Lynn Jones Johnston

Bookmark this thread, writers.

#Pubtip: If a book is your goal, build a string of writing credits. Book publishers do NOT want to be the first to publish you.

The About the Author section in book proposals can be in 1st or 3rd person. If your proposal is mostly impersonal, switch to 1st in the ATA. If a memoir or contains personal stories, try 3rd. The goal is to convey you're credible & relatable. #pubtip

3) When can I start promoting the book? Ppl tend to be more motivated closer to pub date. In the meantime, ask them to sign up to be notified. Tip: offer free content e.g. presentation handouts in exchange for their email. Good luck!

2a) Should I create a separate social media handle for my book? No. Use your existing SM handle. 2b) On which SM platform should I push my book? Focus on the one you have the most engaged followers & push that content to other platforms.

1) Do I need a separate website for my book? No. If you have a website, create a page for your book & highlight it on the home page. Also, your publisher will have a landing page for your book you can link to. (Please don't just link to Amazon.)

When clients ask how to get their book into Target, Walmart & Costco, my answer is to make it a bestseller. Books at these outlets are managed like other inventory like electronics & toys, requiring steady demand. #pubtip

I realize this can be unfair to those who don't have the same access. If you don't, show your lived experience. Get endorsements from experts on the topic. Get published by outlets known for rigor. Prove you can be trusted to tell the story. #pubtip

Given potential delays, authors should make sure the publishing contract specifies the on-pub $ is paid at least 12 months after acceptance of the manuscript even if the book hasn’t published. #pubtip nytimes.com/2020/08/27/boo…

#Pubtip: since it’s non-standard (for now), make sure your publisher knows in advance to keep “Black” capitalized in copyediting. This came up as an issue on a book I rep.

Unless you're a household name/have long wikipedia page/extensive IMDB credits, you need a website if you'll be querying agents or publishers. #pubtip

Contract terms I see a lot now that are my pet peeves:
-Charging index fees against the advance instead of royalties
-Next book option tied to publication instead of D&A
#pubtip

I've changed a straight title to one more literary & vice versa; elevated a chapter title to the book title; cherry-picked a line from the ms; even took my then-4th grader's suggestion. Titles can come from anywhere.

Q: How important is the title when pitching to publishers?

A: Don't overlook the value of a great title You don't always need it but the right title can orient readers, stake your proposition on a crowded shelf & establish your voice.

Q: Why are there fewer books now with one-word titles like Quiet and Blink.

A: You want a SEO-friendly title for Google & Amazon, which is hard with one word. Better to find a title that gets your book as a top result.

Q: Will the publisher change the title of my book?

A: Sometimes. If you love the title you pitched, make sure your editor knows this. Ask upfront what the publishing team thought of it. You often can get mutual approval for the title in the contract.

Q: Can my title be the same as another book's?

A: Short answer: yes. Titles are not copyrighted. But if the other book is well-known & in the same category, then I suggest you find an alternative.

#Pubtip If you need more time (life happens), ask for an extension asap so the publisher can adjust the schedule. If you don't get more time, aim to turn in even a rough draft. You likely will have another pass after the editor reviews it.

This cute story made me think of a #pubtip for authors. When & if your hardcover gets "remaindered" the publisher should give you notice & chance to buy highly discounted copies. Grab all you can afford to give as gifts & for future signings.

Authors have options beyond the traditional or self publishing:
-Indie publishing
-Hybrid publishing
-E-book only
-Original audiobook
-Podcasting
#pubtip

Good formula. Best if 2 of the 3 books were published within the 5 years. #pubtip #amquerying