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SUCCESSFUL PUBLISHING NEWSLETTER MARCH 2024

Content of the March newsletter:

–   WRITING CONTESTS

  WRITERS RESIDENCIES, FELLOWSHIPS, & GRANTS

  FREELANCE WRITING

Welcome to our March Writing and Publishing Newsletter!

I just came across this article (excerpt) on the Internet when searching for the word ¨March.

¨How (writing) habits are formed: Rather than thinking about the left and right sides of the brain, think instead of the front and back. The front of the brain processes new information.  That new information, if repeated often enough (30 days), moves to the back of the brain to form habits.  Once things are habits, they become easier to do because we no longer have to think about doing them.¨

And I have been asking myself for the hundredth time: Why does a writer have to motivate her or himself to sit down and hone their craft?  I have never read, heard, or seen a creative profession where people have to motivate themselves.  Why is it that writers constantly complain about ¨ writer’s block?¨

Why is it that writers are not getting up in the morning and looking forward working on their next novel or non-fiction article?  Why is it a drag for them to write their next book?

If writing 150-page books is too much, why not write articles or short stories? Participate in writing contests, contribute articles to magazines or newspapers, or apply for a free writer residency to charge you creativity and meet like-minded souls. Attend a writer’s conference or workshops. Also, check out the many lucrative fellowships in our newsletters. Getting paid for what you (hopefully) love: WRITING

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For Writers in British Columbia:

An afternoon of editing and peer review – a free workshop

  • Presented By: Inspired Word Cafe
  • Date: March 23 from 2 pm to 4 pm
  • Location: Rutland Library, 301 Hwy 33, Kelowna, BC, Canada

https://www.inspiredwordcafe.com/events

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  • WRITING CONTESTS

Bogliasco Foundation Fellowships

Awarded to artists and scholars in the various disciplines of the arts and humanities, including archaeology, architecture, classics, dance, film/video, history, landscape architecture, literature, music, philosophy, theater, or visual arts. During their month-long stay at the center, fellows are provided with living quarters (bedrooms with private bath), full board, and a workspace or separate studio, depending on the discipline. All meals are shared, and every evening, fellows come together for a dinner featuring typical local cuisine. Bogliasco Fellowships cover room and board but do not provide a travel or living stipend. Location Italy.  Deadline March 14

https://www.bfny.org/en/about/program-overview

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BBC National Short Story Award

Open to UK residents or nationals, 18 or over, who have a history of publication in creative writing. Short fiction.  Prize: £15,000 to the winner, £3,000 for the runner-up and £500 for three further shortlisted writers.  Deadline: March 18

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/4Z1gg8wqDRRThQJGS4VfhX8/how-to-enter

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City of Literature Paul Engle Prize

This prize does not recognize one work, nor is it solely limited to reflecting literary achievement. Rather, the award seeks to recognize a writer, like Engle, who makes an impact on his or her community and the world at large through efforts beyond the page.  Prize: $20,000.   Deadline: March 31

https://www.iowacityofliterature.org/paul-engle-day/#1655230881973-dc276dbb-7391

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Lewis Galantiere Award

Open to US citizens or permanent residents. Translation of book-length literary work from any language, except German, into English. Entries must have been published in the US in the past two years. Prize: $1000. Deadline: March 31

https://www.atanet.org/award/lewis-galantiere-award/

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Vancouver Public Library Writer in Residence

The writer-in-residence program promotes Canadian writing and literature to Vancouver citizens. During the four-month residency from September to December, the writer spends 50% of their time working on their own project and 50% of their time mentoring emerging writers, conducting workshops and participating in other activities and programs to share their experience with the community. Contract terms: $22,000 for four months full-time activity ($5,500 per month on a self-employed basis). Contract dates: April 15 through April 30 and September 2 through December 8, 2024. Deadline March 22

https://www.vpl.ca/writer

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  WRITERS RESIDENCIES, FELLOWSHIPS, & GRANTS

Replenish Residencies – A Studio in the Woods
Located in eight forested acres on the Mississippi River in Bulbancha/New Orleans. One- to two-week restorative visioning retreats to local BIPOC artists and culture bearers–the heart of New Orleans culture. Recipients will be provided with a $1,600 stipend, a one- to two-week residency, staff support, and an opportunity to have a documentation session with a photographer. Selected residents receive full room and board including food, utilities for living, and studio space.  Deadline March 13

https://www.astudiointhewoods.org/apply-for-replenish-residencies-2024-25/

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NEA Literature Fellowships

They are sponsored by the National Endowment for the Arts. Genre: Poetry.  Prize: US$25,000 Grants to published creative writers that enable recipients to set aside time for writing, research, travel, and general career advancement.  Deadline: March 13

https://www.arts.gov/grants/creative-writing-fellowships/program-description

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Greater Yellowstone Creative Writing and Journalism Fellowship

Established and recognized authors are being sought, but emerging and mid-career writers are also encouraged to apply.  Fellowship: US$3,500.

