writer « Robin Writes

Those of you are observant may have noticed, here in the sidebar, that I have a third book published. Of course, you may have just skimmed past it as we all tend to do – shoot, even I’ve mostly forgotten about it!

And, too, I use the words “book” and “published” rather loosely…

“So You Wrote a Book: Now What?” is more of a booklet… then again, it’s priced at just 99 cents. I kind of drew the line at actually giving away my work, but it’s not exactly novel length either, so – 99 cents. And occasionally, it’s free.

Heck yes, I’d love to see a massive increase in downloads today, but that’s not the point. Okay, it is the point, but my main point is this:

Writing is hard work, and every writer wants some kind of pay-off. Maybe you just want to share information or knowledge or a good story with the world – but it’s still a thrill whenever you get a sale, right? Or maybe you’re in it for the money?

When I stop laughing, I’ll get back to you on that…

Sure, you could be the next King or Patterson; more likely, you’ll earn a decent living as a writer or, sadly, not one thin dime. Oh, yes, I had a point, didn’t I?

Once that book is written, and you’ve decided to self-publish or go indie or whatever you want to call it – or, really, even if you have a publisher, large or small – you need to take action. And “So You Wrote a Book” can help you do just that.

The book (booklet) talks about your product, your publicity, your professionalism. Oh, and pricing; wouldn’t want to leave out another “p” word! A lot of this can be found online in seventeen different places – why not have it all handy-dandy on your own computer/device, in just ONE spot?

So go ahead, click the link, buy the book. Er, booklet. Whatever. Just read it, won’t take long, and it might even spark some ideas to get busy on your own promotion and increase those sales!

Why is our store different from others? Why is every indie bookstore different?

Well, there’s the “indie” part, of course; you know what that means. But a lot of other things factor in to the differences between indie bookstores.

Some stores offer new books only; some primarily stock used books, and some do a mixture of both. Some refuse self-published books, some require than an author have a major publisher, and some will only order stock from a distributor.

A few bookstores are located in free-standing buildings, but many are found in retail strip centers or even malls. Urban or suburban, but not often rural. City or small town. The possible combination is endless.

Most have events or clubs or special activities. Many offer reading areas, or carry other things such as toys or gift items.

Let me tell you what we offer at All on the Same Page:

A lot of used books. A lot.

90+ books by local authors.

A couple of comfy wingback chairs.

Coffee, and FREE cookies.

An extensive children’s section – $1 books!

A local author (or artist) in the store almost every Saturday afternoon.

A children’s storytime once a month.

A NEW BOOK CLUB starting next month!

Referral program – if someone tells us your name when he makes a purchase, YOU get a free book!

Online ordering for shipment or pick-up of our local authors’ books.

Special orders – we can find almost any book, new or used.

Monthly writers’ group and marketing seminars.

Kids’ summer writing contest!

Monthly hosting of the St. Louis Writers Guild Author Series

I might have missed something… But if there IS something I didn’t mention, and you think we should have, please tell me in the comments! And do stop by soon, if you’re in the St. Louis area – even just for a cup of coffee and a chat.