https://www.authorlearningcenter.comBestselling author Derek Taylor Kent will teach strategies for making editing more effective, less daunting, and even fun!Wed, 20 May 2026 17:30:00 GMT809ccca5-04d2-44bf-8f5c-ff0a6d33c80b:c6e19301-527c-48a0-96c3-b8f00b040ba9Author Learning CenterAll webinar start times are listed in US Eastern Time. To see what the start time means for your location, CLICK HERE. So, you finished your book? That's great! But now comes the hard part. How can you self-edit so that it's in good enough shape for critical readers, agents, and publishers? How do you know if you need a professional editor? Bestselling author Derek Taylor Kent has worked with some of the top editors from the top publishing houses and knows what they are looking for in a manuscript. In this webinar, he'll teach you strategies for editing that will make it less daunting, and even fun! Plus he'll review the most common grammatical issues that most authors don't even know about, but make their writing appear amateur instead of pro. This session is not to be missed for any writers who have finished or are near finished with their first drafts. About the Presenter: Derek Taylor Kent is the author of 20 books encompassing a wide variety of audiences and genres. He has also produced 15 audiobooks to date and has written 6 screenplays. Along with being an instructor for the ALC, he teaches at the Writing Pad in Los Angeles and is a freelance story editor. Derek received a 3-book deal from HarperCollins for his middle-grade book series "Scary School", and his Mystery/Thriller book "Kubrick’s Game" was #1 on Amazon three times and was optioned by Bobby Cohen Films. His middle-grade novel "My Homework Ate My Dog!" was awarded Best Middle-Grade Fiction Book of 2020 by Kops-Featherling Book Awards, and there was a bidding war for his picture book "El Perro con Sombrero", which was published by Holt/Macmillan. In addition, Derek Founded Whimsical World children’s publishing brand with wife, children’s author and ALC speaker Sheri Fink, with a mission to inspire, delight, and educate children of all ages while planting seeds of self-esteem and high achievement. Discover more at www.DerekTaylorKent.com and www.WhimsicalWorldBooks.com . To see all of our upcoming live webinar events, CLICK HERE .LiveWebinarshttps://www.authorlearningcenter.comAuthor and publisher L.E. Perez will review why an author website is necessary, and how to go from concept to completion.Tue, 19 May 2026 17:30:00 GMT809ccca5-04d2-44bf-8f5c-ff0a6d33c80b:17f5fb65-93f5-4d26-9a36-efcf39e64b38Author Learning CenterAll webinar start times are listed in US Eastern Time. To see what the start time means for your location, CLICK HERE. With social media so prevalent in our lives as authors, is a website really necessary? If it is, what should it contain at minimum? What resources are available and how long will this take? In this webinar session, author and publisher L.E. Perez will take you on a journey to figure out why a website is a necessary evil, and how you go from concept to completion. You will learn the value of a website for your writing journey and why presentation matters. About the Presenter: Laura Perez is an author/publisher with Palmas Publishing and Manra Moon Press . She spent fifteen years working in Corrections and Victim Services while privately working on several novels. In 2010, she was given the opportunity to pursue two passions in life, writing and martial arts. She is a 4th-degree black belt who loves to write fight scenes and act them out for realism. She has published ten full-length novels and multiple short stories, has spearheaded several thriller anthologies with a group of Indie Authors called 'The Thrill of the Hunt' and 'The Thrill of the Heart'. In addition, LE is a Freelance Writing/Publishing Consultant for Macmillan and hosts the Legion of Writers Podcast. To see all of our upcoming live webinar events, CLICK HERE .LiveWebinarshttps://www.authorlearningcenter.comBook marketing expert A.G. Billig will show you the secrets of boosting book sales through powerful advertising strategies.Thu, 14 May 2026 17:30:00 GMT809ccca5-04d2-44bf-8f5c-ff0a6d33c80b:9cd637af-a52a-4852-ab24-bf62e15b0ff8Author Learning CenterAll webinar start times are listed in US Eastern Time. To see what the start time means for your location, CLICK HERE. This session with bestselling author and book marketing expert A.G. Billig is designed to help authors and publishers unlock the secrets of boosting book sales through powerful advertising techniques. A.G. will dive into the best practices for using book promo websites, Amazon ads, and Facebook ads to reach a wider audience and drive more sales. During the webinar, you’ll learn: • How to effectively use book promo websites to gain visibility and attract readers. • Tips and tricks for setting up and optimizing Amazon ads to get the most out of your budget. • Proven strategies for leveraging Facebook ads to target your ideal audience and increase sales. Whether you’re a new author looking to get noticed, or a seasoned writer aiming to boost your sales, this webinar will provide you with practical, actionable advice to help you achieve your goals. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from an expert and take your book sales to the next level! About the Presenter: A.G. Billig is a bestselling published author of fiction and nonfiction books. As founder of the award-winning educational center Self-Publishing Mastery, she uses her book marketing and publishing expertise to help authors become successful. She has a BA in Languages and Literatures (English and French) and a Master’s Degree in Public Relations and Communication. For the past ten years, she has hosted and produced radio and TV shows, built awareness and drove sales for various international brands as a PR and marketing expert, and helped authors just like you to achieve number one bestseller status. To see all of our upcoming live webinar events, CLICK HERE .LiveWebinarshttps://www.authorlearningcenter.comPete Nikolai of HarperCollins Christian Publishing will break down the process of building an effective book proposal.Tue, 12 May 2026 17:30:00 GMT809ccca5-04d2-44bf-8f5c-ff0a6d33c80b:3cd743c2-a565-4cf6-b778-57f768fef564Author Learning CenterAll webinar start times are listed in US Eastern Time. To see what the start time means for your location, CLICK HERE. Are you ready to turn your book dreams into reality? Writing a manuscript is a monumental achievement, but navigating the publishing world requires a specific set of tools. Join us for an empowering webinar on how to create and use a book proposal document to achieve your unique publishing goals. A book proposal is much more than a simple pitch. It serves as a comprehensive roadmap for your project, helping you refine your ideas while proving your book’s value to the market. In this webinar, Pete Nikolai, the Director of Publishing Services for HarperCollins Christian Publishing, will break down the process of building a proposal that commands attention and guides your publishing journey. What you will learn: • The essential components of a winning book proposal and why they matter in the publishing process. • Step-by-step strategies to outline your book's market potential and target audience. • Actionable tips and practical insights to craft a compelling pitch that stands out. Whether you are just starting your outline or finalizing your manuscript, this session is ideal for writers at any stage of their journey. Register today and take practical steps toward publication! About the Presenter: Pete Nikolai is the Director of Publishing Services for HarperCollins Christian Publishing where he has helped thousands of authors write and publish their books. He has over 30 years of experience in book publishing in roles ranging from sales to division management. He helps manage WestBow Press, the self-publishing division of Thomas Nelson and Zondervan. To see all of our upcoming live webinar events, CLICK HERE .LiveWebinarshttps://www.authorlearningcenter.comAuthor and marketing advisor Laurie Schnebly Campbell will explain how authors can make their pitch or query appealing.Thu, 07 May 2026 17:30:00 GMT809ccca5-04d2-44bf-8f5c-ff0a6d33c80b:ad854618-e54d-4235-924d-f376047415c6Author Learning CenterAll webinar start times are listed in US Eastern Time. To see what the start time means for your location, CLICK HERE. No writer can get far without the most fundamental tool of selling their work. But, producing an effective synopsis or query is frequently a source of dread for writers who create lyrical fiction, yet panic at the idea of creating a sales pitch. Here’s a hint: pretend you’re writing an ad. Laurie Schnebly Campbell brings 25 years of advertising experience to the task of identifying what makes people want to buy a product -- any product -- and how to convince them YOURS is the one they want. About the Presenter: After winning Romantic Times’ “Best Special Edition of the Year” over Nora Roberts, Laurie Schnebly Campbell discovered she loved teaching every bit as much as writing...if not more. Since then she’s taught in-person and online workshops for writers from six continents (still waiting for Antarctica!) and keeps a special section of her bookshelves for novels developed in her classes. With 50+ titles there so far, she’s always hoping for more. To see all of our upcoming live webinar events, CLICK HERE .LiveWebinarshttps://www.authorlearningcenter.comLiterary publicist Lindsey Gobel will review the ins and outs of working with a publicist, and how a campaign can boost sales.Wed, 06 May 2026 14:30:00 GMT809ccca5-04d2-44bf-8f5c-ff0a6d33c80b:f72759af-1203-44e3-8bb9-2b2a1dbd8d4eAuthor Learning CenterAll webinar start times are listed in US Eastern Time. To see what the start time means for your location, CLICK HERE. This webinar with freelance publicist and communications professional Lindsey Gobel will review what an author can expect from working with a literary publicist, as well as detailed examples of what is involved in a publicity campaign. Gobel will talk about what the purpose of a publicity campaign is, and what a publicist does and doesn’t do. She will also cover how an author can make the most of his or her campaign and help make the most of the process. The session will begin with the intro call and what Gobel would normally go over when she first “meets” an author. Then, she will talk about planning