In my world , if you count the shamesh, and if you believe the miracle of the Festival of Lights might just continue on into the next nite and the next. Well it just so happens that I DO believe in miracles and that miracles can continue on in our hearts and minds long after the eighth candle has burned down. The heart-warming message of Hannukah -- a time when the Jews survived Syrian oppression, a time when the holy oil in the Temple miraculously lasted eight days, a time of re-dedication -- continues to inspire on into the ninth nite, and the tenth ...
When I think of the inspiring stories in the air this time of the year, I can't help but reflect on the wonderful Christmas story, YES, VIRGINIA, THERE IS A SANTA CLAUS. To me this wonderful children's story serves to inspire "on past the eighth nite and the ninth ..." If we believe in miracles, whether it's Santa Claus or a candle burning when it should not, we carry in our hearts the year through, the possibility of all the things life might bring, all the hopes and dreams for our future, and our children's, and their children's.
Miracles can happen long after Hannukah and Christmas ... if we believe in the spirit and inspiration both of these wonderful holidays bring this winter season and the next ... and the next ... and the next ... IF WE BELIEVE.
Shalom to All and to All a Good Night!
:-) Jo(anne) Gregg Sundell
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Saturday, December 12, 2009
HEART 2 HEART ~ "Holiday Hearts"
This time of the year brings out the best in us all, no matter which holiday we celebrate. Smiles abound on faces of young and old alike. Whether searching for the perfect Christmas tree or the perfect box of candles for the family Menorah, it's a time for family and friends and romance. It's a time for our generous hearts to shine forth, right along with the lights on the tree and the candles in the Menorah. It's a time for Holiday Hearts.
Happy Hanukkah and Merry Christmas to one and all!
:-) Joanne Gregg Sundell
Happy Hanukkah and Merry Christmas to one and all!
:-) Joanne Gregg Sundell
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
HEART 2 HEART ~ California Dreamin` Can Be A Nightmare!
Writing-wise and Marketing-wise, that is.
This is a very BIG POND out here and only the heartiest of small fishies will survive to write another day!
I'm speaking here in the context of having moved recently to southern California from the Colorado mountains. Both are resort areas, admittedly created for fun in the sun, whether frolicking in the water or on the slopes. If you're a relatively unknown writer who wants only to frolick in the waters of the Pacific, no problem. But, if you're a relatively unknown writer who wants some recognition for your books, big problem.
OK, so how to solve the problem of being a small fish in a big pond. (Any suggestions will be appreciated.) Since we're on a "water" theme, I think it best to approach the problem, considering the glass half-full as opposed to half-empty.
The half-empty glass, I can speak to with authority. It's intimidating to open the doors of the local libraries, bookstores, and newspaper offices in southern California, enter, and have your book bag in hand, not to mention your hat! Folks smile and they're very nice, don't get me wrong, it's just that they've heard my story countless times already. I mean, this is the land of Entertainment Tonight, E News, and Access Hollywood! This whole state is full of successful achievers or wanna-be-achievers and I'm beginning to think you've got to start with a spot on Oprah before you can expect any notice. Well, other than having a blog article appear in the Chicago Sun Times last week, I'm not expecting a call from Oprah's production department.
Short of that ...
The half-full glass, I can also speak to with authority. This half is far more refreshing and rejuvenating. For starters, WRITE A GOOD BOOK. No, WRITE A GREAT BOOK. Then, pack up your ego in the book bag you tote from bookstores to libraries to newspapers and get your 15 minutes of fame with each and everyone who will listen. Think positively and wait for a good response. Right? At the very least, get your name out there any way you can. Now, living in the beach cities, I see the airplane signs trolling the skies over the beaches, advertising this new show or that new beer ... and the truth of it is I'm quite sure I can't afford the same advert for my books. So, I'm going to keep plugging away with my postcards and bookmarks and nudges to the newspapers and we'll see.
A girl has to try. How else can I be California Dreamin`!
:-) Jo(anne) Gregg Sundell
www.joannesundell.com
Meggie's Remains 7/09
The Quaker and the Confederate series 5/10, 9/10
This is a very BIG POND out here and only the heartiest of small fishies will survive to write another day!
I'm speaking here in the context of having moved recently to southern California from the Colorado mountains. Both are resort areas, admittedly created for fun in the sun, whether frolicking in the water or on the slopes. If you're a relatively unknown writer who wants only to frolick in the waters of the Pacific, no problem. But, if you're a relatively unknown writer who wants some recognition for your books, big problem.
OK, so how to solve the problem of being a small fish in a big pond. (Any suggestions will be appreciated.) Since we're on a "water" theme, I think it best to approach the problem, considering the glass half-full as opposed to half-empty.
The half-empty glass, I can speak to with authority. It's intimidating to open the doors of the local libraries, bookstores, and newspaper offices in southern California, enter, and have your book bag in hand, not to mention your hat! Folks smile and they're very nice, don't get me wrong, it's just that they've heard my story countless times already. I mean, this is the land of Entertainment Tonight, E News, and Access Hollywood! This whole state is full of successful achievers or wanna-be-achievers and I'm beginning to think you've got to start with a spot on Oprah before you can expect any notice. Well, other than having a blog article appear in the Chicago Sun Times last week, I'm not expecting a call from Oprah's production department.
Short of that ...
