The pursuit of a professionally published book with “curb appeal”
Have you ever pulled a book from your shelf and paused to think about the time, craft, and coordination behind its creation? Or perhaps you’re an author preparing to publish your first book. While writing the manuscript is undeniably the greatest effort, without thoughtful design, layout, and production, that manuscript remains just that — a manuscript.
Artist on the Shore—Laura Clawson
Laura is an artist, illustrator, educator, beekeeper, and gardener. Honestly, each of those is its own kind of adventure, and together they say a lot about the way she moves through the world — curious, open, and ready to follow wherever her art leads. I’ve known Laura for a long time (full disclosure, she is my sister-in-law)—long enough to see the quiet determination behind her art, and the way she treats art not as just a hobby, but as a kind of ongoing adventure.
Author at the Shore—M. P. Slaughter
Author at the Shore - M. P. Slaughter.
When I first met Melany she was covering an event for the Gazette-Journal in Gloucester, VA, where she has worked as a reporter for the past seven years. The event was a local book festival in which Mermaid Cove was participating. A few weeks later I was delighted to hear from Melany when she contacted me to submit her poetry manuscript. I will say I was very touched by this collection of poems which centers around the loss of her grandmother who passed away from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the chest. Her poetry is deep and heartfelt, allowing the reader to be drawn into her grief and even her healing.
The Importance of Book Reviews
Reviews are a game-changer for authors.
The next time you’re invited to leave a book review, remember it’s more than just an opinion—it helps support the author.
Handwriting vs Typing
Nowadays, countless electronic devices provide access to writing programs—computers, laptops, reMarkables, Kindle Scribe, E-ink tablets, and more. These tools help us take notes or jot things down quickly and easily. Still, is typing truly the best option for you?