Book Camp

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PUBLISHER’S LETTER

TABLE OF CONTENTS

As promised, this issue explores more about book publishing and its related services. For those authors wanting the traditional route, you’ll want to secure a literary agent.

Louisa Ermelino joins us after many years with Publishers Weekly as the reviews director and then the editor-at-large at the same trade publication with her article, “Finding a Literary Agent,” a practical approach. In addition, Printed Word Reviews has supplied a sample query letter as well as a current list of a few active agents interested in securing and representing authors, as well as a link to hundreds of agents across the country.

SAVE the DATE: June 23 - 25, 2024 Book Camp

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The 1106 Design Difference by Michele DeFilippo Literary Agent Query Letter Example Finding a Literary Agent by Louisa Ermelino A Professional Book Designer’s Approach by Diana LaGuardia Finish Strong & Be in the Know: Fourth Quarter Financials Matter by Kevin Kamen Self-Publishing: 12 Steps to Consider When Self-publishing Your Book by Linda F. Radke

Next, I chose Diana La Guardia, an American magazine designer with an impressive résumé, to write an article from the designer’s perspective on how a designer should think about and work with an author on designing a book. I hope you gain a deeper understanding of what book designers go through in putting their best into your book presentation, and help you help them along in the process. Enjoy this article from a different vantage point from that which is so commonplace in book publishing instruction.

Book CAMP by Printed Word Reviews magazine, Online format Library of Congress ISSN 2994-4406 is published 5 times a year. Questions or comments are welcomed, please contact the Publisher Ted Olczak at Ted@printedwordreviews.com.

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without express permission from the publisher.

You all know FORBES magazine’s famous 400 Richest Americans list. Kevin Kamen is FORBES’ multi-media financial expert who assists wealth reporters when they determine their financial value in this sphere. Kamen has supplied us with why you must know your business’s value, and how important fourth quarter numbers are.

All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by an information storage and retrieval system - except by a reviewer who may quote brief passages in a review to be printed in a magazine or newspaper - without permission in writing from the publisher.

To submit your book for review, send to: Printed Word Reviews, 63 Clinton Rd, Glen Ridge, NJ 07028. Allow 8 -12 weeks. Unpaid reviews are not guaranteed. More details available on our website at https://printedwordreviews.com/

Lastly, for those brave enough, or just impatient, I’ve asked Linda F. Radke, president of Story Monsters LLC to provide a quick outline of steps to consider when thinking about selfpublishing your book. Radke also provides author services through her business Story Monsters.

To submit your book, visit our websites:

Although there are two more issues of Book CAMP to be published before the main event, IPA Book Camp 2024, don’t delay in registering. You can register here: www. ipaBookCamp.com. Taking place over three days, IPA Book Camp promises to attract accessible and motivated book experts to share their knowledge. I hope all attendees walk away with new ideas, ways to implement them, and some great new publishing friends.

Spring 2024 https://www.independentpressaward.com/ Fall 2024:

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(More consumer focused; different judging; allows for all authors and publishers to participate; announced in the fall of every year)

To advertise, please contact Ted@PrintedWordReviews.com, or visit our website, https://www.independentpressaward.com/advertise

Until next issue...

Ted Olczak Publisher

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Traditional Publisher Quality for Independent Authors • copyediting and substantive editing • cover design • page design and typesetting • proofreading

• eBook formatting • author website design • project management • book marketing help

From manuscript to market, our professional team serves authors worldwide.

C O N TA C T U S F O R A C O N S U LTAT I O N T O D AY

1106design.com • (602) 866-3226 • md@1106design.com You probably spent years crafting your work, so why rush to the finish line only to wind up with a low-quality product? One of the indie authors’ biggest mistakes is not ensuring that their book is professionally produced. Quality services may be pricier, but you should consider them an investment more than an outright expense. Ensuring your work has been edited, designed, and published correctly is the best way to help you break even. Readers won’t waste time on a book that has an amateurish cover, or that is poorly edited. They want to know their money is going toward a quality product, just as you should want to know your money is going toward exceptional service. Rest assured, at 1106 Design, we only offer top-notch service. Whatever you’re in the market for–editing, cover design, interior design, you name it–we have you covered.

Feel free to contact us at https://1106design.com to learn how we can help you succeed.

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SAMPLE Query Letter Here is an example of a query letter for a specific genre: Dear [Agent Name],

Dear [Agent Name],

I am writing to seek representation for my completed novel, [Title], a [genre] novel of [word count] words.

