Ask Sheila

Question: Where can I find in-person and online writing groups and organizations that can connect me with other writers for critiques, support, and information?   Answer: Writing a book can feel like a solitary activity, but it doesn’t hav...

Question: How can I maintain a productive writing schedule and get my first draft completed when I have obligations such as a job, family, and other responsibilities?   Answer: Writing a book can be very challenging, not only because the task of...

Question: I really struggle with writing dialogue. What are some ways I can improve dialogue in my stories?   Answer: Writing great dialogue is a common challenge for many writers. This is because the way we talk and the way we think do not alwa...

Question: What is Print-on-Demand (POD) and what are the benefits of this printing method when compared to offset printing?   Answer: As with most industries, technological advancements have brought about new opportunities and efficiencies for a...

Question: How can authors utilize Substack to communicate with readers, share their writing, and build a following?   Answer: With tens of millions of subscriptions and millions of paid subscribers across the platform, Substack has quickly becom...

Question: What is an editorial assessment and why should I get one before investing in professional editing?   Answer: The manuscript revision process can be long, daunting, and frustrating, but is so important to the overall quality and succes...

Question: What types of questions will I get asked about my book, whether from readers, editors, agents, interviewers, booksellers, librarians, or event planners?   Answer: There are many points in the writing and publishing journey when you wi...

Question: I am ready to start editing my first manuscript. What are common mistakes editors see first-time writers making that I should look for?   Answer: Writing a book can be very challenging, not only because the task of writing takes skill...

Question: I would like to pursue a traditional publishing deal for my book, but I’m not sure it is a good fit for a major publishing house. What other types of traditional publishers are out there?   Answer: Most authors are familiar with...

Question: I’m struggling to get sales on Amazon because my book isn’t showing in searches or getting noticed. How can I make it stand out and reach more readers?   Answer: For many authors, Amazon is their primary distribution and sa...

Question: I am considering writing a book on my area of expertise. How can this benefit me, and what should I keep in mind to ensure my book appeals to my intended audience?   Answer: If you have authority or expertise in a specific field, you m...

Disclaimer: This article provides an overview of the basic principles of registering a DBA or LLC in the United States. The material contained in this article is NOT legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client or other confidential relations...

Question: As an author, should I be using LinkedIn to create awareness for my work and increase my readership? If so, how?   Answer: Understanding the types of users on the various social media platforms can greatly inform where you choose to f...

Question: How can I connect with other writers and industry professionals without it seeming forced or insincere?   Answer: Writing a book can be a very solitary act, requiring months or even years of individual effort, focus, and discipli...

Question: As an author, how can I protect my work, my privacy, and my business?   Answer: The writing process is a solitary journey where your creativity and imagination can explore in the privacy of your writing space. Once your work is publis...

Question: There seems to be a lot of controversy surrounding artificial intelligence in regards to writing and publishing. Is it okay to use AI to assist with writing, editing, and marketing my book?   Answer: The increase in generative AI ...

Question: I’m interested in writing a book that helps others by sharing some struggles I’ve overcome. What should I keep in mind when writing to ensure my stories and advice resonate with readers?   Answer: We all face struggles fro...

Question: What are some ways I can repurpose my book’s content to reach more readers and potentially earn more income?   Answer: So much time and effort goes into writing a manuscript and producing a book that is marketable and appealing t...

Question: I’m writing my first horror novel and want to ensure my story will appeal to readers of this genre. What are some things I should consider and avoid when writing horror?   Answer: The horror genre of writing has a long history, t...

Question: I’ve been receiving daily emails and phones calls about various “opportunities” for my published book. How do I know if these are scams or legit?   Answer: Unfortunately, publishing and Hollywood-related scams continu...

Question: What can I do to create awareness for my book and increase sales this Holiday season?   Answer: The Holiday season is one of the most lucrative times of the year for book sales, accounting for over 20% of annual revenue for U.S. bookse...

Question: Are writers conferences worth attending? Where can I find reputable conferences, and what should I expect when attending?   Answer: Writing a book can be a very solitary journey, but it doesn’t have to be. There are many opportun...

Question: Why should authors acquire book reviews from professional review outlets, and how can they find outlets that are accepting submissions?   Answer: Book reviews are a critical, but challenging part of any book’s marketing strategy....

Question: I’m writing a novel for young adult readers. What are some things I should consider to ensure my story appeals to this age group?   Answer: The young adult (YA) category of books continues to be a steadily growing segment of...

Question: How can I find guest interview and speaking opportunities on podcasts and vlogs to promote my book?   Answer: In today’s digital landscape, audio and video have emerged as powerful media for authors to expand their reach, share t...

