From time to time in this space, Balboa Press publishes articles written by our authors in which they share some aspect of their self-publishing journeys. These are the words of David Burger, author of “Accidental Lives”. For more information about David, check out his website. Download the Balboa Press free publishing guide to receive more information on self-publishing your book with Balboa Press.
As a new novelist I am experiencing a whole new world. From where I was then to where I am now has a continuing story and lessons. I recorded a few of the million thoughts here.
My inspiration for Accidental Lives came from a lucid dream I had. Although the story had come to its end, I awoke totally entertained and sorry it was over. It played out like a great movie. As each day went by, I filled in the framework of each scene in the story with my own personality and experiences. The inspiration behind publishing the story was that of having children. Every father wants his kids to be proud of him. The sense of accomplishment I feel for myself in having a published novel pales in comparison to the pride my daughters have in telling others their father is an author.
This venture into self-publishing has definitely been a learning experience. One way I consider myself fortunate is having Balboa Press as my partner in this venture. The composition of the book, the website, and the availability to have questions answered were invaluable. Some of my stumbling blocks were in the area of editing. A lesson learned too late was that one can use their sphere of influence to help in the publication. Had I realized there were friends and family who had talents in editing, photography, art design, and financing, I would have saved money and time. Speaking of finances, I will be better prepared next time in knowing exactly how much I need to be prepared to spend from the beginning. I found myself ill prepared and having to circle the wagons with each step of the process to acquire additional financing.
An area I am currently enjoying immensely is that of marketing. I have learned a ton about social media and several of its outlets by itself. The conventional media campaign has been exciting and provided additional opportunities to publish other writings while promoting the book. I have greatly enjoyed the two professionals from Bohlsen who have guided me in each portion of the campaign. The unknown intrigue of what will happen with the book’s success is providing a world of anticipation. I compare it to watching a lit firework after the glow of the wick is no longer visible. Will it fizzle out or erupt into a magical display? I am sure there will be teachings during this time of watching and waiting. Perhaps I will have the opportunity to include those in another article.
Although I have yet to experience many different outlets for marketing the book first hand, I greatly enjoy getting the chance to set up a table and market my book in the local grocery stores. The people here resonate much as I do and it’s easy to converse about the book and build excitement.
One facet of self-publishing I have found enjoyable is that I play a part in each step of the process. It has widened my understanding of what goes into getting a manuscript from idea to the consumer’s hand. I would recommend self-publishing to others. I believe it is of value to call self-publishing the first rung of your publishing success ladder.
The advice I would pass along to other aspiring writers is to believe in yourself and your work. Picture yourself already accomplished and make today’s decisions on what the “tomorrow you” would have done. Use your sphere of influence to assist you with elements of the work. Have fun with it, and enjoy the idea that your work has an audience out there that will appreciate it.
Balboa Press authors who’d like to share a 350-600 word experience related to the self-publishing of their books, are invited to do so by sending a message through our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/BalboaPress, by tweeting us @BalboaPress, or by emailing dghosh@ balboapress.com. We may not be able to use every story, but we will read and consider them. Balboa Press reserves the right to edit stories for content, grammar and punctuation accuracy; as well as for space.