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Author's guide to book publicity

Social Media for Writers: A Complete Guide

In today’s age and time, social media has become an indispensable tool for writers to connect with their audience, build their brand, and promote their work. Whether you’re an aspiring author or a seasoned writer, harnessing the power of social media can significantly impact your writing journey in major ways than you can comprehend. Writers can leverage various social media platforms to maximize their online presence and reach a broader audience. Let’s find out how! 

1. Know Your Audience

Before diving into the world of social media, it’s crucial to understand your target audience, Identifying your readers’ demographics, interests, and preferences will help you tailor your content to resonate with them. Conduct surveys, engage in discussions, and analyze your book’s reviews to gain insights into your audience’s preferences. Understanding your readers will guide you in selecting the most suitable platforms for your social media presence.

2. Choose the Right Platforms

With an array of social media platforms available, it’s essential to focus your efforts on the ones most likely to yield results. Here are some popular platforms and their unique advantages:

Facebook: A versatile platform that allows you to create an author page, join writing groups, and share your blog posts or articles.

Twitter: Excellent for short and snappy updates, connecting with fellow writers, and participating in writing-related discussions using hashtags.

Instagram: Ideal for sharing visually engaging content like book covers, quotes, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into your writing process.

LinkedIn: A professional platform where you can connect with other writers, editors, and publishing professionals.

Pinterest: Great for showcasing visual inspiration boards related to your writing projects.

Remember, it’s better to excel on a few platforms than to be overwhelmed on many. Choose the ones that align with your writing style and resonate with your target audience.

3. Optimize Your Profiles

Consistency is key when it comes to branding. Use the same handle or username across all platforms to make it easier for readers to find and recognize you. Craft a compelling bio that highlights your writing niche, accomplishments, and personality. Use a professional profile picture, preferably a headshot, to establish a strong online presence.

4. Content is King

Create engaging and valuable content to capture your audience’s attention and keep them coming back for more. Here are some content ideas for writers:

Writing Tips: Share writing tips and advice that have helped you on your writing journey.

Behind the Scenes: Offer a glimpse into your writing process, research, and the journey of creating a book.

Quotes and Snippets: Share intriguing quotes or snippets from your books to pique readers’ interest.

Blogs and Articles: Write blogs or articles on writing-related topics or subjects that resonate with your audience.

Visual Content: Utilize images, infographics, and videos to convey your message creatively.

5. Engage with Your Audience

Social media is all about building relationships. Respond to comments, messages, and mentions promptly. Engage with your followers by asking questions, running polls, and encouraging discussions. The more you interact with your audience, the more invested they will become in your writing journey.

6. Consistency and Scheduling

To maintain an active and engaging presence on social media, consistency is vital. Create a content calendar and schedule posts in advance. This ensures you have a steady stream of content even during busy writing periods. Use social media management tools to schedule posts across different platforms efficiently.

7. Hashtags and Trends

Stay updated on writing-related hashtags and trends within the writing community. Hashtags can help increase your content’s visibility and connect you with like-minded writers and readers. Participate in writing challenges or online events to expand your network and gain exposure.

8. Cross-Promotion and Collaborations

Collaborate with other writers or writing-related businesses to cross-promote each other’s work. This can introduce your content to new audiences and create a sense of community within the writing sphere.

9. Track and Analyze Your Performance

Keep track of your social media efforts using platform analytics or third-party tools. Analyze which types of content perform best and resonate with your audience. This data will help you refine your social media strategy over time.

10. Balance Promotion and Connection

While it’s essential to promote your work, avoid being overly promotional. Focus on building genuine connections with your audience by sharing valuable content and engaging in meaningful conversations.

By harnessing the power of social media, writers can amplify their reach, build a loyal readership, and establish a strong personal brand. Social media success does not happen overnight, but with consistent effort and authentic engagement, your writing journey will undoubtedly flourish in the digital landscape. Happy writing and connecting!

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Writing Series

What Is Literary Fiction? Your Ultimate Guide

Literary fiction is a genre that encompasses a wide range of thought-provoking and artistic works. It often delves into complex themes, character development, and explores the human condition and emotions in a profound way.  It is not enough to just know what it is at surface level, we will explore the essence of literary fiction, its distinguishing features, and why it continues to captivate readers around the world.

Literary fiction refers to novels, short stories, and other forms of narrative writing that prioritize literary merit and artistic expression. Unlike genre fiction, which includes specific categories like romance, mystery, or fantasy, literary fiction tends to blur the lines and focuses more on character development, introspection, and exploring the nuances of language.

Characteristics Of Literary Fiction 

Literary fiction has in-depth and profound characteristics that cannot be missed even if we try, the various features stand out in literary fiction. 