The half-full glass, I can also speak to with authority. This half is far more refreshing and rejuvenating. For starters, WRITE A GOOD BOOK. No, WRITE A GREAT BOOK. Then, pack up your ego in the book bag you tote from bookstores to libraries to newspapers and get your 15 minutes of fame with each and everyone who will listen. Think positively and wait for a good response. Right? At the very least, get your name out there any way you can. Now, living in the beach cities, I see the airplane signs trolling the skies over the beaches, advertising this new show or that new beer ... and the truth of it is I'm quite sure I can't afford the same advert for my books. So, I'm going to keep plugging away with my postcards and bookmarks and nudges to the newspapers and we'll see.
A girl has to try. How else can I be California Dreamin`!
:-) Jo(anne) Gregg Sundell
www.joannesundell.com
Meggie's Remains 7/09
The Quaker and the Confederate series 5/10, 9/10
Thursday, August 13, 2009
HEART 2 HEART ~ "The Blog Market"
The Blog Market, I've come to learn, is just as important as watching the stock market. Soooo ... I'm jumping into a scheduled blog tour for the month of September for my latest Five Star-Gale release, MEGGIE'S REMAINS.
Partering with Pump Up Your Book Promotion, I'm beginning work today on my posts, beginning with Blogcritics. This should be interesting and fun. My heroine and hero in MEGGIE'S REMAINS, Meggie and Ethan, deserve a bit of internet attention! In addition to hitting the Blog Market, I'm attending the Women Writing the West conference in September where I'll showcase MEGGIE'S REMAINS in their bookstore. The chair of the conference, Harriet Rochlin, is an amazing writer and an all-around great person! In October, I plan to participate in a signing at Barnes & Noble in Encino for MEGGIE'S REMAINS, where I'll sign along with members of Los Angeles Romance Writers. This should also be interesting and fun!
Last week I blogged with you about all of the changes, moving to southern California. Not much has "changed" since that post in that I'm still 63 and tech-challenged, and still watching my adorable, brilliant, 5-month old grandson. Where changes are needed rests on MY SHOULDERS. I'm so priviliged to be a published author and I need to step up to the promo plate and JUST DO IT!
Everyday for me from now on, is a day to learn and a day to lobby for my heroines and heroes!
Can we say, ENERGY, boys and girls!
:-) Jo(anne) Gregg Sundell
MEGGIE'S REMAINS
Five-Star, Gale, Cengage Learning
ISBN: 978 1 59414 788 3
Partering with Pump Up Your Book Promotion, I'm beginning work today on my posts, beginning with Blogcritics. This should be interesting and fun. My heroine and hero in MEGGIE'S REMAINS, Meggie and Ethan, deserve a bit of internet attention! In addition to hitting the Blog Market, I'm attending the Women Writing the West conference in September where I'll showcase MEGGIE'S REMAINS in their bookstore. The chair of the conference, Harriet Rochlin, is an amazing writer and an all-around great person! In October, I plan to participate in a signing at Barnes & Noble in Encino for MEGGIE'S REMAINS, where I'll sign along with members of Los Angeles Romance Writers. This should also be interesting and fun!
Last week I blogged with you about all of the changes, moving to southern California. Not much has "changed" since that post in that I'm still 63 and tech-challenged, and still watching my adorable, brilliant, 5-month old grandson. Where changes are needed rests on MY SHOULDERS. I'm so priviliged to be a published author and I need to step up to the promo plate and JUST DO IT!
Everyday for me from now on, is a day to learn and a day to lobby for my heroines and heroes!
Can we say, ENERGY, boys and girls!
:-) Jo(anne) Gregg Sundell
MEGGIE'S REMAINS
Five-Star, Gale, Cengage Learning
ISBN: 978 1 59414 788 3
Friday, July 31, 2009
HEART 2 HEART ~ "I think I can ... I think I can ..."
Remember THE LITTLE ENGINE THAT COULD? I'm attempting to chug along with the timeless theme from that little, yet oh-so-important children's story.
"I think I can ... I think I can ... I think in can ..." blog on a regular basis, just like most of the Writing World. Why this has been so difficult for me, is for me to figure out and improve on, for sure.
In my defense ... the moment I have something kind-of/sort-of figured out, something else has already come along as replacement. For example, when I finally got onto MySpace, happy as a clam that I have A Few Good Friends, many of you now are on Facebook. And not just Facebook ... but twittering, as well. I'm having to "spark" The Little Engine That Could on this one, too. I have a Facebook site but it does need a bit of tending. Ya think?
As for my blog, I've decided to tell the unfettered, raw truth, week by week, detailing my falling off the writing wagon and then climbing back on. It's a journey that you might find interesting, and during which I might find a kindred spirit or two.
My blog stands alone at the moment, other than being listed on MySpace, or on the website of some wonderful writing friends. My first challenge is to link up with other blogs, connecting and networking on a regular basis. I'll let you know how this goes. The truth of it is that I'm a 63-year-old, techno-challenged lass who is ever intimidated by the Big Bad Internet. Ah well, such if life.
HEART 2 HEART, I want to reveal to you that since my part-time move to California, I've fallen off the Writing Wagon. Separated from old friends, writing contacts, and those bookstores that would have me in for a signing, I feel pretty doggone alone. It's a tough world out here in the Los Angeles area. It's hard to get notice other than for road rage on the 405! Marketing is going "to be a bitch" out here, I'm sure of it. I'll let you know my trials and tribulations. Perhaps some of you will relate.
Next time I'll tell you why I'm out here in LA LA LAND in the first place. Perhaps, over the next weeks and months, we can climb back onto the Writing Wagon together. Stranger things ...
Tweet, Tweet!
:-) Joanne
www.joannesundell.com
author@joannesundell.com
"I think I can ... I think I can ... I think in can ..." blog on a regular basis, just like most of the Writing World. Why this has been so difficult for me, is for me to figure out and improve on, for sure.