Genre: Seeking creative writers (poetry, fiction, nonfiction), or those in the field of journalism (writer, photojournalist, videographer, documentary filmmaker, online or print media) who demonstrate serious inquiry and dedication to the Greater Yellowstone region through their work.  Fellowship: $3,500. 
Deadline: March 15

https://wyomingartscouncil.submittable.com/submit

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Bridport Prize Bursaries for Under-Represented Writers

Gives under represented writers a free entry to the Bridport Prize competition in any category. In order to support as many writers as possible, applications are limited to one per year, per writer. The short story, poetry, flash fiction and memoir competitions are open to international applicants, whilst the novel award is open to writers living in Britain and Ireland, British and Irish writers living overseas and writers living in British Overseas Territories.  Deadline March 31

https://bridportprize.org.uk/writers-room/bursaries-for-under-represented-writers/

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Silver Grant for Works in Progress

Anglophone writers of any nationality may apply for up to $10,000 to support long-form essays in the fields of literary criticism, arts writing, political analysis, and/or social reportage. Applicants must have an editorial agreement with a publication or publishing house for the work under consideration.  Deadline March 31

https://silversfoundation.org/grants/

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US Writers Aid Initiative

The U.S. Writers Aid Initiative is intended to assist fiction and nonfiction authors, poets, playwrights, translators, and journalists in addressing short-term financial emergencies. To be eligible, applicants must be professional writers based in the United States, and be able to demonstrate that this one-time grant will be meaningful in helping address a short-term emergency situation.  Deadlines April 1 July 1, October 1

https://pen.org/us-writers-aid-initiative/

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A Studio in the Woods Residencies
Self as Universe: Mending Our Collective Ecosystem. Open to artists of all disciplines who have demonstrated an established dialogue with environmental and cultural issues. Residencies are 6 weeks and will take place between Sept 2024 and May 2025. Recipients will be provided $3000 as a stipend and $2000 towards materials. Provides full room and board including food, utilities for living, and studio space to selected residents.   Deadline April 3

https://www.astudiointhewoods.org/apply-for-self-as-universe-mending-our-collective-ecosystems-residencies/

  FREELANCE WRITING

Narratively
Open to reported longform pieces, memoir, profiles, Q&As or even some newfangled format that you think is destined to blow the world of narrative nonfiction wide open. Rates for these stories will start at $1,500 per story.  Deadline March 4

https://www.narratively.com/p/pitch-us-the-art-of-narrative-storytelling

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Maine Organic Farmer and Gardener
Invites readers to learn more about organic agriculture and sustainable living practices in Maine and beyond. Feature stories range from 1,200 to 2,200 words in length. How-to articles run 500 to 1,200 words in length. Interviews up to 2,500 words in length. Pays 25 cents per word, on publication. Since its inception in 1996, the Odyssey Writing Workshop has become one of the most highly respected workshops for writers of fantasy, science fiction, and horror in the world.  Deadline March 27

 https://www.mofga.org/writers-guidelines/

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The Markup

They are seeking pitches for stories on how misinformation impacts immigrant communities, especially non-native English speakers, in the United States, as a part of our “Languages of Misinformation” series. The Markup pays $1/word based on the estimated word count.

https://themarkup.org/inside-the-markup/2024/02/09/call-for-pitches-misinformation-in-immigrant-communities

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The Wildest

The Wildest is a new platform for millennial and Gen-Z pet owners. They are looking for interesting article ideas about pets, with expert input. They prefer topics that are original and not focused on shopping or personal stories. Pay is £200-£300 per article, depending on length, interviews and research. If you’re interested, send your pitches to jessica.commons.ext@kinship.co

https://www.thewildest.com/contact-us

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The Audio Publishers Association’s annual sales survey, out today, revealed an 11th straight year of double-digit growth in audiobook sales:

The Audiobook Market, and Its Revenue, Keep Growing

https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/audio-books/article/92444-the-audiobook-market-and-revenue-keeps-growing.html

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March is National Reading Month in the USA – perfect when it is still a bit chilly outdoors. But reading can be hearing too, think audiobooks!  Enjoy the beautiful first days of spring and the Easter weekend – early this year at the end of March.  Enjoy!

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Smart Free Marketing

 

 

Audiobooks for Success

 

Query

… and many more!

January 2024 Publishing Newsletter

Happy New Year / Feliz Ano Nuevo / Bonne Année

Dear readers, writers, and publishers:  All the very best for the next 365 days and beyond!
I hope you enjoyed the holidays and you are eager to tackle the upcoming writing and publishing season with new books.
 
Before writing your next book, map out your plan for how and to whom you want to sell it.  For example:
Set Goals for Writing and Publishing- this includes setting goals around getting your book done and launching it.
Find and Build Your Audience- really give thought to who your reading audience is, what’s important to them, and 
how you will connect with them. Join groups on social media where your reading audience “hangs out.”
Develop a Book Marketing Plan and Timeline- marketing and selling books is easier and more profitable when you have a plan and timeline.
Build relationships with Your Local Bookstores and Libraries – if getting into libraries and bookstores is part of your marketing plan.  Also, explore what type of author events they host.
And if this is not enough, find 52 resolutions, one for each week, here
https://www.writerscookbook.com/new-years-resolutions-for-writers/
 
