Barb, welcome back to Seekerville! Thanks for helping us chase off post-holiday jet-lag. It’s January of a new year and time to hit the ground running. With that in mind, gals and guys, don your cross-trainers, smooth your fingertips, trim your nails and let’s get back to work at those keyboards.
Starting…
Now!
Barb, it’s been a few months since we last chatted, so fill us in. What’s going on at Abingdon? Can you give us a lowdown of your release schedule, things to watch for, and book availability in stores?
I can’t believe it’s January! I’ve been so caught up in acquiring and editing manuscripts and working on covers with our designer that time has gotten away from me. It’s true that the older you get the faster time flies. It’s either a trick of the brain, or we’re all just busier these days.
Barb, you did us a huge favor by removing our very own Myra Langley Johnson from Unpubbed Island by contracting One Imperfect Christmas, due out in September ‘09. So tell us, while nobody’s listening, just between you and me, girlfriend, is our sweet, innocent, home-loving Myra-kins fun to work with? Focused? Timely? A treasure?
Or a brat????
Inquiring minds want to know. ;)
Just between you and me? A treasure, of course. I don’t work with brats. Life’s too short. LOL Myra’s a dream to work with and seems to have weathered my suggested changes with grace and goodwill toward all men…and women…and her editor.
I'm not a bit surprised! Well. Maybe just a teeny-tiny bit surprised because she DID hog the covers in the tent and she always put me on outhouse duty on the island so she wouldn't chip a nail. Did you know that Myra can turn coconut milk and pomegranate juice into some sort of tropical facial elixer? An amazing woman. :)
This has got to be a very exciting time for you and Abingdon. I hope you know that the Seekers and all their guests and visitors want to see this project do well for a variety of reasons. First, your book choices are eclectic, so Abingdon’s focus seems broad-based. That’s a wonderful thing from an author’s perspective. Can you tell us what you don’t want to see right now?
Thanks for noticing, BTW! On the flip side, we’ve chosen not to publish literary or speculative fiction, which includes science fiction, fantasy, apocalyptic, or anything that’s just plain weird. Those authors know who they are. ;)
Gotcha!!!! Note to weird authors: Try another publisher. Please. Weird Seekers, that goes for you, too! Wait. Oh, my. I'm the only weird Seeker!!! Drat and double drat! :)
And is there anything special you want to see? Some story that tweaked headlines you’d like to see developed?
One of my goals is to find and publish quality biblical fiction, especially stories about strong women. Ruth is a favorite of mine. But I don’t want paper-doll characters moving around the page to tell the same old story. Think Tosca Lee’s portrayal of Eve in Havah.
A great book. And for obvious reasons, the Book of Ruth is dear to my heart. Whither thou goest, I will go... Amazing words and presence of mind. Historical authors everywhere: Are ya' listenin'??? The woman's telling you what she wants. Get to it!
Okay, which do you like more and it’s okay to say ‘tie’…
Writing or editing? (Don’t worry, I put a filter on all Abingdon computers so their monitors will shield this answer and move them automatically on to the next question. It’s a talent I have, developed under a sonar umbrella of digitalized, fractional compu-science technology. Only a few of my friends are privy to this information about me. Let’s keep it between us, ‘kay?)
O…kay. I think. Tie!! Actually, I love to write mystery and suspense and when someone steps forward as my financial “sugar daddy,” I’ll head for home and the privacy of my computer. I think his name is “Social Security.” But I also love my life as an editor, especially the one-on-one relationships with my authors. I love to encourage them and help them be the best they can be.
Hey, if you find an extra financial "sugar daddy", let us know, all right? We've got some gals in that mindset as well, and somewhat hopeful that it won't have to wait until retirmement looms inevitable. In the meantime...
What’s been your biggest challenge in launching this new endeavor? Your biggest joy?
The greatest challenge is trusting God to launch a new fiction line in the middle of one of the biggest financial crises of our lifetime. Yet, using that old cliché, I know that I know that I know God called me to Abingdon at this time and for this purpose. And He has brought me wonderful stories, and the best of authors. They are my splendiferous joy!
I saw in Publisher’s Marketplace that you logged in a December deal, which puts to rest the claims that all publishers back off in December, waiting until post-holiday. Was this something in the works or a work so marvelous it had to be brought in ASAP?
It was definitely something that had been in the works since late August/early September. Publishers do take a break in December, so don’t get your hopes up for good news next Christmas!
I'll take that under advisement, Barb! And I'm a firm believer that everyone deserves a break around Christmas, remembering that Holy night. Silent night.
