Scott McCormick

This is the seventh entry in a series in which I detail the experience of self-publishing my book. The goal is to offer tips and strategies so you can learn from my successes and mistakes. This week: how unforeseen success can change your plans!

The goal of your author headshot is to cement your brand. At all times you should be asking yourself, "What kind of image am I trying to project to the world?"

Dan Poblocki published his first Middle Grade horror book, The Stone Child, just over 10 years ago. He took time out of his writing schedule to talk about his creative process, the horror genre, and his favorite horror films.

Try this exercise and write your query letter before you write your next book to keep your manuscript focused and help you pitch it to agents and publishers.

Sometimes, taking a problem on head-on isn't the most creative solution. Why not try Oblique Strategies, the I Ching, or a coin flip? Changing your mental approach can lead to a side-door solution you didn't see before.

This is the sixth entry in a series in which I detail the entire experience of self publishing my book. The goal is to offer tips and strategies so you can learn from my successes and mistakes. This week: cover design and interior formatting.

Here are some pointers on how to best enter your book's metadata, upload your manuscript for publishing, and everything else that goes into the ordering process.