documents that she uses with the author during the campaign: the strategic campaign plan, the timeline and the press release. She will explain what these are and how to use them in a literary campaign. Next, Gobel will explain the weekly reports she sends to authors during a campaign. She will talk about the importance of communication and involving the author in the process so that he or she can follow along with the campaign and can keep on top of anything needed throughout the campaign. Finally, Gobel will talk about the end of the campaign. She will review what is included in the final report she sends to her authors, and what the next steps are going forward. This webinar will explain the importance of working with a publicist to give the author the best launching point for spreading their message, as well as how a publicity campaign works and what they can expect during and after the process. About the Presenter: Lindsey Gobel is a freelance publicist and communications professional with over 15 years of experience. She creates and manages publicity campaigns for clients in multiple industries, as well as works on a consulting basis with various firms to assist with branding and marketing strategies, creative concepts and business plans. Gobel’s services have been contracted to ghostwrite books for two professional athletes, which have been published and are sold at national retail chains. She wrote a Tedx Talk that was performed in September of 2018, and her work has been featured in numerous print publications, as well as national media outlets such as ESPN, FOX News, The Today Show and Wake Up with Al . To see all of our upcoming live webinar events, CLICK HERE .LiveWebinarshttps://www.authorlearningcenter.comBestselling author Derek Taylor Kent will teach strategies for making editing more effective, less daunting, and even fun!Thu, 30 Apr 2026 17:30:00 GMT809ccca5-04d2-44bf-8f5c-ff0a6d33c80b:a14ea3d1-35c9-432b-ad40-6f2b51489e7bAuthor Learning CenterAll webinar start times are listed in US Eastern Time. To see what the start time means for your location, CLICK HERE. Can't attend this session? Don't worry, we'll be repeating it! You can register HERE . So, you finished your book? That's great! But now comes the hard part. How can you self-edit so that it's in good enough shape for critical readers, agents, and publishers? How do you know if you need a professional editor? Bestselling author Derek Taylor Kent has worked with some of the top editors from the top publishing houses and knows what they are looking for in a manuscript. In this webinar, he'll teach you strategies for editing that will make it less daunting, and even fun! Plus he'll review the most common grammatical issues that most authors don't even know about, but make their writing appear amateur instead of pro. This session is not to be missed for any writers who have finished or are near finished with their first drafts. About the Presenter: Derek Taylor Kent is the author of 20 books encompassing a wide variety of audiences and genres. He has also produced 15 audiobooks to date and has written 6 screenplays. Along with being an instructor for the ALC, he teaches at the Writing Pad in Los Angeles and is a freelance story editor. Derek received a 3-book deal from HarperCollins for his middle-grade book series "Scary School", and his Mystery/Thriller book "Kubrick’s Game" was #1 on Amazon three times and was optioned by Bobby Cohen Films. His middle-grade novel "My Homework Ate My Dog!" was awarded Best Middle-Grade Fiction Book of 2020 by Kops-Featherling Book Awards, and there was a bidding war for his picture book "El Perro con Sombrero", which was published by Holt/Macmillan. In addition, Derek Founded Whimsical World children’s publishing brand with wife, children’s author and ALC speaker Sheri Fink, with a mission to inspire, delight, and educate children of all ages while planting seeds of self-esteem and high achievement. Discover more at www.DerekTaylorKent.com and www.WhimsicalWorldBooks.com . To see all of our upcoming live webinar events, CLICK HERE .LiveWebinarshttps://www.authorlearningcenter.comBook marketing expert A.G. Billig will show you the secrets of boosting book sales through powerful advertising strategies.Wed, 29 Apr 2026 17:30:00 GMT809ccca5-04d2-44bf-8f5c-ff0a6d33c80b:df36b7ed-2488-4c3c-a63f-6b4cbeea0f0eAuthor Learning CenterAll webinar start times are listed in US Eastern Time. To see what the start time means for your location, CLICK HERE. Can't attend this session? Don't worry, we'll be repeating it! You can register HERE . This session with bestselling author and book marketing expert A.G. Billig is designed to help authors and publishers unlock the secrets of boosting book sales through powerful advertising techniques. A.G. will dive into the best practices for using book promo websites, Amazon ads, and Facebook ads to reach a wider audience and drive more sales. During the webinar, you’ll learn: • How to effectively use book promo websites to gain visibility and attract readers. • Tips and tricks for setting up and optimizing Amazon ads to get the most out of your budget. • Proven strategies for leveraging Facebook ads to target your ideal audience and increase sales. Whether you’re a new author looking to get noticed, or a seasoned writer aiming to boost your sales, this webinar will provide you with practical, actionable advice to help you achieve your goals. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from an expert and take your book sales to the next level! About the Presenter: A.G. Billig is a bestselling published author of fiction and nonfiction books. As founder of the award-winning educational center Self-Publishing Mastery, she uses her book marketing and publishing expertise to help authors become successful. She has a BA in Languages and Literatures (English and French) and a Master’s Degree in Public Relations and Communication. For the past ten years, she has hosted and produced radio and TV shows, built awareness and drove sales for various international brands as a PR and marketing expert, and helped authors just like you to achieve number one bestseller status. To see all of our upcoming live webinar events, CLICK HERE .LiveWebinarshttps://www.authorlearningcenter.comAuthor and publisher L.E. Perez will review why an author website is necessary, and how to go from concept to completion.Tue, 28 Apr 2026 17:30:00 GMT809ccca5-04d2-44bf-8f5c-ff0a6d33c80b:6db9ccac-e457-4e91-9424-ca7db0dee444Author Learning CenterAll webinar start times are listed in US Eastern Time. To see what the start time means for your location, CLICK HERE. Can't attend this session? Don't worry, we'll be repeating it! You can register HERE . With social media so prevalent in our lives as authors, is a website really necessary? If it is, what should it contain at minimum? What resources are available and how long will this take? In this webinar session, author and publisher L.E. Perez will take you on a journey to figure out why a website is a necessary evil, and how you go from concept to completion. You will learn the value of a website for your writing journey and why presentation matters. About the Presenter: Laura Perez is an author/publisher with Palmas Publishing and Manra Moon Press . She spent fifteen years working in Corrections and Victim Services while privately working on several novels. In 2010, she was given the opportunity to pursue two passions in life, writing and martial arts. She is a 4th-degree black belt who loves to write fight scenes and act them out for realism. She has published ten full-length novels and multiple short stories, has spearheaded several thriller anthologies with a group of Indie Authors called 'The Thrill of the Hunt' and 'The Thrill of the Heart'. In addition, LE is a Freelance Writing/Publishing Consultant for Macmillan and hosts the Legion of Writers Podcast. To see all of our upcoming live webinar events, CLICK HERE .LiveWebinarshttps://www.authorlearningcenter.com/webinars/c/e/2333Mon, 27 Apr 2026 20:30:00 GMT809ccca5-04d2-44bf-8f5c-ff0a6d33c80b:1ed24b4d-b910-4179-b035-6c1a6f09c037Author Learning Centerhttps://www.authorlearningcenter.com/b/ask-keith/posts/i-have-had-a-severe-hiatus-from-my-writing-schedule-because-of-a-crisis-in-my-life-what-are-some-best-practices-to-get-back-on-track-and-get-my-mind-back-into-the-game?CommentId=4333aba0-ff11-4a41-930d-3aa4dbc3efc8Mon, 27 Apr 2026 08:53:00 GMT809ccca5-04d2-44bf-8f5c-ff0a6d33c80b:4333aba0-ff11-4a41-930d-3aa4dbc3efc8AnonymousMany patients exploring non-invasive treatments for wound healing and neurological conditions are turning to Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, which has shown promising results in various clinical settings. Aurelius Brain Health & Human Performancehttps://www.authorlearningcenter.com/b/ask-keith/posts/i-have-a-book-for-children-published-on-amazon-for-age-6-to-12-what-is-the-best-way-to-promote-it?CommentId=4a85b9af-d3d1-4bfc-81d7-08cd5b4eda9eSat, 25 Apr 2026 02:56:00 GMT809ccca5-04d2-44bf-8f5c-ff0a6d33c80b:4a85b9af-d3d1-4bfc-81d7-08cd5b4eda9eAnonymousลองนึกภาพว่าคุณก้าวเข้าไปในดินแดนลึกลับที่ทุกการหมุนคือโอกาสทอง... nagagames คืออาณาจักรนั้นเอง! ด้วยเกมหลากสไตล์ กราฟิกสุดอลังการ และโบนัสที่รอคุณค้นพบ อย่ารอช้า คลิกสำรวจ https://nagagame-th.com/ แล้วปล่อยให้โชคชะตานำทาง. nagagame89.com/.../a>https://www.authorlearningcenter.com/webinars/c/e/2331Fri, 24 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT809ccca5-04d2-44bf-8f5c-ff0a6d33c80b:891e57bb-0add-4843-93f9-0727aea79b1bAuthor Learning CenterThis session with bestselling author and book marketing expert A.G. Billig is designed to help authors and publishers unlock the secrets of boosting book sales through powerful advertising techniques. A.G. will dive into the best practices for using book promo websites, Amazon ads, and Facebook ads to reach a wider audience and drive more sales. During the webinar, you’ll learn: • How to effectively use book promo websites to gain visibility and attract readers. • Tips and tricks for setting up and optimizing Amazon ads to get the most out of your budget. • Proven strategies for leveraging Facebook ads to target your ideal audience and increase sales. Whether you’re a new author looking to get noticed, or a seasoned writer aiming to boost your sales, this webinar will provide you with practical, actionable advice to help you achieve your goals. