I’m so grateful there are resources for people like myself who have never published a book before. I knew I was clueless when I started this process earlier this year, but I have something to share with the world, and I wanted to get it out there. Publishing a book can be overwhelming. Whenever I could, I hired an expert. Wherever I found free training or free advice, I listened. I have started to learn an new industry in just a few months. It has been a lot, but it has been a lot of fun.
After taking the course offered by Hay House Publishing, I hired a developmental editor through Palmetto Publishing to read my first draft and point me in the right direction. My project managers at Palmetto have been instrumental in crossing the finish line. I really want my best effort on this first book, so spending the money on this edit wasn’t optional, it was critical. I’m so glad I did. My first word count was 2500 and the book ended at 8000.
I spent several months having beta readers and even children (since it is middle grade non-fiction, the hardest kind of book to write, market and sell) read my book. After getting feedback on it, I made some changes and sent it off for the line edit. Again, 100% worth the extra money to do this right the first time.
I recently finalized the cover of my book, and got an ISBN number. Getting that number felt like I had given birth to my third child. So weird, but this project was like a pregnancy. I am now having experts work on the interior design and hoping to give birth to this book in December.
This week, I had a few days off from teaching, so I spent HOURS in front of my computer learning how to make a landing page, a mailing list, marketing plans, lead magnets and update my LinkedIn page. Good grief, my back hurts, I need more caffeine and a new work chair. I’m a very active person, and sitting at a desk for long hours is not my thing (coming from a writer this might be an issue) but I will always work better after a long run or a yoga class. You should try it. Endorphins are a huge boost to creativity.
If you want to see my landing page, and join my newsletter, you can be my first. But please be interested in mindfulness, breathing, children’s books, movement and/or exercise. We all know these emails are valuable and I do not want to waist anyone’s time.
mindfulmissd.com
What do you think of the new cover?