WRITING CONTESTS
 

International Booker Prize

The International Booker Prize for fiction translated into English is awarded annually by the Booker Prize Foundation to the author of the best (in the opinion of the judges) eligible novel or collection of short stories. The work must be published by a UK or Ireland publishing house. Authors are not permitted to enter their own works. Prize: £50,000 divided equally between the author and the translator. There will be a prize of £2,000 to each of the shortlisted titles divided equally between the author and the translator. Eligible are works published between December 1, 2023, and April 30, 2024.  Deadline: January 12

https://thebookerprizes.com/booker-prize/entering-the-booker-prizes

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Orwell Prize
Open to nonfiction first published in the UK or Ireland. (See publication deadlines.) Genre: Nonfiction, including entries addressing political, social, cultural, moral and historical subjects. Prize: £3,000.00. Deadline: Jan 24

https://www.orwellfoundation.com/the-orwell-prizes/rules/#special

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Hillman Prize for Journalism

Prize: $5,000. “Since 1950, the Sidney Hillman Foundation has honored journalists, writers and public figures that pursue investigative journalism and public policy in service of the common good.” Deadline: Jan 30

https://www.hillmanfoundation.org/hillman-prize-journalism

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Shaughnessy Cohen Award for Political Writing

Titles must be published in Canada. Self-published books are not eligible. A book of literary nonfiction that captures a political subject of relevance to Canadian readers and has the potential to shape or influence thinking on contemporary Canadian political life. Prize: Winner: $25,000;  Finalists: $2,500. Deadline: Jan 31

https://www.writerstrust.com/awards/shaughnessy-cohen-prize-for-political-writing/guidelines/

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Edinburgh Short Story Awards

First Prize £3,000 – Open to writers worldwide. Second Prize £500 – Open to writers worldwide. Isobel Lodge Award £750 – Open to unpublished writers living in Scotland. Write Mango Flash Award £300 – Open to writers worldwide. Publication is offered to authors of the top twenty stories (or more) in our next anthology.  £10 Entry Fee.  Deadline Feb 29.    https://www.scottishartstrust.org/short-story


There are many benefits for authors to participate in writing contests and awards:

  • The award website usually posts a list of participating books and names of authors
  • It gives you a great opportunity to talk on social media & your blog or website about your participation
  • Some contests even seek votes publicly over the internet, additionally to the jury
  • Literary awards such as Dzanc Books/Guernica have very attractive prizes, such as travel to Europe and a scholarship

If you win or be short-listed in an award you certainly can use this fact to advertise for and print it on your book’s cover, or even place a badge on it and on any promotional material, including your website or blog, casting a positive light on your book.

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WRITERS RESIDENCIES

Essere Residency
The Essere Residency is a program designed to encourage the creative and personal growth of writers and artists at all stages in their career, as well as those exploring new forms of self-expression.  Sept. 21 – Oct 5, 2024.  Tuscany, Italy.   Deadline Jan 15

https://essereresidency.org/

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Volland Foundation
The is committed to providing time and space for creative practitioners of a wide range of disciplines to gather in a community setting for work, thought and exchange of ideas, and to experience immersion in a unique ecosystem and rural culture. About 100 miles west of Kansas City, Volland is located in one of the most picturesque valleys in the Flint Hills of Kansas.  Deadline Jan 19

 https://vollandfoundation.org/2024-volland-residencies/

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Montello Foundation Residency

The artist retreat at the Montello Foundation is meant to be a retreat from the urban environment. It will provide a new perspective for residents’ work and give residents space and time for undisturbed experimentation and reflection for two weeks. We are accepting national and international applications. There is no fee for artists to stay at the retreat, but artists are responsible for their travel expenses and for their meals. A residency is always for two weeks. The residency season is always from the beginning of May until the beginning of November. The retreat is located on 80 acres in an undeveloped valley near Montello in the North-Eastern corner of Nevada.  Deadline Jan 21

https://www.montellofoundation.org/pages/montello_retreat_main.htm

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Japan/USA Creative Fellowship Program

Each collaborative U.S.-Japan team will receive a $25,000 grant and will have one year to complete their project.  This grant may be utilized for any expenses directly associated with the project, including but not limited to travel between Japan and the United States, any living expenses in Japan, project materials, etc.

Applicants are required to apply as a U.S.-Japan collaborative team. All proposals must involve collaborations between a U.S. artist (or group of artists) and a Japanese artist (or group of artists) who is either a citizen or permanent resident of Japan and maintains their professional practice within Japan.  Both the U.S. applicant and their Japanese collaborator are expected to have the status of professional creative artists. This means the artist(s) must have presented to the public/published or the equivalent in the last 2-5 years.  Deadline Feb 1
https://www.jusfc.gov/creative-artists-programs/

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FREELANCE WRITING OFFERS

Dollars & Sense 

A progressive economics magazine that explains in a popular way both the workings of the economy and struggles to change it. Articles may be on any economic issue, including the environment, community organizing, urban conflict, inflation, unemployment, union reform, welfare, changes in government regulation… a broad range of topics, as long as the article has an economic theme. Features (1500 to 3000 words): In-depth articles on a broad range of topics. Active Culture (250 to 400 words): Briefs on activism—a shareholder campaign, union victory, etc. Reviews (700 words): Coverage of recent books, movies, and other media. Pays up to $400 per article.

