Do you write non-fiction? Tips, Tools, and conversation....

[LaShanda Henry]

Hello Black Writers Connect!

We have quite a few non-fiction writers who are interested in sparking some conversation and exchanging ideas that can help us all. Please use this post to discuss tips and tools for non fiction writers.

I personally write information ebooks and I've self-published an Educational Guide for Black Students which you can find on Amazon.com. Click the link below to review my tips on Self-Publishing and Selling eBooks Online: http://www.sistasense.com/create-and-sell-ebooks-online/

What questions and or tips would you like to share?

[Kelly Parker]

Hello-

I recently became a member of BWC after a good friend figured it could help me out of a bit of a rut. I am glad she did. I am appraoching the completion of my first novel; however I fear my current financial challenges will prolong this from ever coming to fruition. That's pretty scary, because I walked away from a full time job to see this through. I ask, how can this be done if the issue of money (or lack there of) is a constant???

thanks for all that you do for black writers!

Kelly Parker/New Orleans, LA

[JaWar]

1) Determine the amount of money needed to print your first run of books.
2) Then double or triple that number.
3) Divide that number by the number of books you'll get printed.
4) That number becomes the number you need to get per book sold.
5) Start seeking pre-orders with the promise that each person will get a signed copy and/or their name mentioned in the book.

"THINK, PLAN, EXECUTE!" -JaWar

BOOK PIMPING
http://bookpimping.com

TWITTER RESOURCE BOOK
http://TwitterResourceBook.com

How to Self-Publish for Profit
http://MakeMoneySelfPublishing.com

[HosannaPublishingGroup.com]

Hello Kelly,

My name is Crystal Watts and I am CEO and Publisher for the Hosanna Publishing Group. As you noted finances could be most certainly, be a challenge as you are moving toward your dreams. Nevertheless, it certainly does not have to stop you during these times of entrepreneurism and the World Wide Web.

I would recommend self-publishing your book with a good Print OnDemand Company. Most of the self-publishing companies require little to no money for you to get started.

I wrote an article on this topic "How to self-publish a Book with little or no money" please feel free to read it.

Blessings Always and I wish you Much Success as you go for your Vision!

[Veronica Henry]

I think for the price-concious, POD (print on demand) is the way to go. I haven't used any of these myself, but have heard good things from friends about LuLu and Createspace. I believe they give you a discount on books you buy yourself as well.

Money is a constant, so there's no way to get around worrying about it. Pursue your dreams and be flexible - if you can take on work, perhaps freelance writing to supplement your income, that may ease the stress a bit.

[JaWar]

Below are some nuggets of wisdom learned through the years of book publishing.

Always, always, always have some books in your car. You never know when an opportunity may present itself to market and sell your books. Having your books sold in stores and online is fantastic, yes indeed, but sometimes its' simply awesome to be able to make a transaction in person and sign the book for the buyer. Take photos and videos of such a transaction whenever possible. It's a great testimony for the future.

Additionally, have a dedicated website for each of your book titles. Here are a few of my sites as an example. For the record I know these sites aren't the most attractive, but they work and at the end of the day that's what counts earning revenue. Some of the best looking sites for selling books aren't generating any revenue.

http://MakeMoneySelfPublishing.com
http://TwitterResourceBook.com
http://GoMusicConnection.com
http://GetModelContacts.com

Always brand yourself then market, promote, advertise and publicize your books.

"THINK, PLAN, EXECUTE!" -JaWar

[L.A.Brown]

Hello,
I am a newbee to this whole industry, However I have had a profound interest in getting my story out.
I would be in great gratitude for some direction or direct contacts on finding a great writer to help
assist me with this project.I have done the research & now am clear that my book is going to be non-fiction.
My contact info is [e-mail]