 Depth and Complexity:

 Literary fiction often delves into complex emotions, thoughts, and motivations of characters. It emphasizes the exploration of inner conflicts and challenges, providing readers with a profound understanding of the human psyche.

Symbolism and Metaphor: 

Literary fiction employs symbolism and metaphor to convey deeper meanings and evoke emotional responses. It invites readers to interpret and engage with the text on multiple levels.

Stylistic Innovation: 

Literary fiction is known for its innovative and experimental writing styles. Authors may employ unconventional narrative structures, unique perspectives, or lyrical prose to create a distinctive reading experience.

Focus on Themes: 

Themes like identity, morality, existentialism, social issues, and the human experience are central to literary fiction. These themes encourage readers to contemplate and question the world around them.

               Importance of Literary Fiction

You may be wondering just how much importance literacy fiction holds to the reader—and writer. Well, you’re in for a shocker as its importance holds value both mentally and also ensures a good reader experience. 

Intellectual Stimulation:

 Literary fiction challenges readers intellectually by presenting complex ideas and perspectives. It encourages critical thinking, empathy, and fosters a deeper understanding of the human condition.

 Emotional Resonance: 

Literary fiction has the power to evoke a wide range of emotions, from joy and sadness to awe and contemplation. By connecting readers with the characters and their struggles, it creates a meaningful and emotional impact.

 Cultural and Historical Insight: 

Literary fiction often reflects the society and time in which it was written. It provides a lens into different cultures, historical events, and societal issues, helping readers gain a broader perspective of the world.

 Artistic Expression: 

Literary fiction celebrates the art of storytelling. It showcases the beauty and power of language, taking readers on a journey that transcends the boundaries of reality.

               Notable Literary Fiction Authors

Some author names just stand out in the spotlight, staring at our faces when it comes to literary fiction, their work cannot possibly be ignored and words cannot begin to describe the power their works hold on the minds of their readers. It never hurts to look out for authors dominating a specific sphere, especially if you are hoping to be a leading voice someday in that space. 

We have meticulously curated few list of literary fiction authors alongside their works, check them out and be amazed!

a. Jane Austen: Known for her social commentary and insightful character portrayals, Austen’s works like “Pride and Prejudice” and “Emma” are timeless classics of literary fiction.

b. Fyodor Dostoevsky: Renowned for his psychological depth and exploration of existential themes, Dostoevsky’s “Crime and Punishment” and “The Brothers Karamazov” are considered masterpieces of literary fiction.

c. Toni Morrison: Morrison’s powerful storytelling, rich symbolism, and exploration of African American experiences earned her acclaim with novels like “Beloved” and “The Bluest Eye.”

d. Gabriel García Márquez: Known for his magical realism style, Márquez’s “One Hundred Years of Solitude” and “Love in the Time of Cholera” blend reality with fantastical elements, captivating readers worldwide.

Literary fiction serves as a medium of artistic expression that explores the complexities of the human experience. Its thought-provoking themes, innovative writing styles, and emotional resonance make it a captivating genre. By engaging with literary fiction, readers can enrich their minds, deepen their empathy, and gain a broader perspective of the world. So, why not dive into the realm of literary fiction and embark on a journey of intellectual and emotional discovery.

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Writing Series

What is a memoir? An inside look at life stories 

Memoirs are a captivating literary genre that provides readers with a personal and intimate glimpse into someone else’s life. They allow individuals to share their unique experiences, perspectives, and life lessons, creating a powerful connection with readers. In this blog post, we will explore the concept of a memoir, its distinguishing features, and how it offers an inside look into the lives of its authors.

Understanding Memoirs:

A memoir is a non-fictional account of a person’s life, focusing on specific events, periods, or themes. Unlike an autobiography, which typically covers an entire life from birth to the present, memoirs concentrate on a particular aspect, time frame, or transformational journey. Memoirs provide deep insights into the author’s thoughts, emotions, and personal growth, offering readers an opportunity to relate, empathize, and learn from their experiences.

The Power of Personal Stories:

What sets memoirs apart from other forms of writing is their ability to convey the power of personal stories. Memoirists delve into their memories and bring forth vivid details, capturing the essence of their experiences. By sharing these stories, authors offer readers a chance to explore different perspectives, cultures, and moments in history. Memoirs can be inspiring, thought-provoking, and even transformative, as readers discover new ways of understanding the world and themselves.

Themes and Varieties of Memoirs:

Memoirs cover a wide range of themes and topics, making them accessible to diverse audiences. Some memoirs focus on overcoming adversity, chronicling personal struggles, and showcasing resilience. Others might explore a specific profession or field, offering insights into unique experiences. Memoirs can also center around travel, cultural exploration, and relationships. With such variety, readers can find memoirs that resonate with their own interests, challenges, or curiosities.

