November Podcast shows

Happy Halloween Everyone! As October comes to a close, I have some exciting news to share about my podcast Writers in the Sky. November comes alive with five guests authors! To kick things off, I am uploading two shows on November 3rd that I'm sure will inspire, inform and delight listeners.

My first guest on November 3rd is Sheridan Claude. Sheridan has been writing for more than 25 years and is the author of a novel titled Across Time, Across Tears. She also has written two scripts: Return of the Groom and a children’s animated script Pencils, Episode One: Chalk it up to Pride. Find out how she got started as a writer and published her novel and worked on a team to write a children's animated script similar to Veggie Tales.

Listen to Sheridan's introduction here!

My second guest on November 3 is Valerie Connelly. Valerie is a multi-talented woman who is enjoying her life filled with exciting adventures as a writer, author, educator, and radio show host. She is also the founder and president of Nightengale Press –a traditional publisher with a non-traditional way of helping authors get their book published. In part 1 of our interview we talk about how she got started as a writer. In part 2 we discuss Valerie’s children’s book, Arthur, the Christmas Elf released just in time for the busy holiday season. On the website http://www.arthurthechristmaself.com/, you may read an excerpt, buy the book, enter the craft making contest or write a review. You will also find resources, after school program guides, and more Arthur Approved decorations for children of all ages.




Rev. Cherise Thorne will be my guest on November 10, 2006. Reverend Thorne was raised in Brampton, Canada and now lives in Chicago, Illinois. She is a Licensed Ordained Minister, a Licensed Clinical Hypnotherapist, and a Certified Crisis Intervention Counselor. She has studied extensively the Healing Arts, Shamanic Healing, Vibrational Therapy, Healing Touch, Reiki, Therapeutic Touch, Cranial Sacral Therapy, Magnified Healing, Meditation, Astrology and Hatha Yoga. Cherise co-founded New Dawn Ascension Foundation in 1995. Reverend Thorne is the author of an awesome book title The Blessing of Liberation: Path of Cleansing Karma. Through her book and the Ascension Program she shares her teachings with students seeking to evolve and know enlightenment for themselves and others. Find out what karma really is. You'll be surprised!

Hal Manogue 11/17/2006 Hal’s first book of poetry, Short Sleeves A Book For Friends, was self published in 2003 and is a work based on special occasions poems to family and friends. His second book : Shortsleeves A Book For Friends, 2006 Collection was released in May 2006. Hal continues to write poetry and is here to share how he got started as a writer.

On November 24 I am pleased to welcome children’s author, Lynne Berry as my guest. Lynne grew up in Sudbury, a small suburb of Boston, Massachusetts and graduated from Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School in 1990. She earned a B.A. in biology in 1994 from Wellesley College and then attended Vanderbilt University where she received her Ph.D. in cell biology. After publishing several papers in peer-reviewed scientific journals, she decided not to continue with laboratory research. Instead she entered the field of medical and technical writing as a day job, to enable her to pursue her interest in writing for children. She has published more than a dozen poems, many published in Ladybug magazine. In part 2 of our interview, we discuss Lynne’s children’s books Duck Skates and The Curious Demise of a Contrary Cat. http://www.lynneberry.com/

Guest speakers in the book publishing industry

My friend, Irene Watson just added another service for you!

Reader Views and Loving Healing Press joined together and created “Authors Access” on http://www.authorsaccess.com/. Guest speakers in the book publishing industry will present a live 15 to 20 minute talk followed by fielding questions from the listening audience. Please join us every Thursday evening at 8 EDT. If you happen to miss it, podcast will be available.
Check out the lineup of speakers – it’s a great one.


Irene Watson, Managing Editor; Juanita Watson, Assistant Editor
e-mail: admin@readerviews.com website: http://www.readerviews.com/
Weekly author forum: http://www.authorsaccess.com/
Live author interviews/readings: http://www.insidescooplive.com/

Working With The Media by Maryglenn McCombs

Once you have established a timeline and are ready to put the wheels in motion for your book’s PR campaign, the first step is selecting your target media.

Finding your target media requires a candid assessment of your book. Who would be interested in reading it? Make lists of potential book buyers – who they are, where they are, what topics and issues both concern and interest them, what in your book is relevant to them, and then find those potential buyers. Research magazines these potential buyers read, newspaper columns that cover issues of interest and importance to them, radio and television shows they listen to and watch, and use this information as your guide. The more specific you can be, the better your likelihood of reaching these potential buyers. Your book may appeal to a wide variety of different groups and you should endeavor to reach them all.

Once you have an idea of who your target media is, you need to find them.

• 
  Media research databases can be a terrific source of information. However, they can also be terrifically expensive. Don’t despair if a yearly subscription to a media research service is cost prohibitive, as there are plenty of other ways to find media contact information.
• Visit your favorite bookstore, library or newsstand and look for magazines, newspapers, and journals that might afford an opportunity for book coverage. Find magazines, journals, and outlets you think could be interested in your book.
• The internet is a wonderful source of information on specific media.
• Research media outlets by visiting their websites – read what they are writing about, note the focus of their publication or show, and research what topics specific journalists are covering. Most websites will include contact information for editors, writers, and staff. In addition, many websites even include guidelines for submitting.

Now that you’ve found them, it is time to make contact.

Making initial contact with a member of the media can be accomplished in several ways. You can meet face-to-face, call them on the phone, write a letter, or send an email. Please do bear in mind that journalists and producers are often working on tight deadlines and may not want to disruption of a phone call. Believe me – you will know! On balance, email is less intrusive, as the journalist has the luxury of reading – and responding – at his or her convenience.

If you do prefer to call, be polite. Introduce yourself and be sure to ask upfront if this is a good time for them to talk and if not, ask when might be a better time. Be brief. Explain exactly why you are calling, and offer to send more information. Use your discretion, but sometimes a follow up email thanking the journalist for his or her time, and recapping the conversation can be useful.

You’ve made contact, now keep in touch.

Follow up is crucial. Know that it sometimes takes more than one follow-up to get a response. After initial contact has been made, and you have sent the requested material, follow up in 7-10 days to confirm receipt, and offer more information or an interview. If you do not hear back within 7-10 days, follow up again. Be persistent, but follow the guideline of 7-10 days, with the exception of breaking news that relates to your book. If there is a breaking news story that does not pertain to your book or area of expertise, do not contact them.

Whatever you do, Know the media!

One of the most important parts of pitching successfully is researching the media outlet before you pitch. Watch for articles and columns that the journalist has written, guests the host or producer has booked on a show, and mention them when you pitch – particularly when these relate to your book. By establishing this connection, you are letting the journalist know that you have taken the time to do your research and that you have an understanding of what he or she is looking for. It also signals to the journalist or producer that you may be offering a great lead on an upcoming story, show or article. Doing the research does take time, but it is time well spent.

