So two days after asking people for guest posts and I've gotten over a hundred.
Unless I stay on hiatus for a year, I'll never be able to post all of these. I doubt I'll even get to post 1/3 of them, and they keep coming.
This is unfortunate, because there is a lot of good information in these posts that writers could benefit from.
Which got me to thinking about the obvious solution: These should be compiled into an ebook.
Over one hundred ebook authors writing about their personal publishing journeys. We'd all want to read that.
I don't have the time, or the energy to do such a project. The compiling and editing would be a nightmare. Plus, there's no way to split royalties on a $2.99 ebook among 150 authors. Sending monthly paypals to 150 people for 8 cents each is ridiculous.
That said, it would be a shame if all this info wasn't available.
So I had an idea. I called up my ebook designer, Rob Siders of 52 Novels, and asked if he'd be interested in compiling this collection.
Rob told me he was interested. Here's how we'd do it:
I'd write the intro, and put a few pieces in there, so it would be an ebook edited by J.A. Konrath & Rob Siders. So far, no one has written the definitive tome on ebook self-publishing. This could be it.
Rob does amazing work, and he's going to put in dozens of hours on this project, and he deserves to be paid. I'm not going to pay him, because I'm not going to make any money on this. I'm just the figurehead.
So this is my proposal. I think this ebook should be priced at $2.99, and Rob keeps the money.
If you're a writer who sent me a guest blog, I'm sure part of the reason you did it was to reach my readers and publicize your ebook.
An ebook collection would work in the same way. You get the exposure and links to your titles, Rob gets paid for the untold hours he has to put in, and I don't have to disappoint anyone.
I don't pay people for guest blogs. And I've always allowed people to repost my blog entries on their blogs (or in their how-to books) for free, so I'm not asking you for anything you weren't already willing to give away.
I'll make zero money on this, but my name is pretty well-known, so you'll get your article in front of a lot of eyes. Your article, plus links to your ebooks and your websites and blogs.
Rob would be asking for non-exclusive rights, meaning you could use your piece elsewhere, and you could have it taken out of the collection at any time.
What do you folks think?
A great idea. Time to finish polishing my article!
ReplyDeleteI haven't sent anything, nor will I, but I believe that this solution sounds very reasonable. Good luck with this project, I sure am interested! :-)
ReplyDeleteAnd now back to waiting for that apple pie in my oven ...
I'm all for it (as someone who sent a guest post in!). My only question: I have links to other material in that post, including other posts of mine, but also referencing other people's public works. Would that be a problem?
ReplyDeleteIt sounds okay to me. You can count me in, if you were going to use what I submitted. If not, well, it's still a good idea.
ReplyDeleteWhere would you want everything sent to Joe?
ReplyDeleteTo you or to Rob?
How long are these guest 'posts'?
It's a great idea, but I want in! Guess I need to send in what I was thinking of sending in. Or I could just send it to Rob, since he's my ebook designer too. And he is awesome, by the way. This would be a great project for him, and hopefully he could make something off of it. There would be a lot of work involved in putting this together.
ReplyDeleteI think it's awesome and I'd love to be a part of it!
ReplyDeleteI have an eBook on eBooks (How to Market & Sell Your eBook http://www.marketandsellyourebook.com) out because tons of people asked me to write one after my 31 Days to Clean eBook became a bestseller.
All this to say, I love the idea, I love that Rob would get the money, and I'm so in if you'll let me. :)
Sounds like a fair game. Authors helping authors. Just another part of the self-publishing experience.
ReplyDeleteI think it's a capital idea.
ReplyDeleteSounds like a perfect compromise. Are you still taking contribution, and, if so, for how long?
ReplyDeleteI'm not clear what the theme of the book really is or how you'll be sure all aspects are covered. Will you guys be vetting the info to be sure duplicate topics aren't covered and/or to be sure contradictory advice isn't offered? Will you be soliciting articles for any gaps you note? Or will it be simply a free-for-all of people's ideas?
ReplyDeleteA blog with lots of different guest posts is one thing, but a "definitive book on self-publishing" that's kind of a mish-mash of author thoughts? It'll probably sell (at least 1 copy per every one of the 100+ authors in it), but what's the point for the casual buyer unless it's fully vetted, which it doesn't sound like it's going to be?
I hope Rob has some time left for his regular work. I'll be needing him.
ReplyDeleteHi Joe, I'm all for it. I sent you one, so if you'd like to use it for that, feel free to. If we are used, when would you need our bios by?
ReplyDeleteSounds like a great idea. I still need to write and send in my post. Any ideas on the potential cut off date for this project?
ReplyDeleteI won't be sending an article -- I'm just not that far along in the business yet -- but I'll be more than happy to buy the compilation when it's available.
ReplyDeleteAll the best and enjoy the hiatus.
I'd be down for that, definitely.
ReplyDeleteBut I still think that during your Hiatus, you should hand pick the articles you believe would represent your blog the best, like you previously intended. It would give us all a taste - a sample - of what's to come.
I'm sure, like me, we all want to hear other authors points of view.
PS: Happy Thanksgiving to all my Canadian brothers and sisters out there!
