Miah G Q&A

I want to be a writer but I don't know where to start. How do you get into this type of industry because it seems like being a published author is almost equal to an artist getting a record deal? Every time I try to get someone to sign my book, they tell me they don't accept solicited writing. Then someone told me that you need an agent, but to hire one cost thousands of dollars and your book isn't guaranteed to get picked up. I almost want to give up but that would mean giving up on me. Where should I start first?

Tia


My response:

There are two types of authors : Published and Self- Published!

Self Published means you typically keep the rights to your book, you pay for all the advertising, you do the marketing and promotion, and the selling. If it flops, its because of something YOU didn't do right.

Published authors are those signed by a publishing agency. You sell them the rights to your book and lose control of its focus at times. If they want something changed, added, or removed, they can do that. They take care of promotion, marketing, sales, etc. Published also means getting your book in more stores.

If you're caught up on owning your book, then self-publish. If you are more into wanting more of the world to see your work, then try to get picked up by a company.

Just like anything else, it's all about who you know. Knowing the right person usually determines how far and how quick you will go in life. But if the passion is there, you will succeed regardless.

I myself have been writing since I was a child. I've been all over the country and even spoken in DC in front of Congress for my work. All before entering high school. But I did it not for notoriety; I did it because I felt I had something to say that the world needed to hear. If your passion and determination is obsessive... you'll make it.

You don't necessarily need an agent, although most companies wont look your way without one... but if you're just that good, they usually will seek you out and offer you a deal. Make a name for your self. Sign up for open mics. Blog about your ideals. Let people know where some of your work can be found. Eventually, your thoughts will end up in the right persons hands and they will lead you to where you have to go. I'm a newbe in this game and I have a LOOOOONG way to go, but one thing I can tell you is to stay motivated. There will always be distractions, but nothing should ever distract you from your dream. Not even failure. Good Luck! =)