The unheard words of new writers...

Words from the Self-Published Wise

I reside in Australia and have been writing more frequently since losing my mother to Ovarian cancer. I have released a total of 6 books; 4 self published, and I’m about to release another within the coming weeks. Looking forward to completing a non-fiction project which I believe is in with good chance of publication.

The self-publishing experience has been a blast for me and I highly recommend it to anyone who has ever dreamed of seeing their work come to life!

As I’ve had a taste of both worlds in publishing, I guess it would be fair to say I love both. The difference depends on the person representing the book, for example, had I known what I know today about how to market and advertise; I'd have been more cautious about giving so much control over to a Publisher. It’s hard when you’re starting out as you have to trust the experience of others, often without question.

     Marketing

     Advertising

     and

     Promotion

These 3 key points are so crucial to presenting the author's property; so when I did step out into self-publishing I was thrilled at how much more control I had in these areas, and have done all I can to see that each and every angle is covered. It's a lot of time consuming work, but if you want to keep up with the vast and growing volume of publishing folk, you simply have to keep at it.

I would encourage any writer to drop by as many Writers websites as humanly possible. There is so much to learn and so many offer opportunities to broaden your horizons, even if only to share work (it's still sharing in the talent of another artist).

Only now, do I see myself as 'experienced' but it took 7 years to reach this stage of my career, and I know I still have a long way to go. I’m hoping for much from my non-fiction project; a huge leap of faith but plenty of support encouragement & optimism is what drives me onward.

My inspiration comes from so many people and so many places. Those who take the time, to invite writers to submit so others can share...this is what really inspires me. But, it's also other writers / authors who have displayed their work and their own experiences which can be used as a 'guide' to those just starting out.

When it comes to reading for inspiration, I have truly been inspired by a number of authors, those such as Walt Whitman, Nancy Cato and most recently, Gilda Radner, the actress / comedian who was wife to Gene Wilder. Gilda had been diagnosed with Ovarian cancer, and like so many other tragic cases, it was a LATE diagnosis so all the horror and sorrow she endured was shared through her own words in a lovely book entitled, 'It's always something' ...I have read many stories but hers, somehow, managed to step off the page and into my world. It was as if she were sitting next to me, sharing every moment, every detail of her battle to get the right answers. Then I picked up my pen and began to tell my own story, which I hope will be ready for release early 2008. That's inspiration right there.

All the very best,
Deb Stevens
Senior Staff Writer
Writing Edge Magazine

Debbie Stevens latest book Dust Packs a collection of poetry and short stories.