In my defense ... the moment I have something kind-of/sort-of figured out, something else has already come along as replacement. For example, when I finally got onto MySpace, happy as a clam that I have A Few Good Friends, many of you now are on Facebook. And not just Facebook ... but twittering, as well. I'm having to "spark" The Little Engine That Could on this one, too. I have a Facebook site but it does need a bit of tending. Ya think?
As for my blog, I've decided to tell the unfettered, raw truth, week by week, detailing my falling off the writing wagon and then climbing back on. It's a journey that you might find interesting, and during which I might find a kindred spirit or two.
My blog stands alone at the moment, other than being listed on MySpace, or on the website of some wonderful writing friends. My first challenge is to link up with other blogs, connecting and networking on a regular basis. I'll let you know how this goes. The truth of it is that I'm a 63-year-old, techno-challenged lass who is ever intimidated by the Big Bad Internet. Ah well, such if life.
HEART 2 HEART, I want to reveal to you that since my part-time move to California, I've fallen off the Writing Wagon. Separated from old friends, writing contacts, and those bookstores that would have me in for a signing, I feel pretty doggone alone. It's a tough world out here in the Los Angeles area. It's hard to get notice other than for road rage on the 405! Marketing is going "to be a bitch" out here, I'm sure of it. I'll let you know my trials and tribulations. Perhaps some of you will relate.
Next time I'll tell you why I'm out here in LA LA LAND in the first place. Perhaps, over the next weeks and months, we can climb back onto the Writing Wagon together. Stranger things ...
Tweet, Tweet!
:-) Joanne
www.joannesundell.com
author@joannesundell.com
Saturday, June 27, 2009
HEART 2 HEART ~ "Virtual Writing"
Yes, I think writing has gone virtual, at least all marketing, promo, and networking is done out there in Internet Land. I know that many books are on the download now, read off the Net, too. So, what's left to do on the actual, factual, printed page?
THE BOOK.
The book, the story, the WIP, is not yet the sole domain of virtual reality. Many aspects of writing have gone virtual, but not "the book," not yet anyway. The moments between the writer and their PC are precious, indeed. The moments where the outside world is just that--outside--are treasured moments where we as writers can refuel and let out creative side go, go, go! Feels good, doesn't it? You bet.
The good side of virtual writing is that in this tough economy where books have also fallen victim, virtual marketing/promo/networking is pretty much FREE. The bad side of virtual writing is that if you're over the age of 50, give or take, you might find yourself caught on the Internet without the Net piece, ie, we senior types are challenged when it comes to ease in finding our way on and off blogs, on and off virtual tours, and on and off this link or that site, this pod cast or that chat group. But, such is life and thank goodness there's no Ugly in all of this. Good and Bad, but no Ugly allowed!
Virtually yours,
:-) Jo(anne) Gregg Sundell
www.joannesundell.com
Meggie's Remains 7/09
The Quaker and the Confederate series 5/10, 9/10
THE BOOK.
The book, the story, the WIP, is not yet the sole domain of virtual reality. Many aspects of writing have gone virtual, but not "the book," not yet anyway. The moments between the writer and their PC are precious, indeed. The moments where the outside world is just that--outside--are treasured moments where we as writers can refuel and let out creative side go, go, go! Feels good, doesn't it? You bet.
The good side of virtual writing is that in this tough economy where books have also fallen victim, virtual marketing/promo/networking is pretty much FREE. The bad side of virtual writing is that if you're over the age of 50, give or take, you might find yourself caught on the Internet without the Net piece, ie, we senior types are challenged when it comes to ease in finding our way on and off blogs, on and off virtual tours, and on and off this link or that site, this pod cast or that chat group. But, such is life and thank goodness there's no Ugly in all of this. Good and Bad, but no Ugly allowed!
Virtually yours,
:-) Jo(anne) Gregg Sundell
www.joannesundell.com
Meggie's Remains 7/09
The Quaker and the Confederate series 5/10, 9/10
Sunday, May 17, 2009
HEART 2 HEART ~ "Anyone Else Out There, OVERWHELMED?"
Updating my update (that has to be bad writing), keying in MySpace & Facebook & Twitter, OH MY, wishing GoodReads to all Americans in Oz, I'm feeling the pressure to "choose my site wisely." I love that line from Indiana Jones, don't you? We ever try to choose wisely, do we not? Surely you must have had to choose where you place your internet trust and energy, praying you won't be spammed in the process. Like you, I key on tiptoes most days. Like you, I hate to take a misstep and lose internet ground, not to mention access for days on end!
That being said, I must admit I'm OVERWHELMED by the availability of new sites, coming up frequently, new places to chat and to network and to market. This all sounds well and good but it involves time, time many of us don't have in the first place. I'm not stupid. I know the internet is a wonderful place to "chat and network and market," it's just that I haven't mastered the subtleties of HOW to do this with ease, and HOW to best use my time on the Net for good--for the good of my friends and fellow writers as well as myself. I'm working on it! I'm working on it because I've met wonderful folks on the Net, readers and writers all. A sure incentive to make good choices and choose wisely.