I think I could cope with that. Count me in.
ReplyDeleteOne other way to deal with the cash would be to donate to a politically neutral charity, like the National Rifle...umm...the National Federation for the Blind.
I like it. Will you be posting any of them here?
ReplyDeleteGreat idea for an eBook, i'd buy it.
ReplyDeleteNailing down a designer and editor for my Novella and keeping copious notes along the way. Would love to contribute if I can be timely...do we have a hard or prospective due date?
ReplyDeleteBTW, this is a fantastic idea!
You should throw a contest for naming the title!!!
Here's my entry: ALL MEME'S CAN NOW STFU!
Joe,
ReplyDeleteI'm all for it. Sounds like it would benefit all involved. Feel free to use my piece if you'd like.
Sounds great to me. Does this mean you won't be having guest blogs while you're on hiatus?
ReplyDeleteInteresting, and so very weird. Looking for a break, and you find yourself in the middle of another project. Long live ingenuity! Long live the ever-transforming eBook! This is really great -- and generous.
ReplyDeleteJon O.
The Petoskey Stone
The Ride Home
I think it's a great idea! Feel free to use my guest post.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the interest, everyone. Right now, Joe and I are trying to decide how we'll continue to take submissions what the deadline is. We'll update once we do.
ReplyDeleteAnd a quick note about the project. I do plan to donate a portion of the royalties to 826national.org, the non-profit organization that supports the 826-storefront student tutoring, writing and publishing centers.
@I.J. Parker: I'll sleep when I'm dead!
@Susan Kaye Quinn: Don't see why linking out would be a problem. I've got links in my essay and plan to leave them as-is.
@Jon: Ironic, yes? "I'm on hiatus. No, really. I mean it," Joe said.
Sure thing. Sounds like a good plan.
ReplyDeleteAnother Title Suggestion:
ReplyDeleteActually, I don't care what you decide to title it, as long as you frame it as follows:
"HARRY POTTER AND THE [INSERT TITLE HERE]"
Enjoy your new castle in Malibu, Mr. Siders!
Todd
"THE TELLING OF MY MARCHING BAND STORY"
www.ToddTrumpet.com
Joe and Rob,
ReplyDeleteCompletely agreed!
I sent my post in and would love to see it in this collection. Rob, if you need anything let me know at
authorjonassaul(at)gmail.com
I did not include my blog link or any links for my books in the post. Just let me know what you need and I'll fire it off.
Thanks,
Jonas
Count me in as well. In fact, I'd love to enhance my submission for the book if the 1200 word limit ends up being relaxed.
ReplyDeleteAt first I wasn't a big fan of the idea - but once I thought about it self-publishing is all about self-promotion, and at its best, self-promotion while promoting fellow authors. So I'm in. I think you should include your phrase "indiestry" in the title - I like that and I'm already using it.
ReplyDeleteI love the idea and want to add my post to the final product
ReplyDeleteSounds like a plan, count me in.
ReplyDeleteThere is one problem with doing a book on e-publishing. I have a copy of “ePublishing for Dummies”. It is eleven years old. Copyright is 2001.
ReplyDeleteOn page ten it says the most popular eBook reads are, Rocket eBook, SoftBook Reader and Everybook Reader--which I have never heard of, and on page 258 it says the Amazon does not sell e-books. I pretty sure that has changed.
In this fast moving world, the book you purpose should, I think, be more for inspiration than instruction but I will read it.
Wavin' atchya, Rob and Joe!
ReplyDeleteCount me in!!!
I luuuvvv this idea!!! And let me know however I might be able to help!
amazing idea!
ReplyDeleteIt's a great idea! Could I include mine? I wasn't rushing to get mine in because I assumed there would be time...is there room for another?
ReplyDeleteUse the post I sent here and/or in the book - I'm good with whichever choice you make. I assume we'll have to sign a release or something. Please let ne know what you need.
ReplyDeleteThanks Joe and Rob,
Mary
I'm game. I haven't submitted anything, so if it's only for what's already been submitted, then I like the idea for everyone else! But as a newbie going the self-pubbed route with a literary novel, I'd love to have my two cents heard as well. I think it's fair for Rob to get the $$ if he's going to be doing all the hard work. This isn't an unfamiliar model anyway.
ReplyDeleteSounds awesome. Count me in. Good luck with that "hiatus" Joe! As if you're even capable...
ReplyDeleteSounds like a great idea to me! I'm happy to help and compensation is the furthest thing on my mind. I just hope my article makes the cut.
ReplyDeleteLike Tina, I wanted to do a post, but I didn't have time to do a GOOD post, so I didn't end up submitting. (I wanted to write something on the rise of the hobbyist/amateur -- those who write for the sake of writing, whether it's high literary, family history, fanfic, or what have you -- whom the Indie Revolution has unleashed.)
ReplyDeleteSorry I'm too late, but IF I were in the group, I would love your solution.
I think - pay rob up to a certain amount, worth what he did... and give the rest away to charity.
ReplyDeleteI think - pay Rob up to a certain amount, worth what he did... and give the rest away to charity.
ReplyDeleteSorry, was too quick on the post - didn't get to fill out my details.