Maryglenn McCombs is an independent book promotion specialist based in Nashville. For more information, please visit www.maryglenn.com or email maryglenn@maryglenn.com.

Sunrise By Hal Manogue

Daylight Is Every Thing
To A Sunrise
There Is
No End To Daylights
Love
No End To The Love
That Awakes A World
Each Day
The Presence Of A Sunrise
Is A Present
From Love
To Be Shared
With Love
To Be Enjoyed
In Love
To Be Love
Especially At Sunrise

Working with Wisdom to Promote Your Book by Tricia Molloy

When it comes to promoting and selling our books, we all have something in common. We could benefit from the wise counsel of a trusted business partner.

The good news is that this partner is already here but has been sadly underused and neglected. Your business partner is a powerful force with all the wisdom of the universe and always has your best interests at heart. It's your Higher Power or Higher Consciousness-the Divine Wisdom within you that you can access at any time for a wealth of information, ideas, support and guidance.

You don't have to know all the answers; you just need to know where to look. And often the place to look is inside to make decisions, solve problems and come up with creative ideas. Follow these 10 universal principles to increase your success and joy as an author.

1) Tap into Divine Wisdom: Your Inner Guidance is Calling. Are you looking for innovative ways to reach the media or connect with other successful authors for mutual support and guidance? Try these five strategies: meditation, intuition, dreams, prayer and “God Winks,” which is paying attention to coincidences or synchronicities.

2) Define Your Life Purpose: Setting Intentions. When your life purpose is in alignment with your life's work, all the pieces seem to fall into place and your work as an author becomes play. Look at what motivates you, your deepest values and your natural gifts to help you define your life purpose and set intentions to support it. My Life Purpose Statement is: Through support and by example, I inspire others to follow their dreams and live joyfully on purpose. That statement inspired me to write my book and motivates me to coach, speak and write about working with wisdom.

3) Embrace Prosperity: You Deserve Unlimited Abundance. Once you realize that abundance is your birthright and you need to circulate money for it to grow, you will begin to experience the effortless flow of prosperity in all aspects of your book business. Keep in mind that prosperity goes beyond money to perfect health, loving relationships and a true sense of grace and ease in everything you do.

4) Clean Out the Clutter: The Universe Will Fill the Vacuum. A cluttered workplace distracts us and drains our energy. Throw out the garbage and set up systems that will keep you organized. By clearing that space, you have created a vacuum that the universe will fill with people and opportunities that serve your highest good.

5) Stay Present: That's Where the Gifts Are. Resist the temptation to multitask all the time and instead focus your full attention and all your senses on the task at that moment. Use the “at this moment” approach while working on a book proposal, being interviewed for an article or meeting with a prospective publisher. You can solve problems faster, show a deeper level of respect for those around you-thereby earning more respect-and reduce the stress you feel from juggling too many things.

6) Live Your Truth: Time for an Integrity Checkup. When our thoughts and actions conflict with the truth, we waste precious energy and tarnish our reputation. By increasing your level of integrity in thought, word and deed, you will transform all your relationships, including the one with yourself.

7) Engage the Law of Attraction: Your Thoughts Become Your Reality. The Law of Attraction states that energy attracts like energy. When your vibrational energy is high and light, which comes from love, trust and peace, you will attract people and circumstances that vibrate at that same level. To reach and maintain a high level, participate in nurturing activities like eating and drinking healthy, exercising, playing, laughing, reading inspiring books, enjoying a hobby, and giving thanks. What you focus on will expand, so keep your thoughts on the solution, not the problem.

8) See to Believe: The Power of Visualization. Follow the lead of every top athlete by visualizing success. What can you visualize as an author? It might be seeing yourself signing copies for a long line of enthusiastic readers or delivering dynamic book talks in exotic locations. I visualized that and was just invited to present two workshops at an executive women's weekend retreat at a five-star resort and spa in Mexico in February. Make sure to engage all your senses and infuse that image with all the positive emotions you would feel as if it were true. Begin with the end in mind. Visualization creates a space for reality to unfold, just like you pictured it.

9) Affirm Success: Creating, Positive, Powerful Statements. Decide what you want to be true in your business and create a short, positive statement in the present, as if it were already so. Some examples are: “I am a wildly successful author and millions of people read and love my books.” “I love to speak and share my story with others.” Post it and say it regularly. Some people prefer to rewrite their affirmations each morning and others sing or chant them to bring it deep into their soul.

10) Give Thanks Often: Cultivating an Attitude of Gratitude. Keeping a gratitude journal is the first step to opening up to more blessings as an author. Commit to writing in it at the end of each day. Include one unique entry each time and you will begin to seek out new reasons to be thankful throughout the day.

Tricia Molloy is author of DIVINE WISDOM AT WORK:™ 10 UNIVERSAL PRINCIPLES FOR ENLIGHTENED ENTREPRENEURS (Aha! House, 2006). Visit http://www.divinewisdomatwork.com and take the quiz to find out how much Divine Wisdom you're using now!

Today's Podcast Guest is Gini Graham Scott

Gini is a speaker, workshop and seminar leader, and organizational consultant to business, government, and non-profit organizations, who has published over 40 books and hundreds of articles. Her most recent books and articles focus on work issues, creativity, business management, marketing, resolving conflict, and crime.

Gini offers a unique way to get your book in front of as many as 350 literary agents and 400 publishers with one email and a very reasonable price. On my show Gini will share how she can help you get your book published. Read more about it at
http://www.publishersandagents.net.

Listen to Part One Now

Listen to Part Two Now

Listen to Part Three Now

Subscribe to Writers in the Sky RSS feed at http://feeds.feedburner.com/WritersInTheSky. By selecting one of the chicklets on the page you will automatically be sent an email when a new show has been uploaded. To download the show directly from itunes.com, go to http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=192160101.

You must have iTunes software loaded on your computer, but you can download the software at no cost on http://www.apple.com/itunes/download/. For more information please see http://www.writersinthesky.com/.

Nightengale Press wins Adding Wisdom Award

Nightengale Press is proud to announce that our title ARTHUR, THE CHRISTMAS ELF (ISBN 1-933449-23-3 $24.94, 64 full color pages) has been awarded the Adding Wisdom Award. Pub date November 1, 2006.

"Our Family Testers found a hidden treasure in the beautifully illustrated story of Arthur, the Christmas Elf. The heart-warming Christmas adventure followed by a family-friendly craft section based on the story is really awesome. Everyone loved it!" ~ Jodie Lynn, syndicated parenting/health expert, CEO/founder of http://www.blogger.com/, and author of parenting book, Mom CEO (Chief Everything Officer) - Having, Doing and Surviving It All! (June 2006).

"Arthur, the Christmas Elf is a proud winner of the 2006 Parent to Parent Adding Wisdom Award, the only award program to ever by honored by Disney.com."