https://dollarsandsense.org/write.html

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House Digest
Home design and lifestyle site House Digest is looking for enthusiastic, hard-working freelance writers with a love and expert-level understanding of gardening to join our team. Ideal candidates have at least three years of experience writing content for print or the web with a focus on plant care, gardening, and the outdoor space as it relates to home. We are looking for creative individuals who are self-sufficient and versatile. These positions are work-from-home with flexible, stable hours. Location does not matter; U.S. and international candidates are encouraged to apply. Research, pitch, and write 2600- to 3000-word articles in a custom CMS with a one-week to one-day turnaround, depending on the topic and timeliness of the article.
https://www.mediabistro.com/jobs/static-media/job/88647594-freelance-plants-and-gardening-feature-writer-housedigest-com

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As the holiday season winds down, a new sense of excitement is in the air.  Now is the time to take a leap and go for it. Carry a notebook everywhere!  Ideas will come to you, and inspiration will strike in the most unlikely places.  Don’t be caught without a notebook or pen handy!  Happy New Year!

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<><><><><>

 

Smart Free Marketing

 

 

Audiobooks for Success

 

Query

… and many more!

 

Tips for Successful Publishing – Newsletter December 2023

by 111Publishing and SavvyBookWriters

December Newsletter

.

CONTENT of this Newsletter:

MY BEST ADVICE

– WRITING CONTESTS

– WRITERS RESIDENCIES
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Hello Writer and Publishing Friends,

Christmas is only three weeks away and another year is almost over… Get some new Contest and Writer Residency ideas and encouragement for the next twelve months in this December Newsletter.  But most important of all: Make a backup of your computer!  Don’t make the same error as I … Read on:

In many articles and my workshops, I often warned other professionals to make frequent backups of their computers – not to lose any content. 

The worst thing that could happen, happened …

I worked on my laptop in the palapa where there is always a cool breeze.  Seconds after I got up to grab a water bottle on the counter, a strong wind blew my laptop with a loud pang from the table onto the concrete floor.

The screen turned black and I couldn’t get it back to life.  KATASTROPHY !!!

Every time I prepare for long trips, I make a copy of my computer – but this time I was so extremely busy, that I forgot.  I worked during this year intensively on several books, many articles, and hundreds of photos.

Thank goodness, there is an Apple store not too far away and I immediately drove there. The technicians were friendly and helpful and worked right away on it. But as it came to my password, the computer flashed: ERROR.

Even though I have been using the same password for at least 10 years. We tried everything… including a new password with the help of the Apple hotline.

I am devastated as I have not only all my work, manuscripts, all the writing, photos, etc. plus all my passwords, addresses, all my financial and administrative things, including all my bookkeeping, as well as my holiday ticket to Argentina.  Thank goodness, I have an online ticket.  But all the information about Argentina that I collected in the last months for my trip is gone.

I was considering buying an iPad for my travels as it is lighter and smaller, but after I used a borrowed one for two days,  I gave up the idea and purchased a new Macbook Air, which cost less than in Canada but only $100 more than an iPad.  However, so far I could not find a professional – aka a hacker – who could go around passwords and bring back my laptop content.

To sum it up:  DO WHAT I SAY, NOT WHAT I DO   : )

Make a backup of your computer TODAY

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– WRITING CONTESTS

Chicken Soup: Laughter is the Best Medicine

Receive a check for $250 and 10 free copies of your book for a 1,200-word real story written in first person on the theme of laughter.  Looking for stories about something that happened to you in your life — in your relationship with a partner or spouse, a parent or child, a family member or friend, at work or at home — that made you and the people around you laugh out loud.  They look forward to hearing your true stories that are silly, outrageous, and hilarious.  Deadline Dec 31

http://www.chickensoup.com

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The Letter Review Prize for Nonfiction

Letter Review is offering $1,000 USD total prize pool in a competition for nonfiction up to 5000 words. The Prize is open to writers who live anywhere in the world. Three Winners are announced who are published and share in the Prize money. Up to twenty writers are shortlisted. All entries are considered for publication, submission to the Pushcart Prize, and for further anthologies.

$20 Entry Fee. Deadline Dec 31

https://letterreview.com/information/

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– WRITERS RESIDENCIES

Chaco Culture National Historical Park Residencies – New Mexico
This is a solo residency. It comes with a $2,000 stipend for one one-month stay.  Open to all artists, writers, musicians, or performance artists. Located in northeastern New Mexico, an hour and a half from Farmington, NM, and three hours from Santa Fe.  The artists will have the opportunity to offer a public event or workshop at the National Park, online, or at one of their partnering locations.

Deadline Dec 7

https://nationalparksartsfoundation.submittable.com/submit

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Hawaii Volcanoes National Park – July 2024
Comes with a $4,000 stipend for one one-month stay. Residency artists stay at a spacious house just outside the park boundaries. Close to the beaches. The artists will have the opportunity to offer a public event or workshop at the National Park, online, or at one of their partnering locations.

Deadline Dec 15

https://nationalparksartsfoundation.submittable.com/submit

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Hambidge Residencies
The oldest residency program in Rabun Gap, Georgia, Hambidge provides a self-directed program that honors the creative process and trusts individuals to know what they need to cultivate their talent.  No matter if it’s to work and produce, to think, to experiment, or to rejuvenate. Residents’ time is their own;  there are no workshops, critiques, or required activities.