Am I too late? I’m traveling; at a state librarians conference where I gave a presentation called eBook (R)evolution about my journey from librarian/traditional publishing focused to self-publishing my first ebook this summer. (Waving to Rob at 52Novels since they formatted it…did a great job I might add.) So I was traveling, couldn’t stop to write a post…and now this book idea, which is amazing. And I soooo want in!
ReplyDeleteIf I could write a post incorporating the stuff I presented to librarians (focus on why/how I shifted from traditional thought to indie thought) I’d love to.
So, am I too late?
That's a brilliant idea, Joe! Thanks so much for the opportunity. I think the compilation will be a great inspiration to all writers on their journey. You can count me in, too! :-)
ReplyDeleteThat sounds great, Joe. Thanks for the opportunity. I told you that you'd be just as busy on hiatus!
ReplyDeleteSounds like a great idea. I am pushing hard this weekend to get Volume Two of my Summer's Journey series published - but I will certainly submit something about my self-publishing journey shortly after that.
ReplyDeleteGreat idea as usual Joe!!
Enjoy the time off and I can't wait to read what you write with all your "free" time!!
Summer
i'm in - send me details if you'd like to have my post re my writing history, the road to my first ebook - great idea joe, thanks!
ReplyDeleteThe books almost write themselves once you make the decision to make it happen.
ReplyDeleteOnly problem: I am publishing my new book, "How to get e-published by getting e-authors to learn how to get e-published by publishing e-books." I'm afraid there will be overlap in our subjects. Well, good luck to both of us.
Jillian Black
Author of "Rachel Rabbit is Rarin' to Go!" and "Ha! Free promotion!"
Since I never expected to get paid for my blog offering in the first place, go right ahead. I hope it proves wildly successful.
ReplyDeleteI'm in. I'm happy you're doing the organizing, and I'm happy to donate my little percentage of whatever the book makes.
ReplyDeleteI will certainly be interested in what the other 99 (or whatever) folks have to say.
Great idea!
Excellent idea, Joe and I see it got a lot of support right off the bat! But I told you that would happen! Hundreds of post offers, wow! I'm not surprised.
ReplyDeleteSo who's going to do the actual curating (I mean selection of posts)? Surely not all of them are good enough to be part of a book you are willing to be the figure head...
And what are you going to do? Shut down your site here? I hope not! I enjoyed reading you...Perhaps you can change your format, do fewer posts and shorter ones...I don'tknow, up to you, but knowing you, I'm sure you'll find the solution!
Congrats and good luck!
i think its a great idea. and i would buy it
ReplyDeleteI think its a great idea, and I would buy it.
ReplyDeleteIt's a fabulous idea for dealing with too many posts. Count me in.
ReplyDeleteGreat idea, and something I think folks would read. The recipe of modest word count and varied perspective should play well to the microwaved lifestyles of the day.
ReplyDeleteShould you feel my submission works with the theme, ebook away. I don't know Rob, but if he's willing to bundle and edit, I think it's fair he keep the profit, or donate at his discretion. The mention of my website and upcoming novel would be more than enough reward for me.
Great idea. I think it will be studied in Universities for decades to come (Konrath 101), at least until they make a Holodeck, then we're all out of fricking job.
ReplyDeleteI sent in a blog post, and I'd be fine with it being included in an ebook. It's definitely a book I'd read.
ReplyDeleteI do hope you still post some of the posts on the blog, although I will definitely be buying the ebook as well.
I,m afraid I could only contribute a piece on how some of us are wearing down but still fierce aabout trying to legwrestle previous publishers to get our erights /rights back from unfair contract clauses et al. It's a lonely battle for Kiana and me and others
ReplyDeleteBut, your idea is great and please let me know if I can help you Joe and Rob, and
I surely will try. I offer to help edit if you need any.
dr.cpe
...I meant to say ...if you need any editing done.
ReplyDeleteThanks
dr.cpe
I'd already sent you my contribution and am happy with your new idea, but I'm not quite understanding something. In your original call for guest bloggers, you asked us to tell your readers our (poor struggling authors') tales of the publishing world, whether it be funny or outrageous, etc. In your new proposal, you mention something about it being the ultimate tome for ebook publishing. As many have pointed out, those books already exist. I think an ebook devoted to all of the highs and lows of a writer's career - trying to be legitimately published and what happens on the way, complete with crazy agents and rejection letters - is far more interesting and not just another how to be a successful ebook writer piece.
ReplyDeleteSo - the piece I subbed to you is either relevant or not, depending on which way you go. But I'm not just saying this in my own interest - we really do not need another book on how to self-publish.
You may want to take a look at
ReplyDeletehttp://anthologize.org/ easy way to turn posts into an ebook, for sale or for intro into your writing or services
Not a bad idea. Although it couldn't hurt to send some of the money to a charitable reading cause. And I hope you include authors who shared their stories on your blog before. :)
ReplyDelete@ folks suggesting a donation to a charity... I'm way out in front of you. From my earlier comment:
ReplyDeleteAnd a quick note about the project. I do plan to donate a portion of the royalties to 826national.org, the non-profit organization that supports the 826-storefront student tutoring, writing and publishing centers.