I am writing to seek representation for my completed novel, [Title], a 95,000word young adult mystery novel.

[Insert a brief and intriguing hook that grabs the agent’s attention and introduces the main conflict of the novel.]

When sixteen-year-old Piper Jones’s best friend is found murdered, she is determined to solve the case. But as she digs deeper, she uncovers a dark secret that threatens to destroy her entire town.

Piper is a smart and resourceful protagonist, and the mystery is complex and suspenseful. I am confident that [Title] would appeal to fans of YA mystery novels such as [list of comparable titles].

[Insert a more detailed summary of the novel, highlighting the main characters, plot, and themes.]

[Insert a brief bio about yourself, including any relevant writing experience or publications.]

I have attached the full manuscript for your consideration. Thank you for your time and attention.

I have attached the full manuscript for your consideration. Thank you for your time and attention.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Sincerely, [Your Name]

When writing your query letter, be sure to personalize it to the agent you are querying. Research the agent’s interests and submission guidelines, and tailor your letter accordingly. Also, be sure to proofread your letter carefully before sending it off.

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Finding a literary

agent

am always impressed at the stories of finding their latest client in the slush pile, which these days is their email inbox.

But let’s be practical. Where to start?

Don’t be shy. Mine your friends and family. Anyone you know who knows an editor or an agent or another writer and is willing to pass on your manuscript is always something to consider. People like to help.

Then, consider the lists of agencies (and interviews with agents) in publications like Poets & Writers and also on the web which will tell you if they are accepting submissions, the guidelines,

by Louisa Ermelino and what type of work they are interested in. Also, checking the acknowledgement pages of books you like or are similar You’ve written your masterpiece and you’re ready to yours is a good way of targeting an agent because inevitably they are thanked, profusely. to send it out to the world.

Some authors query ten agents; some authors have wish lists of agents; some authors take the blanket approach. I’ve spoken Step 1: You need an agent. There are stories of miracle discoveries with authors who have sent over a hundred queries. Any and but the reality is that the competition is fierce; an advocate and an all of these methods can work. insider on your path to publication is important, and that would be: your agent.

The query letter should be succinct, summarize the book, and mention other books it is comparable to. You can include a The bad news is that agents, all of them, get hundreds of queries chapter but the letter is the key to exciting interest. Write this from new authors. carefully.

The good news is, they really do read them and are always looking for And don’t get discouraged. And keep writing. And good luck. the gem, the needle in the proverbial haystack. Interviewing agents, I You could end up not only with an agent, but a best friend.

See Louisa Ermelino at the 2024 IPA Book CAMP, https://www.independentpressaward.com/ipabookcamp

Literary agents actively seeking manuscripts Falkin Literary 2605 W 49th 1/2 St, Austin, TX 78731 Accepts E-mail Queries: Yes Interested in Representing: All fiction but genre romance and sci-fi. Nonfiction: general; narrative, pop-culture, politics/current events Clients Include: Louisa Luna, Peter Farris, Gemma Amor, Christian Picciolini, Kristen Lopez, Laurent Bouzereau http://www.markfalkin.com/falkin-literary. html

Trident Media Group 355 Lexington Avenue, Floor 12, New York, NY 10017 Accepts E-mail Queries: Yes Interested in Representing: All genres & categories Clients Include: Ronald H. Balson, Elwin Cotman, Lori Foster, Alan Hlad, Colleen Houck, Sherrilyn Kenyon, Andrew Klavan, Lana Kortchik, Julian Lennon, Kat Martin, John A. McDermott, Diane McPhail, Sarah Mensinga, T. Jefferson Parker, Adam Wallace, Jaimal Yogis and more. https://www.tridentmediagroup.com/agents/ mark-gottlieb/

Felicia Eth Literary Representation 555 Bryant St., #350, Palo Alto, CA 94301 Accepts E-mail Queries: Yes - preferred Interested in Representing: Literary fiction, narrative nonfiction, history, popular science, investigative journalism, pop culture https://www.ethliterary.com/

SERENDIPITY LITERARY AGENCY 305 Gates Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11216 Accepts E-mail Queries: Yes Interested in Representing: Children’s and YA adult fiction and non fiction across categories Clients Include: Derrick Barnes, Tommie Smith, Will Packer, Dick Gregory, Marilyn Nelson, Ed Gordon, Gordon James, Sundee Frazier, Jessica Care Moore https://www.serendipitylit.com/

You can find a full list of literary agents here: https://www.printedwordreviews.com/literaryagents

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A Professional

BOOK

Designer’s

APPROACH

by Diana LaGuardia

and therefore relevant and useful to the market.