Authenticity and Vulnerability:

One of the most compelling aspects of memoirs is their authenticity. Since memoirs recount real-life experiences, readers can connect with the author on a profound level. The vulnerability displayed by memoirists fosters empathy and understanding. By sharing their flaws, insecurities, and lessons learned, authors create a sense of camaraderie with readers. This genuine connection between author and audience makes memoirs deeply impactful and emotionally resonant.

Memoirs as Learning Opportunities:

Beyond their entertainment value, memoirs offer valuable learning opportunities. As readers navigate the lives of others, they gain insights and perspectives that broaden their horizons. Memoirs can challenge preconceived notions, expand cultural awareness, and foster empathy. By immersing themselves in diverse memoirs, readers can enhance their understanding of the human experience, ultimately leading to personal growth and self-reflection.

Conclusion:

Memoirs provide readers with a unique opportunity to explore the lives of others in an intimate and authentic way. These personal narratives offer insights, provoke emotions, and foster connections between author and reader. Through memoirs, we gain a deeper understanding of different perspectives, cultures, and life journeys. So, whether you’re seeking inspiration, a fresh perspective, or simply a captivating story, delve into the world of memoirs and discover the transformative power of life stories.

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Writing Series

Symbolism: Definition and Examples

Symbolism is a powerful literary and artistic device that adds depth and meaning to various forms of expression. It allows creators to convey complex ideas, emotions, and concepts through the use of symbols, which are objects, actions, or figures that represent something beyond their literal meaning. From literature and art to everyday life, symbolism plays a significant role in enriching our understanding and creating a deeper connection with the world around us.

It is essential for writers to be able to understand the meaning and proper usage of the literary device in order to add more depth to their writing and convey deeper meanings.

Definition of Symbolism:

Symbolism is a literary and artistic technique that employs symbols to represent abstract ideas or concepts. These symbols can be objects, events, actions, or even characters that carry a deeper significance beyond their literal interpretation. Through the use of symbols, creators can communicate complex themes, emotions, or messages in a more evocative and thought-provoking manner.

Examples of Symbolism in Literature:

The Green Light in “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald: In this iconic novel, the green light at the end of Daisy’s dock symbolizes Gatsby’s dreams and aspirations. It represents his longing for wealth, success, and the pursuit of the American Dream.

The Mockingbird in “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee: The mockingbird symbolizes innocence and purity. It serves as a metaphor for characters like Tom Robinson and Boo Radley, who are unfairly treated by society despite their harmless nature.

The Conch Shell in “Lord of the Flies” by William Golding: The conch shell symbolizes order and civilization. It is used as a tool for establishing democracy and maintaining law and order on the island.

Examples of Symbolism in Art:

“The Persistence of Memory” by Salvador Dalí: The melting clocks in this surrealist painting symbolize the fleeting nature of time and the instability of reality.

“The Starry Night” by Vincent van Gogh: The swirling stars and sky in this masterpiece symbolize the artist’s inner turmoil and emotional state. It reflects the transformative power of art as a means of expressing one’s emotions.

“The Scream” by Edvard Munch: The distorted face and expressive colors in this painting symbolize the anxiety and existential dread experienced by modern individuals. It has become an iconic representation of human anguish.

Symbolism in Everyday Life:

Symbolism is not limited to the realm of literature and art; it permeates our everyday lives as well. Here are a few examples:

National Flags: Flags are symbolic representations of nations. They often incorporate colors, patterns, and symbols that represent a country’s history, culture, and values.

Wedding Rings: Wedding rings symbolize love, commitment, and the eternal bond between partners. They serve as a tangible reminder of the promises made during the marriage ceremony.

Traffic Signs: Traffic signs use symbols and colors to convey important messages to drivers. For example, a red octagon symbolizes “stop,” while a green circle symbolizes “go” or “proceed.”

Symbolism enriches our experiences and allows us to engage with the world on a deeper level. It encourages us to look beyond the surface and explore the hidden meanings embedded in various forms of expression. Whether in literature, art, or everyday life, symbolism sparks our imagination and invites us to contemplate the complex ideas and emotions that define the human experience.

In conclusion, symbolism is a powerful tool that enhances our understanding and appreciation of the world around us. It enables writers to convey profound ideas and emotions through the use of symbols, adding layers of depth and meaning to their work. From literature classics to iconic artworks and everyday symbols, the examples of symbolism are abundant. So, next time you come across a symbol, take a moment to delve deeper into its significance and unravel the hidden messages it carries.

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Writing Series

Seven Essential Elements of Book Proposal

Introduction:

When it comes to getting your book published, a well-crafted book proposal is often the key to capturing the attention of literary agents and publishers. A book proposal is your opportunity to showcase your writing skills, outline the content of your book, and convince publishers that your work has the potential to be successful. In this article, we will explore the seven essential elements that every book proposal should include.

