Laura Yorke is a veteran book editor, publisher, literary agent, and writer who has worked in the publishing industry for over 30 years. A native New Yorker, she began her career as an editor for Simon & Schuster, then moved on to G.P. Putnam, where she founded one of the most celebrated novelists Jodi Picoult. From […]
Archive | Book Craft
How to Avoid an Inflated Author Ego
It can happen to the best of us. Fame, fortune, and followers bloom, boosting confidence to unimaginable heights. But most people have folks in their corner to help keep egos in check. Family, friends, colleagues, kids, or, yes, a setback or negative comment may gently or harshly rebalance the scales. Authors understand this well; if […]
The Best Podcasts for Authors and Writers
Authors and writers have historically been lifelong learners. We love reading, attending conferences, actively engaging in writers’ groups, and immersing ourselves in traditional and non-traditional training programs. But if you’re looking for something “newish” in the professional development arena that you can enjoy just about anywhere and anytime, look no further than podcasts. And boy, […]
Writer’s Corner: Five Ways Social Media Can Negatively Impact Authors
The other day I was reading an article about cars and saw a response from an author. Her response was a post ranting and filled with expletives about her dissatisfaction with a purchase. Of course, it got a lot of traction. Not only did the author leave a permanent bruise on her reputation, but so […]
Advice From Pros: Patricia J. Rullo
Patricia (Pat) J. Rullo is an author, national radio talk show host, and sought-after speaker. In 2012, Pat teamed up with Salem Media Group to produce a radio talk show based on her book Speak Up and Stay Alive, the patient advocate hospital survival guide. The radio program was the first nationally syndicated show to address […]
Advice From Pros: Mary Gielow
Mary Gielow boasts quite an impressive resume. In the interest of space, I’ll pair her incredible feats down to a few, starting with her founding Luminaries—the author escort company in Milwaukee and Madison, Wisconsin. Since 1989 Luminaries has proudly offered what is widely considered one of the most experienced, reliable, and professional authors escorting companies […]
Writer’s Corner: Why You May Need a Literary Lawyer
When you have experts in your corner, your confidence soars. Your decisions are rehearsed and vetted, and preliminary questions are answered. It puts your mind at ease when you’re aware and informed. In essence, you’ve done your due diligence and now you’re ready to act. So, start building your expert network today and be certain […]
Writer’s Corner: Making the Home Office Work
Thanks to the growing trends of telecommuting and entrepreneurship, more people are working from home. This is especially true if you’re a writer or author. Whether your gig is part-time or full-time, you need a space to clear your head and have instant access to your tools, technology, and tomes supporting the transformation of inspiration […]
How To Thoughtfully Manage Social Media Without Letting It Take Over Your Life
Your author’s journey, your personal and professional reputation, can easily be overshadowed by social media. Yes, it’s a necessary part of building your author’s story and brand, but if you let it take time from your career and your life (or it becomes a negative emotional environment), social media can quickly derail your life. Thoughtfully […]
Writer’s Corner: The “Manuscript” Clause
When signing a book deal, one of the points of contract will be “The Manuscript.” This section outlines the expectations of the author for creating the book that will eventually make its way to the hands of readers. This clause is the center point of any contract, but the obvious inclusion is often cause for ignoring […]