CONGRATULATIONS! You’re going to design a book.

DEMOGRAPHICS In addition to the genre, ask the author what segment of the reading public is most likely to be interested in this book, who the author is trying to reach. This is the reader you must target, age being very important. Readers in different age groups are attracted to colors, fonts, and images differently.

Know your target market, focus on them, and make them want to open your book.

The author has entrusted you with their manuscript, which you are to present as the masterpiece it is. This article will help authors understand the book design process, and offers suggestions for designers that might make the process more efficient, productive and fun.

TO START Ideally you should be able to read the book and ask the author to highlight significant sections of the text. If this isn’t possible, ask the author for an in-depth synopsis and again, for principle parts. While reading, you’re looking for hints as to how the writer wants the reader to feel – what atmosphere the text is creating. Should the reader feel sad, upbeat, afraid, angry? Understanding this, along with the obvious time and place of the narrative, is essential when it comes to choosing images, typography and colors.

Quite often an author will write a design brief which delineates everything a designer needs to know about the book’s covers and interior. It’s not a mandate but it should tell you how the author sees it. If you don’t understand aspects of this brief, ask questions. An author’s clear brief enhances your chances of delivering designs that meet expectations. Remember though: if you’ve been hired for this job it means that your resume and portfolio are appropriate for it.

PARAMETERS How much of the book is the writer assuming you will design? The author should know (or be told) that a book designer expects to design all of it, both front and back covers, and the interior. Given that this may not always be the understanding, you need to make it clear early on. Whether it’s the entire book or just covers you need to know where the photos or art will come from. Who will provide them? Will it be up to you to research or commission art? If it is you, what is the budget? What is the deadline? A graphic designer is expected to be able to estimate the amount of time it will take to complete a project, keeping in mind that there may be unanticipated revisions. If it hasn’t been discussed already, your fee should be on the table soon, but not until you know the scope of the project.

AUTONOMY or NOT You’ll be able to gauge how free you are in this project if you know a little about the writer. You might google him/her, read the bio, find out how many titles this writer has published. An experienced writer should understand that the design of the book, especially the covers, should be left up to the designer’s discretion. This experienced writer accepts that a cover is more a point of sale effort, placed in a very competitive market, and not a literary manifesto. If you don’t get this impression from the writer you have to discuss it. Tell him/her that you see the covers being in your sphere. And don’t forget the

GENRE Ask your author in which genre the book falls. Once you know this, spend some time in bookstores, libraries and online to see titles in the given genre. See what imagery, typography, colors might convey the tone of your book. An effective cover design should present the title prominently, suggest the genre, and aim to capture the appropriate audience for that book. This kind of research pays many dividends for you overall, keeping you, as a designer, on top of graphic trends,

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Finish Strong & Be in the Know:

Fourth Quarter Financials Matter Provided by Kevin Kamen

K

evin Kamen of the Kamen Group says knowing your business’ current market valuation is essential. Don’t guess or wonder - Kamen & Co Group Services, LLC

in New York can confidentially evaluate your print and digital entity. Simply reach out and be prepared to share all your financial, printing, distribution, staffing, and postage records with our professional team. Knowing your valuation is vital for strategic planning in 2024.

Kamen says with a war more than a year old in Ukraine and a new war in Israel, much is at stake and monies could become scarce as oil and energy becomes more difficult to acquire and the cold temperatures become a reality across the USA and abroad. When monies dry up, so could your daily business and cash flow. Be prudent and make intelligent decisions. Acquiring a multimedia valuation can help you better understand what needs to be done to either restructure your company or potentially sell it. With major labor strikes in the auto and health industries and even in Hollywood with the actors, much is unknown as we end this year. Be sensible, the cost of borrowing money from a financial lender keeps soaring and interest rates will continue to climb. If you decide to sell, realize that lenders will be tightening the flow of cash and this could impact a possible sale to a qualified buyer. Current interest rates are 8.00% for a 30-year Fixed Mortgage due to the Federal Reserve’s hawkish monetary policy. Bonds are increasingly capitulating for longer periods of time.

Things are staying steady on the interest front and this absolutely sheds light on one fact. Everything is going to continue to rise in cost when it comes to operating a media organization. Rates could reach 10% if things continue as is so we all must be frugal and realistic when it comes to staffing and operations.

