Proven experts in all facets of publishing offer a glimpse into the highly-competitive publishing world by offering advice, answering questions and sharing their inspirational – and sometimes surprising -- secrets to their phenomenal success at a publishing panel from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. during the Great Falls Book Festival on May 2 at the Great Falls Library.
For many aspiring writers, publishing a book is a life goal, but most people’s ideas remain in their heads and not on paper because they don’t know the process, how to land a literary agent, or self-publish.
"How to get published has always been a concept shrouded in mystery and misconception,” says Pamela Palmer, a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author. “I'm delighted to relate my own experiences with both traditional and self-publishing and to share my belief that all writers have the seeds of success buried deep inside."
Moderated by Kristin Clark Taylor, author, journalist, former White House communications strategist and founder of the Great Falls Writer’s Group, the panel includes several best-selling authors, such as nationally-known author Pamela Palmer; Rob Jolles, a nationally-recognized sales expert and writing coach who has written three best sellers and whose latest book “How to Change Minds” was named to USA Today’s Top Ten business books of 2014; Jennifer Abernethy, an authority on the use of social media as a strategic marketing tool and author of “The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Social Media Marketing;” and Ramunda Lark Young, a successful independent bookstore owner.
“Candid conversation between new writers and industry experts doesn't happen enough, therefore the publishing journey can often be riddled with misinformation when going it alone,” said Young, who has helped launch countless authors to the best-seller list.
“With a panel like this you are getting the best of many worlds. You’re getting information, inspiration that every writer needs, and you’re getting technique,” said Jolles. “You need the combination of people who can walk the fine line of inspiring and teaching at the same time.”
Jolles and Abernethy agree that an author’s online presence is a must and a social media presence needs to be started long before a book is finished. They will delve into why and effects on publishing prospects.
“Each panelist brings a unique flow to the overall creative energy of this event. I want people to leave feeling energized, inspired and fully armed with the strategic tools they need to jump into the deep water,” said Taylor, who organized the panel. “Getting your work published can seem like a daunting challenge, which is precisely why we need to be sharing these strategic tools with each other on a regular basis. Daunting does not mean impossible."
Doors open at 10:30 a.m. Event begins promptly at 11 a.m. A full-capacity crowd is expected and there is no reserved seating, so an early arrival is strongly recommended. Please do not bring manuscripts. For more information, email Kristin Clark Taylor at kristintay@aol.com.