I am writing a book for 6-8 year olds. I would appreciate any tips for a terrific book cover design. And, also any advice on book title choice.   ANSWER: Books that target children ages 6 to 8 typically fall into the “early reade...

Bi-weekly, ALC President Keith candidly weighs in on questions asked by you, the ALC community. He's tackling it all — pen names, character development, editing tips, publishing options, marketing considerations...and more! Got a quest...

Question: How do I oversee a work that has essays from contributing authors?   Answer: Personal essay, poetry, and story collections can be great avenues for publishing short form writing. Whether you’re pulling together a collection of ju...

Disclaimer: This article provides an overview of the basic principles of copyright in the United States. The material contained in this article is NOT legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client or other confidential relationship between the...

Question: I just published my first little poetry book. I am not sure how I have to promote my book to people so they can buy it.   Answer: When it comes to book marketing and selling, poetry books are no different from fiction novels or nonfict...

Question: How can I get a review of a couple chapters of my book so that I know I am on the right track?   Answer: Getting feedback on your manuscript is a critical part of the writing and editing process. While it can be intimidating to have ot...

Question: What are the basic steps to be successful at the beginning of writing your first book and autobiography?  Answer: I often say to writers, “Having an idea for a book is easy, but writing a good book to the finish and marketing it ...

Question: I have received several calls about converting my book to a movie, people claiming to have reviewed it and with connections to producers can advance it to film – for a fee of several thousand dollars.  Are all of these a scam?&nb...

Question: I have nearly finished draft 1 of my novel. I often hear people do multiple drafts. Is there a particular approach that seems to work best in editing each draft?  Answer: The book editing process can differ greatly for every auth...

Question: I seem to have trouble with character description at times. I would like to know how to build strong characters in my novels.  Answer: All great stories include several essential elements including a well-structured plot, an opening h...

Question: Are writing contests a realistic way to get published? How can you tell which ones are legit?  Answer: It’s always nice to have someone acknowledge your hard work, and it’s especially encouraging to be recognized with an a...

Question: Pros and cons of using a pen name. How would you actually do that?  Answer: A pen name is a fictitious author name that is used in place of a writer’s real name. Many writers consider using a pen name (also known as a “pse...

Question: As an author, what are some things you should pay close attention to as you revise your manuscript?  Answer: The manuscript revision process can be long, daunting, and frustrating, but is so important to the overall quality and succes...

Question: If you self-publish a manuscript, can that manuscript later be sold to a publisher and be re-published?  Answer: This question comes up in almost every traditional publishing-related webinar or workshop that I present. It’s...

Question: What are the three most typical mistakes authors make in the publishing process?   Answer: Mistake #1: Not understanding your publishing options There are more choices and opportunities than ever before to get a book into the hands of ...