Deadline Jan 15, 2024

https://www.hambidge.org/guidelines-apply

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Volland Residencies
About 100 miles west of Kansas City, Volland is located in one of the most picturesque valleys in the Flint Hills of Kansas.  We are looking for applicants in all stages of their career (emerging, mid-level, professional) and all areas of the globe: local, national, and international. Provides housing and a $500/two-week or $1000/four-week stipend.

Deadline Jan 19, 2024

https://vollandfoundation.org/2024-volland-residencies/

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It’s this time of year when we look back and also forward to new horizons.  But most importantly we are thankful for all we have been given this past year.  Writing opportunities, a family and many friends, good health, and a joyful life – compared to most people in this world, who know only hunger, resentment, war, and death.  We are truly blessed!

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<><><><><>

.

 

 

Smart Free Marketing

 

 

Audiobooks for Success

 

Query

… and many more!

 

 

 

Tips for Successful Publishing – Newsletter November

Tips for Successful Publishing – Newsletter November 2023

by 111Publishing and SavvyBookWriters

AZ-Sedona

CONTENT of this Newsletter:

– WRITING CONTESTS

– FREELANCE WRITING

– RESIDENCIES 

– LOTS of FELLOWSHIPS
Find the most lucrative fellowships in this November Newsletter.

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NaNoWriMo: Are you already working towards the goal of writing a 50,000-word novel from scratch until November 30?  NaNoWriMo helps you track your progress, set milestones, connect with other writers in a vast community, and participate in events that are designed to make sure you finish your novel. Oh, and best of all, it’s free!

 

– WRITING CONTESTS

Brooklyn Non-Fiction Prize 

This $500 prize is sponsored by the Brooklyn Film & Arts Festival. Genre: Non-fiction essay between 4 to 10 pages, set in Brooklyn about Brooklyn and/or Brooklyn people/characters. (Up to 2500 words). Deadline: Nov 15

https://www.filmbrooklyn.org/

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Treehouse Climate Action Poem Prize

Open to US poets for previously unpublished poems of any length that “help make real for readers the gravity of the vulnerable state of our environment at present.” Genre: Poetry.  Prize: Up to $1,000.  Deadline: Nov 15

https://poets.org/academy-american-poets/prizes/treehouse-climate-action-poem-prize

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Somerset Maugham Awards 

Open to UK writers under the age of 35. Genre: Published work of fiction, non-fiction, or poetry. Prize: 2,500 British pounds apiece to four winners. Prize money must be used for travel. Deadline: Nov 30

https://www2.societyofauthors.org/prizes/the-soa-awards/somerset-maugham-awards/

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Lilith magazine—independent

Jewish & frankly feminist—seeks quality short stories with heart, soul, and chutzpah, 3,000 words or under, for our Annual Fiction Contest. First prize: $300 and publication. We especially like fresh fiction with feminist and Jewish nuance and are eager to read submissions from writers of color and emerging writers of any age. No entry fee. Deadline Dec 31

https://lilith.org/contact/writing-for-lilith/

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The Calibre Essay Prize 

Open to all essayists writing in English. Essays of between 2,000 and 5,000 words on any subject: personal or political, literary or speculative, traditional or experimental. The winner will receive $5,000 AU. The second prize is worth $3,000 AU, and the third prize is $2,000 AU. All three winning essays will appear in the Australian Book Review in 2024 (print and online). Open internationally. Only English.  $20-$30 Entry fee. Deadline Jan 22, 2024. 

https://www.australianbookreview.com.au/prizes-programs/calibre-prize/2024

 

– FREELANCE WRITING

The Guardian

Pitch Danielle Renwick, Editor at danielle.renwick@theguardian.com. Seeking stories on climate/environmental justice and on efforts to hold the fossil fuel industry accountable for the climate crisis. Pays $1/word.

https://www.theguardian.com/us

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Chicken Soup: Holiday Book Topics

Please submit your true stories and poems about the entire December holiday season, including Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and New Year’s festivities too. Pays $250 and ten copies for 1,200 words in first person. Deadline April 30, 2024

http://www.chickensoup.com

 

– GRANTS & WRITERS RESIDENCIES

Between the Vines Residencies

Writing Between the Vines provides self-guided writing retreats for individuals. No workshop or writing guidance is offered. There is no housing fee. Retreat stays are provided free of charge. All costs for meals, transportation, and other personal needs are the responsibility of the retreat recipient. Location Sonoma County, California. Deadline Nov 14

https://www.writingbetweenthevines.org/

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The Gulliver Travel Grant 

The Gulliver Travel Grant is awarded annually to assist writers of speculative literature in their non-academic research. These funds are used to cover airfare, lodging, and other travel expenses. Travel may be domestic or international. You may apply for travel to take place at any point in the following year. Grant: $1000. Deadline: Nov 30

https://speculativeliterature.org/grants-3/the-gulliver-travel-grant/

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Read also about the coolest Writer’s Residencies here:

https://electricliterature.com/the-11-coolest-writers-residencies/

 

– LOTS of FELLOWSHIPS:

Emerging writers to academics can receive from $15,000 to $90,000 – and many of these fellowships are offered on a yearly basis. If you don’t make it this year, mark your calendar for the 2024 deadlines.

