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The TopNotch® Writer
Empowering Christian Writers for the Kingdom of God
Volume 1 ~ Issue 7 . . . . . . . . . . . September 2008
Published by TopNotch Communications Group, LLC
MaryAnn Diorio, Ph.D., CLC, Principal
Copyright 2008. All Rights Reserved.
From the Editor's Desk . . .
Back in the sixties, Bob Dylan recorded a song called "The Times, They Are A'Changin" The song became a smash hit.
Well, the times they are a'changin' quite a bit today too in the publishing industry. In a recent blog entry, agent Chip MacGregor wrote, "Next spring, everything about the marketing and selling of Christian books is going to change." Why? Because the organizers of the Christian Book Expo will be shifting their focus from retailers to authors and their books.
This bodes well for us writers and indicates a major paradigm shift in the way publishers will be approaching the sales of our books. To read the full text of Chip's article, click here and scroll down to the post dated August 17, 2008.
Another major paradigm shift is occurring in the area of electronic publication, commonly called "e-publishing". While we still seem a long way from the demise of books--a demise I think will never occur--the Internet is providing major publishing venues for both authors and readers. A personal case in point: My short story, "Magnolica Memories", was recently published online by By Grace Publishing, a Christian online publisher. To read my story, please click here.
Change is inevitable, and unless we are willing to be open to change, we will not grow as writers. So approach change with expectation, looking for the possibilities in it, not the impossibilities.
Blessings,
Dr. MaryAnn
In this issue . . .
- Feature Article: Self-Publishing: A Viable Option - Is self-publishing for you? To find out, read this insightful aritcle by highly successful veteran self-publisher, Candy Abbott.
-
Are you struggling with doubt about your writing? Has discouragement gripped you by the throat? If so, read Defeating Doubt and Discouragement and learn proven techniques for overcoming these twin enemies of your writing soul.
-
Now that you've started your own freelance writing business, are you wondering about how to set your fees? If so, read How Much to Charge for some great tips.
- Web writers are in great demand. Apply these suggestions for writing web content and watch your business increase.
- Book Review: Words That Work by Dr. Frank Luntz
ATTITUDE
Defeating Doubt and Discouragement
by MaryAnn Diorio, Ph.D.
Recently, I was attacked with a bad case of doubt. Before I knew it, I was sinking deep into discouragement about the current book I'm working on. It seemed as though one obstacle after another had planted its feet in my path in an attempt to keep me from focusing on the completion of my book. By God's grace, I realized what was happening before I had sunk so far into the pit of discouragement to get myself out.
As God's writers, all of us will face discouragement at some point in our writing careers. How we handle that discouragement is critical to fulfilling our destiny in building the Kingdom of God. If you are facing doubt and discouragement, consider these proven techniques for overcoming them:
1) Recognize where doubt and discouragement come from. They come from the pit of hell and are designed to get you off track from your God-given destiny. Don't give place to them.
2) Remember that doubt and discouragement can gain a foothold only when we allow them to do so. And how do we allow them to do so? By focusing on them more than focusing on God's promises.
3) Realize that you have authority over the spirits of doubt and discouragement. As a born-again child of God, you have been given dominion over all the forces of hell. Use that dominion to drive out doubt and discouragement from your life.
Don't be surprised when doubt and discouragement attack you, for they surely will. Instead, develop your spiritual muscles through building your relationship with Jesus Christ. As you do, you will find that when doubt and discouragement try to sneak up on you, you'll crush them before they've gotten a hold on you.
BUSINESS
How Much Should I Charge?
by MaryAnn Diorio, Ph.D.
When it comes to knowing what to charge for your writing, several factors come into play. Think about these as you set your prices for your writing business:
- Know your numbers. How much does it cost you to run your business? Take into consideration all of your office expenses, then add 20% to that figure when calculating your prices.
- Establish an hourly rate that will allow you to meet your expenses plus earn you a profit. Don't short-change yourself and fall into the trap of taking any job that comes along. Stick to your hourly rate as closely as possible, and make it a decent hourly rate.