Question: I’m struggling with how to end my fiction story. How can I write an ending that will be satisfying to readers, that also fits the story line?   Answer: Believe it or not, the ending of a story is just as important as the beginnin...

Question: What are some common grammar and punctuation errors I should look for when revising my manuscript?   Answer: Before publishing a manuscript, there are several stages of editing and revisions an author must go through to produce the bes...

Question: I’ve been told I need to create a list of comparable authors and book titles. Why do I need one, and what is the best way to build the list?   Answer: Comparable authors and book titles, also known as “comps”, are tho...

Question: Is an email newsletter an effective way to build a readership and sell more books? How can I get started?   Answer: Nearly 4.5 billion people worldwide use email, with 88% of users checking their email multiple times a day, and 59...

Question: How can I distribute, sell, and promote my book in foreign countries?   Answer: In today’s interconnected world, the opportunity for authors to reach readers globally is greater than ever. With digital publishing, global e-c...

Question: I’m interested in writing historical fiction, but I’m not sure where to start. How can I combine both fact and fiction to create an engaging story?   Answer: Historical fiction novels are embedded in the past. The stories t...

Question: What Author Learning Center resources do you recommend for someone that is just getting started?   Answer: Writing a great book and getting it into the hands of readers can be a long, challenging journey. The writing process itself can...

Question: What all do I need to consider when pricing my books to ensure I make money?   Answer: With the recent tariffs imposed on goods imported from Mexico, Canada, and China, it’s more important than ever for authors to understand how ...

Question: I’m not sure how to market and sell my book. What are some things I can do to generate interest and increase sales?   Answer: We know marketing and selling a book can be a daunting, and often frustrating task. Not to mention, wha...

Question: How can I publish my short work such as essays, short stories, and poetry?   Answer: Readership today is broader than it has ever been, with readers eager to consume content in a variety of lengths, formats, and genres. Writers can ben...

Question: In addition to professional editing, what else can I do to set my book up for success before I publish?   Answer: When writing a manuscript and preparing it for publication, it’s important to see your work as more than just text ...

Question: How can a grant help fund my writing project, and where can I find grant opportunities?   Answer: Whether you’re writing your first book or your fifth, applying for a writing grant can be an excellent way to get the support you n...

Question: I want to write a memoir but I’m not sure where to start. How can I tell a personal story that others will care about and want to read?   Answer: Writing a memoir can be an excellent outlet for those wanting to share with others ...

Question: I keep hearing I need an “author platform” to improve my book’s chances of success. What is an author platform, and how do I start building one?   Answer: Your author platform is your ability to reach potential reader...

Question: What is Amazon Author Central, and how do I claim my author profile page?   Answer: Authors worldwide understand the importance of including Amazon.com in their book distribution plans, as it continues to be the world’s largest o...

Question: How can I find the right professionals to help ensure my published book meets all industry standards?   Answer: When you write and publish a book, the hope is to have your story, narrative, or message resonate with readers by entertain...

Question: How can I get a meaningful endorsement or testimonial for my book, and who should I ask?   Answer: There are many assets authors can acquire that will enhance a book’s sales potential, such as reader reviews, awards, and endorsem...

Question: How can I get started with blogging, and what types of things can I write about?   Answer: Having a strong online presence is more important than ever for authors, as digital marketing continues to be an essential component of an effec...

Question: How can I acquire more reader reviews for my book?   Answer: No matter a book’s publishing path and genre, reader reviews are an essential component of the marketing plan and overall success. This is because readers often rely on...

Question: What is the proper font, spacing, and overall format to use when submitting a book manuscript to an agent or publisher?   Answer: Formatting may not be something you think about as you draft your book manuscript, and that’s okay....

Question: How can I find a ghostwriter that is a good fit for my book idea?   Answer: Is there a message or story you are longing to share with the world, but are uncertain how to turn that idea into something others can benefit from and enjoy?O...

Question: How can I get more traffic to my author website where people can see my book?   Answer: The book market is a crowded place with thousands of new books released into the market every day. This can make it challenging for new or lesser k...

Question: How can I create an effective social media presence while keeping it manageable and easy to maintain long-term?   Answer: Any successful book marketing plan is one that includes both offline and online efforts. In-person events and sp...

Question: How can I use artificial intelligence (AI) to assist with writing, editing, and marketing my book/s?   Answer: You may not realize it, but you are likely already utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) in many facets of your life throu...

Disclaimer: This article provides an overview of the basic principles of publishing contracts and rights reversion in the United States. The material contained in this article is NOT legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client or other confi...