Title and Overview:

The first element of a book proposal is a compelling title and an overview of your book. Your title should be concise and attention-grabbing, while the overview should provide a brief summary of your book’s main idea, target audience, and unique selling points. It should highlight why your book is needed and how it fills a gap in the market or offers a fresh perspective.

Author Bio and Platform:

Next, you need to introduce yourself as the author and provide a compelling author bio. Include relevant information about your writing experience, education, and any previous publications or accolades. Additionally, emphasize your platform, which refers to your ability to reach and engage with potential readers through your online presence, social media following, or any relevant expertise in your field. Publishers are often interested in authors who can actively promote their work.

Target Audience and Market Analysis:

Clearly define your target audience, demonstrating that you understand who would be interested in reading your book. Describe their demographics, interests, and why they would benefit from your work. Moreover, include a market analysis that outlines the current trends, similar books in the market, and how your book differentiates itself. This will showcase the potential market for your book and its commercial viability.

Detailed Chapter Outline:

Provide a detailed chapter outline that gives a clear structure of your book. Outline each chapter with a title, a brief description, and the main ideas or topics you will cover. This outline will demonstrate that you have a well-organized and logical approach to your book’s content. It will also give publishers a sense of the book’s progression and how it will engage readers from beginning to end.

Sample Chapters:

Include a sample of your writing to showcase your style, voice, and the quality of your work. Choose chapters that best represent your book and engage readers. Make sure your sample chapters are well-edited and error-free, as this will give publishers confidence in your writing abilities. Aim to captivate the reader and leave them wanting more.

Marketing and Promotion Plan:

Outline your marketing and promotion plan to demonstrate your commitment to actively promoting your book. Explain how you will leverage your platform, social media, personal connections, or any other strategies to reach your target audience. Publishers want authors who are invested in the success of their book and are willing to put in the effort to make it a bestseller.

Comparable Titles and Author Platform:

Finally, include a list of comparable titles—books that are similar to yours—in terms of genre, topic, or target audience. This helps publishers understand where your book fits in the market and how it distinguishes itself from existing publications. Additionally, reiterate your author platform and highlight any specific skills, experiences, or connections that make you uniquely qualified to write this book.

Conclusion:

Crafting a strong book proposal is essential for getting your book noticed by agents and publishers. By including these seven essential elements—title and overview, author bio and platform, target audience and market analysis, detailed chapter outline, sample chapters, marketing and promotion plan, and comparable titles—you will create a comprehensive and compelling book proposal that showcases your book’s potential. Remember to polish your proposal, proofread it carefully, and tailor it to each specific agent or publisher you approach. With a well-crafted book proposal, you’ll increase your chances of getting your book published and sharing your story with the world.

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Writing Series

All Right Vs Alright: Knowing The Difference


Introduction: 

Language is a dynamic system that evolves over time, and one aspect of linguistic evolution is the emergence of new words or changes in spelling and grammar. A common dilemma faced by writers and grammar enthusiasts is the usage of “all right” versus “alright”. In this article, we will be explore the difference between these two terms and provide insights into their correct usage to ensure effective communication. 

In a world of language and grammar, certain debates have persisted for ages, and one such debate revolves around the usage of the proper use of “all right” versus “alright”. These two terms have sparked discussions among language experts and writers alike. Are they interchangeable, or is one correct while the other is considered incorrect? In this article, we will delve into the nuances of these two phrases, exploring their origins, accepted useage, and the general consensus among grammar experts. By the end, you’ll have a clearer understanding of when to use “all right” and “alright” confidently in your writing.

  1. Defining “All Right” and “Alright”

“Alright” is a colloquial variant of “all right”. Both terms convey the same general meaning of being satisfactory or in a good or acceptable condition. However, the primary distinction lies in their formality and acceptance within standard grammar rules. 

  1. Origins and Historical Usage:

The term “all right” dates back to the 18th century, gaining popularity and acceptance as a standard phrase in written and spoken English. It has been widely used in literature, formal writing, everyday conversations. 

On the other hand, “alright” emerged as a phonetic and informal rendition of “all right” during the late 19th century. While it gained usage in casual conversations and informal writing, it has long been considered non-standard by many grammar experts and style guides. 

  1. The Grammar Debate 

Despite “alright” being frequently used in informal contexts, it remains a topic of debate among language purists. Many gramma experts argue that “alright” is an improper formation, as it merges “all” and “right” without the use of a hyphen. They contend that “all right” should be the preferred and correct form in formal writing. 

