There are a thousand different reasons to write a book: You might be writing it for your heart—because you just have to. You might be writing it for your art—creative expression in action. You might be writing it for your clients—so you can hand them all your wisdom in one nifty package. And you might … Read more
When I was 9 years old, Madonna released the album Like a Virgin. I had just discovered WZPL, the pop music radio station in my hometown, and I was a Madonna superfan immediately. Overlooking content that was thematically questionable for the under-10 crowd, my mom bought me the Like a Virgin cassette tape. I played … Read more
I recently finished reading Tara Westover’s extraordinary memoir, Educated, about her fundamentalist, abusive upbringing in rural Idaho—and how getting an education saved her. What a gripping story, written beautifully. Just the kind of unflinching memoir I love. For all of you aspiring memoirists out there who wonder whether anyone would want to read about the … Read more
“Am I a good enough writer to become a published author?” This is a query we get from aspiring authors every single day. I’ll admit it: For years I’ve shied away from the straightforward yes/no response clients are looking for when they ask a question like this. I simply haven’t seen it as my job … Read more
“Your first book goes in a drawer.” This was a phrase I learned almost as soon as I entered the publishing business. Among book industry pros, it’s commonly understood that first-time authors may need to “cleanse the palate” with an unpublishable manuscript before they write their first masterwork. That first book, as the saying goes, … Read more
Recently I was chatting with my friend and fellow author Bridget Fonger. We were recording an episode of her podcast, Superhero of Love, when she told me something awful. Not just a little awful—unthinkably awful. Like, don’t-make-me-even-contemplate-this brutal. What was this terrifying thing she told me? Brace yourself… Recently Bridget’s computer died—and took the draft … Read more
What’s a great way to kickstart your book dream—or revive it, after a dormant period? Plan yourself a writing retreat! You probably know how to book yourself a sweet Airbnb by the ocean or a cabin in the mountains. (Or a spot at a beautiful retreat center—I’d love to meet you on one of my … Read more
How to overcome self-criticism on your way to becoming a successful published author.
Well, that was an exciting week! The Book You Were Born to Write officially published on Tuesday! I had my first bookstore reading/signing event on Wednesday, and the room was crammed with people I love and admire! On Thursday, an article I wrote got published in Best Self Magazine! It’s the last one that I would like to … Read more
The book journey has many exciting moments. Surprisingly, “pub day” is rarely one of them! It may sound counterintuitive, but by the time your book publishes most of the heavy lifting is behind you. Unless you’ve scheduled a bookstore event or a book launch party, pub day is more of a whimper than a bang. But you … Read more
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