Edging Past Reality

I can't believe that it's been over two months since my last blog. My apologies to all of you faithful readers that it's been so long. Life in the past couple of months has been a roller coaster; the lows I may talk about another time, but for now - the highs. My book of short stories, "Edging Past Reality" is now available! Of course, I urge everyone to buy a copy (or more). It's a perfect holiday gift, not too expensive, and will make a great stocking stuffer.

Okay, this is a writers blog - the commercial is over.

At one point in my life I thought the hardest part about writing was the writing. I faced what just about every writer faces - going over and over and over the manuscript, making minor edits, major rewrites, until I hate the book. I'm now realizing that that was the fun and easy part. Being a loner and an anti-social, I have no desire to 'get out there and sell myself.' I enjoy being holed up in my room, typing away on the computer, making up lie after lie, each one trying to outdo the last until it becomes a complete story. Now, I'm not only going to have to do readings and signings, but I'm also going to have to set them up. There's also the going to bookstores and convincing them that they should carry my book. I'm trying to think of a good approach. "Good morning. Who do I have to blow to get my book on your shelf?" Maybe not. I'm open to suggestions.

Of course there's the on-line promotion. That's a biggie now-a-days. I've scanned, perused, studied dozens of websites talking about guest blogs, tours, interviews, etc. I know that it works, every website says so. It can also be expensive. Some people have the knowhow to do it on their own and to those of you, I salute you. I ain't that smart, or that patient. Instead, it's all I can do to figure out how many books I'll have to sell just to break even. Then there is the IRS. I applied for a tax ID today. Should I go sole proprietor or LLC? Every turn there seems to be a myriad of questions blocking the way.

In the coming weeks I'll relay what I learn in the marketing venue. I'll let you know of my successes and pitfalls in hopes that you will avoid them (the pitfalls, not the successes). In the meantime - buy "Edging Past Reality." It's a great book! Sorry, I couldn't resist.