We've got the coffee pot on. It's cold and damp here in upstate New York, with snow, freezing rain, rain and lots of slush underfoot! I've got hot chocolate as well, the very best kind with marshmallows AND whipped cream...
How about some warm croissants and bagels to go with that coffee? Looks like I'm short on toppings for them. Can someone swing by the grocery or convenience store and stock us up with some cream cheese? Maybe some whipped cream? I've got homemade raspberry rhubarb jam and sour cherry jam, two flavors to die for. Seriously.
And let's give our buddy Barb a great big Seekerville welcome! Barb, we love having you here. Thanks so much for helping us kick off January with a great line-up in Seekerville and info that can only come from the editorial front-lines.
Ruthy
FOR LOVE AND MONEY DAY 4
Anyone who comments all six days will be entered into a drawing for a $25.00 Amazon Gift Card.
A loving Christian blog by writers for writers and readers... browse, learn and enjoy! The Seekers
Barb,
ReplyDeleteThanks for coming to Seekerville. It sounds like you've got a wide mix of stories for us to enjoy, coming up soon.
Would you let us know a little about your distribution? Can we look for you at WalMart, for example?
Also, I guess I could go to your Website :) but how should we approach you for submission?
Ruthie, I enjoy your interview style. I ran out and got flavored cream cheese. Anyone like to try strawberry, honey nut or onion and chives cream cheese?
Cathy
Welcome back to Seekerville, Barbara.
ReplyDeleteYour enthusiasm is exciting.
I've seen the cover of One Imperfect Christmas and it is beautiful.
You opened the door for submissions last year on Brandilyn Collins blog, but I believe that now submissions are agented only. Is that correct?
Since Cathy beat me to the treat table with bagel toppings, I brought some pumpkin chocolate chip muffins instead.
ReplyDeleteAlso left some candy canes by the hot chocolate. Use them to stir (and let them dissolve) before adding the marshmallows and/or whipped cream ... delicious!
Thank you for sharing your thoughts, Ms. Scott.
ReplyDeleteI wonder if you would comment on sales during hard times. I am in a community that is having lots of lay offs right now. Does your market feel the pinch in book sales? Do they back off at all in purchasing during times like these? Or do sales remain strong during recessinal times due to the comfort offered for escape from reader's own problems? Just curious. cm
Hi, Barbara! Thanks for being here. And it's so wonderful to see the diversity of the stories you're releasing!
ReplyDeleteI've heard some publishers have stopped acquiring, due to the economic climate. Is Abingdon still acquiring?
Good morning Barb, Ruthie -- great interview, as usual. And what a lineup at Abingdon, Barb! YOWZA, each and every book sounds intriguing ... uh, especially Myra's! Can't wait to dig in.
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Julie
GREAT Interview. I love your humor. Thanks Barb for sharing with us.
ReplyDeleteI think I fall into that Weird Seeker category....paranormal/speculative. So you're no alone out there.
**smile**
Have a great day!
Oooh, Barb, we've got the questions comin' in, left and right. That's all you, princess!
ReplyDeleteMe?
I'm enjoying a cup of the hot cocoa with the peppermint sticks courtesy of Susanne (awesome, girlfriend... I've been buying Polar Express hot chocolate at Sam's and it comes complete with crushed peppermint sticks in the mix. Oh, mylanta!!! Wonderful, wonderful!)
Cathy, thanks for the bagel toppings AND the kudos on interview styles, but I've got to tell you, the editors I've played with make it easy. (and I'm not sucking up, LOL!)
Barb's a peach and she just jumps right into the sandbox (or island wave pool) with us and when Melissa Endlich was here, she plowed right in with on the spot advice and humor.
Gotta love down-to-earth editors that handle these things with ease and panache. It makes them seem real and much more approachable. And what editor wouldn't want the next Marley and Me or The Notebook???
And Bookie, welcome aboard! You too, Mel. Always a pleasure to see you guys.
Okay, I've got stuffed lunch croissants that must be tended to.
Chat on!
Ruthy
All the books sound really good! Thanks for the interview. :-)
ReplyDeleteLynn, I love weird people. Er.. um..
ReplyDeleteWriters!
And our market will come, but in the meantime, mosey on up to the table and grab a plate of food. Barb doesn't mind if we don't wait for her to grab some early breakfast.
Oh, and I see that Sandra sent some chocolate velvet coffee!
Yay, Sandy!
You rock!
Ruthy
Good morning, everyone!
ReplyDeleteI’m feeling on top of the world today because this week I’ve logged in two hours of exercise and I’m back on the Weight Watchers wagon. I fall off a lot. So Ruthy I’ll take half a bagel and some low-fat hazelnut cream cheese. That should get me through until noon.