Tell all your friends and family about Arthur, the Christmas Elf and encourage them to go to http://www.arthurthechristmaself.com/ today to purchase the book, enter Arthur's Contest, read the reviews and an excerpt from the book. On the website you will learn how your family can begin a new Christmas tradition this year, and how to use this wonderful story in your after school programs, your home-school curriculum and just to have fun with you kids and grand-kids. There are additional Christmas decorations on the site, including Arthur's Welcome Wreath, fun and messy glitter covered ornaments, simple gingerbread cutouts, and ways to make Arthur's sock puppets into holiday characters.

For more information, or to book Valerie Connelly for an event, contact our publicist, Maryglenn McCombs at mmailto:maryglenn@maryglenn.com or by phone 615-297-9875.

Nightengale Press

Well Fed Series

Do you know of anyone who dreams of making a GOOD living as a writer? Steer them to www.wellfedwriter.com for a FREE report, "Why Commercial Writing?" by Peter Bowerman. Peter is the author of the award winning Well-Fed Writer titles - how-to standards in the field of lucrative commercial freelancing.

Subscribe to THE WELL-FED E-PUB, the critically acclaimed FREE monthly ezine and companion to The Well-Fed Writer series: www.wellfedwriter.com/ezine.shtml. Just Released! The Well-Fed Self-Publisher: How to Turn One Book Into a Full-Time Living. For full details and FREE report, visit www.wellfedsp.com. www.copywriter.pro - Freelance Copywriting Services

Yvonne Perry will be interviewing Peter Bowerman for her podcast Writers in the Sky on January 5, 2007.

Motivate with Try-Angles

Inspire, influence, impress….& be brief by Marlene Caroselli

Need a theme for your next meeting? Want to inspire co-workers with a rallying phrase? Looking for a principle to guide your everyday actions? Want your product to be easily remembered? Try creating a Try-Angle—a new, work-related angle or perspective that’s easy to remember and easy to follow, one that encourages others to try, to stretch, to reach, to buy. Here’s how.

• Limit your words. “Try-Angles” encourage people to “try.” But there’s another meaning: the prefix “tri,” meaning “three” dictates the length of angle. Keep your motivational message down to three or four words.

• Choose short words. It was Winston Churchill who noted that “big [wo]men use little words. If you’ve any doubt at all about the big pull of little words, consider these:
Martin Luther King, Jr., “I have a dream.”
Mother Teresa: “We can do no great things, only small things with great love.”
Sam Walton: “Eliminate the dumb.”
John F. Kennedy: “Ask not what your country can do for you.”
Black Elk, Oglala Sioux holy man: “The life of man is a circle.”
Twyla Tharp: “Art is the only way to run away without leaving home.”

By contrast, consider the non-pull of big words. “It is neither ameliorative of one’s current reality nor advantageous for reification of the future to garner the totality of one’s gallinaceous assemblage into a singular receptacle fabricated from the smaller extrusions of a large perennial plant that possesses a primary stem from which multiple outgrowths occur” doesn’t motivate at all. “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket” does. Simplicity wins over “sesquipedalian” every single time.

• Heighten awareness of what works. As you develop your Try-Angle, attune yourself to other messages that have withstood the test of time—primarily because they have a limited number of words and those words are monosyllabic in nature. See what we mean by taking the following test. Identify the try-angle described by each of the following ten clues.


1. A backfiring presidential promise not to raise taxes____________________
2. An exhortation befitting Emily Post, Letitia Baldrige or your mom________________
3. A pronoun-vague recommendation from a sportswear firm_________________
4. An alliterative architectural axiom ____________________________
5. Caesar’s explanation for how to rule a defeated nation__________________
6. W. Edwards Deming’s advice for improving workplace morale_________________
7. Hope-driven message from Britain’s leader during World War II _________________
8. Message for youth from a star-connected First Lady________________
9. First part of LeRoy Satchel’s Paige message that ends with “Something may be
gaining on you.” ______________
10. Military-inspired statement that today means “Win unconditionally” _____________

• Create several. Involve others in the final selection. Once you begin to think about try-angles, you’ll find numerous applications for their use. For example, Jack Welch, CEO of General Electric and widely regarded as the “Manager of the Century,” seldom gives an interview without mentioning his personal credo, an alliterative try-angle: “speed, simplicity, self-confidence.” While you probably don’t give as many media interviews as he does, you can use your try-angles at staff meetings, on stationery, during the hiring process, et cetera. Additionally, the thought-process that leads to the creation of these simple-but-powerful messages will lead you to themes for conferences, slogans for competitions, frame-able posters, et cetera.

Whatever use you put your try-angles to, involve others in generating ideas for creating and applying them. And, for those try-angles that will receive the most attention, invite input from others to ensure you’ve chosen the most inspiring. In terms of having your key points remembered, we leave you with this historical paraphrase: “Remember the Main!”

- - - - - - - - - - -

Dr. Marlene Caroselli is a keynoter, trainer, and author. Her 60 books on business/ communications can be seen at Google or www.caroselli.biz. Her latest book, 500 Creative Classroom Techniques, has just been released by HRD Press, 800-822-2801.

Answers: 1. Read my lips. 2. Mind your manners. 3. Just do it. 4. Form follows function. 5. Divide and conquer. 6. Drive out fear. 7. Never give up. 8. Just say no. 9. Don’t look back. 10. Take no prisoners.

Back of the Room

Back of the Room is an online store that specializes in self-published and small press books. They understand and appreciate the challenge you face when you decide to self-publish. Join the ranks of professional speakers, consultants, experts in various fields, and authors like yourself, and list your books, audio programs, and video products on http://www.backoftheroom.com/.

Global Talk Radio Valerie Connelly’s show

Check out this link to Global Talk Radio and listen to Valerie Connelly’s show, Calling All Authors. She has some great interviews and tips on writing and publishing. http://www.globaltalkradio.com/shows/callingallauthors/.

Additionally, if you are looking for a great book publisher, check out Nightengale Press at http://www.nightengalepress.com/.

I will be interviewing Valerie for Writers in the Sky podcast about how she got started as a writer and she will share her new children's book, Arthur, the Christmas Elf. Her show will be available on November 3rd.

Gini Graham Scott will be my guest on Oct. 27

Each Friday I upload a new show to Writers in the Sky Podcast. You will not want to miss my interview with Gini Graham Scott, Ph.D., J.D. this coming Friday, October 27th.

Gini is a writer who has published over 40 books and hundreds of articles. Her most recent books and articles focus on work issues, creativity, business management, marketing, resolving conflict, and crime. She is a speaker, workshop/seminar leader, and organizational consultant to business, government, and non-profit organizations. She has spoken to top executives, managers, professionals, and the general public.

Gini offers a unique way to get your book in front of as many as 350 literary agents and 400 publishers with one email and a very reasonable price. On my show Gini will share how she can help you get your book published. http://www.publishersandagents.net

Subscribe to Writers in the Sky RSS feed at http://feeds.feedburner.com/WritersInTheSky. By selecting one of the chicklets on the page you will automatically be sent an email when a new show has been uploaded.