 The Stegner Fellowship at Stanford University

Application deadline: November 1, 2023

Eligibility: Emerging writers in fiction and poetry

Payment: $50,000 per academic year (two-year program) plus tuition and benefits

Patrick Henry Writing Fellowship

Application deadline: November 15, 2023

Eligibility: Writers working on a broad range of topics related to American history and culture 

Payment: $45,000 stipend for nine-month residency in Chestertown, MD

Nieman Fellowships 

Application deadline: International applications due December 1; U.S. applications due Jan 31 

Eligibility: Working journalists with five or more years of full-time media experience

Payment: $80,000 stipend paid over a nine-month period 

The Steinbeck Fellows Program

Application deadline: January 5, 2024

Eligibility: Exceptional talent in the areas of creative writing, creative non-fiction, or biography

Payment: $15,000 stipend 

O’Brien Fellowship in Public Service Journalism

Application deadline: January 19, 2024

Eligibility: American journalists with at least five years of professional experience 

Payment: $75,000 stipend plus moving, research, and travel allowances

MacDowell Colony Fellowships

Application Deadline: February 10, 2024 (fall/winter); September 10, 2024 (spring/summer)

Eligibility: Artists and writers at various career stages

Payment: Residencies include room, board, and studio space

Scripps Fellowship 

Application deadline: March 1 annually

Eligibility: American journalists with 7 plus years of experience working in any medium                          Payment: $71,000

James Jones First Novel Fellowship 

Application deadline: March 15, 2024

Eligibility: American author who has not yet published a novel

Payment: $10,000

The Ben Bagdikian Fellowship Program

Application deadline: Spring 2024

Eligibility: US citizens able to commit to a year of  full-time work in investigative journalism

Payment: $22.68 per hour plus benefits

The Hodder Fellowship

Application deadline: September 2024

Eligibility: Promising writers and artists 

Payment: Academic year at Princeton; $90,000 stipend 

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Thanksgiving is in three weeks and Christmas is in seven weeks! 

Countdown to introduce your books to reader communities, at libraries, schools, or retirement home readings. Use Draft2Digital to get into the library market for free. Organize some giveaways, and, and, and… maybe write a rough draft of your next novel.

November is a busy month for writers : ) 

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Smart Free Marketing

 

 

Audiobooks for Success

 

Query

Publishing-Guide

10 Instagram Tips for Authors

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IG_300M_Tile.

I am sure you are already on Pinterest, Google+, YouTube and Flickr to show your book’s cover and scenes from your novel.  The question is: are you also on Instagram?  Why another Social Media site you might ask?  Well, it is one of the easiest platforms to add to your social media mix, it is fast, and it integrates easily into other sites, such as Twitter, so you can show your photos at the major social media sites at once. 

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Instagram is one of the Top Ten most popular smartphone apps with exceptional growth, nearly doubling the numbers of every competitor ahead of it on the list. Instagram has now way over 300 million users!

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More Than Only Your Book’s Cover…
Many possibilities for subtle book promotion, which is a lot less time consuming than other social networking sites. So, what could you post on Instagram?

  1. Post teaser images from your upcoming books.
  2. Reveal some of your scribblings from your Work in Progress.
  3. If you’re giving away an eBook, share a screenshot of the cover.
  4. Reveal “behind the scenes” images of your book signings or talks.
  5. Brag about your book using someone else’s words from a review, a comment, or an email.
  6. Create images with quotes from the book, or share images directly from the book
  7. Share a screenshot of any special sales or discounts for your book as they happen.
  8. Screenshot your five-star reviews and share a snippet of them with a link to your book.
  9. Post photos of some of your to-be-read pile of books giving other authors some promo too.
  10. Create a video from your book signings to boost credibility and authority for yourself as an author
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Be Creative, Start a Photo Contest
Why not ask your readers to shoot nice photo scenes of five or even ten of their friends are reading your book and to send you each single photo?  It means involvement of your book’s audience, engaging friends of your readers, and for sure, spreading the word about your book.  Even more when it includes an attractive first prize… You could for example offer a prize for the photographer and the “model”,  such as an eReader or a small tablet, or a book gift card.  Upload all the images you receive – winner or not – on Instagram and other “image-heavy” Social Media sites.
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Not as Time-Consuming as Other Sites
More and more people are leaving Facebook and Twitter and choose instead Google+, Pinterest, and Instagram. Loading up an image on Instagram takes only seconds, and it is not as time-consuming as other social media sites with similar audience numbers.

As more often you show your books’ cover or short videos on several sites, as more people with recognize your author brand.  There’s a lot to like about Instagram and the potential it has for authors.  It’s another neat way to share your books and to engage further with your followers and readers without spending precious time writing posts.
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Get Practical Tips for Using Instagram:

https://blog.bufferapp.com/instagram-for-business#most

http://brandongaille.com/instagram-profile-optimization-guide-and-cheat-sheet/

http://www.socialmediaexaminer.com/instagram-for-business-tips/

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If you would like to get a mentor and support in all things publishing, have your book intensively promoted and learn how to navigate social media sites – or to learn how you can make yourself a name as an author through content writing: We offer for three months all this and more for only $179 – or less than $2 per day! Learn more about this customized Online Seminar / Consulting for writers: http://www.111Publishing.com/Seminars

Please check out all previous posts of this blog (there are more than 1,160 of them : ) if you haven’t already. Why not sign up to receive them regularly by email? There is also the “SHARE” button for easy sharing at Pinterest, Google+, Twitter, LinkedIn etc.

