The Time Is Right To (Self) Publish Your Book
Check out Brilliant Light Publishing’s growing list of author Resources and Links
Scroll through our Resources/Links page and you’ll quickly see there is a lot of support for a new writer, both online and in your own writing community. And established authors can use some guidance with the current online tools and social media resources available to nearly everyone who can plug in – tools that can be used to promote their writing talent and events.
Many writers are using social media tools and finding routes towards making themselves known to readers, eventually gathering an audience and a loyal following for their work. These new pathways often do not involve a traditional publishing house, as authors have turned to independent small publishers, cooperatives, online magazines and journals, blogs, and self-publishing. The Internet has indeed changed everything related to book publishing.
Robert Spencer’s historic novel, The Spinster’s Hope Chest was recently published by Maine Authors Publishing & Cooperative © Robert Spencer
Maine Author’s Publishing, current catalog cover © Maine Author’s Publishing
A recent visit to the Waterford Library in Waterford, Maine and an introduction to local author, Robert Spencer, opened my eyes to just how committed some writing communities can be to their fellow authors. His historic novel, The Spinster’s Hope Chest was recently published by Maine Authors Publishing & Cooperative.
Maine Authors Publishing & Cooperative is an example of one of the many independent book publishing resources available to a New England author looking to have their book produced and published. All aspects of book production are handled, from editing and proofreading, cover design and page layout, to printing, distribution, and marketing. Creating promotional author websites and educating authors about marketing are also part of their expertise. The Spinster’s Hope Chest by Robert W. Spencer and many other titles from local Maine authors are included in their current catalog. You can find them online at: www.maineauthorspublishing.com.
© Green Writers Press
© Green Writers Press
In a similar spirit of community and assistance to new authors ready for publication, Green Writers Press, located in Vermont and led by the talented publisher and poet, Dede Cummings, is dedicated to “spreading environmental awareness and social justice by publishing authors who proliferate messages of hope and renewal through place-based writing and environmental activism.” They are a small organization, but accept submissions of poetry, fiction, short story collections, environmental essays, children’s picture books, artwork, and photography, and also are interested in hearing from readers, writers, and artists. Writers can also submit to their literary magazine, The Hopper, for a small fee to offset costs, or on occasion for free by following their social media for free openings.
Michael Boezi, a former publishing professional, is on a mission to educate authors, and other creatives on the proper use of social media and the Internet to market their work.
Michael Boezi, a former publishing professional, is on a mission to educate authors and other creatives on the proper use of social media and the Internet to market their work. With his many years of experience in the publishing world, Michael started Control Mouse Media to teach authors how to avoid the pitfalls of book promotion. His knowledge of social media tools, online marketing, and using ethical ways of creating “a buzz” for content has helped many to achieve their publishing and publicity goals. His podcast, blog, and online materials are constantly being updated, and his expertise and track record has caught the attention of Emerson College, where he teaches a project-based grad-level course.
Levellers Press, located in Western MA, was formed in 2009 by the workers and owners of Collective Copies. © Levellers Press
One more honorable mention is Levellers Press, located in Western Massachusetts. Formed in 2009 by the workers and owners of Collective Copies, Levellers Press know all-too-well the ever changing publishing world. Owning their own printing and binding equipment, which allows for print-on-demand titles, has provided a vehicle for their authors, as well as other self-publishing writers. A quick look through their catalog of excellent books will inspire and encourage any author interested in stepping out.
At Brilliant Light Publishing, we’ll continue to update our Resources/Links page to provide information and support for writers and poets of New England. We look forward to featuring your work and listing your new book on our site!
— Scott Lesniewski, Contributing Editor, Brilliant Light Publishing