To download the show directly from itunes.com, go to http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=192160101. You must have iTunes software loaded on your computer, but you can download the software at no cost on http://www.apple.com/itunes/download/.

For more information please see http://www.writersinthesky.com/.

LIGHTNINGSOURCE ANNOUNCES COLOR POD

As you probably know, Ingram Industries Inc. is the world's largest wholesale distributor of books and literary products. Headquartered in LaVergne, Tennessee, Lightningsource is a subsidiary of Ingram Industries Inc. in charge of the printing of these materials. For years, Lightningsource only ran mass quantity printing. Recently, Lightningsource has caught up with print on demand (POD) technology and is offering smaller quantity runs as well as eBook services. Short-run printing is no longer limited to black & white. See https://www.lightningsource.com/index.htm

Brian Jud's CD with publicity timeline

Brian Jud has an "automated" timeline on the CD-ROM that comes with his book, "Beyond the Bookstore." You simply insert your pub date and the deadlines for performing trade and special sales actions are automatically calculated. If you would like a f*ree copy, please let Brian know and he will email it to you. brianjud@msn.com

TGI Friday and my guest is Taryn Simpson - Oct. 20

A new show has been uploaded to Writers in the Sky Podcast and is ready for listening.


Taryn Simpson is the founder of Simpson - E Publishing, http://www.simpson-epublishing.com/ and an author, screenwriter, playwright, and columnist. Her latest novel to be published is “Glittering Secrets” a thriller that is set in Nashville, Tennessee and is quickly gaining attention among suspense book lovers everywhere. Simpson also enjoyed rave reviews by Project Greenlight for her screenplay, “Conversations with Pearl” and was featured at the Southern Festival of Books in 2002. She also is a contributing columnist for American Chronicles where her column is based upon her office humor book, “The Underbelly of the HR Professional as well as Rise! A nationally distributed New York magazine with a target audience of college and young professionals in the business world.



Subscribe to Writers in the Sky RSS feed at http://feeds.feedburner.com/WritersInTheSky. By selecting one of the chicklets on the page you will automatically be sent an email when a new show has been uploaded.


Listen to Part One Now

Listen to Part Two Now



Listen to Part Three Now

To download the show directly from itunes.com, go to http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=192160101. You must have iTunes software loaded on your computer. You can download the software at no cost on http://www.apple.com/itunes/download/.

For more information please see http://www.writersinthesky.com/.

Writers Group Teleclass 10-19-06

Suzanne Lieurance facilitates a call-in teleclass with other freelance writers. We are discussing the need for a newsletter and how to build a mailing list. This audio has a lot of good "how-to" information about newsletter services. Listen by clicking on the arrow below. You may download the mp3 file to your computer or iPod.

How I started Write On! Part 2

Valerie Connelly, founder and president of Nightengale Press interviews freelance writer and author Yvonne Perry about her freelance writing business that provides writing and editing to a wide variety of clients. This is part two of a 2-part interview. Be sure to listen to both parts.

How I started Write On! Creative Writing Services

Valerie Connelly, founder and president of Nightengale Press interviews freelance writer and author Yvonne Perry about how she started her business Write On! Creative Writing Services--a team of writers who provide writing and editing to a wide variety of clients. This is part one of a 2-part interview. Please be sure to hear both parts.

Nightengale Press Author Valerie Connelly

Just in time for the busy holiday season, Nightengale Press is proud to announce the launch of the ARTHUR, THE CHRISTMAS ELF website at www.arthurthechristmaself.com.
Come visit the website, read the excerpt, buy the book, enter the contest, write a review. All the information you need is there with resources, after school program guides, and more Arthur Approved decorations for children of all ages.

As the blizzard of the century buries the countryside in wind-blown snow and brings life to a standstill on Christmas Eve, Arthur finds the last two Endangered Children and offers them a chance to learn what Christmas is really all about. Snowflake, Arthur’s reindeer, flies through the night, delivering Arthur and his magic to two these especially troubled kids. Timothy Anderson and Angie Smith live on opposite sides of town, but their lives are drawn together by accident when the blizzard puts everyone they love in danger. Can Arthur show them what to do to save Christmas? Will they rise to the challenge? Will this Christmas be one to remember, or one everyone will want to forget?

Arthur, the Christmas Elf brings children a new, action-packed Christmas story to enjoy along with a fun activity section which shows kids how to make Christmas gifts from everyday items. Parents, teachers and children of all ages will get hours of time together while making their own unique presents from the craft section in the back of the book.

Make your own version of the illustrated patterns and guides so your presents will be a reflection of you. No two presents will ever be the same. LEARN TO MAKE COLLAGES, PILLOWS, RAGDOLLS, PUPPETS, COOKIES, PUZZLES, WOOD BLOCK TOWNS, AND A NECKLACE but make them all in your own way using the patterns and illustrated instructions as a guide.

We look forward to your visit and hope you'll start a new family tradition this year. Read ARTHUR, THE CHRISTMAS ELF with your children and grandchildren. Make the presents. Make it an old-fashioned Christmas this year.
All our best to you this holiday season.

Valerie Connelly
publisher@nightengalepress.biz
Nightengale Press --- A Nightengale Media LLC Company
10936 N. Port Washington Road
Suite 206Mequon WI 53092-5031
Phone 847-810-8498
Fax: 866-830-2624

***************************************

URL: www.nightengalepress.com , www.arthurthechristmaself.com BLOG SITE: www.valerieconnelly.com CALLING ALL AUTHORSwww.globaltalkradio.com/shows/callingallauthors

My guest this Friday is Taryn Simpson

My guest on October 20th will be Taryn Simpson—the founder of Simpson - E Publishing. Taryn is also an author, screenwriter, playwright, and columnist. Her latest novel to be published is “Glittering Secrets” a thriller that is set in Nashville, Tennessee and is quickly gaining attention among suspense book lovers everywhere. Ms. Simpson also enjoyed rave reviews by Project Greenlight for her screenplay, “Conversations with Pearl” and was featured at the Southern Festival of Books in 2002. She is a contributing columnist for American Chronicles where her column is based upon her office humor book, The Underbelly of the HR Professional as well as Rise! A nationally distributed New York magazine with a target audience of college and young professionals in the business world. See http://www.simpson-epublishing.com/

Subscribe to Writers in the Sky RSS feed at http://feeds.feedburner.com/WritersInTheSky. By selecting one of the chicklets on the page you will automatically be sent an email when a new show has been uploaded.

For more information please see http://www.writersinthesky.com/.

co-op for freelance writers

The Lieurance Group, a co-op for freelance writers and graphics designers is actively seeking additional members for the group. There are no dues or fees to belong to the co-op. Members simply market their services and products collectively. Visit The Lieurance Group at http://www.lieurancegroup.blogspot.com to find out more about the co-op and learn how to submit your resume, and writing samples, or portfolio for review. And don’t forget to sign up for the mailing list.