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from an expert and take your book sales to the next level! About the Presenter: A.G. Billig is a bestselling published author of fiction and nonfiction books. As founder of the award-winning educational center Self-Publishing Mastery, she uses her book marketing and publishing expertise to help authors become successful. She has a BA in Languages and Literatures (English and French) and a Master’s Degree in Public Relations and Communication. For the past ten years, she has hosted and produced radio and TV shows, built awareness and drove sales for various international brands as a PR and marketing expert, and helped authors just like you to achieve number one bestseller status.https://www.authorlearningcenter.com/writing/managing-your-writing-life/w/education-and-craft/8342/start-your-story-rightThu, 23 Apr 2026 19:55:00 GMT809ccca5-04d2-44bf-8f5c-ff0a6d33c80b:026bc7a8-dd98-40cc-ac86-cd54eac1d797Jennifer CrosswhiteThe Five Foundational Questions You Need to Answer Before Writing Anything Good stories intrinsically have a structure our brains are looking for. With these 5 key questions, you can make sure you hit those key points on an idea you have, your work in progress, or a book you've already written. Here is the handout referenced in the session: www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../Start-Your-Story-Right_5F00_ALC-Handout.pdf www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../StartYourStoryRightTheFiveFoundationalQuestionsYouNeedtoAnswer26.mp4 About the Presenter: Jennifer Crosswhite is owner and CEO of Tandem Services, an author services company that empowers influencers to harness the transformative power of story to spread their message, create an impact, and leave a legacy. Her twenty years’ experience spans both sides of the publishing desk, from managing editor to author of 20 books and counting.fictionNonfictionSubscriberRecorded Webinarhttps://www.authorlearningcenter.com/b/ask-keith/posts/what-types-of-questions-will-i-get-asked-about-my-book-whether-from-readers-editors-agents-interviewers-booksellers-librarians-or-event-plannersThu, 23 Apr 2026 16:40:00 GMT809ccca5-04d2-44bf-8f5c-ff0a6d33c80b:70a50b05-a166-444f-a78d-7d6a69d8f07cAuthor Learning CenterQuestion: 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 will get asked questions about your process, goals, and book. These questions can differ depending on who is asking and his or her motivations. For example, readers want to feel connected to the author and book, interviewers want to get a good story, and editors or agents might want some clarity. No matter the type of question you are being asked, you want to be prepared ahead of time with some well-thought-out answers. This will help you respond clearly and succinctly, making you look professional, confident, and credible. Here are some of the most common questions authors get asked: Questions from Readers Readers love meeting and interacting with authors and having the opportunity to ask questions at an in-person event, during an online live Q&A , or even through email. Answering their questions with thoughtful responses can be a great way to turn them into dedicated fans. Here are common questions you might get asked by readers: General What is your writing process? How much outlining do you do? (plotter vs pantser) What inspired you to write the book? What research did you do? How long did it take to write the book? What do you hope readers take away from the book? What are you working on next? What are some of your favorite authors/books? Do you do book club appearances ? Will you sign my book? Fiction Where do you get your story ideas? Are any of the characters inspired by real people? Are any of the plot points inspired by real experiences? Why did you choose this setting? What is your world-building process ? How did you choose your characters’ names? Which character do you relate to most? Which actors/actresses do you envision playing the main characters if made into a movie or show? Are there any scenes that didn’t make it to the final draft? Why did you choose to end the story this way? What happens to the characters after the ending? Will there be a sequel? Nonfiction What made you want to share your personal story? (memoir) What made you want to help others ? (memoir, self-help, how-to) Which scene was hardest to write? (memoir) Which actor/actress do you envision playing you if made into a movie or show? (memoir) Why did you want to write about this topic? How can I expect to benefit from reading your book? How did your expertise or passion inform or influence the book? Do you offer any courses, consulting, or coaching ? Questions from Editors Whether you work with a professional editor you’ve hired or an in-house editor through your publisher, you may be asked some up-front questions about your goals, purpose, and target audience before the editing process begins. This is so they can help shape the book into its strongest, clearest, most marketable form. Here are common questions you might get asked by editors: General What type of editing assistance are you looking for—proofreading, copyediting, line editing, or developmental editing? In which genre/subgenres do you see your book fitting? Who are your target readers? What