- Consider perceived value. Psychologists tell us that customers usually determine value by price. If the price is high, the value is perceived to be high. While this is not always true, knowing this psychological fact will help you establish a fair price.
For more information on how to set prices for your writing business, click here.
CRAFT
Writing Web Content
by MaryAnn Diorio, Ph.D
Writers who write for the WorldWide Web are in great demand. With the increasing Internet presence of businesses, business owners need the services of writers possessing the unique skills to maximize their online presence.
While basic writing skills apply to writing for the Web, there are certain writing skills that are unique to it. Learning these skills will contribute to your writing success on the Web:
- SEO - This refers to Search Engine Optimization. In order to write successfully for the Web, a writer needs to choose keywords that logically fit what a person would search for when looking for the services of that particular business or organization. For example, if a parent is searching the Web for a good Christian school, he would very likely google some critical keywords like: Christian, Biblical, school, education, worldview, and/or curriculum. These words should be strategically placed throughout the article so that search engines will easily locate the school's website.
- SEM - This refers to Search Engine Marketing and means utilizing strategies for optimal marketing on the Internet. Many businesses need written material that persuades web viewers to buy their products. An understanding of SEM enables the writer to provide such material.
- Industry-Specific Terminology - As a web content writer, you will be writing for a variety of different industries. It is critical that you research, learn, and understand the vocabulary used by those in those industries. Each industry has its own jargon, and the wise web content writer will make it her goal to learn that jargon.
Writing for the web can be a very rewarding and lucrative type of writing, well worth the time to learn its unique demands.
FEATURE ARTICLE
Self-Publishing: A Viable Option 
by Candy Abbott
Today's technology offers writers numerous options, including self-publishing. Book publishing is a complex process that involves cover design, typesetting, communication with editors and proofreaders, contracts, promotional materials, printer quotes, offset or POD, etc. Independent publishing companies provide tiered services that can be as limited as camera-ready printing or as complex as book packaging with a marketing strategy.
Since 1999, when Fruitbearer Publishing opened its doors, we have seen our Lord operate true to His Word: All things work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose (Rom. 8:28); God honors "small beginnings" (Zech. 4:10); we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up (Gal. 6:9).
Unless you are a major name or public figure, it's hard to land a traditional publishing contract. If you are among the fortunate, you can expect to be published in two to three years. As a self-published author, you could have a quality book within six months; while responsible for the initial outlay, you keep more of the profits. This is especially important if you have a speaking ministry, outreach, or congregation eagerly awaiting your project.
Fruitbearer Publishing, L.L.C., A Friendly Starting Place for Budding Authors, started small but now has a team of editors and associates who freelance for well-known houses. Fruitbearer has established a respected name in the industry, and self-publishing has gained credibility over the years. But there are some dangers. Authors who approach self-publishing without a commitment to excellence are vulnerable to paying big bucks for a shoddy product. Be prepared to:
1. Learn. Attend writer's conferences and study resources that will strengthen your knowledge of the craft.
2. Find mentors or writing coaches.
3. Participate in a critique group.
4. Pay editors to evaluate your manuscript (content as well as grammar).
5. Part with your ego; heed their advice. Professionals rewrite; amateurs cling to their words.
6. Invest financially.
7. Develop a marketing plan; even traditional publishers provide only an initial PR thrust; then you're on your own.
8. Pray always, about everything-for God's wisdom and guidance at every stage.
Candy knows the value of these disciplines firsthand. It took her ten years to write her first book, FRUITBEARER: What Can I Do For YOU, Lord?, now in its third printing. In 2001, while reading the first Harry Potter book, she thought, Somebody needs to write a Christian book that's just this much fun to read. Immediately she felt the Lord say, "You do it." Arguing that she didn't know how to write fiction, He reminded her that she was already doing many things she didn't know how to do because she'd been obedient. Seven years later, after near-success with an agent, Gavin Goodfellow: The Lure of Burnt Swamp was released under the Fruitbearer imprint (www.GavinGoodfellow.com).