Let me start by saying how much fun I’ve had in Seekerville, and I’m looking forward to a day on the island while I edit Myra Johnson’s manuscript with my left hand. Never let it be said editors can’t multitask.
Question: Would you let us know a little about your distribution? Can we look for you at WalMart, for example?
We have a broad distribution plan, which would include discount stores like WalMart, but they typically will not pick up a fiction book until it’s been successful in other channels. Or they know the author. Sell-in numbers can be big, but if the novel doesn’t sell through in the chain’s small window of time, returns can be just as big. So stores like WalMart are a mixed blessing. Let’s all pray for bestsellers!
Question: You opened the door for submissions last year on Brandilyn Collins blog, but I believe that now submissions are agented only. Is that correct?
I’m attending several writers’ conferences this year where I’ll entertain submissions from unagented authors, and on occasion, I’ll open it up to sites like Brandilyn’s or the Seekerville blog. It will be Spring before I start acquiring for Fall 2010, and I only have eight slots. You can imagine the competition will be fierce. Since I’m on Seekerville today, send me a query letter or email query sometime in late March. We have a super-duper spam blocker here so if you don’t get through send it by snail mail. Mention that you stopped by Seekerville today (1/8/09). If I’m interested, I’ll request a proposal and sample chapters. However, if you are a first-time author, you must have a completed manuscript. Fair enough?
Questions: I wonder if you would comment on sales during hard times. I am in a community that is having lots of lay offs right now. Does your market feel the pinch in book sales? Do they back off at all in purchasing during times like these? Or do sales remain strong during recessinal times due to the comfort offered for escape from reader's own problems?
One thing we can say about the current financial times is that we’re all in the same boat. Publishing sales are down significantly, but nonfiction has taken the biggest hit. Fiction in the general markets has slipped, but not as badly as nonfiction. I guess we all want to escape into a good story. However, Christian bookstores are really feeling the pinch. Do your local Christian bookstore a favor and go buy a book. Most stores are carrying less inventory, so if you’ve heard of a book you’d like to read, ask them to order it for you. Just because you don’t find a novel on the shelf doesn’t mean it wasn’t there the day before. It may just mean that the buyer only purchased two copies and both have sold out. Remind store staff of authors you read and make sure they stock those books.
Hope I've answered your questions!
This makes me want to curl up next to the fire with this stack of books and read through the winter! *sigh* Since they're the line-up maybe I'll get back to work. ;)
ReplyDeleteThanks for the fun, and informative, interview! Loved it! (LoL--as always)
Ruthy, I don't have to wear a bathing suit today, do I? Not a pretty picture for the wave pool. Would someone please pass the hot chocolate?
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI can see that I won't be able to visit here often, because I'd gain too much weight. Now I'm hungry. Wonder why.
ReplyDeleteBarbara, thanks for the interview and for your gracious spirit and encouragement. I look forward to working with you. It's nice to be one of the two (token?) male writers in the Abingdon fiction group.
And thanks to all of you at Seekerville for a great blog site. I will be back--but just coffee with Sweet N Low for me. I gained too much weight over Christmas.
Barbara, it's so great to see you here. I'm just as happy as I could be to now be counted among your authors! I can hardly wait to see the Fall covers so I can get some idea of what to expect next Spring.
ReplyDeleteJust for the two of us Weight Watchers lifetime members, I've made a great pumpkin cake that's just 2 points per chunk! You'll love it with your coffee. :-)
I got back on my rickety diet wagon on 1/2, and I've lost 12 pounds in 6 days! I think it's a good sign that my body was begging for some healthy non-holiday attention.
Great to see you here again! And for those of you hoping to work with Barbara and Abingdon, I have to say that she's just a dream for someone like me who likes to keep informed, know what's ahead and what's expected. She's a great communicator, very open with her authors and immediately has made me feel like part of the family. Thanks, Barb.
Blessings,
Sandie
Great interview, Barbara and Ruthy! ~ I was honored and blessed to meet Barb in person at the ACFW Conference back in September. Of course I was "a little" nervous *grin* but Barb was SO nice to me, I felt like she was someone I could have coffee and visit with. ~ Thanks for taking time to be in Seekerville today! ~ Blessings from Georgia, Patti Jo Moore :)
ReplyDeleteGreat interview. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteBarb, I thought you brought your bathing suit along? You know, the one with the little rip just below the right knee? No one will notice, for sure. :)
ReplyDeleteYou rascal!