  1. Style Guide and Usage Preferences 

When it comes to usage in informal writing, style guides Singh as The Chicago Manual of Style and The Associated Press (AP) style book recommend using “all right” rather than “alright”. These guides emphasize adhering to traditional grammar rules to maintain consistency and uphold linguistic standards 

However, it’s worth noting that language is fluid and evolves over time. In more informal settings, such as dialogues in fiction or causal blog posts, the use of “alright” may be acceptable, as it can mimic natural speech patterns.

  1. Regional and Contextual Differences:

Usage preferences can also vary based on regional dialects and personal writing style. In some dialects of English, particularly in informal British English, “alright” has gained wider acceptance and usage, blurring the line between its colloquialism and formal correctness. It is essential to consider the target audience and the context in which you are writing to make an informed decision regarding its usage.

  1. Best Practices for Writing 

To ensure clarity and maintain a professional tone, it is generally advisable to use “all right” in formal or academic writing. This choice aligns with the recommendations of widely recognized style guides. Conversely, “alright” may find its place in less formal writing or when attempting to capture a specific character’s voice or informal dialogue.

Conclusion 

While “all right” is the preferred and more formal choice in most writing contexts, “alright” has gained traction in informal settings and certain regional dialects. Understanding the distinction between the two allows writers to make informed decisions when crafting their content. By using “all right” or “alright” purposefully and according to the appropriate context, you can enhance your writing and communicate your ideas effectively. 

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Writing Series

Polysyndeton- Its Effects and Causes

Being able to pull your readers into your story, invoking the deepest emotions within them and making your words more captivating and compelling, is a skill every writer seeks to achieve. Polysyndeton is a literary device that aids writers in curating captivating pieces of story-writing, speechwriting, contemporary writing, and can also be found in our everyday dialogues.

Polysyndeton is a Greek word, coined from ‘Poly’ and ‘Syndeton’ to mean ‘bounding together’. As its meaning, the term acts as a coordinating conjunction to give more feelings to your words, creating a list-like effect in order to pace your words, increase tension and emotions in your readers, and largely adds emphasis to words to ignite deep emotions within your readers.

Polysyndeton may be seen as a grammatical error (especially if your editing depends largely on Proofreading software), however, the literary device is indeed a valid use-age of words and can be found in the Bible, and other Shakespearean languages. 

      CONTENT:

  • Polysyndeton prolongs moments of reflections in your readers
  • It conveys overwhelming emotions within your readers
  • Polysyndeton adds emphasis to your words 

Polysyndeton are coordinating  conjunctions that help give more logical sequence to our words and speeches, examples of polysyndeton are; and, or, but, nor, so, for, nor. Below are some of the effects using polysyndeton in our word structuring. 

  1. Polysyndeton Prolongs Moments of Reflection in Your Readers :

Using multiple polysyndeton in a sentence or writing, highly changes the flow of your sentence structure. It breaks up the syntax of your words, leaving your reader with no other options than to pay close attention to each sentence building, drawing them deep into each word used.

Your reader ultimately has no other option than to be engrossed by the progression of your words, giving them the chance to reflect on their emotions. These feelings of reflection leave your readers hanging to your words and prolonging moments of reflection. 

  1. It Conveys Overwhelming Emotions within your Reader

When used in an emotional setting, the effect polysyndeton has on your readers can be very overwhelming, almost like a mental picture of listening to a speaker recalling an emotional time in their lives, hearing the sound of their voice breaking due to the intense emotions in them.

Polysyndeton when used to express emotional feelings or circumstances can awaken deep emotions in your reader, ranging from joy, happiness, sadness, curiosity, anxiety, etc 

  1. Polysyndeton adds Emphasis to Your Words

By the frequent use of polysyndeton, readers are easily entertained and highly influenced by your piece. It creates emphasis on words using a list-like effect, giving each word a valuable note of importance, thus, making your piece engaging and attention grabbing. It becomes difficult to lose your reader’s attention.

The device’s empathic abilities prick up the ears of your readers, making it a popular word choice amongst speechwriters.

For years the use-age of the literary device has been very popular, both in speechwriting and also in our everyday conversations.

Though it may be argued to be a simple literary and rhetorical  device, there’s no arguing the effects it has on improving our writing structure and tone. Its descriptive details and list-like effects is a proven powerful tool in literature and speechwriting. 

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Writing Series

Simple Steps To Writing Compelling Prologues


An effective and compelling prologue can be the perfect portal through which your reader can get a brief view into the world of your book, and the unimaginable feelings that come with it—but only if you get it right. Writing a compelling prologue can get tricky as you’re stuck between giving too much away or giving too little.

Prologues are mainly the introduction to the world of your book, novel or play. If you get it right, your prologue will pique the interest of your reader, setting a promising mood. However, this is not easy as it may seem.

