Joseph’s Comments (group member since Jul 07, 2016)

Joseph’s comments from the Write Your Heart Out group.

Jude wrote: "So it's been a long while since I posted here. Long story short I STILL haven't published my ebook. The smashwords style really confuses me. I mean I have my manuscript and all. Is it just as easy ..."

Hey Jude,

Trust me, I've dealt with the Smashwords process many times, and it can get really confusing. There requirements and specifications are overly detailed. Typically, it all comes down to format.

To answer your question, sure I can take a look at it for you. I'll send you my email to your message inbox, and we can connect from there.

Very proud of you for completing your manuscript! The hardest part is writing it. You're over halfway there.

Hey Jude,

The price to publish can vary. It depends on the company, what all you need to be done as far as (editing, cover art, graphics, editor for the format, etc.). Do you have any companies in mind that you are considering going with?

Also, I suggested that having your own ISBN isn't a necessity for when you are just getting started with publishing through Smashwords. When I first started, I used their ISBN. It's definitely a matter of preference. However, remember that if you do choose to use your own you're going to pay to use that ISBN on each marketplace, you plan to sell on because it's a unique ISBN.

Hope these suggestions help.

Jude wrote: "So quick question... is it a good idea to buy an ISBN number for a book? If a publish through Smashwords, will they provide me with that?"

Great question Jude! I wouldn't suggest you purchase your own ISBN through Smashwords if you're just starting. Their ISBN should suffice. You still own all the rights; the only specification is you have to credit them in the Publication page of your book as the Publisher which is a great thing. It showcases that you had a Publisher behind you whether it's Smashwords or not. Great work on the progress you're making by the way!

Jude wrote: "Ive found that Social media such as Instagram a valuable way to spread the word about your book. A few dollars will make you reach a wider audience also."

That's correct! Running Ads on Facebook and Instagram will always help by increasing the reach. Many times people are looking for fresh new art, so if you target the right demographic, it will most definitely increase the number of eyes on your project.

Jude wrote: "So I think Im pretty much done with my book. Dunno if its in the proper format though. Where do I go to see if it's correct?

Also about designing covers, where can I go for that stuff? I was think..."

Hey Jude,

Are you referring to book format meaning margins and spacing or poetry etiquette?

There are so many book-editing apps and generators online that it should be too hard to find. A few of my favorites are the app Canva; there's GIMP and Adobe Spark. However, there are some online that you can google that will do most of the work for you instead of these I have sent you are covers made from scratch which might require a little graphics knowledge.

Also, I've never heard of https://www.fiverr.com/, but it seems you want a third party to make your cover which isn't a bad idea. I just visited the site, and it looks really cool.

This discussion will be about Book Marketing Ideas & Techniques. I've noticed a lot of you writers who have already published your works have been asking for advice on how to market your work. Let's discuss it here; maybe we can all help each other.

Remember, there is no one size fits all formula to marketing a book. Every product requires a different marketing strategy.

Jude wrote: "I finally have an outline of the poems I want to put in my first book. Now I just have to make the manuscript."

That's so dope!!!!! I can't wait to read your work!!!! Please let me know when everything is done and all ready to go. I'm ordering my copy first day.

Asie wrote: "Hello. I was recently offered a contribution based contract. I’m hesitant to sign because after reading about the definition behind it, I’m basically paying someone to own my work. Should I conside..."

Hi Asie,

So happy to have you apart of the group by the way. That's such a great question! I can tell you've done some research as well because contribution based contracts are exactly what you stated. It means you will be given a percentage for your own work in exchange for publication, distribution, and a name in the industry. I highly suggest you ask yourself what's your goal for your project. Do you want to make money? Are you trying to inspire people? Do you want to both? Are you trying to help or inform your audience? By asking yourself this question, it will help align your path.

I'm a self-publishing advocate, and I'm saying this after having been on both sides of the spectrum. I like the freedom to create as I please while not having to worry about the business aspect as much.

I highly recommend exploring the possibility of both because what works for one writer doesn't always work for the next.

However, I'm team Self-Publishing all the way! :)

Today, I've been putting the finishing touches on volume 2 of my Romantic Fiction Lust is Easy; Love is Complicated 2. Very inspired by this project.

What have you guys been writing?

Here are a few screenwriting contests that are cool for those of you intermediate and advanced screenwriters. These competitions are an excellent way to get your feet wet. Also, you get terrific feedback from Top Executives in the industry.

Script Pipeline:
Website: https://scriptpipeline.com/
Deadline: May 15, 2018

Through annual competitions, Script Pipeline discovers and develops writers of all levels for film and television, connecting them to producers, agents, and managers. Since 1999, several produced films and over $6 million in screenplay and TV pilot spec sales are credited to Script Pipeline’s unique, intensive process of long-term writer-to-industry facilitation. Contest finalists work with Script Pipeline’s executives year-round, getting broader exposure for their work in addition to continuous, one-on-one development assistance.