I tend to agree with Phoenix and Walter (i.e., on the fast-changing world of publishing and the mish-mash aspect). That being said, feel free to use what I sent you. But I think you should still do a guest post (choose one at random on a regular basis). Not everyone is going to download a book to read it. But they might dip into the blog to check out what's happening.
ReplyDeleteI spent maybe 45 minutes writing my essay on how you can get your indie novel done as an audiobook. Siders is going to spend DAYS editing all this stuff.
ReplyDeleteI know giving a portion to a charity is all warm and fuzzy, but why shouldn't Rob just keep the money? I may be in the minority, but I am all for a guy getting paid for his work.
Actually, I'm more interested in this than I was the potential of guest posting on your blog, Joe.
ReplyDeleteDo we still submit as defined by your earlier post? Or would you prefer something else?
Joe:
ReplyDeleteIs there a deadline to submit a post for possible inclusion. Would love to submit something for consideration.
And, great idea!
You can always post one every other day, and take a really long break...
ReplyDeleteAt any rate, I'm game for being put in a book. But will you be posting any on your blog? What criteria are you using? The first received, or the best?
I think it's an idea whose time has come (a long time ago) and I know from experience that Rob (and Amy) will get the job done and done well. It it too late to send in material?
ReplyDeleteWhy the hell not? I'm in. Send the details when you have them and I'll send my article.
ReplyDeleteSounds great. I would like to give the YA perspective and hearing everyone's stories are inspiring.
ReplyDeleteSean
I'm in! You can use my guest post anyway you like.
ReplyDeletethe money should go to a charity, not into robs pocket. come on Konrath, you think writers are that dumb. Don't take advantage of people.
ReplyDeleteThe money should go to a charity, not into robs pocket. come on Konrath, you think writers are that dumb. Don't take advantage of people.
ReplyDeleteFine by me.
ReplyDeleterick said:
ReplyDeletethe money should go to a charity, not into robs pocket. come on Konrath, you think writers are that dumb. Don't take advantage of people.
Rick, you must have missed this in the comments ahead of yours, but just in case you come back to see what people said after you, Rob already commented twice that he plans to donate a portion of the royalties to charity.
I'm one of the writers who sent Joe a post and has since commented that I'm happy to be included in the book if my post makes the cut. For the record,I am neither dumb, nor feeling taken advantage of by this idea.
Rob will more than earn whatever royalties he keeps after he puts in hours of work reviewing, editing, organizing, formatting and uploading the completed book.
None of us have been coerced to allow our posts to be included. Anyone who submitted a post and doesn't want it to appear in the book can withdraw the piece.
Yes! That sounds like a fantastic idea. Have just self-published, and will be submitting. Thanks for this.
ReplyDeleteRick said "Konrath...Don't take advantage of people."
ReplyDeleteHell, don't take advantage of Siders! Let the man earn a payday. Can you do what he will do at the same level of competency, Rick? Send in a bid, or stand aside.
And as for the charity part, don't get me wrong--I'm all for literacy. One day, we'll have something called "public schools" that use something called "taxes" to accomplish such a worthy goal.
In the mean time, we're stuck with bake sales and 501(c)(3)s that try to get it done, because we are angered by taxes and convinced that schools are just worthless havens for featherbedders.
Look, if Siders wants to give the money to a charity, may the angels ride with him. I'm just saying that he'll earn every penny putting this thing together and he ought to keep it.
Although I didn't submit a guest post, nor do I plan to, I think this is a great idea. Authors have a way to share their hard-earned knowledge with other writers, they get some recognition, Rob gets paid for his amazing work, and money goes to charity.
ReplyDeleteIf I wouldn't buy it for the posts, I'd buy it just to support where the money goes. Rob and Amy do my formatting, too. They are great people. The fact that they even offered to donate some of the proceeds to charity should prove it to everyone.
so someone else gets the money for your ideas and you're still kissing Konrath's ass - probably not the way too match or overtake his sales- sounds like a plan from the beginning - hook line and sinker
ReplyDeleteGreat idea. Polishing my article as we speak.
ReplyDeleteThat is an awesome idea! I hope you're still open to submissions for this. :)
ReplyDeleteAnon,
ReplyDeleteI don't know where all this vitriol comes from but I really wish people would read the comments before spouting nonsense.
For the record: Joe does't get a dime out of this. He proposed an idea and most of the commenters are all for it.
If you don't want to have a part in it, fine. Nobody is forcing you to either submit a post and give up any rights to it, nor are they making you buy the book. *eyeroll*
That being said: I still think it's a great idea even though the authors won't get any immediate money out of it.
Cheers,
Romana
Another brilliant ruse! Another piece of inspired self promotion!
ReplyDeleteIt really is an education watching you at work, Joe. I mean, It looks so easy. To con your readers into writing a book for you, and for which they’ll be paid nothing, and then you walk away with this massive publicity boost. JOE KONRATH RELEASES DEFINITIVE BOOK ON SELF PUBLISHING. And the gullible contributors – a hundred of them, all of them high on a whiff of their guru’s flatulence – will then market the tome with sedulous zeal. All for free!