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Kamen points out, to date, at least 475,000 workers have already participated in 316 strikes in the USA this year and work stoppages have spread across several industries. Transportation, entertainment, hospitality, and healthcare are just a few, and more will come in the coming months. Workers have lost jobs because of the pandemic, many media entities have closed or been sold and folks are out on their own. Not paying attention to the financial climate within your region will hurt you. Not having a feel for the current valuation of your publishing entity will also not be beneficial as you and your management team seek to cut corners and independently make for a more efficient publishing enterprise.

What is required for an appraisal? Accurate data and relevant information that only ownership can provide. Contact the Kamen Group in New York for guidance and any information necessary to help you make a decision to discover your valuation. Visit www. kamengroup.com, email info@kamengroup.com or call at (516) 242-2857 today.

KEVIN KAMEN IS CURRENTLY THE FORBES EXPERT MULTI-MEDIA FINANCIAL RESOURCE FOR THE FAMOUS FORBES 400 RICHEST AMERICANS LISTING TEN STRAIGHT YEARS. Google Kevin Kamen, Forbes 2023.

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1.

Steps to

Consider

BOOK When Self-publishing Your

ABOUT LINDA F. RADKE PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER

Linda F. Radke is the president of Story Monsters LLC and publisher of Story Monsters Ink® magazine. For over 35 years, she has been ahead of the game in producing and marketing award-winning books for all ages. She now specializes in Everything Children’s Books. Clients and the media describe Radke as an industry leader in creativity, innovation, and customer service. She has received numerous publishing, public relations, and marketing awards, including being named “Book Marketer of the Year” by Book Publicists of Southern California.

Tireless in her efforts to help authors make their dreams a reality, Radke’s motto is, “You can’t compromise on quality. Do it right or don’t do it all!”

Work with a professional team that includes an experienced editor, proofreader, graphic designer, and illustrator. Check their samples and references.

2. Create a clear and detailed contract with a timeline to ensure smooth collaboration.

3. Make sure your team has a great attitude and is willing to work as part of a team. Saving money may cost you in terms of reviews and potential distributors.

4. Think about marketing strategies before you commit to writing your book.

5.

Consider seeking endorsements from professionals and experts to enhance credibility.

6. Find a well-known author or editor to write your foreword or introduction.

7.

Identify your target market and devise strategies to reach them, such as understanding their shopping habits, their preferred magazines, and the organizations they associate with.

8. Compile a list of organizations or associations that would be interested in your book, explore opportunities to engage with their members, and share your book with their membership.

9. Seek professional advice on the most effective advertising channels and hire experts to write and design your ads.

10. Create a custom email list by providing a subscription option on your website for visitors.

11. Establish a consistent and professional brand identity that aligns with your book’s message and use it consistently on social media platforms.

12. Hire a professional to develop a 12-month marketing plan to guide your promotional efforts effectively.

By considering these twelve points, you can significantly improve your chances of success in self-publishing your book.

continued from page 8 interior. It’s also in your hands, choosing font, page layout and even paper. Another indication of your autonomy is to learn whether the book is self published or not. Often writers of self-published books apply a heavier hand in decision making. If you take a survey of the covers of selfpublished books, you’ll see that in many cases things can go terribly wrong – not always due to the writer’s intervention but often so. It is my experience as an art director that in most situations it’s a good idea to keep the author out of the design process, especially involving the covers. The author

should welcome this.

We often hear, “You can’t judge a book by its cover.” Many writers don’t accept this but the fact is everyone does. We can’t help it. Images and shape and colors make swift and deep impressions on our power of perception. You must be aware of this and use it to your advantage. Give it everything you’ve got.

BIO Diana LaGuardia, American magazine design director. Recipient numerous awards, Art Directors Club New York, American Institute Graphic Arts, Society Newspaper Design. Member Society Publication Designers (board directors 1985-1986, vice president 1986-1987, pres.1987—; recipient numerous awards).

​ New York Times Magazine, New York City, 1977-1983, department art director, 1983-1986, art director, 1986-1988. Design director Traveler Magazine Conde Nast Publications Inc., since 1988.

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Good luck!

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Printed Word’s PUBLISHING SERVICES and PRODUCTS AUDIOBOOKS

DESIGN

DeepZen, uses NLP and TTS systems specifically for long-form content to provide publishers with a tool to grow their audiobook catalog quickly, conveniently, and cost-efficiently. DeepZen’s technology replicates human voice and enables high-quality, life-like audiobook production using voices licensed from narrators.