Suzanne Lieurance- Freelance Writer, Children's Author, The Working Writer's Coach (http://www.suzannelieurance.com) wrote and posted an article about Time Management to her blog at http://www.the-working-writers-coach.blogspot.com.

In the audio below, Suzanne Lieurance facilitates a call-in teleclass with other writers. We are discussing time management as a freelance writer. You can use information from these calls to write articles for article directories that will help promote your writing services and products.

My guest on November 3rd will be Sheridan Claude. Sheridan has been writing for more than 25 years and is the author of a novel titled Across Time, Across Tears. She also has written two scripts: Return of the Groom and a children’s animated scriptPencils, Episode One: Chalk it up to Pride.

Blueprint Books

BlueprintBooks.com is looking for self-published authors as well as publishers to become providers on their site. Simply go to http://www.blueprintbooks.com/ and click on the provider form. They will review the submission, give approval and allow you to list your books, ebooks, CDs, DVDs, white papers, ezines, and other publications. For more information contact Bette Daoust, Ph.D. by phone 800-605-2913 x 1 or email BetteD@BlueprintBooks.com

The Writer’s Home in the World Wide Web

– Establishing a website that’s right for you and your budget by Gary Carter

Whether you specialize in biographies on history’s most successful basket weavers or in novels featuring criminal basket cases, you’ve probably considered a website to connect with your readers, expand your potential market, or publicize your accomplishments. The easiest method to create a home in cyberspace is to set up a Myspace.com account, followed closely by setting up a personal webpage with your Internet service provider (Comcast or BellSouth). But there is no need to settle for such rudimentary options when you could register an Internet domain name and publish your own content. It’s not as difficult or as costly as you might fear.
If you don’t consider yourself a technological sophisticate, you may be understandably intimidated by the mere thought of creating and publishing website content yourself. But once you get used to the technical jargon like “domain name” (the .com or .net name people use to find your website) and “web host” (the third party computer that makes your website content available to others), you begin to realize that publishing a website is really nothing more than creating a collection of documents and placing them in a location where they can be viewed by others.
The method you’ll employ to create your website depends a great deal on the content you plan to post. My original goal was to create a professional website for the consulting business I started last year. My first professional quote came in at $12,000 – the second was even more. My revised goal was simply to avoid embarrassment. So I reluctantly checked into the do-it-yourself options and found there were dozens of plans available for less than $150 per year. I focused on the two most popular web hosting options: Yahoo and GoDaddy. Both offered plans starting under $10 a month with no setup fees and no commitment. And neither will greet your visitors with pop ups or banner advertisements – a turn off to be certain. In their $10 per month plans, both Yahoo and GoDaddy offer at least:
Five gigabytes of web server space. The more space you have the more content you can post.
200 gigabytes of monthly data transfer. This shouldn’t present a problem unless you post downloadable content and have a large number of visitors. For example, a one megabyte file downloaded by 1,000 people is only one gigabyte of data transfer. As you can see, the standard 200 gigabytes is quite generous.
200 e-mail addresses featuring your domain name (JohnBoy@JohnGrisham.com).
Both Yahoo and GoDaddy provide free webpage creation software applications. Yahoo includes a website backup service in their monthly fee and a third more templates in their webpage creation software, so I opted for Yahoo. At least I was under budget! I next set out to avoid embarrassment.
Yahoo offers several choices for website design as part of their $8.96 per month package. First, and most importantly, you get the domain name (http://www.arkprofessionalservices.com/ and http://www.thegrimjeeper.com/ for me). Then, you can choose from a basic web log (the popular term is “Blog”) that allows you to post comments and permits viewers to post responses. In the typical Blog, there may be a photo or two, but it’s not terribly interactive. And because it’s not terribly interactive, it’s very easy to set up. You can check out my site http://www.thegrimjeeper.com/ for a Blog example that took less than 15 minutes to publish. For more robust websites, Yahoo offers three site design wizards – applications that you download and install on your computer (free of charge) to design the site that’s right for you:
“Yahoo Wizards” offers 39 templates and the flexibility to build a single home page or a simple multi-page site and support for photo album builders.
The next step up is the “Yahoo PageBuilder”, which offers more than 100 templates for more publishing power than “Wizards”.
For advanced flexibility and creativity, “Yahoo SiteBuilder” is the tool. More than 330 fully customizable templates are available in a variety of business-specific and hobby-specific categories. “SiteBuilder” supports an unlimited number of pages and offers several e-commerce options. Check out my site http://www.arkprofessionalservices.com/ for an example using “SiteBuilder”. It’s not my writing website, but it’s a good example of what you can do for about $10 per month.

Mac owners fear not! Apple bundled iWeb into iLife ’06 and offers exceptional integration with iTunes, iMovie, and iPhoto. In the span of about 90 minutes I created a website that I’m very happy with at http://web.mac.com/garycarterfiction except for one minor issue: the domain name. I purchased a .Mac account for a one year $69 fee, which is about half the price of Yahoo. However, I had to use the Apple webserver which left me with an unacceptably long domain name. Since I’m unhappy with the domain name provided by Apple, I registered http://www.garypaulcarter.com/ through Yahoo for future use. It cost me $2.99 for a one year registration. Now no one else can use http://www.garypaulcarter.com/. I wish I would have registered http://www.garycarter.com/ a few years back. It’s already taken. In fact, according to http://www.domaintools.com/, over 74 million domain names are already gone. And over 630 thousand names were taken the day this article was written. It won’t be long before your name or the name of your future bestseller (like http://www.thegrimjeeper.com/) will be gone. So, I strongly recommend you at least consider registering a domain name even if you choose not to publish your own website.

For the sake of simplicity (and brevity), I’ve only discussed the two methods I have actually used to create and manage websites. Neither of these overviews is meant to be an endorsement of any kind. Spend an afternoon investigating the available options and you’ll find a multitude of competitively priced plans with comparative feature sets.
Start small. Don’t expect your first website to look like you paid $12,000 for it. But your first article on undiscovered basket weavers probably wasn’t a masterpiece. Set the bar low: avoid embarrassment! It only costs $10 or so to give it a try. Just as you became more adept at the craft of writing, you will become more competent with the craft of website publishing. At least you can make procrastination more productive by improving your web site’s content and polishing its professional appearance when you should be writing that next best seller.