Seems this idea brought out more idiots than usual.
ReplyDeleteHey, dumb-dumbs that think we're being taking advantage of--might you give us a little credit. I know exactly what I'm doing. I'm letting my post that I had no intention of getting paid for be published in anthology I have no intention of getting paid for.
Those of you trying to "protect" us poor schlubs from Joe's "scam" don't have our interests at heart; you just have some bug up your asses and have found a convenient excuse to let them buzz.
Thank you for your fake concern. Now move along, little doggies, and let the adults continue with our conversation.
So you guys will make a book about not giving publishers a big cut of profits for doing the one off jobs like editing and designing a cover.
ReplyDeleteIt will be written by people who give up 100% of the profits to the guy who is going to do the editing and design the cover.
Additionally the authors credits will go to the publisher and muse instead of the actual writers.
It sounds like the people who are signing up to do this haven't read enough of Joe's posts.
I'm all for that Joe.
ReplyDeleteSo you guys will make a book about not giving publishers a big cut of profits for doing the one off jobs like editing and designing a cover.
ReplyDeleteIt will be written by people who give up 100% of the profits to the guy who is going to do the editing and design the cover.
Additionally the authors credits will go to the publisher and muse instead of the actual writers.
It sounds like the people who are signing up to do this haven't read enough of Joe's posts.
Stop spreading the stupid. It's not like anyone is giving away a novel and forgoing payment. We're talking a few page essay--a blog post worth of words--that will provide a little free publicity. And if you haven't done the math because, maybe, you can't, check the original post where Joe mentions that if we split the profits on this book among the writers it would amount to about 8 cents per sale. That's more trouble for my book-keeping than it's worth.
Get over your troll addiction and go someplace where stupid is welcome, like Absolute Write. They will love you over there.
Seems this idea brought out more idiots than usual.
ReplyDeleteRob...I've actually had my stopwatch going this whole time. Am rather surprised it took as long as it did.
Does that mean you're gonna keep blogging, Joe? :)
ReplyDeleteArchangel - keep fighting the good fight! And I think an article on wrestling your rights back would be a good idea. There are others like you out there and they wouldn't feel so lonely if they heard your story!
Maybe you should create a second blog for all of these guest posts.
ReplyDeleteRob Cornell has this thing about right. Hooray for the adults.
ReplyDeleteI don't know if you were planning on useing mine or not, but if so - go right ahead. If it can be a help so some people then wonderful.
ReplyDeleteWill the authors receive credit upfront--like in the first 20% of the sample?
ReplyDeleteTrolls...ugh. One of the ugliest things about the Internet.
ReplyDeleteI'm in. Why not? Sounds like a cool idea. Awaiting details...
Brian
http://brianjjarrett.com
@notesfromnadir: I imagine some kind of author list will go up front, but I don't know what shape it will take at the moment. I'll know more once we've got a better idea of the book's structure.
ReplyDeleteIf it hasn't been stated 97 times already - I think it would be a bad idea to allow people to take it out (or modify it) at any time -- else the designer would wind up in a loss position! Writers (myself included and perhaps moreso than others!) get wild hairs up their ***** all the time. Something like a 2 year minimum term for nonexclusive rights sounds more reasonable! Beyond that, I think it's a good idea :-)
ReplyDeleteI'm amazed at the antagonism expressed by some of the Joe-loathers.
ReplyDeleteSince I'm sure those people did not submit posts to Joe in the first place, it's particularly ludicrous.
I haven't seen a single negative comment written by anyone who submitted a guest blog post.
It took me less than an hour to write and polish my blog post, which I would have loved for Joe to post on the blog. That kind of exposure is priceless.
Now it could appear in a compilation of pieces by other authors sharing their stories. Joe's name and work will be associated with it and that means there's a built-in guarantee that the book will garner attention.
How come nobody's posted a comment about us Konrath wannabes attaching ourselves to his name and promotional platform like voracious leeches? You know we're all just agreeing to this book in hopes of suck some of the success from his rich blood?
@Mary Stella
ReplyDeleteI 100% agree. This is Marketing 101. Joe is a well known and loved self-published author. His name attached to this book is going to garner attention. Especially one of this magnitude. He's not selling his blog posts in digital format. He's selling the experiences of each and every one of his readers. Something that a lot of marketing people pay good money to analyze.
It seems the main issue here is that people believe Joe is going to get "free publicity" from this which honestly, couldn't be further from the truth.
Think about it this way. How many Big Macs do you think Luis Vila could sell if he were on the flagship advertising campaign for McDonalds? Probably not many more than usual. But when Michael Jordan and Larry Bird had their legendary confrontation in one Superbowl Ad, the nation couldn't eat burgers fast enough.
The name on the front of the cover is almost as important as the content itself. It is a guarantee of quality to the reader (some honor it better than others). We should all feel privileged to be included in such an anthology for no more than an hour or two worth of work.
It's a wonderful idea. Please count me in! I'm working on it as we speak and because of the nature of the article, I cannot send it in until Nov 1st. Hope that's ok, I'm sure you'll love it - if I'm lucky :)
ReplyDeleteMarta
Count me in! My article is ready and waiting.