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Hyper Smash

Pingate

Amazon Book Reviews Worldwide?

Book-Reviews

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I never liked it how Amazon splits the world up into single countries, not as a book purchaser, nor as a reviewer.  Many times I was asked by authors from other countries to post a review on their “national” Amazon page too.  I did them the favor, yes, but I was not happy about the extra time effort.  Why on earth is Amazon doing this?  It’s the world wide web after all!  Why not linking automatically to all nations where this particular book is sold?  Some books might have hundreds of reviews on the US Amazon page and none at all on the UK site – both are English-speaking countries.  Not good for the book and its author!

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Jason Matthews’ Review Tips
Yesterday I found by chance an article from bestselling author Jason Matthews, who also created an easy to follow video how to post a book review to all Amazon country sites – minus Japan which is a bit difficult to navigate as it is not set up completely in English.

Jason Matthews advises: “If leaving a review is important, why not go the extra distance and post the review at all 13 Amazon nations?  It only takes about two minutes, not much longer than it takes to leave one review.”
What are the benefits?  It’s good for readers and even the book and author if you liked the book.  Plus having your link to a website for browsers to click.  Definitely worth investing a few minutes of effort.”

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His Video Shows in Detail:

  • Write the review in your files
  • copy the ASIN on the books Amazon page
  • click on “write a review link”
  • go to the book’s URL and delete everything after the ASIN
  • copy and paste this URL into a new tab
  • exchange the country identifier (“.com” with “.ca” or “.co.uk”)
  • open more tabs for all the countries you want to place a review
  • go back to your first tab, give the book the stars it should have
  • and copy / paste your review from your files to Amazon reviews
  • copy / paste the headline for each review
  • do the same to all Amazon country sites for this book by just copying / pasting the review, the headline, and giving it the star-rating

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Voila!  That’s all!  It doesn’t take much more time to place a book review in ten countries than it does take for one country.  And you make an author very happy.  Plus your own link to you and then subsequently to your website shows up on Amazon in several countries.  See in detail how to post your book reviews in the future worldwide with the help of screenshots on Jason Matthews YouTube video.

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If you would like to get a mentor and our support in all things publishing, have your book intensively promoted and learn how to navigate social media sites – or learn how you can make yourself a name as an author through content writing: We offer for three months all this and more for only $179 – or less than $2 per day! Learn more about this customized Online Seminar / Consulting / Book Marketing for your success: http://www.111Publishing.com/Seminars

To learn more about professional book marketing and publishing, please read also “Book Marketing on a Shoestring”
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00UAVL3LE

Our email newsletters with free insider tips are sent out once a month. To sign up, just go to the form on the right site of each blog post.

 

 

Most Popular Blog Posts so far in 2015

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Blog-Posts

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This spring we received much praise to be one of the best resources and received the “IndiesUnlimited Best Resource Award”.  Thanks to all who voted.  It’s indeed one of the main reasons for our blog to provide authors with publishing and book marketing resources and tips, and we strive to accomplish just that.
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For the first half of the year 2015 we listed the most popular blog articles below. How we found them?  Well, statistics on Bit.ly and the website’s WordPress statistics helped us to figure out the total numbers.

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Is a Literary Agent a Good Thing for You?
https://www.savvybookwriters.com/is-a-literary-agent-a-good-thing-for-you/

eBook or Print Book? Short Answer: All Three
https://www.savvybookwriters.com/ebook-or-print-book-short-answer-all-three/

15 Important Questions Before Writing
https://www.savvybookwriters.com/15-important-questions-before-writing/

The Truth About Being “Published”
https://www.savvybookwriters.com/the-truth-about-being-published/

One of the Best Ways to Sell Books!
https://www.savvybookwriters.com/one-of-the-best-ways-to-sell-books/

How Can You Leverage Your Book Manuscript?
https://www.savvybookwriters.com/how-can-you-leverage-your-book-manuscript/

Prequels: A Recipe for Success!
https://www.savvybookwriters.com/prequels-a-recipe-for-success/

What’s Better: Networking or Advertising?
https://www.savvybookwriters.com/whats-better-networking-or-advertising/

MUST READ for Authors to Avoid Pitfalls
https://www.savvybookwriters.com/must-read-for-authors-to-avoid-pitfalls-2/

17 Guidelines How to Write Book Reviews
https://www.savvybookwriters.com/most-important-guidelines-to-write-book-reviews/

How to Get Reviews Before Book Launch?
https://savvybookwriters.wordpress.com/2013/12/12/how-to-get-reviews-before-your-books-launch/

7 Grants / Residencies for Writers
https://www.savvybookwriters.com/7-grants-residencies-for-writers/

11 Tips How to Prepare Your Manuscript for Editing
https://www.savvybookwriters.com/11-tips-how-to-prepare-your-manuscript-for-editing/

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Most of our blog readers are coming from the USA (85%), UK (10%) and Canada, the rest is from Australia, Brazil, South Africa and then India and Germany. We are very grateful for so many readers, subscribers and comments at our blog.