Question: What does it mean when writers are told, “show, don’t tell”, and how can this technique be used in storytelling?   Answer: The best stories are those that fully immerse readers and keep them engaged from start to fini...

Question: How can speaking engagements help create awareness and sales for my book, and where can I find speaking opportunities?   Answer: There are many ways, both online and offline, that authors can create awareness for their work and develop...

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and provides an overview of the basic principles of wills, trusts, and Literary Executors for authors. The material contained in this article is NOT legal advice, and does not create an attorn...

Question: What is direct selling for authors, and how can it be beneficial to an author’s distribution plan?   Answer: With all of the books competing for reader attention in the marketplace, it can be difficult to stand out and get notice...

Question: What is the Pomodoro Technique, and how can I use it to improve my writing productivity and get my book finished?   Answer: Writing a book can be very challenging, not only because the task of writing takes skill and effort, but becaus...

Question: How do I create an engaging setting and world for my story?   Answer: Writers can use many elements and techniques in their storytelling to draw readers in and take them on a memorable journey. A story’s setting and world are ju...

Question: What are beta readers, and how can I find a few to read my manuscript and provide feedback?    Answer: Before publishing a manuscript, there are several stages of editing and revisions an author must go through to produce the best...

Question: What are some great swag or merchandise ideas that I can give away or sell alongside my book?   Answer: In-person events such as festivals, fairs, signings, and conventions continue to be one of the most effective ways authors ca...

Question: What is the best way to find an agent to represent me and pitch my book to traditional publishers?   Answer: Acquiring literary agent representation can be a very long and challenging process for authors, but is a critical step for tho...

Question: What are the benefits of having a sell sheet for a book, and what should be included?   Answer: A must-have marketing asset in any author’s toolbox is the sell sheet. Also called a one sheet or sales sheet, this document is...

Question: How can I create a proposal for my nonfiction book that agents and publishers won’t be able to resist?    Answer: A nonfiction book proposal can be the ultimate selling tool when pursing a traditional publishing path. I...

Question: How can I make my book title stand out and grab reader attention, while also describing what my book is about?   Answer: One of the most important marketing decisions you will make prior to publishing your book is choosing your book&r...

Question: I’m not very experienced with social media and have no idea what to post. What can I share that will engage readers and help me build a following?   Answer: Having a meaningful presence on social media is an essential part of a s...

Question: I’ve finally completed my book manuscript! So, now what? Do I need to get it edited? Look for a publisher?   Answer: Congratulations on completing your manuscript! You are in an elite group of writers and should be incredibly pro...

Question: I’ve been trying to get my book into bookstores. Any ideas that can help?   Answer: Many authors dream of seeing their books on the shelves of their local bookstore or retail chain. It’s a commendable goal, but one where a...

Disclaimer: This article provides an overview of the basic principles of copyright and fair use in the United States. The material contained in this article has not been reviewed by counsel and in no way should be considered legal advice, and does no...

Question: If I want to make changes to a book that is already published, can I update the book or republish it?   Answer: When you write and publish a book, you are sharing your ideas, messages, creativity, and voice with the world. It can seem...

Question: I am completing a poetry book and wonder which is the best publisher for spiritual poetry, and, is an audiobook or podcast a better format than a book?   Answer: In the publishing world, poetry is categorized as its own genre due to th...

Question: What are some budget-friendly ways to promote a book that is already published?   Answer: The great news about book marketing is that no matter how long your book has been out in the marketplace, it’s never too late to put some e...

Question: Why do book categories matter, and how do I know which categories to select for my book?   Answer: Books can be about many different things: a fairytale romance, a post-apocalyptic world, a true story of triumph, or steps for self-imp...

Question: How can I improve my craft and become a better writer?   Answer: Great writing isn’t just about using ideas, words, and sentences to communicate or tell a story; it’s about knowing how to put these and other elements toget...

Question: I'm trying to self-publish a Sci-Fi book and found someone to do book cover artwork, but she's asking me for a template for style and sizing. Not sure how to answer this...can you help me?   Answer: Using the right dimensions or s...

Question: I have a great idea for a book but don’t know how to begin writing. Where should I start?   Answer: Having a great idea for a book is a wonderful gift, but can feel overwhelming if you’ve never written a book before! There...

Question: What are some ways authors can use content samples from a book in their marketing efforts?   Answer: An amazing book description, dynamic author website, and solid social media strategy should all be enough to entice readers to buy you...

Question: How do I write a great author bio for my book cover and website?   Answer: Your author biography or “About the Author” is your chance to let the reader know a little bit about you and any relevant information or credential...