Good Reads :-) Jo(anne) Gregg Sundell
www.joannesundell.com
MATCHMAKER, MATCHMAKER
A...MY NAME'S AMELIA
THE PARLOR HOUSE DAUGHTER
MEGGIE'S REMAINS
THE QUAKER AND THE CONFEDERATE
~HEARTS DIVIDED~
~HEARTS PERSUADED~
That being said, I must admit I'm OVERWHELMED by the availability of new sites, coming up frequently, new places to chat and to network and to market. This all sounds well and good but it involves time, time many of us don't have in the first place. I'm not stupid. I know the internet is a wonderful place to "chat and network and market," it's just that I haven't mastered the subtleties of HOW to do this with ease, and HOW to best use my time on the Net for good--for the good of my friends and fellow writers as well as myself. I'm working on it! I'm working on it because I've met wonderful folks on the Net, readers and writers all. A sure incentive to make good choices and choose wisely.
Good Reads :-) Jo(anne) Gregg Sundell
www.joannesundell.com
MATCHMAKER, MATCHMAKER
A...MY NAME'S AMELIA
THE PARLOR HOUSE DAUGHTER
MEGGIE'S REMAINS
THE QUAKER AND THE CONFEDERATE
~HEARTS DIVIDED~
~HEARTS PERSUADED~
Monday, March 23, 2009
HEART 2 HEART ~ "Just Do It!"
On many a day, I'm like Scarlett O'Hara from GWTW, putting things off and worrying about them tomorrow. The problem becomes ... those tomorrows can add up and bite us in the YOU KNOW WHAT, and then we can't sit down to write Jack!
More than diving into our next manuscript, I'm talking about the other hat we writers often have to wear: OUR "PROJECT MANAGER GET OUR MARKETING DONE" HAT. For those of us who don't have personal assistants (cough cough) we have to learn to dance and chew gum at the same time. We have to learn to put time toward our current WIP while formulating a plan to market our next release, all the while dealing with any and all issues related to our past releases. Also, we have to keep our all important personal lives in check, as well. Please, in no way do I intend to complain here. I feel extremely fortunate to be published. I'm merely suggesting that we have to make sure we have a good view of all that's on our writing plate, and then make sure we have a good "overview" of the tasks at hand, and then "Just Do It."
We can't afford to be like Scarlett O'Hara and worry about it tomorrow, much as we're tempted. We all know that tomorrow only puts more on our writing plate ... soooo ... we should try to "Just Do It" and handle issues as they arise. This isn't always easy as life has a way of interrupting us ALL OF THE TIME. My latest game plan is to devote a set amount of time each and every morning to marketing tasks, et al, including the care and feeding of any writing organizations to which I'm lucky enough to hold membership, and networking with other writers.
Move over NIKE` ... I'm going to JUST DO IT, too!
:-) Jo(anne) Gregg Sundell
www.joannesundell.com
MATCHMAKER, MATCHMAKER
A...MY NAME'S AMELIA
THE PARLOR HOUSE DAUGHTER
MEGGIE'S REMAINS
THE QUAKER AND THE CONFEDERATE ~ Hearts Divided
THE QUAKER AND THE CONFEDERATE ~ Hearts Persuaded
More than diving into our next manuscript, I'm talking about the other hat we writers often have to wear: OUR "PROJECT MANAGER GET OUR MARKETING DONE" HAT. For those of us who don't have personal assistants (cough cough) we have to learn to dance and chew gum at the same time. We have to learn to put time toward our current WIP while formulating a plan to market our next release, all the while dealing with any and all issues related to our past releases. Also, we have to keep our all important personal lives in check, as well. Please, in no way do I intend to complain here. I feel extremely fortunate to be published. I'm merely suggesting that we have to make sure we have a good view of all that's on our writing plate, and then make sure we have a good "overview" of the tasks at hand, and then "Just Do It."
We can't afford to be like Scarlett O'Hara and worry about it tomorrow, much as we're tempted. We all know that tomorrow only puts more on our writing plate ... soooo ... we should try to "Just Do It" and handle issues as they arise. This isn't always easy as life has a way of interrupting us ALL OF THE TIME. My latest game plan is to devote a set amount of time each and every morning to marketing tasks, et al, including the care and feeding of any writing organizations to which I'm lucky enough to hold membership, and networking with other writers.
Move over NIKE` ... I'm going to JUST DO IT, too!
:-) Jo(anne) Gregg Sundell
www.joannesundell.com
MATCHMAKER, MATCHMAKER
A...MY NAME'S AMELIA
THE PARLOR HOUSE DAUGHTER
MEGGIE'S REMAINS
THE QUAKER AND THE CONFEDERATE ~ Hearts Divided
THE QUAKER AND THE CONFEDERATE ~ Hearts Persuaded
Friday, February 20, 2009
HEART 2 HEART - "The Write Coast"
Stomach in, chest out, and breathe!
In a few days time I'll be crawling into my suburu forester along with my two huskies and two cats and heading west, to southern California. This is a temporary relocation but it's for good reason. My baby girl is going to have a baby boy in a few weeks and I want to understand all the rules and regs to earn the title, Grammy Jo!
The fact that I'll be trying to write on the west coast and not from my cozy, loft office in the Rocky Mountains ... well, I'm a bit concerned about finding comfort in any "new writing spot." And then there's the other thing ... CA is a huge place and I'm a total unknown in any CA Hood. At least in the Rockies, my friends have ever been supportive of my writing habits, good and bad, and there are always a few friendly faces at signings. I hope the natives in southern CA are friendly!
I hope to hit the ground running (well, how about waddling) and join the local RWA chapter in Los Angeles, and approach many of the local libraries as well as bookstores. Hey, I used to sell Girl Scout Cookies and maybe my skills with mint cookie sales will come in handy. Naaa ... we all know mint cookies sell themselves. I've got it! I'll get myself lasered and lasicked and nail-polished and waxed and made over, and then maybe I'll get a library card or two, for starters.