What is your favoured blog article in this list? Which one do you find most useful?

 

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If you would like to get a mentor and our support in all things publishing, have your book intensively promoted and learn how to navigate social media sites – or learn how you can make yourself a name as an author through content writing: We offer for three months all this and more for only $179 – or less than $2 per day!  Learn more about this customized Online Seminar / Consulting / Book Marketing for your success: http://www.111Publishing.com/Seminars

To learn more about professional book marketing and publishing, please read also
“Book Marketing on a Shoestring”
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00UAVL3LE

Our email newsletters with free insider tips are sent out once a month. To sign up, just go to the form on the right site of each blog post.
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Did You Know: Copyright and Illegal Downloads

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You might have read these articles here on our blog:  “What Every Writer Needs to Know About Copyright” and “Re-Blogging vs Copyright Infringement“.  See more of this topic in the following infographic , also about illegal downloads…

copyright vs illegal download
By iSkysoft, developer of Free Youtube Downloader
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Valentine’s Gifts for Book Lovers

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Valentine's Day

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Wikipedia explains:  Valentine’s Day was first associated with romantic love in the circle of Geoffrey Chaucer in the High Middle Ages, when the tradition of courtly love flourished. In 18th-century England, it evolved into an occasion in which lovers expressed their affection for each other by presenting flowers, offering sweets, and sending greeting cards (known as “valentines“).
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More Than Flowers and Sweets for Booklovers
Everyone who likes to read will appreciate these more custom,thoughtful presents, that show you dug a little bit deeper to find a suitable gift for your loved one.  We searched the Internet and came up with these ideas:
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Poster Unframed. – Famous Quote by Thomas Jefferson.

Cannot-live-without-books .



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Book-Style Case.
Ultra slim and lightweight book-style case for Kindle PaperWhite. Also available in iPad and iPhone sizes. Made in the style of a classic book cover. Available in brown, red or grey (specify color).
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Book-StyleCase

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Banned Books Tote Bag.
An Out of Print original design to celebrate banned books.
The design is printed on heavyweight cotton canvas. There is an inner pocket. The bag is 13.5 inches wide x 15.5 inches high, with 10 inch strap.
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Tote Banned Books.

 

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Kindle PaperWhite.

Paperwhite Display, High Resolution, High Contrast, Built-in Light, Wi-Fi or Wi-Fi + Free 3G, No screen glare in bright sunlight, read with one hand—over 30% lighter than iPad mini, battery lasts weeks – not hours, built-in light—read without eye-strain.

 

Amazon-PaperWhite

 

Try Kindle Unlimited for free for 30 days! Choose from over 700,000 titles. 
Want it Friday, Feb. 13? Order NOW with AmazonGlobal Priority Shipping at checkout.


 

 

 What About a Magazine Subscription?

 

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Need more gift ideas for Valentine’s?
Check out Amazon or choose one of their gift cards. Gift Cards are always the perfect gift, redeemable for millions of items on Amazon’s web site.  Maybe even for a Prime membership or one year KindleUnlimited – reading from a pool of 700,000 books as many as book lovers want to read.  Gift cards can be sent via email, an e-card (if you forgot to get a Valentine’s gift in time : ) – or on paper via mail.  Oh, yes, and enjoy the romantic comedy movie Valentine’s Day with Julia Roberts and Taylor Swift.

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TWO DAYS IN JUNE: John F. Kennedy and…

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Two-Days-in-June

Two Days in June


TWO DAYS IN JUNE
 John F. Kennedy and the 48 Hours that Made History  by Andrew Cohen.

In June 1963, John Fitzgerald Kennedy has been president of the United States for almost two and a half years.  That spring he is grappling with the two seismic forces of the early 1960s:  the proliferation of nuclear arms and the struggle for civil rights.  On two consecutive days, in two lyrical addresses, he appeals to Americans to see both the Russians and the “Negroes” as human beings.

His speech on June 10 leads to the Limited Nuclear Test Ban Treaty of 1963, the first arms control agreement of the Cold War. A day later, his next speech on June 11,  leads to the famous Civil Rights Act of 1964, a watershed in American history.  In lily-white, Cold War America, this kind of language is unprecedented, if not almost subversive.

Andrew Cohen, an award-winning journalist and bestselling author, evokes the writing of William Manchester and Theodore White as he presents a president pivoting dramatically and decisively on the two biggest issues of his time. Based largely on hours of unseen documentary film shot in the White House and the Justice Department on these two days, as well as fresh interviews and a rediscovered draft speech.  Two Days in June elegantly captures Kennedy at the high noon of his presidency in new, rich, granular detail.
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Read more at SavvyBookWriters.com/two-days-in-june/

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Our WordPress blog http://savvybookwriters.wordpress.com/ has been moved to our web domain at: https://www.savvybookwriters.com/blog.

As we cannot transfer thousands of subscribers we will re-blog for a while.   If you want to get these valuable tips in the future, please sign up when the pop-up window shows up after 10 seconds on the new site, to make sure you won’t miss any articles in the future.   THANKS


Tagged: Author Andrew Cohen, John F. Kennedy and the 48 Hours that Made History, The Unfinished Canada, Trudeau's Shadow, Two Days in June, While Canada Slept