Gary Carter is a Certified Public Accountant and former Vice President of Internal Audit at one of the world’s largest insurance brokers. In 2005 he started ARK Professional Services which provides Sarbanes-Oxley compliance services, internal audit outsourcing, and fraud investigation services to companies large and small, public and private. His fiction has appeared in a variety of print and online publications. Most recently, his short story “Writer’s Block” was the featured short story for the March 2006 installment of New Mystery Reader. You can read Gary’s short story about a sophomore novelist who wrote about what he knew in his first book but finds himself in uncharted literary territory when his sophomore novel’s plot includes a murder at http://www.newmysteryreader.com/writer's_block.htm.

complimentary eBook

For a limited time and in honor of the one year anniversary of the gulf coast's most devastating storms, Asogomi Publishing International is offering a complimentary eBook titled HEALING KATRINA: THE RED CROSS, SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI, & ME written by Tim Warneka. You may download it at http://www.asogomi.com/ and share it with anyone. In exchange for the e-book, Tim asks you to make a small donation to the Red Cross. (If you are financially unable to make a contribution, no worries. You’re still welcome to download the e-book.

Today's Podcast guest is Dr. Reggie Johnson - October 13th

Never mind that it's Friday the 13th! I have some good news for you! A new Writers in the Sky Podcast has been uploaded and is ready for listening!

Be sure to hear my 3-part interview with Dr. Reggie Johnson—the author of The Awakening: Conquering the Sleeping Giant Within, One Hundred Spiritual Secrets, and The Secret Power of Words. Reggie created and operated a counseling center called Mystic Visions in Los Angeles, before moving to Atlanta, Georgia. From there, he and his wife run the W.O.W. (Walking on Water) fest, a holistic festival that celebrates the wellness of joining mind, body, and spirit in harmony.

You won’t want to miss the simple but miraculous method Reggie gives during our interview for attracting abundance and money into your life. Read more about Reggie and the classes he offers at http://www.mysticvisions.org/

This show has three parts which last about 15-20 minutes each. The short-length classes are a great way to learn about the craft and business of writing while driving to work or sweating at the gym!

Listen to Part One

Listen to Part Two

Listen to Part Three

Subscribe to Writers in the Sky RSS feed at http://feeds.feedburner.com/WritersInTheSky. By selecting one of the chicklets on the page you will automatically be sent an email when a new show has been uploaded.

For more information please see http://www.writersinthesky.com/.

Improve your speaking skills

Whether you are facilitating a Q&A about your book, talking about your company/business or speaking with a client on the phone, it is important to be able to communicate clearly and concisely. Toastmasters can help you improve your speaking and leadership skills in a non-threatening environment. To learn more or find a club near you see http://www.toastmasters.org/.

Ten ways to celebrate Leaf Season, Jewish New Year, Equinox, Autumn:

This fun suggestion of things to do to celebrate the change of seasons is from J.J. Murphy. She is a freelance writer with a lot of excellent articles about environmental awareness on her website
http://WriterByNature.com/.

1. Collect leaves.
2. Make seasonal art.
3. Rake leaves into a pile and jump in (use Premethrin http://www.writerbynature.com/article.php?story=20060406083950609)
4. Practice making a debris shelter http://www.writerbynature.com/article.php?story=20051130170921889&query=debris .
5. Eat a new leafy green vegetable.
6. Pick your own apples - eat apples and honey.
7. Make a list of migrating birds.
8. Write a poem http://www.writerbynature.com/article.php?story=20051227183706317 or a song.
9. Learn or practice a survival skill.
10. Go for a full moon hike.
For the full story, go to:
http://www.writerbynature.com/article.php?story=20060716115720666

What is a podcast?

Podcasts are pre-recorded teleclasses, seminars or audio workshops which are offered through iTunes.com or other services where people go to find music, movies, audio books, etc. podcasts can be saved on an mp3 player, an iPod, on a computer or any devise that plays mp3 files, but unlike music and video downloads most podcasts are free.

Once an Internet searcher finds a podcast they enjoy, they may subscribe to that particular RSS (real simple syndication) feed. Doing so will automatically send them an email every time a new file is uploaded to that podcast. The recipient may respond by going to the web to download the new program.

Podcasts have become popular entertainment and educational tools for busy people. As an educational tool for people who want to learn more about the craft and business of writing, publishing and book publicity, Writers in the Sky Podcast is an excellent choice. We offer interviews with authors and writers, as well as the latest news about books on the market, publishing methods and marketing techniques. Occasionally, a teleclass may be longer, but most of our classes are recorded in 15-minute segments.people listen to while traveling, cleaning the house, waxing the car, exercising, etc.

Subscribe to Writers in the Sky RSS feed at http://feeds.feedburner.com/WritersInTheSky. By selecting one of the chicklets on the page you will automatically be sent an email when a new show has been uploaded.

To download the show directly from itunes.com, go to http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=192160101. You must have iTunes software loaded on your computer. You can download the software at no cost on http://www.apple.com/itunes/download/.

Read about the guests and teleclasses for October at www.writersintheksy.com

Loving Healing Press and ReaderViews

Authors Access is a joint project of Loving Healing Press and ReaderViews. Each week, starting November 2, insightful interviews from people around the world who can help you get your work published, and if already published, noticed! The show will be broadcast live at 8PM (EDT) every Thursday evening. Go to www.authorsaccess.com to see a line-up for November and December. Be sure to sgn up to be reminded of the broadcast. If you miss a segment or want to listen to it again, you will be able to hear the interview through the archives.

- Monthly Book Giveaway - Each month Reader Views, in partnership with publishers and authors, are having a book giveaway. http://www.readerviews.com/ContestBookGiveaway.html.

- Annual Literary Awards 2006 - The annual literary awards were established to honor writers who self-published or had their books published by a small press or independent book publisher. This year we are accepting books in four categories, two in fiction and two in nonfiction. http://www.readerviews.com/Awards.html.

- Annual Literary Contest 2006 - The annual literary contest, in collaboration with Loving Healing Press, was established to honor writers who have written a short story that would qualify for publishing. http://www.readerviews.com/Contests.html.

Look who has joined the Write On! Creative Writing Services team

Writers, authors and owners of small businesses many times need a graphic artist when they hire one of our writers to assist them with a project. I have had occasions where a client needed someone to layout an Ebook and get it ready to sell on the Web. Some clients have asked for someone to design their website, newsletter, ad, brochure, or business logo. As writers, our team focuses on the written text portion of any document, but now we are also able to offer assistance with the graphic design portion of the process.



Freelance graphic artist Jessica Dockter has agreed to work as part of the Write On! Creative Writing Services team and we are pleased to welcome her to our stable. Find out how Jessica can help you http://www.leedesign.org/.

Accepting Ebooks to sell on website

Carmen Black is accepting eBooks to feature on her website www.biasonus.net. This is a great way for authors to get more exposure. Any type of submissions is acceptable (as long as it doesn’t promote hatred or pornography). If your eBook is ready to go, Carmen can put it on her site as is. If you need assistance converting your document to an eBook, she can help you get it into a format that is ready to sell. editor@biasonuspublishing.com.

Rise! Radio Talk Show

Rise! Radio Talk Show is a radio show produced by women for women and hosted by Burnette Clingman. Burnette gives listeners information they can use to empower themselves and she is pleased to offer her guests the opportunity to share their experiences, knowledge, and ideas. The show airs on Smooth Jazz 106.5 in Dayton, Ohio and on http://www.burnetteclingman.com/rise-radio-talk-show.htm.