Okay, we've refreshed the stock of low-fat cream cheese and I love the idea of the 2 point pumpkin cake. Thank you all for the steady contributions!
And Barb, that's a sweet offer you made, to entertain queries from Seekervillians(ooooooo... Seekervillians COULD be misconstrued as Seeker-villains for the dyslexic among us. Be careful not to switch up that a-i combo, guys and gals).
Eight slots may not seem like a lot, but it's a blessing to be considered at all.
And I love that Barb is open to giving newbies an opportunity. Having the book complete is just good common sense.
Hey, I could go for some of that hot chocolate, too. Where's Mary??? I usually make her wait on company.
And on me, truth be told.
Keeps her from getting 'the big head' from all those continued sales!
Ruthy
Great interview Barb & Ruthie! The only problem is that I swore this is the year I'll get my body in shape and now the bagels are calling to me!
ReplyDeleteNote to everyone else: I'm one of Abingdon's Spring 2010 authors and I can't tell you how thrilled I am to get to work with someone of Barbara's caliber. I'm actually excited about the editing process! (Okay, a tiny bit nervous, too, but that's just natural, right?)
So here's an odd question for you, Barbara: When you start looking to fill the Fall 2010 slots, are you interested in proposals from authors you've already signed, or do you want completely new faces? See, my wheels never stop turning!
A blessed day to all you Seekers! And again, a big THANKS to Barb and Ruthie for starting my day off with a grin :+}
Great interview and Barb you are very brave to answer Ruthy's questions. But courage is what we expect from editors so it's no surprise.
ReplyDeleteAnd btw, I am PRAYING for the day swimsuits have knees again. Would that be such a bad thing????
As for the editorial process, I'm sure there are exceptions but for me, the edits have always been so helpful. They make the book stronger. Ask questions I didn't realize needed asking. Helped me see where the were gaps an inconsistancies in the story.
YAY FOR EDITORS.
As always, an AWESOME interview. Ruthy -- you rock! But oy with the bagels already. LOL Sorry, if I'm going to indulge, it's going to be a chocolate cake donut. Of course, then i can't eat for the rest of the day, but at least I'd die happy. :-)
ReplyDeleteBarbara, You are so gracious in sharing your thoughts and insights. It's encouraging to hear things from your side of the desk/fiber optic cable. :-D I am still so thankful to have been picked up by Abingdon! It's an awesome, history-rich publisher, but the people (read: Barbara and her team) are what make it delectable. Oh no. I'm thinking food analogies!
Hi again,
ReplyDeleteI just got out of a meeting and stopped by to answer more questions. You’re really making it hard to concentrate on my diet.
Question: I've heard some publishers have stopped acquiring, due to the economic climate. Is Abingdon still acquiring?
Good question! Publishing is cyclical. When you hear publishers say they’ve stopped acquiring, it’s probably because they can sit back and work on the edits for a few months before they open the door again. I’m in my editing cycle, working on the Fall 2009 list, but this Spring (March/April) I’ll start acquiring for the Fall 2010 list.
Question: When you start looking to fill the Fall 2010 slots, are you interested in proposals from authors you've already signed, or do you want completely new faces? See, my wheels never stop turning!
Hey, Jennifer, good to hear from you! I’ll always entertain proposals from Abingdon authors. I may not be able to find a place on my next list, but there’s always the future. It depends a lot on the mix. By choice, as its been noted above, we want to offer something for everyone on a list, so I can only have so many romances, or so many thrillers at a time.
And I’d love the recipe for that 2 pt. pumpkin cake!
For Barbara, and any other WWers out there ...
ReplyDeleteMix 1 box spice cake mix and 1 small can of pumpkin. This is no easy task without oil or eggs to make it easier, but it provides great cardio!
Once it's mixed (and I mean REALLY MIXED), spray a 9x12 pan with PAM spray and spread it into the pan. Again, no easy task. A rubber spatula works best to make it smooth.
Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes, and cut into 12 2-point squares (or 24 1-point squares!). It's particularly good with a little dollop of sugar free Cool Whip on top.
My best WW buddy got this recipe from an online WW support group, and I've made it for non-WW company on many an occasion with raves.
Enjoy!
Sandie
How can you think about dieting when there are such delicacies being offered? I've already used 5 of my 22 points, so that 2 pt pumpkin cake sounds great : )
ReplyDeleteThanks for all the great information, Barb. I love starting the New Year off with goals that need to be met within the first quarter, LOL! Please know my query will be in the mail, late March, LOL!
I love the eclectic feel of Abingdon Press. Your insights are marvelous and thanks for sharing.