Whether you pursue traditional or self-publishing, or share your manuscript at arms' reach, obedience is the key. If God has called you to write, don't give up! Do what you can with what you have, and do it with excellence to God's glory.
You may reach Candy at:
Candy Abbott
Fruitbearer Publishing, L.L.C.
P.O. Box 777
Georgetown, DE 19947
(302) 856-6649
www.fruitbearer.com
fruitbearer.publishing@verizon.net
www.GavinGoodfellow.com
BOOK REVIEW
by MaryAnn Diorio, Ph.D.
Words That Work by Dr. Frank Luntz
You may have seen him on FOX News. He's the analyst who dissects the language of political figures, interpreting intonation, gestures, and choice of words. And, most of the time, he's right on target.
I'm talking about Dr. Frank Luntz, well-known author of the best-selling book, Words That Work. An outstanding wordsmith himself, Luntz expresses the theme of his book in its sub-title: "It's Not What You Say, It's What People Hear". Bottom-line, words are powerful and can make you or break you.
As writers, we deal in words. According to Scripture, words hold the power of life and death (Proverbs 18:21). If you want to learn how to use the right words to create the maximum positive effect in your writing, read this book. While it is targeted primarily to the political and business communities, the book contains nuggets of valuable information that will help raise your writing to a new level.
To order your copy of Words That Work, click here.
To purchase books and products featured in earlier issues of
The TopNotch® Writer, click here.
To read back issues of The TopNotch® Writer, click here.
TOPNOTCH COMMUNICATIONS GROUP, LLC
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PO Box 405 Millville, NJ 08332-0405
P (856) 327-1231 F (856) 327-0291
DrMaryAnn@TopNotchCommunicationsGroup.com
www.TopNotchCommunicationsGroup.com
Dr. MaryAnn Diorio, CEO and Publisher
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ATTENTION
PARENTS, TEACHERS,
& HOMESCHOOLERS!
If you're looking for outstanding literature books you can trust,
check out Dr. MaryAnn's
series on American authors.
A Student's Guide
to Nathaniel Hawthorne
A Student's Guide
to Herman Melville
A Student's Guide
to Mark Twain
All three books are available through
Enslow Publishers.
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"Help for Writers Series"
Need help with your writing? Check out Dianne E. Butts' pamphlets for writers: Basics for Beginners, Conquering the Dreaded Query Letter, How to Market Your Reprints, How Do I "Show, Don't Tell"?, and Should I Become a Writer?. $3.95 each + shipping. Click "For Writers" at www.DianneEButts.com
Get a Book Proposal Ready to Submit to Publishers ... and pay only $595. And you will only need to pay $495 now; the balance of $100 won't be due until you secure a book contract or decide to self-publish. Please take a moment and read my special offer below...
My name is John Riddle, and I am an author and ghostwriter from Bear, Delaware. I am the author of 34 books, and have worked as a ghostwriter on numerous projects. (Some of the books I have written
include "For God and Country," "Lintball Leo's Not So Stupid Questions About Your Body, "Consulting Business," and "The Story of the Pony Express.")
If you are interested in writing a book, but either don't have the time or are not sure how the publishing process works, I can help you.
I have over 30 years experience as an author, and over the past 7 years have been teaching at writer's conferences all across the country. I teach with some of the top editors, publishers and agents in the industry, and I know what types of books they are looking for.
Most people don't realize they can sell a book project to a publisher without writing the entire book. All you need is a "book proposal," which consists of:
1. One page summary of the book
2. Two sample chapters
3. Table of Contents
4. Author bio
5. Marketing plan
I can help you create the book proposal for only $595. And you will only need to pay $495 now; the balance of $100 won't be due until you secure a book contract, or decide to self publish. I accept checks and credit card payments via Pay Pal.
