Pages

January 31, 2018

When One Door Closes, Don’t Jump Through The First Window


By John J. Zelenski  


As many in the publishing world may be aware, Tate Publishing & Enterprises ceased operations several months ago and left many authors, including myself, angry, hurt, and confused.  Many questions immediately surfaced such as rights to ownership, back payment of royalties, and of course the huge decision on how and where to republish our works.  Slowly and painfully, questions were answered and the last one that remained was ultimately the most important to me. 

How do I get my books back into the marketplace?

As authors in today’s world, we have more choices than ever on how to publish (or republish) our works and perhaps that creates a problem in and of itself– choices.  Createspace and a number of indie publishing platforms are readily available for those who have the time, patience, and tech savvy to tackle self-publishing.  You remain in complete control of your works and all money is yours to keep from sales.  Then there is traditional publishing -the high and lofty Holy Grail for most authors.  The credibility and respect that comes from being accepted by a traditional press is certainly something to be proud of, and can potentially open many doors to possibilities that self-publishing cannot.

Speaking for myself, I chose to search out a traditional publisher that could bring my books back to market, that would allow me to remain in control of rights, and give me the personal attention that I felt my books deserved.  I believe I have found such a company with my new publisher Peasantry Press.  Their team is a great group of very talented people and very receptive to my thoughts and insights concerning the uniqueness of my novels. 

But what about you?  Should you find yourself in a similar situation, my best advice to give would be to step back and allow some time.  Time first of all to heal – the anger, bitterness, and other negative feelings that can block a sound decision.  Immediately jumping into another bad situation can bring you back to exactly the same ugly spot down the road, or worse yet, cause you to lose your rights to your works. Whether you chose the self-publishing model or choose to seek out a traditional publisher, there should never be a need to sign anything on a whim, especially without some prayerful thought and consideration to how these choices may affect you five or ten years down the road.  

In the world of publishing, as many can attest to, time can be our biggest nemesis….or sometimes it can be our greatest ally.  Take your time, find the publisher that works best for your needs, and remember to close that drafty window of impulsion. 
_____________________________________________________________ 
John J. Zelenski is an award-winning author who has appeared on television, radio, and has been featured in numerous print articles as well as receiving high-profile reviews from the popular community. Having been inspired, in part, to write his first novel Walker's Vale, by his own paranormal experiences as a child, John has developed a keen understanding of the supernatural. His second novel and prequel to Walker's Vale - The Journal of Ezekiel Walker - continues with the saga of Walker's Vale, with a future third installment presently in the works. Walker's Vale, the film will be released through Allegentsia Productions. John, along with his wife and two children, love to watch the seasons change in beautiful Northeast Pennsylvania.  Social inks are: www.johnjzelenski.com   https://twitter.com/johnzelenski  https://www.facebook.com/WalkersVale?fref=ts   http://www.amazon.com/John-J.-Zelenski/e/B00S05HZXW/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0


No comments:

Post a Comment