Please come back to Seekerville often!
audra
Hi Barb,
ReplyDeleteLove the blurbs. Thanks for sharing here today.
Rose
Thanks for sharing, Sandie!
ReplyDelete-audra
Dear Seekers,
ReplyDeleteThank you for featuring my wonderful editor, Barbara Scott. I missed it this morning...was at Walmart buying Slimfast.
Barbara is a godsend, and I'm so thankful to be working with her on 'Surrender the Wind'. I am so excited about this new line of fiction, that I want to do everything I can to help make it a success, not only for myself but for Abingdon and the other authors. I think CBA is going to be pleasantly surprised at the caliber of writing that will be coming out. Once I can work out a problem I am having with my web host, I will be posting the releases in Stepping Stones Magazine for Writers.
To quote another author who emailed me yesterday, 'Rita, your cover is stunning!' I hope you can put each cover up on Seekerville. In the meantime, you can see it on my website and my blog InSpire. Please pay me a visit.
Blessings,
Rita Gerlach
http://ritagerlach.com/
Oh my stars, look at the time...
ReplyDeletegotta get the stuffed croissants out of the oven and over to the table.
Lovely, flaky croissants stuffed with artichoke hearts, grilled chicken and a bit of cheese. I'm not counting points when it comes to these babies!!!
Also have a spring mix salad which should quiet any dieting fears. We've got you covered, ladies.
And Ronie, step around the back, honey-darlin'...
That's where I keep the Ruthy-stash of high-calorie, gotta-have-chocolate-NOW cache.
It looks like a regular filing cabinet but once inside...
Sweets galore!
:)
So cool seeing all you guys today, and you new authors, I'm looking forward to seeing what ya' got goin' for you when your releases hit the stores.
Congrats to all who've made the Abingdon cut and here's a gentle Ruthy-shove to those still waiting at publication's door:
They can't contract what you don't offer so get off your booty and produce. Finish that book. Polish those chapters. Slice and dice extraneous words.
In other words: work it, baby. Own it!
Ooops, timer's calling me to grab that food!
Ruthy
Well, Seekerville bloggers, I'm off to lunch for a zero-points salad. I've already printed out the pumpkin bread recipe for this weekend. :) Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteAnd thank you for the warm welcome I've always received on the island. Love the little umbrellas you put in the lemonade, Ruthy.
I'll check back in after lunch, a couple of times this afternoon, and then again tomorrow morning. I want to give you the opportunity to ask all your questions, and I'll do my best to answer them. This is a tough business, and if I can help encourage writers to keep writing, I never miss an opportunity.
See you in a few!
Hey, Richard said there are two "token" males in the new Abingdon fiction lineup, guess that makes me the other one, even though I don't feel token. :-) But I'm here to say that all the rumors about Barbara are true -- the good ones, I mean. She's the best (hi, boss!) and we're excited about what's happening at Abingdon.
ReplyDelete-RE, working on WILDFLOWERS OF TEREZIN
Been fun reading everyone's comments. Thanks for the info, Barb, and for asking for the pumpkin cake recipe -- which I can't wait to try! Sherri
ReplyDeleteBarb, you had me at the blurbs. This is my kind of reading.
ReplyDeleteThanks for giving us an insider's look too.
Wonderful interview! Looks like the fall line-up will have a terrific mix of books to buy. Thanks for sharing, Barb.
ReplyDeleteI'm new to Seekerville, but enjoyed today's post a lot. And the recipe for that 2 point pumpkin cake! :)
ReplyDeleteAnyway, I wanted to say that Joyce Magnin is one of my best friends and I've read Agnes Sparrow from the very first sentence. It's an incredible story of redemption filled with quirky characters, laugh-out-loud situations and tear filled moments. I can't wait to get a copy and read it all over again!
I probably should have read this post and comments before lunch. LOL1
ReplyDeleteHi Barb and thanks for returning. The mix of books is interesting. I think short blurbs like these give a better sense of what a publisher may be looking for than the submission guidelines because recently published books factor in editors' taste.
Sandie, thanks for sharing that cake recipe. Every little trick helps!
PICS ARE UP AND THEY'RE BEAUTEOUS!!!
ReplyDeleteBarb and I played back stage and all book covers have successfully uploaded to the original blog. Yay, oh yay!
Despite my limited skills, we now have exceptional Abingdon artwork...
I need a slug of coffee. Who's got some?
Ruthy
Barb,
ReplyDeleteWe're excited about all that's happening at Abingdon. Are you having fun or what?
Wendy
Thanks so much for being here with us, Barbara! You're always tons of fun!
