After the Story is Written

I used to think after I wrote the words and sent the book to be printed I was finished. Not so! That’s when the real work begins as I strive to locate reviewers as well as readers. Like most authors, this phase pushes me w-a-y outside my comfort zone. It involves lots of additional writing and decision-making as well as additional expenses. Here’s my list of tasks for (WMS) When the Music Stops-Dance On:

1.  Send unbound copy of WMS to Library of Congress. ($)

2.  Have e-book produced to begin collecting reviews. This also becomes the kindle/Nook book.($)

3.   Send out book for review. ($ and free)

4.  Create WMS bookmarks, postcards and booklet. ($)

5.  Write updated text for website. Include: WMS as fact sheet, comparative analysis, author biographies, book synopsis (both overview and chapter by chapter), interview questions and free chapter and online materials.

6.  Pay for #5 design and printing ($)

7.   Write CCSS Reader’s Guide (a school guide for WMS that follows current English language standards).

8.   Blog about the book.

9.   Share information/ideas about the book on social media sites and become a guest blogger. (I’m available!)

10.  Create tip sheets and other freebie handouts for readers that subscribe to website.

11.  Secure sites for book launch events, readings and presentations (If you can help with this, I’d be grateful!)

12.  Write press releases and articles to promote WMS.

13.  Plan presentation content, giveaways ($), contests ($) and interview content.

14.  Purchase giveaway items for event drawings. ($)

15. Encourage readers to write and post reviews online (amazon, Barnes & Noble, Goodreads, etc).

I’m whittling down this list with the help of my publisher and web designer. I hope to be well ahead on most of the list before the first copies of the book reach my hands sometime next month**.

[**The publication date in the book will show Sept. or Oct. That allows  reviewers who require access to the book before the publication date ample time to review the book before it reaches book store distributors.]

If you wish to pre-order the book through me, just send me a note and I’ll let you know when you can expect to have a copy in your hands (hard copy or e-book).