Time flies when you're writing a book

I lost 16 days somewhere! Last time I did an update, Words To Live By had just been copy edited, and Peggy (otherwise known as "my wonderful designer") had made the corrections. The next step was to go over those corrections and reread the whole book again. More mistakes; more corrections.

In the meantime, I ...

• bought the bar codes to go with the ISBNs
• rewrote the back cover blurb describing the book
• checked the new corrections

The very last things Peggy will do are ...

• insert the Library of Congress number on the copyright page
• change the blurb on the back cover
• send me the absolutely final cover and inside pages

Then I will upload the book to CreateSpace, who will send me a proof, which I will reread once again. If I find mistakes, I won't accept the proof, and we will correct the errors.

While I'm waiting for all of that to happen, I will get prices on printing "readers' copies" and make a list of people to send them to. The purpose of readers' copies is to put the book in the hands of media, bookstores, and reviewers; request reviews and testimonials; and try to arrange for appearances and presentations.

At this point the publishing and promotion steps overlap until the printed book is in my hands, on Amazon, and in the bookstores. Then, the real work begins!

Words To Live By Gathers Speed

It’s great to be able to say to my students, I know just what you’re going through because I’m going through it, too. The book is on fast forward, moving faster than I ever dreamed it would.

Here’s what I’ve done:

• Had my manuscript copy edited
• Purchased my ISBNs
• Had my book cover and interior designed (now in layout)
• Applied for a fictitious name for my publishing company
• Opened an account with CreateSpace to publish the book
• Begun to fill out their voluminous application forms
• Created a new Web site and ShopSite store
• Developed a detailed marketing plan
• Registered my copyright
• Designed bookmarks

What are my next steps?

• Read galleys and have them copy edited
• Create list and send out readers’ copies
• Write press release and set up press room on Web site
• Make a list of local TV and radio talk shows
• Write talking points for interviews
• Contacted a copy editor for the galley proofs
• Begun to request testimonials from fellow authors