Fri 29 Apr 2011
Of cell phones and ebooks
Posted by PJ under novels, publishing, writing
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I spent a lot of time on the phone yesterday with the Verizon Wireless helpline. The computer had a hard time processing the idea that 1) I was ordering a phone for my mother but 2) I wanted the bill sent to me and 3) I didn’t want the new number to replace my current number. She was a nice lady and during downtime while computer got on with things, we chatted. I found out she was a painter in her real life, she that I was a writer. She encouraged me to not worry about selling my novels to traditional publishers. Did I know that I could publish them myself as ebooks?
Yes, thank you, I said. I was investigating that possibility quite thoroughly, not to worry. We concluded our business (successfully) and parted friends. Of a completely temporary nature.
The thing is, I am considering doing my own ebook. The proponents of indie publishing make some good points. The opponents of indie publishing and those who favor traditional publishing (who are not necessarily the same people) also make some good points. It’s a long, hard slog to do it yourself. It can be expensive and a great drain on one’s writing time. I would much rather go with traditional publishing, frankly, and I am still pursuing that for my more recent work. But I have some older stuff that isn’t bad, that I still take pride in, and I’d like to get it out there. I haven’t fully committed to the idea of publishing my own ebook, but I am starting to slowly roll towards that cliff edge.
Don’t get me wrong: I have absolutely no expectation of making money this way. Money is not at all why I’m considering this. I am not looking at the success of Amanda Hocking and Stephanie McAfee and thinking, “Wow! That could be me!” I haven’t got a name or a pre-sold “brand,” I don’t have the time to do the kind of gonzo marketing ebooks require—not with a full-time job and being a part-time caretaker. I am not a poster girl for possible ebook success. I think I understand the cold, hard facts of that.
But I would like one or two of these older novels to be out there. I’d like at least a shot of finding some kind of audience for them, however miniscule. They deserve their shot while I’m actively pursuing my shot at traditional things with the other books.
I am willing to be talked into or out of this. Don’t assume I’m stupid or haven’t read excessively and obsessively about all the pros and cons of indie publishing, but I am completely open to discussion on this. I welcome input and would like to hear what people think.