Most writers are held down by the fear of giving too much away and losing their readers’ interest or held down by the fear of not giving enough and also losing their readers’ interest as well. Thus, the idea of writing a prologue can seem quite an intimidating challenge many would rather not partake in. 

This article helps to shed light on 5 simple, yet effective steps to employ in writing compelling prologues. 

  1. Consider your reasons to writing a prologue 
  2. Focus on the main characters 
  3. Consider your reader’s takeaways
  4. Subtle Foreshadowing 
  5. Avoid Info-dumping 

If you’re curious about ways that you can write compelling prologues that grab your reader’s attention then I’d advise you to continue reading!

  1. Consider Your Reasons To Writing a Prologue 

The why factor largely comes into play when deciding to write a prologue. Most writers do not have a strong enough reason to want to write a prologue and this can greatly affect the quality and effect of the prologue.

For some writers, having a prologue is the compensation for having a weak first few chapters in their book. This is because they feel if the prologue is good enough, the quality of the first few chapters are substituted for a prologue, which shouldn’t be so. If your prologue is good, it is only right for your follow up chapters to be equally as good, in order to not disappoint your readers. 

Noting the reason to write a prologue highly affects the quality of your prologue. The reason for writing a prologue varies between writers. Some reasons may be;

  • The need to introduce a certain character not mentioned in the first few chapters in order to create the right book suspense
  • Set the right mood around the central theme of the book
  • Highlighting on a moment of the book’s climax 

Whatever unique reason why you decide to write a prologue for your book, establishing that factor will help you towards tailoring your prologue to suit the interest of your readers.

  1. Focus On the Main Characters 

Focusing on the main characters of your book is equally as important when writing a prologue. Even if you’re seeking out to give general information about the theme or  location, or to simply give your readers information about your book, it is important to take note of character mentions. This helps pull your readers into the world you create, making them explore the world your book creates, even if it is briefly.

  1. Consider Your Readers Takeaways 

Prologues provides writers with the opportunity to establish the key themes of their books in the minds of their readers. In this regard, to effectively establish that, you must ensure to not derail from highlighting your key theme.

Focusing on your key themes helps you heighten the curiosity of your readers. If the theme of your story is an intriguing one, this will certainly heightened the anticipation of your reader. This makes your reader anticipate what the rest of the book or story promises. 

Noting that whatever you choose to expose in your prologue will have a great significance in the minds of your readers, this guide will help tailor exactly what you want your readers to take-away from reading the prologue. 

  1. Subtle Foreshadowing 

Remember not to give too much. It is difficult to create a balance between giving too much and giving too little, but with the right attention that can be achieved.

Forshadowing is quite delicate with prologues as this could either make your readers continue reading or drop your book back on the shelf. Remember that the need to pique the interest of your readers is your ultimate goal. 

In writing your prologue don’t be tempted to give too much information and ruin the suspense for your readers. Whatever information you are tempted to give, it shouldn’t ruin the anticipation and curiosity of your readers. 

  1. Avoid Info-dumping 

If you are writing as a startup or an experienced writer, you should note that sharing too much information in your prologue is a heavy risk you shouldn’t take.

As a writer, most times we get excited and eager to share so much ( especially when you’re proud of your book), but if you are looking to Make Money Through Writing, you might want to keep the prologue as intriguing as possible.

Avoid info-dumping thereby overwhelming your readers with too much information with just the prologue. 

Remember that the prologue is an introduction and not the main story itself. 

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Writing Series

How To Set Effective Writing Goals

Setting goals always seems like a very fun and liberating moment for everyone. Setting goals help you plan for success and make you feel like you’re in a better place in life and ready to take on the world. 

It is one thing to set goals and another to achieve them. It often takes the best of us with all the willpower to really get to ticking off our boxes we carefully mapped out. 

Setting writing goals is just as liberating as setting any other goals such as life goals, yearly goals or even our day to day goals. It is just as liberating and can get just as frustrating. It doesn’t matter how long you have been in the writing business, whether you are a professional or just starting up. 

Setting writing goals takes a lot of courage to see to execution and achieving them oftentimes requires you to look inwards, evaluating your stance in life and your visions for your career. It takes both mental and physical strength to set your goals, no matter how big or small they may seem. You should evaluate where you currently are in your writing career, where you want to be and most importantly how much you want to be where you want to be. All these should be your motivating factor as it can get busy juggling fulfilling your writing goals and your everyday life activities. 

Setting writing goals requires one to be intentional about how much effort you put into it becoming an actuality. Whether you have set out to write a novel, a biography, memoirs, an academia or simply casual writing for fun to perfect your skill, whatever goals you have set out to achieve must be realistic and should certainly lead you to achieving your dreams. 

This article carefully breaks down effective steps to take in your writing-goals setting and be on your way to having a successful writing career. 

