Because I Believed in Me (My Egyptian Fantasy Came True)

As a new author who has published her first book, I have learned so much. Often, the process was stressful, perplexing, and even painful at times.  Being a novice in the publishing world, I decided to self-publish which is the trend for most new writers.  Waiting for a traditional publisher could take many years due to the thousands of books sent to these companies each year, and then the publisher could request rewrites which also slows down the process or the worst case scenario is rejection of your book completely. Once I completed the writing of my book, I began the tedious search for the perfect publishing company that could provide me with the services that would fit the needs of my book and enable me to share my story and my new insights.  Initially, five publishers were selected, and an on-going communication occurred with them for several weeks until I narrowed it down to the final two. For the next few weeks, a competition between these two companies transpired much to my delight I must admit.  The negotiation process was quite exhilarating but also really bewildering at times, too.  It required me to do my own personal research to become familiar with new terms and new publishing techniques I did not know. I even attended a local author group to acquire information.  This was extremely helpful, and I highly recommend this for new authors. At last, a decision was made.  Both packages were great, but I decided to sign a contract with Author House, the larger company after checking with the Better Business Bureau and doing additional research on the overall reputation of this company. So far, the relationship with this prestigious publisher has been exceptional, and I am very pleased with my selection.  Publishing a book can be very costly so examine your budget and then decide how much or how little you can afford to invest in your book.  Secondly, you should decide from the beginning how much work you are willing to do and how much time you have to devote to your book—both for the publishing process and later for the publicity and marketing which will follow once the book is in print.  This could become a full-time job.  As I mentioned earlier, learn the terms used in the publishing business and do not be afraid to ask many questions if needed. NO QUESTION IS DUMB.  This is your money so be sure you understand everything.  Third, make sure you examine every document and every book proof that is sent to you….. Check for errors as carefully as you can.   I chose to edit my own book because I am an English teacher.  Remember even if you pay for an editor with the company, mistakes can still be made.  Your name will be on this book.  Thus, you want to be proud of the final product.  Finally, learn as much as you can from the experts.  You may choose to become your own self-publisher for a future book.   My frustrations even became so intense that I felt it necessary to write a poem.  Some of you may actually identify with this if you have ever published before.

PUBLISHING WOES      

By Randi D. Ward

The writing of my first book was an easy thing to do.

My passion for my subject was obviously evident and true.

But the tedious process of getting this book in print

And the huge amount of money that I have already spent

Have often brought much stress and restless nights for me

Because being a book publisher is not an easy thing to be.

I feel I have an interesting story and an important message to share

So therefore, I have worked so very hard because of how deeply I care

But there have a few bad days when things have not gone well

And I feel so confused and upset and thus really feel like hell.

I must be in control of all aspects of this publishing process

But at times because of ignorance, things have been a mess.

I long for the day when I can hold my book in my hand,

And see it proudly displayed in a bookstore stand.

I have no real doubts that this will happen one day

But I really need to see this book completed today.

The process to get it published is taking much too long

My nerves are on edge now and are no longer very strong.

So I will continue to try to be patient and just sit and wait

And pray that the delivery of my first book will not be late.

I will open up my personal binder and dream of the real book

And marvel at my words and at all of the great pictures I took.

This has been such a long and tedious process-not always pleasant,

But I know that when I behold my book, it will be my greatest present.

 

AT LAST MY PRAYERS WERE ANSWERED AND MY BOOK IS NOW IN MY HANDS!! THANK YOU, GOD!!

Randi D. Ward
June 7, 2013