AboutRhonda Campbell Expertise I can answer questions on how to get published in magazines and newspapers; how to market your own books; how to earn a living writing; how to write press releases; how to find a good editor; how to edit your own books; finding a good printer; finding a good book illustrator; doing your taxes as a freelance writer.
Questions I can't answer include specifics around working with a print on demand publisher
Experience I have 36 years of experience as a writer (fiction and non-fiction). I am a book reviewer with Nielsen Media. I am a newspaper columnist and a reporter. I am a former radio station host and I am the editor of a literary newsletter, The Book Lover's Haven. I am also the author of more than 10 books.
Organizations Writer's Critique Group
Publications The Trenton Times
Philadelphia Trend
Sisters in Style
Essence Magazine
The Pittsburgh Quarterly
Obsidian II, etc.
Education/Credentials I have taken numerous writing courses on book, proposal and grant writing as well as marketing and promotion
Awards and Honors 100 Most Admired African American Women
Who's Who
Question I am writing a series of 3 kids books, with CD's to go along. How do I print & press the books? How long does it take? What type of format must I have the book in? Your help is greatly appreciated. Also if you have any suggestions for marketing the book? I am a teacher/musician. Thank you kindly.
Answer Congrats on working on your children's books!
I have never printed a book myself. I suggest you reach out to a printer for that.
About marketing and promoting you can:
1) Write and submit press releases through distribution services, the Associated Press, etc.
2) Attend writer's conferences and sell and sign your books/CDs at the conferences
3) Write articles for the Internet, newspapers and magazines and include your website and book titles in your byline
4) Contact your local newspaper and ask if you can write a regular column so you can build an audience for your work
5) Contact local, regional, national and Internet radio stations and request to be interviewed. Some good Internet radio directories at Blog Talk Radio, Live 365, Radio Locator and offline, Gebbie Press is a good resource
6) Create and mail 10-20 or more postcards to potential book buyers each week
7) Build a website and promote it weekly, if not daily
8) Join writers discussion groups (on and offline), actively engage in conversations and include your website URL at the bottom of each conversation string you submit
9) Contact libraries and bookstores to conduct book signings and workshops for children and their parents
10)Let your imagination and creativity work! There are many, many (if not countless) ways to promote and market your books!
