Writer's Digest March/April 2009 (PDF)
You'll Love This Digital Issue If:
- You want to know about self-publishing
- You are a fan of James Patterson
- You are a nonfiction writer
As editor-in-chief Jessica Strawser writes in the editor's letter, "Self-publishing is unquestionably one of the most volatile discussion topics in the writing community. Enthusiasm and strong opposition for the practice are equally common, and debate about its viability is never-ending." In this issue, Writer's Digest takes an in-depth look at self-publishing. Get the facts, stats, and explore the pros and cons of self-publishing versus traditional publishing.
In addition, read an exclusive interview with author James Patterson and a new column by an aspiring writer whose goal is to get an MFA. Download this digital issue today!
In This Issue You'll Learn:
- The difference between traditional publishing and self-publishing
- What a winning self-published book package consists of
- What to expect when taking a fiction workshop
- 9 steps for making your nonfiction book stand out
What You'll Find Inside This Issue:
Routes to Self-PublishingConfused about the different methods of self-publishing? We break down the basic types available so you can chart your own course.
Straight Expectations
BY JANE FRIEDMAN
It's time to get real. Here's our take on self-publishing as we know it.
The Stark Reality of Self-Publishing: An Agent's Perspective
BY ANDREA HURST
Today, writers need to weigh their options carefully,and know what they're up against. PLUS: A side-by-side comparison to traditional publishing, and self-pub statistics.
The Changing Landscape of Self-Publishing: An Insider's Perspective
BY JOE WIKERT
One day soon, the difference between getting a deal and going it alone may not be as drastic as you think. PLUS: Innovative models for independent authors.
Judging a Book by Its Cover
Learn the anatomy of a winning self-published book package.
A Writer's Market
BY ZACHARY PETIT
The winner of the WD Self-Published Book Awards proves that with a solid platform and a fresh take on a hot topic, a great book is always in season. PLUS: A complete list of competition winners and honorable mentions.
Readers Sound Off on Self-Publishing
We asked our readers who have self-published for their advice to other writers.
Bewitched
BY JORDAN E. ROSENFELD
Brunonia Barry cast a spell on the publishing world with an indie novel that became a breakout success.
The WD Interview: James Patterson
BY DIANA PAGE JORDAN
To a bestselling author, the words "brand" and "factory" might not sound like terms of endearment. But James Patterson has more stories to tell,and 100 million readers to soften the blow.
MFA Insider: A Boot Camp for Creative Writing
BY CHARLES JOHNSON
What should you expect from a worthwhile fiction workshop? PLUS: Announcing the WD MFA Confidential Contest.
Questions & Quandaries
BY BRIAN A. KLEMS
Idea protection, rejection thresholds and rules of style.
Ask the Pro: Romance Gets Real
BY KARA GEBHART UHL
First Impressions: Debut at 62
BY JORDAN E. ROSENFELD
Your Story: $52 Inside
BY CAROL JONES
Nonfiction: 9 Steps to Standing Out
BY SUSAN SHAPIRO
The Conference Scene: Northern Colorado Writers Conference
BY LINDA FORMICHELLI
Celebrating 90 Years of WD: Literary Heroes
We start the countdown to our 90th anniversary by tipping our bookmarks to some of the greats who have graced our pages since 1920.
Writer's Workbook: Revision and Self-Editing
Follow the Rules for Stronger Writing
BY NANCY LAMB
Put Your Fiction to the Plausibility Test
BY STEVE ALMOND
Strengthen Your Scenes With 5 Easy Tips
BY JAMES SCOTT BELL
Rescue Your Story From Plot Pitfalls
BY LAURA WHITCOMB
InkWell
EDITED BY ZACHARY PETIT
- Critiquing Critique Clubs
- (Over)Exposing Yourself
- You Can Write a Humor Books
- Michael Crichton's Top 5 Writing Lessons
- I See Dead People's Books