ReplyDeleteSandie, thanks for the recipe!
So neat to see so many faces here today!
Camy
Wow, that is more than fair, Barbara. That is overboard generous.
ReplyDeleteI salute you with a pineapple and a coconut from unpubbed island.
Thanks for taking time out to visit the island, Barb Scott! Lots of good questions and answers.
ReplyDelete(I did read Seekervillians as "villains." My bad.)
Barb,
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for stopping by Seekerville. I look forward to your new releases as a reader and the opportunities as a writer.
Linda Cacaci
Barbara,
ReplyDeleteI'd LOVE to be a reviewer for Abindgon! Contact me if you'd like at
thedeena63 at hotmail dot com
Hi everyone! I’m back from that low-points lunch. Good thing because I just got a FED-EX delivery of a Mardi Gras King Cake!! Sorry, Weight Watchers. I just slid off the back of the wagon. It’s the best I’ve ever had. Thanks, Christa!!! I know editors are supposed to pretend they’re cool and professional, but I’m a little enthusiastic about some things, and the exclamation points just ooze out of my pours.
ReplyDeleteIt’s so great seeing everyone here. Thanks for posting the Abingdon covers, Ruthy. All of them made the trip through cyberspace quite well except the one for Rita Gerlach’s SURRENDER THE WIND. It’s actually a quite beautiful painting, but it turned blue in Seekerville for some reason. Sorry, Rita.
I just approved two more back covers today, and the designers at Anderson Design here in Nashville are already working on sketches for the Spring 2010 list. Half the time I can’t tell you what year it is because we work so far in advance.
Please keep the questions coming…and please pass the cream cheese frosting, Ruthy.
Welcome, Barbara! I was just heading out the door but wanted to say hi since I may not be back til later tonight.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad you're back for another visit! I can't wait to read the post.
Missy
Hi Barbara and Ruthy, Thanks again Barbara for visiting with us at Seekerville. I loved reading all of the blurbs and am impressed with the eclectic nature of your list. Can't wait until they're out.
ReplyDeleteBarbara, I was interested in your "cycle" where you acquire at a certain time and edit another. I imagine this helps you focus. Is that common practice for most editors or is that particularly your work mode? It is always fascinating to learn the inside scoop on this publishing business. Thanks for sharing. It helps us at this end.
By the way Ruthy, I have plenty of Velvet Chocolate coffee and some chilled Martinelli's Sparkling Pear for those of you Easterners past the coffee stage. Me=I'm heading for those croissants. Been in meetings all morning and am ready for lunch.
Thanks again Barbara for taking the time out of your busy schedule to join us.
Hey Barb, it's nice of you to visit. I thought I'd get a chance to meet you at the ACFW conf but those editor/agent/author meals are intimidating. So many tables to wander through and they filled up fast.
ReplyDeleteAnd, regardless of what I said on Brandilyn's blog, I didn't even attempt to stalk you in the conf hotel or the parking lot. 8-)
You're very generous to allow us to send our unagented query to you in March. Thank you.
I love the book covers. Your art team is to be commended.
And so much food here...yikes...I'm fine if I just look, but one I get a taste...
Hi Barbara,
ReplyDeleteGreat interview :)
Those covers look amazing and I know I'm going to have a tough time in a few months deciding which ones to buy first!
I didn't so much "fall" off the wagon so much as leap off it screaming "weeeeee" on Dec 25th (okay well maybe the 22nd but that's pretty much Christmas right?)
Sandie - I'm afraid we can't be friends. Twelve pounds in six days is just not fair!!
Kara
Hello Barbara:
ReplyDeleteWhat is your primary means of marketing your books?
Is it advertising? Bookshelf & Bookstore displays? Book Reviews? Direct mail? Author Promotions?
What do you do to attract the attention of the best prospects for your titles? That is, let them know that this is a book they would be very interested in.
I’m just curious. I’ve been in marketing for many years (not book sales) and it would seem very difficult to cost-effectively reach your target audience.
Thanks,
Vince
Barb, perhaps the cover turned out blue because there may be a compatibility issue. I can send Ruthy the jpg of the cover and see what happens. Ah, computers. Aren't they great!
ReplyDeleteHi Barb,
ReplyDeleteI'm glad to hear that you're not publishing anything weird. I know I'm probably alone in this, but I'm so sick of vampires and witches and warlocks! I love plain old mystery/suspense. (Although I do love a good ghost story!) Any chance you'll be publishing any young adult novels in the future?