Once the book proposal is completed, I will supply you with a list of publishing companies and a few agents. I will also draft a cover letter for you to use when sending out your book proposal.
Once a publisher is interested in your book, they will offer you a contract, and an "advance" payment (against future royalties). I can also review your contract, to make sure you are getting the best deal, and advise you on how to get the "highest advance" possible.
You can learn more about me by visiting www.ilovetowriteday.org I am the Founder of I Love To Write Day, a grassroots campaign I launched in 2002 to have people of all ages practice writing every November 15. The event has really taken off in schools, and last year over 20,000 schools all across the country held special ILTWD events and activities.
Let me know if I can help you with your book project. As a ghostwriter, editor and book doctor, I can take your "rough drafts" of chapters and "whip them into shape," so a publisher will say "yes!"
Thank you for your time and consideration.
May God bless all that you do!
John Riddle
302-834-4910
johnriddle@sprintmail.com
WRITING COACHES
Are you feeling "stuck" in your writing? I've been there myself. Allow me to help you!
Andrea Boeshaar
Certified Christian Life Coach
& Published Author
www.andreaboeshaar.com
___________
TopNotch Life & Career Coaching
MaryAnn Diorio, Ph.D., CLC
www.TopNotchLifeandCareerCoaching.com
Are you tired of rejection slips?
If so, why not hire a writing coach?
Dr. MaryAnn will coach you in proven
techniques for achieving the writing
success you long for. Give her a call at
856-327- 1231 or email her at
DrMaryAnn@TopNotchLifeandCareerCoaching.com
WRITING SERVICES
THE MOST VALUABLE 2-CENTS YOU’LL EVER FIND!
Clear – Concise – Compelling
Political Commentary That Will Turn
Your Readers into Returning Readers.
Gina Diorio cuts to the chase on today’s hottest issues in a style that's engaging, intellectual, and at times irreverent. Readers might get happy – they might get angry – but they will get thinking.
Contact Gina today to include her political commentary in your publication.
Gina L. Diorio, M.A., Principal
www.Liberty WritingSolutions.com
UPCOMING CONFERENCES
Christian
Act One Screenwriting Weekend
September 19-20, 2008
Rock Island, Illinois
National Christian Writers' Conference & Expo
September 20, 2008
Virginia Beach, Virginia
American Christian Fiction Writers
September 18-21, 2008
Minneapolis, Minnesota
San Diego Christian Writers' Guild
"Writing for Life" Conference
September 26-27, 2008
Rancho Bernardo, California
Sandy Cove Christian Communicators' Experience
September 29-October 2, 2008
Northeast, Maryland
Blue Ridge Christian Novelist Conference
October 5-9, 208
Ridgecrest, North Carolina
Glorieta Christian Writers' Conference
October 22-26, 2008
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Washington, DC Metro Writers Seminar
November 1, 2008
Herndon, Virginia
Contact: Mary J. Yerkes
NEW
First Annual Forum of
Christian Writers' Conference Directors
January 13-15, 2009
Nashville, Tennessee
Contact: RegAForder@aol.com
Writing for the Soul Conference
February 19-22, 2009
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Florida Christian Writers' Conference
February 26-March 1, 2009
Lake Yale Conference Center
Leesburg, Florida
Secular
New York Writers' Workshop
Non-Fiction Pitch
October 10-12, 2008
New York, New York
South Carolina Writers Workshop
October 24-26, 2008
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
The Colrain Poetry Manuscript Conference
October 24-27, 2008 and
November 14-17, 2008
Colrain, Massachusetts
20th Annual Writers' Institute
March 27-29, 2009
Madison, Wisconsin
Travel Writers' & Photographers' Conference
August 14-17, 2008
Corte Madera, California
Maui Writers' Conference
August 29-September 1, 2008
Honolulu, Hawaii
Kentucky Women's Writers' Conference
September 12-13, 2008
Lexington, Kentucky
Sanibel Island Writers' Conference
November 6-9, 2008
Sanibel Island, Florida
Winter Poetry & Prose Getaway in Cape May, NJ
January 16-19, 2009
Cape May, New Jersey
Check out these conference resources:
www.ShawGuides.com
http://writersconf.org/
WRITING CONTESTS
This month we begin a new feature:
Writing Contests. Check these out
and enter a few. You may just win! :)
Christian
Life Lessons Essay Contest
Deadline: September 9, 2008
Operation First Novel
Deadline: October 1, 2008
Operation First Non-Fiction Book
Deadline: October 1, 2008
The AMY Foundation Writing Awards
Deadline: January 31, 2009
Secular
Robert Frost Foundation
Poetry Award
Deadline: September 15, 2008
Writer's Digest Poetry Contest
Deadline: December 19, 2008
WRITING JOBS
The resources below offer both in-house
and freelance job opportunities for writers.