do you want readers to take away from your book? What are the core messages or themes in your book? Are there sensitivity or accuracy concerns? Are you open to structural and content edits? Which parts feel non-negotiable to you? What is your time frame or deadline for having edits completed? What is your editing budget? Fiction Why did you choose to open the story where you did? Is the story told through the best perspective/point of view? What is the main character’s deepest desire or need? What is the main conflict in the story? Are you open to combining characters if there are too many? What is the climax or highest point of tension in the story? How does your main character transform or evolve throughout the story? Does every scene move the story forward? Is the pacing too slow or too fast in any scenes? Were all five senses used to bring the setting and scenes to life? Is the dialogue authentic throughout? Are you open to an alternate ending ? Does the story meet genre expectations or follow appropriate tropes? Will there be a sequel? Nonfiction What is the main transformation for readers? Does the tone match the subject and intended audience? What do you mean by this point? Should this idea be introduced earlier? Can you expand on this idea? Are your facts accurate and supported? Have you included the appropriate citations ? Are there permissions needed for any content or imagery? Are there any liability concerns? Is this too formal or informal for your audience? Questions from Literary Agents The larger, traditional publishers rely on literary agents to vet and pitch only the best manuscripts and book proposals so they can be more selective with what they publish. In turn, the goal of literary agents is to represent books they believe will be attractive to publishers and result in a contract, since they are paid only on commission. If a literary agent is interested in learning more about your book based on your pitch, query, or submission, they will likely have some follow-up questions. Here are common questions you might get asked by literary agents: General What other agents are reviewing your query or submission? Is the manuscript complete? Can you provide a synopsis? In one or two sentences, what is your book about ? Is the premise sustainable for a full book? Why are you the right person to write this book? Who are your target readers? In which genre/subgenres do you see your book fitting? Where would it sit on a bookshelf in a bookstore or library? What is the word count? What are some comparable authors/titles ? What makes your book different from others? How is your voice or perspective unique? Do you have an online presence/platform? How do you plan to reach your target readers? Is this a standalone book or series? Have you won any awards or contests? What are your publishing goals? How much creative control do you want to have? Are you open to revisions? What is your desired time frame for release? What are your other publishing credits? What else are you working on? Fiction Why does the story begin where it does? Does the storyline fit the intended genre/subgenres? Does the tone and writing style fit the intended genre/subgenres? What is the main character’s deepest desire or need ? What is the main conflict in the story? Are there questions or themes you were consciously exploring? How does your main character transform or evolve throughout the story? Will the ending satisfy readers? How do you plan to reach readers of the genre/subgenres? Do you envision more books in this world you’ve created? Nonfiction Are you an authority on the topic? Do you have an existing audience or clientele? How do you plan to reach new audiences? Are you currently speaking on the topic or plan to? Do you offer any courses, consulting, or coaching? What are your long-term goals? Questions from Interviewers Media interviews are an important component of book publicity. They help create awareness for a book by reaching potential readers and by highlighting the most interesting aspects or points. Interviewers are looking for a story or narrative that is engaging, revealing, and useful for their audience. Here are common questions you might get asked by interviewers, which may be similar to reader questions: General What inspired you to write the book? What research or preparation did you do? What do you hope readers take away from the book? Who is this book intended for? Where can readers find and purchase your book? What are you working on next? Fiction Where do you get your story ideas? Which character was the most fun or difficult to write? How much of the story is based on real life? What themes were you hoping to explore? Why is this story important right now? Why did you choose this setting or time period ? Will there be a sequel? Nonfiction What made you want to share your personal story? (memoir) What made you want to help others ? (memoir, self-help, how-to) Why did you want to write about this topic? Why is this book important right now? How did your expertise or passion inform or influence the book? Do you offer any courses, consulting, or coaching ? Questions from Booksellers and Retailers Booksellers and retailers tend to ask practical, sales-focused