Rise reaches approximately one million listeners in the tri-state area during the 30-minute show which airs each Sunday morning. For information about how to be a guest on Burnette’s show vist her Web site at http://www.burnetteclingman.com/rise-radio-talk-show-become-a-guest.htm.

Elemental Journey with Nic Daniel

I'm looking forward to being the guest on Elemental Journey with Nic Daniel where I will share insight from my book More Than Meets the Eye: True Stories about Death, Dying, and Afterlife (Booksurge.com, 2005). Join Nic and me on Monday, October 9, @ 7 p.m. Central Time. Read more about Nic's show: http://www.contactradio.info/hosts/nicdaniel.htm

You may listen live at http://www.contactradio.info/listen.htm or call in to talk with us toll free 1-425-677-5620 (on air calls only).

If you miss the show, you may listen to the archive at http://www.contacttalkradio.com/hosts/archives/nicdaniel.htm

My book is MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE true stories from people across the country who have communicated with loved ones on the Other Side or have died and returned to tell about it. http://www.yvonneperry.net/books.htm

Yvonne Perry

Old Man River By Cora J. Hall

Old man river in motion
Movement never ending
Explosion of feelings
The old man is calling out to me
“Come to me and I'll take your sorrow away”
Do I go?
Would anyone care?
I cannot resist his call to me
Pulling Pulling me in this old man
Cannot stop
Don't want to stop
On the edge ready to step in
There is no one who cares
Goodbye everyone
Here I come Old Man River

Cora J. Hall is a stay-at-home mom who has dreams of some day having her notebook of poems published. She is also trying her hand at writing a paranormal romance novel.

Dr. Reggie Johnson on Writers in the Sky Podcast

Podcast for Oct. 13, 2006

Dr. Reggie Johnson is the author of The Awakening: Conquering the Sleeping Giant Within, One Hundred Spiritual Secrets, and The Secret Power Of Words. Reggie and Cynthia, his wife of 18 years, created and operated a counseling center called Mystic Visions in Los Angeles, before moving to their current residence in Atlanta, Georgia. From there, they run the W.O.W. (Walking on Water) fest, a holistic festival that celebrates the wellness of joining mind, body, and spirit in harmony. http://www.mysticvisions.org/

Join us as Dr. Reggie talks about the books he has written that teach ways to transition into the career you love by using spiritual principles. Also, he gives a proven formula for attracting prosperity into your life!

Subscribe to Writers in the Sky RSS feed at http://feeds.feedburner.com/WritersInTheSky. By selecting one of the chicklets on the page you will automatically be sent an email when a new show has been uploaded.

To download the show directly from itunes.com, go to http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=192160101. You must have iTunes software loaded on your computer. You can download the software at no cost on http://www.apple.com/itunes/download/.

LIST YOUR BOOK

LIST YOUR BOOK on the Para Publishing web site along with your URL. There is no charge. For more information see http://parapublishing.com/sites/para/resources/successstories.cfm

TGI Friday and a new show has been uploaded!

Two new Writers in the Sky Podcast shows have been uploaded and are ready for listening!

You may download the mp3 files to your iPod or mp3 player from iTunes.com at http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=192160101. You must have iTunes software loaded on your computer, but you may download the software at no cost on http://www.apple.com/itunes/download/. These short-length classes are a great way to learn about the craft and business of writing while driving to work or sweating at the gym! Each show has multiple parts which last about 15-20 minutes each so be sure to download all parts.

The first show is a 3-part interview conducted by Suzanne Lieurance where she and I discuss a day in the life of a fulltime freelance writer. Anyone who has ever thought about freelance writing will enjoy and benefit from this teleclass.

Suzanne Lieurance is a children's author, freelance writer, and The Working Writer's Coach. She helps other people who like to write become “working” freelance writers. Visit her website at www.workingwriterscoach.com to find out more about her intensive 8-week Working Writer's Coaching Program, or her blog at www.the-working-writers-coach.blogspot.com to join her mailing list, and every weekday morning receive The Morning Nudge, a few words to inspire and motivate you to get a little writing done.

Listen to Part One Now

Listen to Part Two Now

Listen to Part Three Now

The second show is for those who are concerned about our environment. This is a 2-part interview I conducted with freelance writer JJ Murphy.

JJ is a freelance writer who helps a variety of companies, small businesses and individuals to express their awareness and dedication to developing sustainable technology and to preserve our natural resources. She provides articles for natural magazines, hiking publications, simple living publications in print and online. She also writes curricula to help public schools home schooling groups, private schools, wilderness camps, adult learning groups, continuing education programs and others stretch and expand their students’ knowledge. Her articles are available on her website: http://www.writerbynature.com/.

Listen to Part One Now

Listen to Part Two Now

Subscribe to Writers in the Sky RSS feed at http://feeds.feedburner.com/WritersInTheSky. By selecting one of the chicklets on the page you will automatically be sent an email when a new show has been uploaded.

Next Friday I will upload my 3-part interview with Dr. Reggie Johnson. You won’t want to miss the simple but miraculous method he gives for attracting abundance and money into your life. It really works! Read about Reggie at http://www.yvonneperry.net/WritersintheSkyPodcast.htm

Beyond the Bookstore

Brian Jud has an "automated" timeline on the CD-ROM that comes with his book, Beyond the Bookstore. When you insert your pub date, the deadlines for performing trade and special sales actions are automatically calculated. If you would like a f*ree copy, please let Brian know and he will email it to you. brianjud@msn.com

You may also be interested in his new book/CD package, Beyond the Bookstore, which contains all the information you need to sell more books to non-bookstore markets. It is a Publishers Weekly book, published by Reed Press. Use Promotion Code BMM050 for a $25 (50%) discount. Brian has also written a series of booklets with Proven Tips for Publishing Success that can help you create, price, distribute and promote your titles more profitably. For more information about Beyond the Bookstore, Tips booklets and for copies of all past issues of Book Marketing Matters, go to http://www.bookmarketing.com/.

Are you grieving for the loss of your mate?

Linda Della Donna is a freelance writer, who writes from the heart. A graduate of the Institute of Children's Institute and a student of Natalie Goldberg, Della Donna likes to do interviews. Perhaps you have an assignment or an interview for her. You can learn more about Della Donna by visiting her website, www.littleredmailbox.com or reading her blog

Della Donna writes for widows. Are you grieving for the loss of your mate? Check out the encouraging articles and daily tips for handling greif on Linda's blog www.griefcase.blogspot.com. Feel free to contact Linda at littleredmailbox@....