I'll let you know if the Write Coast is Right for me. Tune in tomorrow ...
:-) Jo(anne) Gregg Sundell
www.joannesundell.com
author@joannesundell.com
MATCHMAKER, MATCHMAKER
A...MY NAME'S AMELIA
THE PARLOR HOUSE DAUGHTER
MEGGIE'S REMAINS
THE QUAKER AND THE CONFEDERATE-HEARTS DIVIDED
THE QUAKER AND THE CONFEDERATE-HEARTS PERSUADED
In a few days time I'll be crawling into my suburu forester along with my two huskies and two cats and heading west, to southern California. This is a temporary relocation but it's for good reason. My baby girl is going to have a baby boy in a few weeks and I want to understand all the rules and regs to earn the title, Grammy Jo!
The fact that I'll be trying to write on the west coast and not from my cozy, loft office in the Rocky Mountains ... well, I'm a bit concerned about finding comfort in any "new writing spot." And then there's the other thing ... CA is a huge place and I'm a total unknown in any CA Hood. At least in the Rockies, my friends have ever been supportive of my writing habits, good and bad, and there are always a few friendly faces at signings. I hope the natives in southern CA are friendly!
I hope to hit the ground running (well, how about waddling) and join the local RWA chapter in Los Angeles, and approach many of the local libraries as well as bookstores. Hey, I used to sell Girl Scout Cookies and maybe my skills with mint cookie sales will come in handy. Naaa ... we all know mint cookies sell themselves. I've got it! I'll get myself lasered and lasicked and nail-polished and waxed and made over, and then maybe I'll get a library card or two, for starters.
I'll let you know if the Write Coast is Right for me. Tune in tomorrow ...
:-) Jo(anne) Gregg Sundell
www.joannesundell.com
author@joannesundell.com
MATCHMAKER, MATCHMAKER
A...MY NAME'S AMELIA
THE PARLOR HOUSE DAUGHTER
MEGGIE'S REMAINS
THE QUAKER AND THE CONFEDERATE-HEARTS DIVIDED
THE QUAKER AND THE CONFEDERATE-HEARTS PERSUADED
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
HEART 2 HEART - "Going LARGE Isn't So Bad"
I just found out that my 12/08 release, THE PARLOR HOUSE DAUGHTER, is going into LARGE PRINT with Thorndike Press Historical Fiction, come April 15th! Bigger IS better, tee hee!
The primary market for my books sold to Five Star-Gale, an imprint of Cengage Learning, is the library market (BLESS THEM). If any of our books sold in original hardcover survive the numbers crunch, they have a chance to go into LARGE PRINT. These large print hardcovers (with Thorndike) are sold primarily to the library market as well. Most libraries have large print shelves and I'm sooooo happy that THE PARLOR HOUSE DAUGHTER will perhaps go on many of these shelves.
My second Five Star-Gale sale, A...MY NAME'S AMELIA, also went into LARGE PRINT, as a softcover with Wheeler Publishing. It did quite well for which I'm truly grateful. If I may add, the heroine in the book is deaf and I did the majority of my research at the Colorado School for the Deaf and Blind (CSDB). I happily was able to gift the school with a large print copy of AMELIA as well as donating the wall hanging I had made of The Manual Alphabet. I'm honored the school will display the wall hanging and put copies of AMELIA in their library!!!
So ... you can see why I'm saying that "going LARGE isn't so bad!"
:-) Jo(anne) Gregg Sundell
www.joannesundell.com
author@joannesundell.com
MATCHMAKER, MATCHMAKER
A...MY NAME'S AMELIA
THE PARLOR HOUSE DAUGHTER
MEGGIE'S REMAINS
The primary market for my books sold to Five Star-Gale, an imprint of Cengage Learning, is the library market (BLESS THEM). If any of our books sold in original hardcover survive the numbers crunch, they have a chance to go into LARGE PRINT. These large print hardcovers (with Thorndike) are sold primarily to the library market as well. Most libraries have large print shelves and I'm sooooo happy that THE PARLOR HOUSE DAUGHTER will perhaps go on many of these shelves.
My second Five Star-Gale sale, A...MY NAME'S AMELIA, also went into LARGE PRINT, as a softcover with Wheeler Publishing. It did quite well for which I'm truly grateful. If I may add, the heroine in the book is deaf and I did the majority of my research at the Colorado School for the Deaf and Blind (CSDB). I happily was able to gift the school with a large print copy of AMELIA as well as donating the wall hanging I had made of The Manual Alphabet. I'm honored the school will display the wall hanging and put copies of AMELIA in their library!!!
So ... you can see why I'm saying that "going LARGE isn't so bad!"
:-) Jo(anne) Gregg Sundell
www.joannesundell.com
author@joannesundell.com
MATCHMAKER, MATCHMAKER
A...MY NAME'S AMELIA
THE PARLOR HOUSE DAUGHTER
MEGGIE'S REMAINS
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
HEART 2 HEART - "Everyone Needs Their Own Writing Spot"
As I'm about to Leave the Comfort Zone of my "old writing spot," I'm more aware than ever that we all need Our Own Writing Spot!
Where, When, Why, and How we write is what makes us unique, of course. Unique is good, is it not? It's what the agents and editors want and hopefully, what we want, too. I subscribe to the school of thought professing that every step in the writing process is an important one. Every step matters. How do we feel when we sit down at our computers, both physically and mentally? Is it a good day or bad? Are we writing under pressure, under deadline, or can our imaginations wander where they will? Some might be able to write, unfettered by outside distraction, but not moi`! Some write according to a fairly-set schedule ... which is moi`!