Our goals can only be reached through a vehicle of a plan, in which we must fervently believe, and upon which we must vigorously act. There is no other route to success.” — Stephen A. Brennan

CONTENT 

  1. Know who you are
  2. Outline a long-term writing ambition
  3. Break your goals into smaller focus 
  4. Set realistic goals 
  5. Be flexible in setting your goals
  6. Celebrate your little wins 

Setting writing goals not only help you become a more focused writer, it also hones your skills and makes you a better person overall. These steps serve as guidelines for setting writing goals and achieving them. 

  1. KNOW WHO YOU ARE 

This has to do with looking inwards and knowing your personality and how you respond to goal setting. Everyone responds differently to the idea of setting goals and our attitude towards achieving them varies as well. 

In this regard, when setting writing goals, it should be taken into cognizance of your personality traits as well as your writing pattern, such as; 

  • What kind of person are you? : if you are someone who is very detailed in setting and meticulous about how you achieve your goals. 
  • How do you react to the ideas of setting goals?: your reaction to the idea of goal setting and your attitude in achieving them. This could be either enthusiasm or dread.
  •  How tight is your schedule? 
  • Can you make out time for yourself in your schedule? 
  • What type of writing do you do? 
  • What type of writer do you wish to become? 
  • Does goal setting motivate or stress you out?

All of these questions help you discover your personality and your writing pattern, they give clarity on what grounds to make certain goals upon and largely help ensure how timely you achieve your goals. Fitting your goals setting around your personality helps make the process easy and realistic. 

  1. OUTLINE A LONG-TERM WRITING AMBITION 

Outlining is the perfect way to give structure to your goals and takes you a step closer to achieving them. This is you writing down whatever your goals are. Long term goals tend to look scary when thought of, but by putting them down in your private notes, you are taking a step closer to achieving them. It doesn’t matter how unrealistic you think they look at first glance or the judgment and opinions of others. 

Taking note of your ideas and visions help set you in the right direction of confidently achieving them. It doesn’t matter how big they appear or how little you feel they are, do you wish to finally  complete your novel that is long overdue? Is your goal to become a New York best seller? Land speaking engagement deals from your writing? Pitching your book ideas to publishing houses Literary Agents and publishing houses, or finally getting to Self-Publishing your own book? The list goes on and on. 

Whatever long-term goals you have set out to achieve, take a moment to always note them down. This could be broken down into various categories to include;

  • Project Oriented goals
  • Publication Oriented goals
  • Personal growth goals 
  • Individual habit goals. 

Fitting your outlining into categories help you properly define what you wish to achieve and how to go about achieving them. 

  1. BREAK YOUR GOALS INTO SMALLER FOCUS

Prioritizing is the best way to go! Don’t overwhelm yourself with bulky ideas. When ideas overspill, the chances of ever getting them achieved is very low. 

In setting goals, learn to do things in phases. Of course, in their order of importance. In executing goals, the plan is to carefully map out action plans to achieve your ultimate long-term goals. This should be done taking into consideration their importance and what comes first m. 

Each phase/plan should be given the utmost attention until completion before moving on to the next plan of action. 

One will be faced with different processes or phases in achieving set goals, treating each process or phase independently as a goal itself helps you give it your very best. 

  1. SET REALISTIC GOALS 

As much as we’d like to tell ourselves that no goal is too big or small, setting realistic goals that you can actively work towards is the best way to follow. 

The best way to make our goals more realistic is to break them down into smaller bits of tasks. There are various factors to consider when setting realistic goals; 

  • Specificity: being specific about your goals make them more realistic. Setting practical goals make them actionable. Be specific about what you want to achieve. 
  • Measurable : Try setting measurable goals as this helps make them more realistic. 
  • Relevant: your goals should be relevant to you and your individual overall growth. Your goals should get you closer to achieving your dreams. Relevancy helps make your goals more realistic and achievable. 
  • Time-Bound: Be time conscious when setting goals. Giving deadlines to your goals makes them realistic and achievable. It also helps you plan properly on how to effectively execute them and move on to other goals. 
  1. BE FLEXIBLE IN SETTING YOUR GOALS 

Expect nothing while you hope for the best. Do not be heavily emotionally attached to your goals. Be open to the possibility of obstacles and learn to prepare your mind to adapt to changes in plan. You should prepare your mind when setting goals, of the possibility of unforeseen circumstances and be flexible to the mechanisms you employ in achieving your goals. 

Things may not go according to plan, circumstances may arise and it may seem your plan is taking longer than you expected to achieve, unexpected life events may delay your goals from becoming a success, learn how to adapt to changes in plan and be flexible when setting goals. 

  1. CELEBRATE YOUR LITTLE WINS

This cannot be overemphasized. Learn how to give yourself a tap on the back for a job well done as you go on to greater heights. Your little win is  what makes your overall success. 