Hi again! Just popping back in for the last time today. I’ll check back in tomorrow morning. I’d love to personally respond to everyone, but I can’t seem to keep up. Rita, hope you and Ruthy can work out the “glitch.” And Anita, next time you see me at ACFW, please feel free to say hi. I’m the least intimidating person I know. Now for more questions…
ReplyDeleteQuestion: I was interested in your "cycle" where you acquire at a certain time and edit another. I imagine this helps you focus. Is that common practice for most editors or is that particularly your work mode?
It does help me focus, although some editors are responsible for filling three or four lists a year—Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall—or some combination thereof, so they’re always on the hunt. Since we’re a small staff, we’ve decided two—Spring and Fall—are all we can handle right now. In the Spring, I’ll hit it hard looking for Fall 2010, and beginning in July at ICRS through September, I’ll be acquiring for Spring 2011.
The schedule for editing is daunting, from micro edits to substantive (content) edits and then to checking the copyeditor’s changes. Oh, and I’m responsible for generating contracts, making sure authors get paid, and acting as the liaison with the designers on covers. Plus making suggestions for trade ads and giving input on marketing plans. Not every editor gets involved in all aspects, but sitting on a small team, I’m involved at many stages. In between all that, the author and I are communicating on a regular basis, and I’m fielding any questions that might arise during a rewrite. Hope that “short” answer helps!
Questions: What is your primary means of marketing your books?
Is it advertising? Bookshelf & Bookstore displays? Book Reviews? Direct mail? Author Promotions? What do you do to attract the attention of the best prospects for your titles? That is, let them know that this is a book they would be very interested in.
Whew! Good questions. A combination of all that AND lots more. Our publicity and marketing plans look like a schedule for the invasion of Normandy. For the Fall 2009 list, it begins this month with publicity. By February space ads will appear in Publishers Weekly, along with the release of a fiction catalog and bound fiction sampler, which will be used by sales reps at major conventions (including library conventions) reading groups, reviewers, etc.
Advanced reader copies will be ready by April for PR, given to key accounts (buyers), handed out at conventions, go out in mailings, used for blog tours, reviewers, etc. More trade ads appear: Christian Retailing, Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, Ingram Advance, and in July, ads will appear in the show daily at the ICRS convention--the International Christian Retailing Show. ARCs and some books will be ready for the show and handed out to buyers. We’re contacting reading groups in the United Methodist Church and through other means.
Whew! I’m tired. There’s lots more, including getting books into the hands of influencers, websites, downloadable discussion guides, author interviews, and the authors’ own PR work, which will include book signings and contacting every uncle, aunt, cousin, or kindergarten friend, who will spread the word.
I could mention a lot more, but since I’m just the acquisitions editor, marketing, publicity, and sales people engage in activities that I never hear about. Thanks for the questions!
Any chance you'll be publishing any young adult novels in the future? Probably not, but years down the road, who knows what God has in store for us.
It’s been great spending time at Seekerville! Let’s get everyone off of unpubbed island. Thanks for being such a gracious hostess, Ruthy. The food was divine. Now I’m headed home for dry toast and water.
Keep posting questions. I’ll pop in for one last time tomorrow morning. And if I’ve misspelled a word or used bad grammar? It doesn’t count in blogging. Good night!
The covers are beautiful! And Barbara, it was a pleasure to meet you in person at the ACFW conference and to learn more about you through interviews. Hope you have a wonderful weekend! Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteBarb, it was a pleasure having you with us in Seekerville. Please plan on coming back! Ruthy just loves to hostess, and she's great at it!
ReplyDelete-audra
Ruthy,
ReplyDeleteThanks for a great interview.
Barb,
The covers are beautiful. Do you have a word count you're looking for?
Barbara and Seekerville friends:
ReplyDeleteA quick check in between school and yoga, but had to tell you how much I enjoyed the interview.
I'm so excited to be an Abingdon author, and I'm looking forward to my Spring 2010 release. Barbara's enthusiasm and passion are contagious; so is her energy.
It's only Mardi Gras once a year, but I'll try to find out the point values of King Cake!
Blessings to all!
Christa
Excellent interview...thanks for sharing with us.
ReplyDeleteBTW, the artwork on the covers of the books is just stunning, from what I can see. Someone deserves kudos!
CatW
Hi Barbara:
ReplyDeleteThank you for your very comprehensive answer. I had no idea you did so much work promoting your authors. You have a tremendous range of experience. If a headhunter reads these posts, I think next year you may well be the president of a publishing company.
Thanks again,
Vince
Hey Barb, I will say hi at the next conference.
ReplyDeleteMeanwhile, you said:
‘And if I’ve misspelled a word or used bad grammar? It doesn’t count in blogging.’