ReplyDeleteHere's another title sub:
ReplyDeleteAdventures in indie publishing!
Judging by the feedback that's coming in I can see volumes 1, 2 and maybe 3?
Just thinking out loud
I'd be happy to contribute if some of the proceeds would go to any charity that is helping wounded vets from these stupid wars.
ReplyDeleteLinda Hawley
being a moderator of a busy political-news blog, trolls, no matter where or when, are "jumping the shark" ...meaning the moment when a way of saying, seeing, being, moves beyond the qualities that may have initially been fresh but now are irrelevant, and predictable and boring. For rapier wit, instead of butterknife wit, see Wm. Shakespeare. He knew how to sling it in ways ever fresh.
ReplyDeleteToo, reading some of the 'you stipid/ no you stupid' here and elsewhere I'm of a mind that it is true that some who are angels look and see angels, and some few who are demons. look and only see demons.
And some of us see a little of both in those who have true heart.
Rob and Joe, we still stand ready to help you edit if you need us.
dr.cpe
I'd like to see the material arranged thematically -- in other words, some editorial guidance at work.
ReplyDeleteIf it's just one blog post after another without any rhyme or reason, it's less interesting.
Give me something that intelligent eyes have gone through and sifted and sorted and I'm much more likely to buy.
I don't want to pay $3 for nice formatting. I want to pay for editing.
Will this material be edited?
Another idea: Collect the submissions, copy them into a file, and create a PDF and give it away alongside the $3 book.
ReplyDeleteIt would be ugly, but it doesn't take that long to copy and paste into a file and once that part is done, the PDF creation is easy.
Then if people want a nicer cleaned up version, they can buy. Otherwise, the free PDF would be available.
Here is my modest proposal:
ReplyDeleteIf the goal is to get new readers, wouldn't it be better to do a short story anthology? That way the writing samples would be more indicative of your regular work.
With enough keen writers you could do a whole series - "J Konrath presents" - with anthologies for different genres; horror, thriller, cop procedural, erotica, even self publishing.
The idea translates to full novels as well. I wouldn't mind taking a look at the novel "J Konrath presents Darker Things", should Joe ever publish such a book.
Shen, this isn't about stories, it's about experiences with publishing. Read the darn original post again if you didn't get that. I'm getting impatient here! *head-desk*
ReplyDeleteI'm in :)
ReplyDeleteNice. It makes me wish I'd sent in a guest blog; I might have made the cut.
ReplyDeleteWhat is Joe's E-mail address. I do not see it posted anywhere on his blog?
ReplyDeleteClick on his scruffy, unshaven picture and you shall see a plethora of useful information.
ReplyDeleteClicking on Joe's dust mite infested beard takes me to a dead-end E-blogger page.
ReplyDeleteClicking on the 'E-mail' button is another dead end. Sigh.
The idea translates to full novels as well. I wouldn't mind taking a look at the novel "J Konrath presents Darker Things", should Joe ever publish such a book.
ReplyDeleteCan't say I dislike this last idea. :)
Maybe you should ask Jeroen ten Berge to do the cover.
ReplyDeleteHere is an answer to an email query I sent him last year about the price of a cover. I’m sure he would forgo the US250 up front.
“It is always nice to hear from a total stranger - thank you.
I don't know how deep Joe's pockets are, but I'm confident his growing success on amazon will reap ample financial rewards in the time to come. I have an agreement with him (I only designed one cover for him - Serial Uncut) and other established authors that instead of going out of pocket I get a percentage (15%) of their take for the books I have designed the cover for.
With new authors I offer the same deal, but request a US$250 up front payment. This is basically to cover my time reading (parts of) the manuscript and some initial concept design time.
Jeroen”
Absolutely down with the plan if my blog post was one you were interested in using. If not, no worries. And the non-exclusive rights is a great plan, because it means I could post my blog post and then link to the ebook with ALL of the important information in it. Anyway those of us who contributed could sign up for a free copy?
ReplyDeleteLet us know if we need to email to opt-in/provide links for Rob.
Sounds like an excellent idea to me.
ReplyDeleteI am happy if you use the post I sent you on your blog or an ebook. Either way it would be exposure to my work which is mostly the point.
ReplyDeleteI can see there is enough people checking the details to make sure nobody gets screwed. I need to go right a book now.
@Mark Asher: Yes, the idea isn't to merely dump these into a file. We'll make sure there's a reason to the rhyme.
ReplyDelete@Anon from 11:20 AM: Jeroen was the person I spoke with after finishing the call with Joe. ;-)
In the same way that 90 per cent of self-published books are just plain awful, I'd put money on 90 per cent of the blogs you were sent being of the same quality. Just my humble opinion....
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like a fantastic idea to me. It's semi-free advertising for anyone volunteering their work for the project.
ReplyDeleteFantastic idea. After all, isn't this what the new publishing model isn't just meant to be, but HAS to be? A place to exchange ideas, and figure out what does/doesn't work based on shared personal experiences?
ReplyDeleteAlso, hearing what a bitch of a time other authors are having never hurts :)
Joe: I didn't submit a post yet, but if its still an option, I'd love to do so.