It is easier for us to condemn our mistakes than it is for us to celebrate our efforts. Understand that the decision to plan and set goals towards becoming a better writer is itself a success. It takes courage for one to recognize the need to become a better person and to want to perfect a skill. It takes courage to evaluate your current stance in your writing career and put in the efforts to become better. 

It is admirable to find time from the exhaustion of everyday life to become a better writer or to achieve dreams. It doesn’t matter how slow the process may seem, it doesn’t matter the judgements and criticisms of others, it doesn’t matter if your goal is taking longer than you planned, or if you get to write fewer words a day than you’d hope to write. The most important is the fact that you have set out on a path to be ahead of where you currently are and that is worth celebrating a million times over. 

Nobody said it was easy, but you’ve found it worthy and for each milestone you accomplish, learn to celebrate yourself for it. It makes the journey so much better. 

Categories
Author's guide to book publicity

Book Marketing Vs Publicity: Knowing the difference

One would think as an author, you’d know all the available strategies to get your book to your target audience, and of course the differences between each strategy applied and in extension, their impact. 

One of the age-long misconceptions among authors is the differences between book marketing and publicity- many still think they are the same thing, when they obviously aren’t. Knowing the difference between book marketing and publicity is a great tool to your arsenal of strategies as this will help you fully grasp its importance in your author’s journey and how to make the right approach for meeting your goals as an author and measuring its progress. 

Book marketing and publicity, of course, both have their unique benefits and if you’re wondering which is a better approach? Well, the answer to that complex question is equally complex. However, to help point you to the right direction on what possible strategy to follow, we have outlined three major differences between book marketing and publicity. 

WHAT IS BOOK MARKETING ?

There is a very thin line that differentiate the concept of book marketing and publicity. When a brief explanation of what they both mean, we hope this is a start to your discovery journey of how different both concepts are.

Book marketing is all activities carried out towards creating awareness of your book, employing all Successful Tips Towards Book Publicity: mostly in the book markets( online and offline). This is done to generate massive book sales. 

WHAT IS BOOK PUBLICITY ?

Book publicity on the other hand, is all the activities that are carried out in order to attract the right attention to your book. The goal for this is to connect with the right media channels to in order to offer more opportunities for earned media/editorial coverage. This could either be done by a publicist after signing a deal with the aid of your Literary Agents

CONTENT

  • Book Publicity: A gateway for author credibility 
  • Book marketing provides control

The most self-accomplishing moment for every author is having their book published and ready to go into the world. That is often considered a big deal, whether as a startup or a professional. That moment is often associated with anxiety as most authors are overwhelmed by all available strategies to put in place to achieve success with their book promotion. 

At this point, you should have at the back of your mind, when promoting your book, that while book marketing and book publicity-as a book promotion tool, may seem similar, they are not. Educating yourself on the differences between both types of book promotion, will make everything easier ( this includes budgeting, time frame, the energy put into promoting your book and the overall success of your book). 

Let’s dive into the two basic differences between book marketing and book publicity in hopes that this makes it easy to design your book promotion plan. 

Book Publicity: A Gateway For Author Credibility

As mentioned earlier, the goal for book publicity is to connect with the right and relevant media channels, by the publicists in order to secure earned editorial coverage on behalf of the author. 

Here, your publicist organizes book conferences, where they present the work of the author to an array of media channels, magazines, broadcast channels, newspaper channels and all available channels that gives publicity to the author and his work, which eventually leads to interviews, Q&A sessions, giving credibility to the author. 

Book publicity is mainly focused on the media appearance of an author in turn  driving more opportunities to the author. 

Book Marketing Provides Control

In a wide contrast to what book publicity is targeted at, book marketing focuses on the promotional activities that ensures that your book is available to as many bookstores as possible. This, unlike with book publicity, gives a higher level of control to the author. The author exercises his control over the book through various means; launching an author’s website, advertising on available social media platforms all of which are targeted at book sales.

One distinct advantage to all of these means of book promotion, is the provision of analytical means: conversion rates, analyzing click rates and thus by measuring these tools (paid and unpaid), you can evaluate and formalize your strategy. 

FINAL THOUGHT:

While the differences between book marketing and publicity is glaring, both mean well for the author. They are promotional tools done to drive visibility of the author and their work. 

Where book publicity relies on trends, and editorial coverage is dependent on the editorial calendar; book marketing relies on the sales statistics and of course, the consumer market, both are ultimately done to give an author a lead way in the competitive market. 

It is advisable that both promotional tools, be efficiently employed for maximum result. The book market grows large each day with the competition on a rise as well. Many authors are actively competing for the same market space as you are, thus, you’d need all the help of all the tools you can get.