Register https://portal.deepzen.io/ and listen to the library of voices here https://portal.deepzen.io/voices.

Email hello@deepzen.io or inquiry at https://deepzen.io/.

1106 Design, Michele DeFilippo, owner Do you want to learn more about working with 1106 Design? Great! We want to know all about you and your book too! https://1106design.com/contact-us/ Phone: (602) 866-3226 Toelke Associates has over 25 years’ experience in all aspects of custom book & publication design. We provide complete design & production services that are tailored to your unique project with specialization in illustrated non-fiction, exhibition catalogs, and historical / cultural subjects. www.toelkeassociates.com • Voice/text: Ron 518-392-3040 | Amelia 518-755-3215

AUTHOR SERVICES

Amnet Author Services Ready to publish your book?

A personalized package at an unbeatable price!

High quality editing, proofreading, cover design, formatting, translation services. https://bit.ly/amnet_AS

DISTRIBUTORS

Cardinal Publishers Group, Tom Dougherty, President A full service national book distributor.

2402 Shadeland Ave A, Indianapolis, IN 46219 | (317) 352-8200

EDITING SERVICES

SPARK Publications-custom publishing Professionally custom publish your non-fiction business book, cookbook, or coffee-table book.

High-level editing, design, publishing, consulting, and hand-holding services for business owners & leaders. No Royalties. In business 25 years. SPARKpublications.com/books

Write On, Inc., Nonfiction Book Editor Editing for indie authors writing on business/leadership, self-help, true crime. Work with a seasoned editor who literally wrote the award-winning book: Cover to Cover: What First-Time Authors Need to Know about Editing. Sample edit, assessment and project pricing for the level of edit your book needs and deserves. Free ebook and more information on editorial services. www.WriteOnInc.com

eBooks2go About eBooks2go: eBooks2go is the single source for all of your book publishing needs. We offer an array of affordable solutions to assist self-publishing authors at every stage of the publishing process including cover design, eBook conversions, hardcover and paperback book printing, worldwide distribution, marketing packages, and much more.

Email: info@ebooks2go.net • Phone Number: +1 (847) 598-1150 ext. 4141 Website: https://www.ebooks2go.net

TEAM STORY MONSTER

BRINGING YOUR STORY TO LIFE SINCE 1985

PRINTERS

Lightning Press Book Printing, Ron Balinski, President Bookstore Quality Book Printing - Quality and Attentive Service.

Get a FREE quote! ron@lightning-press.com www.lightning-press.com 140 Furler Street, Totowa, NJ 07512 | Tel: (973) 890-4422

REVIEWS

• BOOK PRODUCTION

Get discovered with a BlueInk Review!

Honest, credible book reviews written by professional critics and respected by booksellers, librarians and readers nationwide. www.blueinkreview.com

• BOOK AWARD CONTESTS • AUDIOBOOKS • MARKETING • WEBSITES

SALES & MARKETING

• CONSULTING

StoryMonsters.com

NOT YOUR TRADITIONAL PROMO CO MPANY

BOOK AWARDS

Mult ip le w ay s t o ge t y o ur b o o k s in f ro n t o f t h o usa nd s o f rea d er s .

Independent Press Award, Gabby Olczak, President Every spring; awards independent authors and publishers. https://www.independentpressaward.com/ • gabby@IndependentPressAward.com

• 90,000 visitors • 212,000 social followers • 20 years helping authors get known

NYC Big Book Award, Gabby Olczak, President Every fall; awards authors and publishers of all persuasions: independent, self, and traditionally published books. www.nycBigBookAward.com • gabby@nycBigBookAwards.com

Contact: Jim Alkon 203-226-0199, jim@booktrib.com.

YOUR AD COULD BE HERE reaching over 10,000 authors and publishers Or here: https://issuu.com/independentpressaward reaching over 10,000 librarians and booksellers, 20,000 additional book lovers and consumers.

Contact the Publisher Ted Olczak Ted@GabbyBookAwards.com

BUSINESS BROKERS & SERVICES

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Special IBPA Discounts!

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Working with Bublish has been game changing.

—Lisa Lindahl, author of Unleash the Girls and inventor of the sports bra

editing · design · production · marketing · global distribution

+1 843-513-7337 · bublish.com · info@bublish.com 12

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