questions. They are trying to figure out how well your book will sell, who it’s intended for, and how easy it will be to position it in their store or catalog. Here are common questions you might get asked by booksellers and retailers: General Is your book available through a distributor or wholesaler (Ingram)? What is the wholesale discount? Is your book returnable? How many books have you sold to date? Where else is your book for sale? What is your book about? Who is your intended audience? In which genre/subgenres do you see your book fitting? What are some comparable titles or authors? Is the book set locally or tied to regional interest? Is there potential for seasonal promotions or tie-ins? Do you have any reviews, endorsements, or awards? Is there a specific hook or angle we can use to pitch it to customers? How will you help drive traffic to my store? Questions from Librarians Librarians approach books from a different angle than booksellers because sales numbers aren’t as important as long-term value, community alignment, and accessibility. Their questions often center on whether your book will serve their patrons , collection process, and goals. Here are common questions you might get asked by librarians: General Who is your intended audience? What is your book about? What BISAC categories is the book coded under? What are some comparable titles or authors? Does your book appeal to reluctant readers, advanced readers, or specific groups? Does your book support curriculum, learning goals, or literacy development? Are there topics or themes that connect to current issues or community interests? Has your book been reviewed by sources like School Library Journal, Kirkus Reviews, or Booklist ? Is your book available through library wholesalers (Ingram)? What is the discount and returnability? Can we order directly from the publisher? Is your book available through digital library platforms for digital lending (Overdrive, Hoopla)? Does the book have Cataloging-in-Publication (CIP) data ? Is there a (Library of Congress Control Number (LCCN) assigned? Is your book available in multiple formats (hard cover, eBook, audiobook, large print)? Is the print version available in a library-bound or reinforced edition? Is there an International Standard Book Number (ISBN) assigned to each format? Is there a Machine-Readable Cataloging Record (MARC) available? Are there discussion questions, back matter, or teaching guides? What kind of author events or presentations do you offer? Is this a standalone book or series? Fiction What makes your story unique within its genre? What central question or conflict drives the story? What themes run throughout your book? Does your book explore particular cultural, social, or historical perspectives? Does it offer authentic representation of cultures, identities, or experiences ? Are there any sensitive topics or content warnings librarians should know about? How might it contribute to a more inclusive collection? What do you hope readers take away from the story? What questions do readers ask you most often? What conversations do you hope your novel starts? If a book club reads this, what would you want them to discuss first? Nonfiction What problem does your book help readers solve? Why is this topic important right now? What knowledge or expertise did you bring to the book? Is the information accurate, well researched, and up to date? How did you verify your information? What makes your perspective or approach unique? Is the book introductory, advanced, or somewhere in between? Does the book include practical tools—worksheets, resources, bibliographies? How do you hope your book informs or changes readers ? Can this topic translate into workshops or lectures? Do you teach or speak on this subject? What resources can readers use after finishing the book? Questions from Event Planners Event planners are more focused on audience experience, logistics, and whether you will help draw attendees and make their event engaging. Their questions tend to combine programming value with practical execution. Events can include keynote speaking, book signings , school visits, panelist presentations, workshop presentations, and more. Here are common questions you might get asked by event planners: General What type of events are you best suited for? What kind of speaking or presentation experience do you have? Do you have video clips or recordings of previous events? Can you provide testimonials or references from event organizers? Who is the ideal audience for your talk or appearance? How does your book translate into a compelling live experience ? What makes your presentation engaging for attendees? What will attendees gain from your session? Can you tailor your talk to a specific audience or theme? What topics do you speak on, beyond just reading from your book? Do you travel, and if so, what are your requirements? What are your speaking fees or honorarium expectations? Do you offer virtual appearances as well as in-person events? What AV setup do you require (microphone, projector, slides)? How much time do you need for setup and breakdown? Will books be available for purchase at the event? How will you accept payments? Are you open to book signings, and how