Publishing Trials

All things done decently and in order…

Last month was a lot like playing Scrabble, or Dominos. Here’s my progress report for August, and my goals for September. The stumbling block for August was distribution. Trying to find the best way to distribute the book and have control over the retail price is difficult and complicated - and not available to all publishers - especially small ones like mine.

In August:

1. Emeline is officially a young adult book (tween/teen/young adult) with revised text and brand-spank’in new covers. Much proofreading and editing has been completed.

2. Print Book run is in progress at Maple Press! The paperback will feature a full-color map insert which will be black and white in the Ingram Spark (Amazon) version.. The hardcover will be Smyth sewn, have spot-gloss on the cover and spine, and a full-color printed map on the end papers (front and back) one side glued down to the cover. None of these features will be in the Ingram Spark (Amazon) version. These printed copies will only be available from my website store, at school visits, or conferences.

3. I’ve applied to Small Press United for distribution, but won’t know for awhile if I’m accepted. Until then, I will distribute through Ingram Spark, and, of course, directly.

4. I’ve decided to write a chapter book next year for younger kids with Emeline’s story which will include all the lovely illustrations that I had to give up for the young adult version. (I’m having bookmarks made from them though, too.) I may call it Emeline’s Journey - but that seems too close to the other. You can help me name it! Submit your choice on the survey.

5. And I’ve decided to write a sequel to Emeline - A Journey: Emeline - Building a Life. I’ve only got ideas for it at this point. It’s still cook’in.

And in September:

I’m uploading Emeline - Journey to Ingram Spark which will populate the book on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and more.

I’ll list it on ACX (for audiobook), and Goodreads. Then Abigail can begin recording!

I’ll contact Ebooks2Go for the ebook conversion and distribution.

I’ll contact local libraries & schools. If your school would like a school visit, please suggest me! I can do Zoom visits.

In two weeks, I’ll have a new book review for you. This time it will be a picture book! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR SENDING IN YOUR OPINIONS ON THE SURVEY.

That’s it for now! I know everyone is busy with whatever they’re doing for school. Have a great September!