Many self-published authors (and other clients) have asked us for advice in setting up a website, We usually advise them to set up a blog instead of a static website. Most blogging solutions are free, they are designed to be extremely easy to use, and they invite the owner to keep posting new information, keeping things fresh and interesting for potential readers.
Read moreGoogle eBooks
Yet another Google service/business has been launched to very little fanfare. Google ebooks offer a huge number of current titles and also older works now out of copyright. Given that Google has scanned a vast swathe of print books already (outraging many publishers) one would think they have a big advantage over other ebook providers. Their ebooks are only available for sale or download in the USA at present, though they promise this will soon expand to other markets. The formats available are PDF and epub. Most older books are available only in PDF format. In a best-case scenario, Google will provide effective competition for Amazon in this market. Google is often good at keeping entry costs low, and may allow publishers to keep more of the sale price of their ebooks.
Book Trilogy
Our client had written three books that followed a largely linear narrative, and were strongly tied to a single location in Africa (the Rift Valley in Kenya). Our cover designs used that landscape as a reference, bringing in additional images specific to the particular volume in the trilogy. The title typeface is Fairfield and supplies a framework for all three covers.
A Brighter Future for the Book?
A prominent tech site has a thoughtful update on the ebook trade, and signs that it might be reaching some kind of maturity, or at least adolescence. On a closely related topic, another blogger points out that self published ebooks can be quite profitable, provided you already have a name/profile.
Selling Your Books Face to Face
Barry Wilks, author of Come in Spinner has this to say about selling his own book:
- I have found selling Come in Spinner at local markets successful
- I have sold 300 books in 3 months door to door in Armidale - cold canvas - and when I receive copies of Dolores I shall be making similar arrangements. I find personal contact with the customer at the door more successful than any other outlet.
- The postcard idea was unsuccessful — a complete loss. I didn't get one sale or even an enquiry. I sent out over 200.
Book Promotional Tips in One Place
We have collated all of the promotional ideas received from authors and put them here. Please let us know if you have anything to add to the list.