I’ve compiled the following list of resources to answer the most common writing and publishing questions I receive.
Wondering how to get your book published? Start here:
How to Get Your Book Published
How to decide whether traditional publishing or self-publishing is right for you:
Should You Self-Publish or Traditionally Publish?
Pros and Cons of Traditional Publishing vs Self-Publishing
Traditional Publishing
I recommend Jane Friedman for all things publishing. She has a fabulous blog chock full of information. Here are a few of her most popular posts:
How to Get Your Book Published
How to Find a Literary Agent for Your Book
The Complete Guide to Query Letters
Self-Publishing
For help navigating the self-publishing world, here are some resources that might be helpful. Please remember to vet each provider carefully.
Joanna Penn (The Creative Penn) is a wonderful resource for all things indie (self-) publishing.
Colorado Independent Publishers Association
Editing
Here’s a short, clear description of the different kinds of editing:
Here’s a longer description:
The Comprehensive Guide to Finding, Hiring and Working with an Editor
If you’re looking for help with developmental editing for your memoir, I might be a good fit for you. Contact me here to discuss your project.
If you’re looking for a copyeditor or proofreader, I recommend Boulder Editors, a professional group with wide-ranging expertise from academic journals to business materials to fiction. Services cover everything from proofreading to ghostwriting. (Full disclosure: I used to be a member.)
Classic Writing Texts
If you’re interested in shoring up your creative writing education, here’s a short list of classic writing texts:
Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lamott
On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King
On Writing Well: The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction by William Zinsser
In the Palm of Your Hand: A Poet’s Portable Workshop by Steve Kowit
Writing Memoir
If you’re newer to memoir and/or are looking for a good overview as well as lots of clear, practical advice:
Writing the Memoir: A Practical Guide to the Craft, the Personal Challenges, and the Ethical Dilemmas of Writing Your True Stories by Judith Barrington
For help shaping your material into art form:
The Situation and the Story: The Art of Personal Narrative by Vivian Gornick
For a thought-provoking dive into the nuances of memoir:
The Art of Memoir by Mary Karr
Writing and Publishing Short Essays
For help writing and publishing shorter essays, I recommend Susan Shapiro’s The Byline Bible: Get Published in 5 Weeks. It’s a clear, concise DIY course packed into one powerful little book.