long should that be scheduled? Do you offer bulk discounts for attendees? How will you help promote the event (newsletter, social media, website) ? Are you open to collaborations with other authors/speakers? Do you have a standard agreement or contract? What is your cancellation or rescheduling policy? No matter the type of event or interaction, it’s important to review potential questions you might be asked about your writing process, book content, distribution methods, or marketing strategies, and prepare well-thought-out answers. The last thing you want is to be left speechless or stumbling over convoluted answers. By prepping and practicing your answers, you will appear knowledgeable, professional, and credible, all of which will contribute to your long-term success as an author. Photo credit: SeventyFour from Getty Images; Photo credit: tumsasedgars from Getty Images; Photo credit: VioletaStoimenova from Getty Images; Photo credit: Pichsakul Promrungsee from Getty Images; Photo credit: urfinguss from Getty Images; Photo credit: SDI Productions from Getty Images; Photo credit: Georgijevic from Getty Images GO BACK TO THE MAIN BLOG PAGEhttps://www.authorlearningcenter.comBook marketing expert A.G. Billig will show you the secrets of boosting book sales through powerful advertising strategies.Tue, 21 Apr 2026 17:30:00 GMT809ccca5-04d2-44bf-8f5c-ff0a6d33c80b:5ebe566c-70c5-467b-a7eb-3c65ca67b742Author Learning CenterAll webinar start times are listed in US Eastern Time. To see what the start time means for your location, CLICK HERE. Can't attend this session? Don't worry, we'll be repeating it! You can register HERE . This session with bestselling author and book marketing expert A.G. Billig is designed to help authors and publishers unlock the secrets of boosting book sales through powerful advertising techniques. A.G. will dive into the best practices for using book promo websites, Amazon ads, and Facebook ads to reach a wider audience and drive more sales. During the webinar, you’ll learn: • How to effectively use book promo websites to gain visibility and attract readers. • Tips and tricks for setting up and optimizing Amazon ads to get the most out of your budget. • Proven strategies for leveraging Facebook ads to target your ideal audience and increase sales. Whether you’re a new author looking to get noticed, or a seasoned writer aiming to boost your sales, this webinar will provide you with practical, actionable advice to help you achieve your goals. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from an expert and take your book sales to the next level! About the Presenter: A.G. Billig is a bestselling published author of fiction and nonfiction books. As founder of the award-winning educational center Self-Publishing Mastery, she uses her book marketing and publishing expertise to help authors become successful. She has a BA in Languages and Literatures (English and French) and a Master’s Degree in Public Relations and Communication. For the past ten years, she has hosted and produced radio and TV shows, built awareness and drove sales for various international brands as a PR and marketing expert, and helped authors just like you to achieve number one bestseller status. To see all of our upcoming live webinar events, CLICK HERE .https://www.authorlearningcenter.com/webinars/c/e/2330Mon, 20 Apr 2026 17:00:00 GMT809ccca5-04d2-44bf-8f5c-ff0a6d33c80b:eebe0bb7-5e9d-4532-af57-da8e55ff2da2Author Learning Centerhttps://www.authorlearningcenter.com/publishing/legal/w/subsidiary-rights/2099/subsidiary-considerations-merchandising-and-other-rights---video?CommentId=7de022ec-9f3e-4cd8-bdb0-7574781b3dbeTue, 14 Apr 2026 04:44:00 GMT809ccca5-04d2-44bf-8f5c-ff0a6d33c80b:7de022ec-9f3e-4cd8-bdb0-7574781b3dbeJasminex123Great insights on how different subsidiary rights can impact an author’s earnings. I found the examples like games, calendars, and anthologies particularly interesting since they’re often underestimated. Understanding these details can really make a difference when negotiating a publishing deal.https://www.authorlearningcenter.com/publishing/legal/w/subsidiary-rights/2099/subsidiary-considerations-merchandising-and-other-rights---video?CommentId=fe5e60f6-f3e0-4275-9ef9-73d34e530fb4Tue, 14 Apr 2026 04:41:00 GMT809ccca5-04d2-44bf-8f5c-ff0a6d33c80b:fe5e60f6-f3e0-4275-9ef9-73d34e530fb4m65015482@gmail.comTThis is a really helpful overview of subsidiary rights especially the distinction between rights that generate income and those that don’t. Many writers overlook areas like merchandising and digital rights, so it’s great to see them explained clearly. Definitely a useful reminder to review contracts more carefully.https://www.authorlearningcenter.com/writing/nonfiction/w/elements/8478/how-cookbook-photography-worksMon, 13 Apr 2026 15:41:00 GMT809ccca5-04d2-44bf-8f5c-ff0a6d33c80b:64a12b43-cdf2-4ccb-bedb-0de142604351Diane MorriseyA lot goes into making a cookbook, especially the food photography. And author Diane Morrisey was surprised how much food styling conflicted with her idea of home cooking. For more on this author former caterer visit https://www.simonandschuster.com/authors/Diane-Morrisey/206493564 . www.youtube.com/watchCookbooks – Food – WineNonfictionvideo