Yesterday, I went to an excellent short story writing workshop organised by the county council's Adult Learning Service with a wonderful lady, Morgen (with an 'e') Bailey. As well as being a tutor, she is also a writer, editor, blogger and speaker. She packed masses of information and advice into six hours without making us feel under pressure to produce anything - though we did, and lots of it. There were only three of us, so there was nowhere to hide, but the small group also made it feel very friendly and informal.I don't know about my fellow students, Anna and Lauren, but I came away with my head buzzing with ideas. I feel quite inspired today! Thanks, Morgen, for being so generous with your resources.
One topic we touched on very briefly was e-books. I have one available for the Kindle already (The Little Guide to Teaching Yoga in A Gym), but am wondering what to do with my next one, which will be another non-fiction title. Should I venture into Smashwords? Anyone have an opinion on this?
So happy you're feeling inspired. Ideas are the first step to a great story. Happy weekend.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Deanie. A couple of new tales are underway.
DeleteThinking of doing a collection of my published stories but don't seem to ever get round to it.
ReplyDeleteIs it just time that's stopping you, Wendy? The trouble is, we can't do everything. I'm taking advantage of a damp Bank Holiday to do some catching up - which is either sad or a good use of time, depending on how you look at it!
DeleteWhat a great workshop - only three of you, and yet so inspiring! Sorry I don't know enough to advise about Smashwords. Hope you're enjoying the Bank Holiday. Wet here too (West Midlands.)
ReplyDeleteThanks, Joanne. Maybe that's a clue. I've just had an email asking 'What's Smashwords?'
DeleteLove the sound of your inspiring weekend! Have you ever looked at the publisher Collca: http://www.collca.com/ - they publish short books. Another option is Amazon Kindle Singles, if the book is between 5,000 and 30,000 words. This is their own publishing option (not self-publishing) - they have to accept it and you get better royalties! Good luck. Smashwords is good for many people but Amazon sells more books.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Rosemary. I haven't heard of Collca, but will check it out, and Kindle Singles. Decisions, decisions!
DeleteWould like to know more about this e book thing. I mean how to go about it to publish a book.
ReplyDeleteIt's not difficult, but it does take some patience. There is lots of advice all over the internet, but you could start with the stuff my creative writing tutor Morgen has on her blog: http://morgenbailey.wordpress.com/ Good luck.
DeleteA very very belated reply to this page. Thank you, Julia, for the kind words. I love teaching creative writing and it's so lovely to hear that you enjoyed it. I recommend Smashwords because (a) they supply free ISBNs (b) you can list for free or anything over that (c) they lead to iTunes, Barnes & Noble etc. I have a guide on eBooking on http://morgenbailey.wordpress.com/ebooks/how-to-create-an-ebook with sub-pages on creating eBook covers and indexes.
ReplyDeleteI've put a couple of stories up on Smashwords, but am struggling with the IRS paperwork. Grr!
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