In the same way that 90 per cent of self-published books are just plain awful, I'd put money on 90 per cent of the blogs you were sent being of the same quality. Just my humble opinion....
ReplyDelete90 percent of anything is awful, and that goes for legacy published books as well. Not sure what your point was picking on self-published authors in particular.
We can debate the definition of "humble" another time. ;)
90 percent of anything is awful, and that goes for legacy published books as well. Not sure what your point was picking on self-published authors in particular.
ReplyDeleteBecause, Rob, getting published means you're special and highly talented. Didn't you know that? Pish :D
Just finally got through the slew of comments. Ignore my question about getting a free copy, I wrote a blog post, and whether it's in or not, I will gladly pay $3 for the wisdom of many in an easy to peruse format.
ReplyDeleteAs someone who wrote non-fiction for her supper (okay, fun money, but still), a one-off blog post is N-O-T-H-I-N-G. Go to just about any e-lance site and be expected to do 10 of them for about $1 or less. If people are freaking out about someone profiting off their original FREE contribution, for crying out loud, give me their spot!
Those of us who submitted a blog post in effect gave our writing with the expectation that Joe would publish it. Now you're upset about a much more visible venue? Gift horse people, gift horse....
Wow. I've been reading this blog for over a year now, and after reading through some of these comments I can see why JA needs a break.
ReplyDeleteLike, a long, long break.
@Rob Cornell. After reading your responses to folks who don't get it, or don't want to get it, I went to Amazon and bought one of your books (Red Run)Seemed like the most concrete way to express my appreciation for your posts.
ReplyDelete@Stella You know you totally made my day, right? Thanks for that. I hope you enjoy RED RUN. (Guess I should be grouchy online more often.) :)
ReplyDelete@Rob: @Mark Asher: Yes, the idea isn't to merely dump these into a file. We'll make sure there's a reason to the rhyme.
ReplyDeleteHey Rob, I hope so. It would be both overwhelming and probably tedious to read through 100 blog posts that are nicely formatted but otherwise have had little editing done to them.
As a reader I'd like to see the material organized by topic. There will be some primarily about writing, some primarily about marketing, some about ebook creation, and some about other topics.
It would be especially helpful if some of the contributors focused on specific topics -- cover creation, working with an editor, how to get beta readers, etc.
My fear is that it will be 100 stories about "My adventures in self-publishing."
That would be a bit unfortunate and not something I'd want to read.
"90 percent of anything is awful"
ReplyDeleteHmmmmm. Think that through, Rob. And just because you don't like what I say, doesn't mean I'm wrong!
Joe's read the entries. I dont see why he'd propose a book if 90% of it was crap.
ReplyDeleteafter reading through some of these comments I can see why JA needs a break. Like, a long, long break.
ReplyDeleteNo shit.
15% of a book's profit for designing a cover. WTF!
ReplyDeleteHoly Crap! What the hell happened with Konrath's books today? They all suddenly took off. DAMN!
ReplyDeleteGreat idea. When do you want stuff submitted or where? (of course, I'm sure that info will be forthcoming.)
ReplyDeleteThanks,
Dawn
And just because you don't like what I say, doesn't mean I'm wrong!
ReplyDeleteWhether I like it or not is irrelevant. I'm questioning the validity of what you're claiming. Just because you say it, doesn't mean your right.
As far as "thinking through" my statement about 90 percent of everything being crap, I have. And it's not an idea original to me. Look up Sturgeon's Law.
In either case, I'm still not sure what your point was coming by and taking a shot at the people who sent Joe their posts. Was it to make you feel better about your own work which, according to reviews on Amazon, some people think is "just plain awful?"
Sounds good to me, hope you like my post!
ReplyDeleteTo Rob and Stephen:
ReplyDeleteI'll buy one ebook download from each of you if you'll stop the petty bickering.
Stephen, I'll buy two downloads from you if you'll stop fanning the flames with dickish comments.
There are many terrible indie novelists self-pubbing these days, so I'm sure Joe has received numerous piss-poor essays for consideration. But I'm sure he's more than capable of weeding out the crap. Let the man do his job.
-Joshua
Joshua:
ReplyDeleteAt the risk of losing a sale, I don't think sticking up for the people to took the time to submit their writing to Joe was petty. However, the potshot from the writer with the superiority complex was.
Other than that, I'm done with comments here. I've bitched enough.
What is Joe's E-mail address? Someone must know.
ReplyDeleteIs it a secret?
Why not set up a new blog and set it up as a subscribable kindle blog - then compile volumes into ebooks as and when u have enough posts - them you don't have to turn folks away? The great digital experiment!
ReplyDelete@ Walter
ReplyDelete"What is Joe's E-mail address? Someone must know."
If you click on Joe's picture (top of this page) it will take you to his Blogger info page. You'll find his email under the header "Contact".
Sorry, but that does not work for me. I prpbably have to register somewhere to get in. Thanks anyway for the effort.
ReplyDeleteAnonymous 2:08
ReplyDelete'Holy crap' indeed - because it is incorrect. This is what happens when only part of a story is revealed.