How many of us have heard people say that they'd love to write a book but don't have the time? (Of course, they never talk about any skill that might perhaps be involved.) I believe that those who want to write but say they don't have the time, are unwilling "to take the time" to actually sit down and write. Writing takes discipline. Writing, to me, means I have to set down a time and place to write and stick to that schedule no matter what. Of course we all have "push" moments when we have to get something done, but that's not what I'm talking about here.
This is where "Our Own Writing Spot" comes in. If we have a place of our own and a time of our own to set down our thoughts ... viola` ... those thoughts actually come! Our unique story begins to unfold before our very eyes because we're snugly tucked in the warm, welcoming arms of our own writing spot, where we can trust our imaginations to soar!
Happy Writing,
Jo(anne) Gregg Sundell
www.joannesundell.com
author@joannesundell.com
MATCHMAKER, MATCHMAKER
A...MY NAME'S AMELIA
THE PARLOR HOUSE DAUGHTER
MEGGIE'S REMAINS
Where, When, Why, and How we write is what makes us unique, of course. Unique is good, is it not? It's what the agents and editors want and hopefully, what we want, too. I subscribe to the school of thought professing that every step in the writing process is an important one. Every step matters. How do we feel when we sit down at our computers, both physically and mentally? Is it a good day or bad? Are we writing under pressure, under deadline, or can our imaginations wander where they will? Some might be able to write, unfettered by outside distraction, but not moi`! Some write according to a fairly-set schedule ... which is moi`!
How many of us have heard people say that they'd love to write a book but don't have the time? (Of course, they never talk about any skill that might perhaps be involved.) I believe that those who want to write but say they don't have the time, are unwilling "to take the time" to actually sit down and write. Writing takes discipline. Writing, to me, means I have to set down a time and place to write and stick to that schedule no matter what. Of course we all have "push" moments when we have to get something done, but that's not what I'm talking about here.
This is where "Our Own Writing Spot" comes in. If we have a place of our own and a time of our own to set down our thoughts ... viola` ... those thoughts actually come! Our unique story begins to unfold before our very eyes because we're snugly tucked in the warm, welcoming arms of our own writing spot, where we can trust our imaginations to soar!
Happy Writing,
Jo(anne) Gregg Sundell
www.joannesundell.com
author@joannesundell.com
MATCHMAKER, MATCHMAKER
A...MY NAME'S AMELIA
THE PARLOR HOUSE DAUGHTER
MEGGIE'S REMAINS
Friday, January 30, 2009
HEART 2 HEART - "Leaving Our Comfort Zone"
In writing, "leaving our comfort zone," usually means "leaving our established genre," and branching out into others, yet untried. While this is the mark of a talented author (one who can write in multiple genres) this is not the comfort zone I'm talking about. I'm talking about leaving one comfortable writing spot for another.
Events are uprooting me from my comfortable, familiar, loft office in the Colorado Rockies ... where I find solace and many an idea pondering each passing snowflake ... and transplanting me, albeit part-time, to a windowless office/closet a block off busy Pacific Coast Highway, with the ocean minutes from my door. Needless to say, I don't have an office window where I can gaze out each day to watch the tide roll in and out and ponder the flight of the pelican or gathering of gulls ... where I perhaps might find the solace and fanciful ideas left behind in my mountain home.
There is another comfort zone I'm leaving, too. I'm leaving behind the local libraries and bookstores in the mountains and on the front range in Colorado, where they usually say "yes" to author appearances, and "yes" to ordering my books. I'm leaving the "hood" where most of the folks in my writing groups are members. Granted, because I live a relatively isolated life in the mountains, I'm not a frequent attendee at meetings, but I do enjoy the e-mail, snail-mail, and up-close-and-in-person-when-I-can collegial, companionable acquaintances with other authors based in Colorado. I've had the good fortune of seeing some of these talented authors at conference and hope to continue this in the future. Good luck for me that conferences are scheduled all over the country and soooo ... I'll especially try to attend those held in Colorado and in California.
I look forward to "hooking" up with some of the writing groups in California and perhaps will actually attend a meeting once in a while. Duh! I also look forward to getting a rhythm going, much like the ocean tide, of writing in both Colorado and California ... wherever GRANNY DAY CARE takes me!
And so ... I raise my 3rd cup of coffee so far today ... to you in a toast to Expanding Our Comfort Zones!
:)
Jo(Anne) Gregg Sundell
MATCHMAKER, MATCHMAKER
A...MY NAME'S AMELIA
THE PARLOR HOUSE DAUGHTER
MEGGIE'S REMAINS
Events are uprooting me from my comfortable, familiar, loft office in the Colorado Rockies ... where I find solace and many an idea pondering each passing snowflake ... and transplanting me, albeit part-time, to a windowless office/closet a block off busy Pacific Coast Highway, with the ocean minutes from my door. Needless to say, I don't have an office window where I can gaze out each day to watch the tide roll in and out and ponder the flight of the pelican or gathering of gulls ... where I perhaps might find the solace and fanciful ideas left behind in my mountain home.
There is another comfort zone I'm leaving, too. I'm leaving behind the local libraries and bookstores in the mountains and on the front range in Colorado, where they usually say "yes" to author appearances, and "yes" to ordering my books. I'm leaving the "hood" where most of the folks in my writing groups are members. Granted, because I live a relatively isolated life in the mountains, I'm not a frequent attendee at meetings, but I do enjoy the e-mail, snail-mail, and up-close-and-in-person-when-I-can collegial, companionable acquaintances with other authors based in Colorado. I've had the good fortune of seeing some of these talented authors at conference and hope to continue this in the future. Good luck for me that conferences are scheduled all over the country and soooo ... I'll especially try to attend those held in Colorado and in California.