Absolute Markets Newsletter
EU Writer
(writing opps in Europe)
Journalism Jobs
Morning Coffee
Worldwide Freelance Writer
Writing for Dollars
RESOURCES
Writers Magazines
Christian
Advanced Christian Writer
Cross & Quill
The Christian Communicator
Secular
Byline
Poetry Magazine
Poets & Writers
Publisher's Weekly
The Writer
Writers' Digest
Writers' Organizations
Christian
Act One
American Christian Writers
American Christian Fiction Writers
Christian E-Authors
ChristianPoetry.org
ChristianWriters.com
Christian Writers' Fellowship International
Christian Writers' Group International
Christian Writers' Guild
FaithWriters.com
Fellowship of Christian Writers
Inscribe Christian Writers' Fellowship
International Christian Writers
Literary Christian
Suite 101 for Christian Writers
Utmost Christian Writers
Writers' Information Network
Secular
Academy of American Poets
American Screenwriters Association
American Society of
Authors &Journalists
American Society of Food Journalists
Freelance Writing Organization Int'l
International Association of
Business Communicators
National Association of Science Writers
National Education Writers Association
National Press Club
National Writers' Association
Society of American Travel Writers
Society of Professional Journalists
Teachers and Writers Online
Writers Guild of America
Blogs/Ezines/Websites/Loops
Christian
Christian Fiction Factor
Right-Writing.com
http://rosemccauley.blogspot.com/
Sally Stuart's Christian Writers' Marketplace
The Writers' View
(by application only)
Secular
Fiction Factor
Poetic Asides
The Wooden Horse
The Writers' Bag
http://writersdigest.com/101BestSites/
http://www.writing-world.com/
SELF-PUBLISHING RESOURCES
BookMasters
Fruitbearer Publishing
Morris Publishing
Small Publishers Association of North America
Wine Press Publishing
FEATURED MARKET
New Man Magazine
COURSES FOR WRITERS
Internet
Writers Online Workshops
Gotham Writers' Workshop
Correspondence
The Christian Writers' Guild
American Christian Writers (ACW)
MARK YOUR CALENDAR NOW!
Nov. 15, 2008
I LOVE TO WRITE DAY!
For more info, go to
http://www.ILovetoWriteDay.org
Supplies for Writers
The Writers' Store
The Writers' Life Gift Shop
Organized Times
Writing-Related Resources
Get Organized Now!
Christian Book Distributors
Amazon.com
Oil Painting Techniques
Virtual Sheet Music
Current Cards
AWeber.com
The Christian Writer's Power Source
(The Baptism in the Holy Spirit)
QUOTE OF THE MONTH
The heart of a really good book beats. ~ Patricia Lee Gauch
THE TOPNOTCH WRITER is published monthly by TOPNOTCH COMMUNICATIONS GROUP, LLC, owned and operated by Dr. MaryAnn Diorio. Articles in THE TOPNOTCH WRITER are copyrighted and may not be reproduced in any way or by any means, electronic or otherwise, without the written permission of Dr. MaryAnn Diorio.
To subscribe to THE TOPNOTCH WRITER, please send a blank email to
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