Giving the reader more...

Of course, your book is amazing. It’s AWESOME. It’s plotted to perfection, edited to oblivion and ready for readers. But is your book enough?

Competition for readers is fierce. Already, authors have to ask, “am I enough?” and build the ever-elusive platform. Now, adding value (for the people already cool enough to buy your book) is something else for authors to think about.

As part of my instructional design study, I’m translating Total Blueprint into a Moodle course. I love the idea of making the book an interactive (and ultimately, even more inspiring!) experience.

So, what else is there?

- Authors provide discussion forums, or background novellas.
- Authors promote their book with merchandising.
- Authors let readers get into their head with book playlists.
- Authors post or create teasers and trailers.

As a reader, what “extras” do you expect? Do you expect any at all?

As an author, are you giving your readers enough? Of your book, of your world, of you?

Keep kicking ass!

Go Lily!

This is it. Twenty one one. And January is almost over...

Need inspiration?

KENT BLECHYNDEN/Dominion Post

This kick ass 9 year old has just written and recorded her first album! Not even in double-digits, and Lily is going out and making it happen. You know what that means? No excuses, no delays - it’s time to take control! If you’ve been holding back, dumbing down, or settling for anything less than what you deserve* don’t wait another minute to change your world.

The best time to plant a tree is one hundred years ago.
The second best time is today. -Chinese proverb

Heading off to plot :)

*which is, of course, world domination!

Keep kicking ass!

The Big Fat Why

Do you have a dream? A project? Kick it off with a big fat why! Because when you’re totally clear about why you want something, it gives you power and protection.

Power - to direct your focus, your energy, and your actions.
Protection - against criticism, fear, and doubt.

This is the first step I take on a writing project, it sets my head straight and keeps me motivated. But you can use it for anything! Start now - ask yourself: why do I want this [insert goal]? Write down your top five reasons. Figure out your big fat why – and make it positive! (You might want to leave school so you can “get away from your town”, but it’s way more exciting to leave school so you can “explore the world”!)

So, set your intention: know your big fat why. Get excited. Make a plan, set a goal, and get ready to make it so!

Keep kicking ass!