Members Present: Alan, Debbie, Jackie, Karen, Pete, Valia
Karen submitted For the Life of Ivy. She discussed how
she paid Kirkus for a critique and that Kirkus is known for book reviews. Prices
are based on type and length of book. Karen talked about the first edition and
how she ordered 300 in the beginning. Over time she sold 600 herself through
school visits and heavy promotion.
Pete discussed the five books he published with Pen It! and details
about working with the publisher and illustrators. He admitted he did not spend much time marketing his books and most were bought by friends and students. His main goals were met though. He wanted to see them in print and one was a tribute to a colleague.
Debbie discussed her experience with dealing with publishers
and is feeling very frustrated. She said she is also having a hard time finding an illustrator. They are either too busy or too expensive.
Alan is doing stand up comedy after taking a break for over
a decade. He will be putting on shows where proceeds will go to charity. He
then read his poem “The Angel in the Snow.” He does not think he will submit to any of the publishers on the list he got from Karen, but is looking into joining SCBWI.
Valia read his mythical short story “A Bird, A Tree, and a
Volcano.” He too is frustrated about not making it in the children's market but Jackie talked about his numerous sucesses with literary magazines.
Pete read two rhyming riddles and stated he appreciated feedback
he got at the last meeting. He explained that the clues are tougher in the beginning
and get more obvious as the riddle goes on. He submitted a couple to Readers Digest.
Jackie suggested meeting via Zoom in January and February then resuming in person meetings in March, after the weather breaks.
Next Meeting: Wednesday, January 11, 2023 via Zoom
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