Today my design fees are fixed, and only in exceptional situations have I offered a royalty split deal. Not likely to happen again.
Joe, please delete the Anonymous 11:20 AM post. Thanks.
@jeroen ten berge
ReplyDeleteAnonymous 2:08
'Holy crap' indeed - because it is incorrect. This is what happens when only part of a story is revealed.
I genuinely don't understand your response to my comment. Could you please elaborate? What is the rest of the story?
@jeroen... we who know you understand your integrity just fine. We know business models change as time goes on. No sweat. Maturity asks questions instead of jumping to condemnation. You're a gifted cover artist and we are glad to know you.
ReplyDeleteI think a useful question re anonymous could be: What is your real name "anonymous"? since you are addressing Jeroen who uses his real name. Transparency, level field and all.
Thanks
dr.cpe
@Walter - If you go to Joe's website, you can click on the contact button on the left and that will send him an email.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.jakonrath.com/
Hope that helps.
@anonymous 1:18AM.
ReplyDeleteNope, I will not elaborate. Why would I to someone who chooses to remain anonymous, especially on a public forum? If you want to know more contact me directly.
Thanks dr. cpe. Hope you are well!
All for it!
ReplyDelete@archangel
ReplyDeleteI think a useful question re anonymous could be: What is your real name "anonymous"? since you are addressing Jeroen who uses his real name. Transparency, level field and all.
@jeroen
Nope, I will not elaborate. Why would I to someone who chooses to remain anonymous, especially on a public forum? If you want to know more contact me directly.
What the heck are you guys talking about? All I did was point out that Konrath experienced a sudden spike in sales, and all of a sudden you start hammering me to post with my real name. Geez!
that's the trouble with using the incessantly multiparous moniker "anonymous"
ReplyDeleteone "anonymous" doesnt know himself/herself from whichever actual "anonymous" is being addressed.
Thanks.
dr.cpe
Joe, I think you could get away with taking a break and letting someone else lead the charge for a while.
ReplyDeleteLet's face it; your ability to generate an incredible ammount of publicity with a blog post about almost any topic is still intact. Take a month off, then come back with a post about potato chips and then sit back and watch the sales spike.
We will still be here waiting!
Joe, did you really give Jeroen 15% 0f Serial Uncut for designing the cover? Just curious.
ReplyDeleteGreetings.
ReplyDeleteI have just read 'EBooks and Self Publishing' and I noticed one thing that seems to be 'misinterpreted' (in my opinion at least).
The concept of inflation related to future ebook sales. This is a misinterpretation because naturally, as time goes by, the $2.99 'standard' will raise as inflation does, so the income (70%) will remain inflation linked.
Another thought that is relevant is the following, one need not consider 'how many years will I still live, and thus earn an income from ebooks, since it is easy enough to set up a fund, of which the author and family are members thereof.
That fund receives the royalties, which in turn go to the members. Should the author die, or alternatively choose to go live an ascetic life in the Himalayas (or the closest swamp), the other members still receive the revenue.
One final comment regarding the legacy publishers, no matter how one tries to disguise it, backwards remains backwards and for some reason (sometimes far more slowly than one would imagine), the truth must out.
BlueMental
I heard Jeroen waved his normal cover fee for Serial Uncut for a beer, access to Joe's immense collection of frog and monkey clips, and toe nail clippings of Joe and (co-author) Blake's big toes, all 4 large enough to be dedicated and signed.
ReplyDeleteSplit Testing
ReplyDeleteHi Joe, My brother suggested I would possibly like this website. He used to be entirely right. This post actually made my day. You can not imagine just how much time I had spent for this info! Thanks!
Hi Joe,
ReplyDeleteI just mailed you something if it's not too late.
Cheers,
Dave
Hello, Joe. I've been through both sides, conventional and Indie, agents and not. I'd like to send something and will think about it. The current post on my blog talks about revision.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the opportunity.
Excellent idea!
ReplyDeleteI'm in (if it's not too late)
ReplyDeleteIt is not too late. I'll begin posting guest blogs tomorrow, one every two or three days, and also forward the blogs to Rob for ebook inclusion (if the writer so desires.)
ReplyDeleteThanks for all of the advice and paving the way!
ReplyDeleteHow do we sign up to write an article for this book? I'd love to be included. For a sample of my blogging/writing tips... http://jeanetteraleigh.wordpress.com/
Okay the last time I decided to use someone that posted on this blog ... I'm still waiting for the proofreader to have time for my manuscript. When was that?? I'm still waiting, I think she said she couldn't promise anything sooner than January. This is the power of this blog!! I spent two weeks of frustration trying to format a few short stories for Amazon, and for what he's charging I think I can afford it. In those two week I could have written something else. Great post!
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like a good idea. Is there still room for more articles? I missed the original call to submit posts. My topic would be marketing. What are the next steps?
ReplyDeleteSounds like an excellent idea - I'm a first-class cheapskate but I might even buy it ! My better half is in the process of writing an ebook so I'm sure all the info. insuch a book would come in very useful.
ReplyDeleteHoping this is going to happen--it's been a fantastic series and I will be first in line to buy the e-book!
ReplyDelete