Question: Where can I find a professional book cover designer?   Answer: Authors are tasked with making many important marketing decisions throughout the writing and publishing process. One of the more critical marketing decisions is the design...

Question: What are “hashtags”, and how and where should I use them?   Answer: The term “hashtag” may sound a little advanced or mysterious, but it’s really just a simple way to categorize online content to make it ...

Question: What are some important things to consider before I start writing my book?   Answer: Congratulations on having an idea for a book and preparing yourself to write an amazing manuscript! We know it can be tempting to dive right into you...

Question: How can I find out about upcoming book events such as festivals and conventions where I can sell my book?   Answer: In-person events such as festivals, fairs, signings, and conventions can be a very effective way to create awareness f...

Disclaimer: The costs associated with writing, editing, publishing, and marketing a book can vary widely. Any cost estimates or cost ranges provided below are based on what you might expect to pay in the United States. You must conduct your own rese...

Question: How can I stay on track with my writing and get my book finished?   Answer: Many writers underestimate the amount of time and dedication required to complete a book manuscript. The writing process can differ greatly from writer to writ...

  Answer: Writing a great book and getting it into the hands of readers can be a long, challenging journey. The writing process itself can be lonely and daunting, and with so many options for publishing, distribution, and mar...

Question: How can I start collecting people’s email addresses for email marketing purposes?   Answer: Email marketing has the power to be more effective than social media and paid advertising, and can help you connect with your audience be...

Question: What is “Save the Cat”, and how can I use it to outline my story?   Answer: Fiction writers often hear the terms “story structure”, “plot structure”, or “story arc”, but sometimes underes...

Question: How do I get my book made into a TV show or movie?   Answer: The demand from Hollywood for interesting ideas and stories has never been greater, and industry decision-makers love to find adaptable content in books. This is great news f...

Question: How do I write a great back cover blurb and book description?   Answer: We all know first impressions matter. When it comes to books, the first impression will often determine whether a book browser will be converted into a book buyer....

Disclaimer: This article provides an overview of the basic principles of copyright in the United States. The material contained in this article is NOT legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client or other confidential relationship between the...

Question: What are the best ways to present a book at a reading or book club?   Answer: In-person events continue to be one of the most effective ways authors can reach readers because readers love meeting authors face-to-face. These events give...

Question: How do you convert a written manuscript into an audiobook?   Answer: Audiobooks continue to be a growing segment of the publishing industry and are the ideal entertainment medium for commuters, busy individuals, the vision impaired, an...

Question: Where is the best place to find book illustrators?   Answer: Obtaining high quality illustrations is a critical part of publishing children's books, comics, and graphic novels. Knowing how to find the right artistic fit for your story ...

Question: How can I create or build my own author website?   Answer: An author website acts as a central “hub” for all other marketing, promotional, and branding efforts. It’s a place where potential readers, industry decision-...

Disclaimer: This article provides an overview of the basic principles of Bible copyright in the United States. The material contained in this article is NOT legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client or other confidential relationship betwe...

Question: What do I do to monetize my book?   Answer: Only a small percentage of authors are able to earn a comfortable living through just their books. Most authors must maintain other sources of income through unrelated careers or part-time jo...

Bi-weekly, ALC's Manager of Author Education Sheila Manna candidly weighs in on questions asked by you, the ALC community. She's tackling it all — book reviews, writing fiction based on real life, overcoming writing obstacles, understandin...

Question: What is essential for a book launch?   Answer: A book launch is a momentous occasion and serves not only as a means for releasing your book into the world, but also as a celebration for your amazing accomplishment. Congratulations on r...

Question: I'm currently struggling with why I should write my book and why anyone other than family would want to read it.   Answer: First, please know you are not alone in feeling this way. Most writers go through periods of serious self-doubt,...

Question: I am considering writing a novel based on my traveling experiences but not as an autobiography. Do you have any advice on how I can formulate my experiences into a fictional format?   Answer: It is very common for writers to use real l...

Question: How can we get a review in a newspaper or magazine? Libraries rely on these reviews before choosing to order copies of my books.   Answer: Book reviews are an essential element when trying to increase interest in your book, whether bui...

Question: What is the best way to find information and answers on the Author Learning Center website?   Answer: The Author Learning Center offers a vast library of resources covering topics related to writing, editing, publishing, and marketing....

Question: What can I do to get my book out there? What are some great, affordable methods of advertising?   Answer: To advertise something means to pay an outlet to publically promote your product. While there are plenty of free ways to promote ...