My Mother's Bipolar

Angela Grett and I coauthored a book My Mother's Bipolar, So What am I? Angela will be giving a presentation and signing books on October 4 from 5-8 p.m. at

The Palette Gallery 'n' Cafe 2119
Belcourt Ave in Hillsboro Village
Nashville, TN

There will be live jass by noted musician Karen Johns & Company and hors d'oeuvres by acclaimed Nashville chef Sophia. This is in conjunction with Mental Illness Awareness Week. The Tennessean Newspaper has an article that will tell more about the event or you may read more about the book and see a video on www.childrenofbipolar.com

Word of Month

Having an extensive vocabulary is important to writers. In each issue of Writers in the Sky, I will introduce and define a word that we use don’t often use. This word this month is:

Elucidate (i`loos se dayt)

Explain, make clear; to clarify or expose.

Belly up to "The Writer's Pub"!

The Writer's Pub is a newsletter created by Taryn Simpson of Simpson - E Publishing. It's chock full of info and regular features, such as: Advice from the Underbelly of the HR Professional, Freelancing vs. Corporate America, Cheers! section, guest columnists and more!

www.thewriterspub.blogspot.com

Enjoy!

Are You Ready to Be Your Own Boss?

Did you know only 5.3% of business owners have a master's degree? Did you know 25% of new businesses are started with no money? Did you know Dell Computers was started out of a garage by a college drop-out?

A new book by Carol Denbow titled Are You Ready to Be Your Own Boss? is available at book stores, Amazon.com, or direct from the publisher. Send $14.95 US dollars to Plain & Simple Books-1 at P.O. Box 1506, North Bend, OR 97459 or visit http://www.plainandsimplebooks.com/ or call (541)751-1939.

JJ Murphy on Writers in the Sky Podcast

JJ Murphy is a freelance writer who helps a variety of companies, small businesses and individuals to express their awareness and dedication to developing sustainable technology and to preserve our natural resources. She provides articles for natural magazines, hiking publications, simple living publications in print and online. She also writes curricula to help public schools home schooling groups, private schools, wilderness camps, adult learning groups, continuing education programs and others stretch and expand their students’ knowledge. Her articles are available on her website: http://www.writerbynature.com/.

JJ will be my guest on Writers in the Sky Podcast on October 6th.

Subscribe to Writers in the Sky RSS feed at http://feeds.feedburner.com/WritersInTheSky. By selecting one of the chicklets on the page you will automatically be sent an email when a new show has been uploaded. For more information please see http://www.writersinthesky.com/.

How Toastmasters has helped me as a writer

When I first joined Toastmasters I didn’t really know why I needed public speaking experience, but recently it has been shown to me that the skills I have gained are for a higher purpose.

I now have my own podcast Writers in the Sky where I interview writers, authors, publishers and literary agents about the craft and business of writing. In turn, I am also a guest on radio shows and teleclasses! In fact was interviewed this week by Valerie Connelly for her Global Talk Radio show CALLING ALL AUTHORS. The show is archived http://www.globaltalkradio.com/shows/callingallauthors/ if anyone wants to listen. I did have a few “ums” and “you knows” so I’m glad there wasn’t a grammarian/ah-counter present! Your feedback is welcome if anyone wants to do an evaluation.

If you want information about my podcast you can see http://www.yvonneperry.net/WritersintheSkyPodcast.htm. If you have written a book you want to talk about, I would be happy to interview you and let you put your Toastmasters skills to work outside the club level.

Putting it on Paper - Book Review by Lillian Brummet

Dawn Josephson, author of 14 books, has written a fantastic author resource with her latest release, Putting it on Paper - The Ground Rules for Creating Promotional Pieces that Sell Books. This book discusses the development and use of contents within a media kit and for other promotion materials. From cover letter, press releases, book reviews, bios, sell and catalog sheets to articles - Dawn covers them all.
Each chapter concludes with two brief, but helpful sections. "Frequently Asked Questions" is an essential ingredient to this well-rounded book, because it touches on creativity and exceptions to the rule. Her section 'Key Points " acts as a summary to the main ideas within the chapter.
There are many excellent samples of actual promotional pieces, which give authors a variety of choices and ideas to use in creating the content for their own marketing materials. The samples are also precluded with notes on the construction of the piece so that the reader can fully understand the purpose of each opening, paragraph or by-line. Dawn shows many ways to tweak text for each piece and then closes with how to present promotional materials to various markets.
I really enjoyed the thought-provoking quotes she used throughout the book and felt putting it on Paper was quite inspirational. As an author who has spent a year of intensive marketing research (as of the writing of this article) and hands on applications, I an say that several of dawn's tips are unique and I cannot wait to try them. The information on multiple press releases, mock book reviews and catalog sheets were particularly helpful for my own applications.
I highly recommend this useful book to any author who is facing book promotion. Putting it on Paper will certainly help authors get noticed!

ISBN# 097449618
Author: Dawn Josephson
Publisher: Ground Rules Press

~ Book Reviewer: Lillian Brummet, Co-author of Trash talk An Inspirational Guide to Saving Time & Money through Better Waste & Resource Management ISBN#1-4137-2518-X and Towards Understanding - a collection of 120 poems on society, the environment & overcoming trauma. ISBN# 1-4137-9337-1. Member of: Seeds of Diversity Canada & The Recycling Council of BC. http://www.sunshinecable.com/~drumit

Yvonne's update

Welcome to autumn and the beautiful colors of the leaves that are beginning to turn and fall. This season is a favorite for many people. I kind of feel sad to see summer end, but hey, life goes on and it’s all good.

My 23-year-old daughter is engaged to be married next June. She and I went shopping for a wedding gown a few weeks ago, and my wallet nearly had a heart attack! I could not believe the prices they charge for a dress that will only be worn once. And, there’s still the caterer, the cake, flowers, photographers, and invitations to pay for. Wish me sanity and lots of money!

I was interviewed by Valerie Connelly on Calling All Authors. Global Talk Radio September 26 about how I started my freelance writing business. The recorded show is available at www.nightengalepress.com. I have another interview coming in October on www.contacttalkradio.com. Elemental Journey with Nic Daniel is on Monday 5-6 pm PST. You may go to the web site on the day of the show and listen live. There is also a chat room, and people can call in to talk to Nic or me. If you miss the live broadcast, you may listen to archived show.

Valerie Connelly of Nightengale Press

Announcing Valerie Connelly's website and blog to expand her ability to get publishing information to writers.

Valerie founded Nightengale Press in July of 2003 to publish her own books. But it wasn’t long before other aspiring authors came forward, asking for her help. By the end of 2006 Nightengale Press will have a roster of nearly 50 titles and several more coming through the process into print every month. Nightengale Press has evolved into Nightengale Media LLC offering its authors a first class website, bookstore, marketing opportunites and more. Nightengale Press is a traditional publisher with untraditional ways of helping authors.

Check out www.valerieconnelly.com to learn what to do and what not to do as you develop your book from idea, to draft, to manuscript ready for editing. You will learn from the publisher’s point of view what makes your work of interest and what defeats your manuscript before it is read.