I look forward to "hooking" up with some of the writing groups in California and perhaps will actually attend a meeting once in a while. Duh! I also look forward to getting a rhythm going, much like the ocean tide, of writing in both Colorado and California ... wherever GRANNY DAY CARE takes me!
And so ... I raise my 3rd cup of coffee so far today ... to you in a toast to Expanding Our Comfort Zones!
:)
Jo(Anne) Gregg Sundell
MATCHMAKER, MATCHMAKER
A...MY NAME'S AMELIA
THE PARLOR HOUSE DAUGHTER
MEGGIE'S REMAINS
Friday, January 23, 2009
HEART 2 HEART - "If you DON'T have the self-confidence gene, what really helps in writing is ..."
...to keep writing and keep selling! It's that simple and that complicated.
There are writers out there who are prettier, thinner, smarter, richer, more poised, more well-spoken, better at time management, listed in top 10 book sales throughout the land, agent-represented, signed on for speaking events at every conference, more savvy at working the Net, and far more expert in social and writing networking than moi`.
OK, that's a given. No danger in that whatsoever. I, for one, celebrate everyone's success. It's darn hard to write and darn hard to sell. Why do I insert "danger" into my narrative here? For good reason.
There's a fine line between celebrating the success of other writers and comparing ourselves to them -- setting ourselves up in some kind of phantom competition. Yes, to me that's dangerous AND whittles away at our self-esteem and self-confidence. We, none of us, have time for this nonsense.
It's critical to stay focused on our own writing and our own networking and our own place in today's writing world, doing our utmost to improve at every turn of the "crafting" page. We have only to learn from other writers, and if we're lucky enough to know writers who are also editors ... kismet! No better writing-self-confidence-builder!
Self-confidence for this writer, comes from writing and selling. I know I'm not the prettiest, the smartest, the most well-spoken nor the most talented, but darn it ... I'm selling to a fantastic publishing house and my books are selling to a fantastic library market ... and sometimes beyond. Because I know "it's darn hard to write and darn hard to sell," and because my books are selling ... I'm happy in my writing shoes and ever grateful to own a pair. A good fit builds self-confidence. It's that simple and that complicated.
A more confident `09 to us all!
Jo(anne) Gregg Sundell
www.joannesundell.com
www.myspace.com/joannesundell
MATCHMAKER, MATCHMAKER
A...MY NAME'S AMELIA
THE PARLOR HOUSE DAUGHTER
MEGGIE'S REMAINS
There are writers out there who are prettier, thinner, smarter, richer, more poised, more well-spoken, better at time management, listed in top 10 book sales throughout the land, agent-represented, signed on for speaking events at every conference, more savvy at working the Net, and far more expert in social and writing networking than moi`.
OK, that's a given. No danger in that whatsoever. I, for one, celebrate everyone's success. It's darn hard to write and darn hard to sell. Why do I insert "danger" into my narrative here? For good reason.
There's a fine line between celebrating the success of other writers and comparing ourselves to them -- setting ourselves up in some kind of phantom competition. Yes, to me that's dangerous AND whittles away at our self-esteem and self-confidence. We, none of us, have time for this nonsense.
It's critical to stay focused on our own writing and our own networking and our own place in today's writing world, doing our utmost to improve at every turn of the "crafting" page. We have only to learn from other writers, and if we're lucky enough to know writers who are also editors ... kismet! No better writing-self-confidence-builder!
Self-confidence for this writer, comes from writing and selling. I know I'm not the prettiest, the smartest, the most well-spoken nor the most talented, but darn it ... I'm selling to a fantastic publishing house and my books are selling to a fantastic library market ... and sometimes beyond. Because I know "it's darn hard to write and darn hard to sell," and because my books are selling ... I'm happy in my writing shoes and ever grateful to own a pair. A good fit builds self-confidence. It's that simple and that complicated.
A more confident `09 to us all!
Jo(anne) Gregg Sundell
www.joannesundell.com
www.myspace.com/joannesundell
MATCHMAKER, MATCHMAKER
A...MY NAME'S AMELIA
THE PARLOR HOUSE DAUGHTER
MEGGIE'S REMAINS
Saturday, January 17, 2009
HEART 2 HEART - "The Self-confidence Gene"
`Suppose there's a gene test for self-confidence? In writing, especially?
If so, one could make the argument that BEFORE one pursues a writing career, one might do well to get that gene test for self-confidence. If you have the gene, GREAT ... write on! If you don't have the gene, NOT-SO-GREAT ... but write on if you dare.
With four books to my credit, from Five Star-Gale, I'm not there yet in terms of self-confidence but I'm building up immunity against FEAR in the FACE of MARKETING as I go. With each book I'm realizing that I have to be doing something right to get published in this tough industry; especially in today's "tough" financial market. Despite the fact that I'm fortunate, indeed, to be published with such an accredited publishing house, and despite the fact that I've received national reviews for all of my books in release ... I still hem, haw, and shake in the knees during book talks, signings, and speaking appearances.
I'm remembering Stephen King's sage advice now, in his book, ON WRITING, where he advises us to turn all of our negatives and our rejections ... into positives. Because I was born without the Self-confidence Gene in "all things marketing" I, more than most, need to heed Mr. King's advice. Which I do. Uh, which I try to do.
