So I’ve submitted the memoir to publishers, I’m waiting for updates from the subject, and I’m wondering what to do next.
I have an idea for a story; I’m also tempted to write a follow-up to The Dog-walking Club; I have two completed novels I could edit and self-publish; or I could do something completely different.
Each month I write a column for a local magazine. It’s usually family-based with a God-spin. It appears to be well-received. People I haven’t seen for years, if we happen to bump into each other – metaphorically speaking in these pandemic times – will tell me how much they enjoy it. In fact it’s usually the first thing they say. Which is very lovely and encouraging to hear.
Maybe my writing ability is best expressed in short, humorous pieces; maybe this is my forte. People tell me they enjoy my novels but they don’t sell. That could be down to my lack of marketing skills or the vast numbers of similar books out there. But those sell so why don’t mine?
So my idea was to write 365 short pieces to make into a book. I already have loads of bits and pieces scattered throughout my computer files. I could draw some of those together, add extra, and, hey presto, I’ve got me boook! (Said for some reason in odd country accent.)
I shall mention it on FaceBook. See what reaction I get. I’ll be sure to let you know.
I think the 365 essay into a book idea sounds really good! In some ways this is like what Hemingway and other authors have done…. either in essays or short stories in a compendium. And, I *think* for some authors, the compendium’s easier access and easier way to introduce one’s self to new readers….. helped to actually market their novels more successfully!
With that idea in mind….. perhaps…. have you ever thought of writing specifically some short-story length pieces of fiction for this same sort of purpose?
Just my opinion…. but I tend to think it is much harder to get self-published books noticed by folks.
There might be some insider’s tips in some book or website that might give you some new ideas on how to get your self-published works more NOTICED. I suspect your lower than you would like sales DO NOT reflect in any way on the book’s qualities….. I suspect that many readers who would love the work are just not aware of it.
Thanks, PipeTobacco. I think I will do the compendium. As for getting noticed: I have done a course that promised me great results but somehow I didn’t get them. I think persistence is the answer though.
I think your next project should be whatever inspires you to be passionate about doing it!
Yes, I agree, Debra! Now I just have to decide!