Los Angeles Screenplay Contest:
Website: https://filmfreeway.com/LosAngelesScr...
Dates & Deadlines:

October 16, 2017 Opening Date
January 15, 2018 Earlybird Deadline
April 15, 2018 Regular Deadline
July 15, 2018 Late Deadline
October 15, 2018 Extended Deadline
December 1, 2018 Notification Date
December 1, 2018 Event Date

The Los Angeles Screenplay Contest was created to introduce new screenwriters into the world of professional script-writing and to provide recognition to those new and unknown talents looking to forge careers as professional writers in the entertainment industry. As such, the contest stands as a testament to rewarding and recognizing quality storytelling through film.

The LA Screenplay Contest’s primary goal is to recreate the opportunity channels that were once more accessible in Hollywood when agencies were more diverse and working writers mentored bright prodigies. We bring the best of today’s screenwriters to those who seek their talent with the written assurance that we will never own, sell, or misuse any script that enters our competition.

Hollywood Screenplay Contest:
Website: https://www.hollywoodscreenplaycontes...
Deadline:

Earlybird Deadline: January 10, 2018
Regular Deadline: April 15, 2018
Late Deadline: June 15, 2018
Extended Deadline: August 10, 2018

Entry Fees:
Earlybird Deadline $30
Regular Deadline $35
Late Deadline $40
Extended Deadline $55

Welcome to the Hollywood Screenplay Contest
As one of the world's most visible and recognized screenplay competitions, our aim, quite simply, is to discover and recognize the brightest new talent and original voices in film and television storytelling from around the world. We identify emerging talent and place top new screenwriters firmly on the industry’s radar directly in the heart of the motion picture capital of the world.

Winners and finalists in several competition categories receive prizes and benefits including cash and exclusive packages from our industry leading partners, and priceless introductions and meetings with some of Hollywood’s top production companies and talent agencies. Over $45,000 in prizes, and services will be awarded to this year’s winning screenwriters and finalists alone.

I'm planning on submitting a few scripts as well. Although, I'm already staffed on a few shows I don't believe in passing up an opportunity.

Good luck and have a beautiful day!

At the end of 2017, I found myself searching for myself intensely. It was the first time I ever wanted to give up on my dreams. Out of fear, I was willing to step aside from the paper and pen and look into a new career perspective. My thoughts were no longer adding up the ideas I conceptualized. Then, suddenly, I was presented innovative view. It's that when you're dreaming begin to take a toll on you is when you know you've leveled up in life. I had to remind myself that if accomplishing a dream was comfortable everyone would be doing it. From there, I created a plan to write 250 words per day about how I felt during that day. This concept was my way of overcoming the idea of giving up. I had to remind myself of my inner greatness and how that played a part in my long-term success. I'm still nowhere close to where I want to be in my life. However, each day I'm growing; I feel myself getting closer.

I traveled the universe looking for you to find me.

Think of the time you first fell in love and write a story about it using 250 words or less.

Create a story about a time you felt alone using 10-words.

Think of a time you had to push yourself to do something you didn't feel like doing. What encouraged in that situation?

In 250 words or less describe a moment you had to push yourself to overcome a challenge in your life. What inspired you to get through this moment? Was it fulfilling in the end?

Anyone need help with putting your book in the proper format I may have some tools for you. Also, for anyone who wants to take on the creative challenge of designing your cover and don't know where to start I may have some tools for you.

Jude wrote: "I just finished Amor Towles A Gentleman in Moscow. Thick book, but I couldnt put it down. I also finished The Subtle Art of Not Giving A F**K. If there's anything I learned from that book it's that..."

I want to read The Subtle Art of Not Giving A F**K. You just inspired me to buy it after work. Also, let me know if you have any questions about publishing or how to start the process. I'd love to give you my resources to help you out.

Asie wrote: "I self-published a poetry book on Amazon last June. It felt amazing, but I still feel like I could’ve done more in regards to marketing and gaining more readers. What publishing tips do you have in..."

Good question! Typically writing and publishing the book is just the beginning. We live in the world where everything is mainly digital. When it's time to market, I tackle social media first. You can take $10 run an ad on Facebook and Instagram for seven days and put your book in 10,000 peoples face. Not saying that everyone will purchase a copy but your chances just sky-rocketed. Also, the most useful marketing tool I use is BOOK GIVEAWAYS. Every writer should give a few copies away. Nothing sells like word of mouth. Have a contest and get people involved in the possibility of winning a book. Goodreads also has a useful marketing ad program. I've been testing it, and it's good. $10 will get you a lot of views on the Goodreads Ad. Hope some of this information helps you. If I think of more useful marketing tools, I'll be sure to write them here. Lastly, there's no one size fits all formula for book marketing. Be creative and be social, and in time you will see results.

Does anyone have any new books they would like to share?