Most importantly, I tell myself that every day tons of other writers are out there marketing and they can't all be GREAT AT IT! I do feel there's a support group out there, with many in the membership just like me, and needing to turn our fears into motivation and use all of that adrenalin for GOOD ... OUR OWN GOOD! I relax then, knowing I'm not alone.
Sooooo ... I take a deep breath, chin up chest out and all of that sort of thing, and remember that I've indeed achieved a lot, with four books published, and I owe it to myself, my publisher, and my stories to turn my chief negative --- my lack of self-confidence --- into positive motivation and go out there in Marketing Land and grab a bit of that elusive brass ring of self-confidence for myself! There should be plenty to go around on the merry go round of book promotion, right?
Let's all grab that Brass Ring of Confidence together,
Jo(anne) Gregg Sundell
MATCHMAKER, MATCHMAKER
A...MY NAME'S AMELIA
THE PARLOR HOUSE DAUGHTER
MEGGIE'S REMAINS
If so, one could make the argument that BEFORE one pursues a writing career, one might do well to get that gene test for self-confidence. If you have the gene, GREAT ... write on! If you don't have the gene, NOT-SO-GREAT ... but write on if you dare.
With four books to my credit, from Five Star-Gale, I'm not there yet in terms of self-confidence but I'm building up immunity against FEAR in the FACE of MARKETING as I go. With each book I'm realizing that I have to be doing something right to get published in this tough industry; especially in today's "tough" financial market. Despite the fact that I'm fortunate, indeed, to be published with such an accredited publishing house, and despite the fact that I've received national reviews for all of my books in release ... I still hem, haw, and shake in the knees during book talks, signings, and speaking appearances.
I'm remembering Stephen King's sage advice now, in his book, ON WRITING, where he advises us to turn all of our negatives and our rejections ... into positives. Because I was born without the Self-confidence Gene in "all things marketing" I, more than most, need to heed Mr. King's advice. Which I do. Uh, which I try to do.
Most importantly, I tell myself that every day tons of other writers are out there marketing and they can't all be GREAT AT IT! I do feel there's a support group out there, with many in the membership just like me, and needing to turn our fears into motivation and use all of that adrenalin for GOOD ... OUR OWN GOOD! I relax then, knowing I'm not alone.
Sooooo ... I take a deep breath, chin up chest out and all of that sort of thing, and remember that I've indeed achieved a lot, with four books published, and I owe it to myself, my publisher, and my stories to turn my chief negative --- my lack of self-confidence --- into positive motivation and go out there in Marketing Land and grab a bit of that elusive brass ring of self-confidence for myself! There should be plenty to go around on the merry go round of book promotion, right?
Let's all grab that Brass Ring of Confidence together,
Jo(anne) Gregg Sundell
MATCHMAKER, MATCHMAKER
A...MY NAME'S AMELIA
THE PARLOR HOUSE DAUGHTER
MEGGIE'S REMAINS
Friday, January 9, 2009
HEART 2 HEART - "Book Cents"
With the New Year underway and in the midst of marketing my third release from Five Star-Gale, trying to juggle time needed for completing manuscripts and time needed for well ... the rest of the "to-dos" in life ... I made a resolution to have better BOOK CENTS this year!
Yep, I "also" made a resolution to be a better blogger, too. Time will tell.
What do I mean by BOOK CENTS?
I mean that every minute of my day that goes toward writing should be a minute well spent.
I mean that every word keyed toward my WIP should be a word well put.
I mean that time and effort involved in Virtual Blog Touring should not be time wasted.
I mean that every marketing avenue pursued, should have a positive exit plan with projected sales numbers in mind.
I mean that I will try to get "booked" in stores for signing events that will showcase my latest release to best advantage.
I mean that I will work on getting out there ... whether on the Net or in Person ... and do my best to engage and interest more readers in my historical romances.
I mean that I will do my best to "dance and chew gum at the same time." I will do my best to write, while at the same time market, while at the same time, book appearances at stores and libraries.
MOST OF ALL, I mean that I will continue to value my relationships with acquisitions agents, editors, fellow writers, and readers, ever listening to their sage advice and following their guide.
Makes good "BOOK CENTS," don't ya think?
Jo(anne)Gregg Sundell
www.joannesundell.com
www.myspace.com/joannesundell
MATCHMAKER, MATCHMAKER
A...MY NAME'S AMELIA
THE PARLOR HOUSE DAUGHTER
MEGGIE'S REMAINS
Yep, I "also" made a resolution to be a better blogger, too. Time will tell.
What do I mean by BOOK CENTS?
I mean that every minute of my day that goes toward writing should be a minute well spent.
I mean that every word keyed toward my WIP should be a word well put.
I mean that time and effort involved in Virtual Blog Touring should not be time wasted.
I mean that every marketing avenue pursued, should have a positive exit plan with projected sales numbers in mind.
I mean that I will try to get "booked" in stores for signing events that will showcase my latest release to best advantage.
I mean that I will work on getting out there ... whether on the Net or in Person ... and do my best to engage and interest more readers in my historical romances.
I mean that I will do my best to "dance and chew gum at the same time." I will do my best to write, while at the same time market, while at the same time, book appearances at stores and libraries.
MOST OF ALL, I mean that I will continue to value my relationships with acquisitions agents, editors, fellow writers, and readers, ever listening to their sage advice and following their guide.
Makes good "BOOK CENTS," don't ya think?
Jo(anne)Gregg Sundell
www.joannesundell.com
www.myspace.com/joannesundell
MATCHMAKER, MATCHMAKER
A...MY NAME'S AMELIA
THE PARLOR HOUSE DAUGHTER
MEGGIE'S REMAINS
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)