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 Sample, author of “Listen to the Whisper“. You can find out more about his book at his website www.davidleesample.com. Download our free publishing guide to receive more information on self-publishing your book with Balboa Press. 

Tell us a little bit about your book. What inspired you to write it?

The book is a collection of soulfully expressed poetry that I believe was inspired as evidenced by the attached poem Writing. What motivated me to publish the book is my belief that the poems could touch others lives as they have touched mine.

What is the one message you would like to convey to your readers?

The simple, yet not easy message of the poetry is to listen to the whisper/rhythms of your soul. To honor your truth that emerges from the silence within and have the courage to follow your dreams.

What do you love most about self-publishing and would you recommend it to other authors?

I wouldn’t say I love self publishing. Rather I recognize it as a valuable and potentially helpful step to being picked up by a traditional publisher. The chances of this are quite small however. Self publishing is an excellent way of getting your message out to those you care about. Yes, I would recommend this avenue to aspiring authors as an opportunity to learn how to write better and hone their promotional skills.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors?

The single piece of advice I can offer writers is to develop a tough skin. Not everyone is going to like what you write. Not everyone is going to agree with your choice to pursue a career as a writer. Simply tell these naysayers, Listen To The Whisper.

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 blog@ 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.