Oh please may I quote you? That's the most sensible thing I've heard in this fast paced world where one slip can make you appear stupid.
Kara, don't get used to the 12 lbs in 6 days thing out of me. You're safe in being friends because it's very unusual for me. The good news (for everyone else, not for me) is that I have more to lose than the rest of you. LOL
ReplyDeleteGlad everyone liked the pumpkin cake recipe. It's a saving grace when you're having a sweet tooth battle. Between that and WW lemon cakes, at least I feel like there's a reason to live.
Barb, the covers are gorgeous! I was excited to read that the sketches are being started for spring. I can't wait to see what funny theme they take out of The Big Five-OH! for the cover art.
I'm very interested in hearing what issues dictate when you buy a series and when you don't. Is there something specific you look for (i.e., the author's popularity, the series concept), or is it just based on slot needs?
Thanks again for spending the day with us. But shame on you with the king cake! I'm tellin.
Sandie
Barb,
ReplyDeleteYour post was very encouraging, informative and timely, considering how depressing the economic news has been lately--one would think no one was acquiring books anymore. Great post and answers to questions.
Welcome back, Barb! Thank you for sharing your time and knowlege with us. We are excited about the Abingdon launches.
ReplyDeleteCheryl Wyatt
Thanks for sharing such interesting information.
ReplyDeleteGreat post today! I"m looking forward to One Imperfect Christmas and Going to Green.
ReplyDeleteI thank you for coming to visit here, Barb. I learned a few things from reading your interview.
ReplyDeleteI really appreciate your role in the publishing field more and more.
hi and welcome Barbara. As a reader I must say that is a great line-up of books coming out. Wowza!!!!
ReplyDeleteGood morning, Seekerville bloggers!
ReplyDeleteIt’s been great visiting the island, but my sea plane leaves at dawn this morning. Just wanted to say a last good-bye, answer any unanswered questions, and enjoy a last cup of coffee with our hostess Ruthy. Thanks for all of your wonderful comments about our Fall list. Please spread the word…even to that missionary aunt who lives in Thailand.
Thanks, Anita, for calling my comment sensible. And yes, you may quote me. Life is much too fast-paced to be labeled an idiot because you misspell a word in a posting. Take me for example. Yesterday, I referred to a macro edit as a micro edit—big difference. Did planes fall out of the sky because I made a slip? No, it gives me an opportunity to share some important information.
In the editorial process, a macro edit is the first step. I read the manuscript and look at the “macro” issues to suggest changes in character (motivation, inconsistency), plot, pacing, etc.—the big stuff. A micro edit or substantive edit or content edit gets into the nitty-gritty of editing. Here’s how The Chicago Manual of Style defines a substantive edit:
“This second editorial process may be called substantive editing—rewriting, reorganizing, or suggesting other ways to present material. The editor will know by instinct and learn from experience how much of this kind of editing to do on a particular manuscript. An experienced editor will recognize, and not tamper with, unusual figures of speech and idiomatic usage and will know when to make an editorial change or simply to suggest it, when to delete a repetition or simply to point it out to the author, and many other matters. Since every manuscript is unique in the amount and kind of substantive editing desirable, no rules can be devised for the editor to follow.”
BTW, all book editors follow the guidelines set out in The Chicago Manual of Style.
Now for the last question from Sandie Bricker…even though she threatened to tell WW that I fell off the food wagon. Sandy wrote, “I'm very interested in hearing what issues dictate when you buy a series and when you don't. Is there something specific you look for (i.e., the author's popularity, the series concept), or is it just based on slot needs?
It’s a combination of all those things, Sandy. Sometimes it’s simply because if we put another series in the mix, we would have no room for standalones. Series are risky. The typical life cycle of a series is that the first book sells more than the second and the second more than the third. If you have a blockbuster series, those rules go out the window, but most series follow a pattern of declining sales. Many readers don’t want to commit to a series and move on to another author.
Thanks, Vince, for the vote of confidence!
I hear the plane engines warming up, so I’m out of here. Until next time…keep writing!
Good morning, Seekerville bloggers!
ReplyDeleteIt’s been great visiting the island, but my sea plane leaves at dawn this morning. Just wanted to say a last good-bye, answer any unanswered questions, and enjoy a last cup of coffee with our hostess Ruthy. Thanks for all of your wonderful comments about our Fall list. Please spread the word…even to that missionary aunt who lives in Thailand.
Thanks, Anita, for calling my comment sensible. And yes, you may quote me. Life is much too fast-paced to be labeled an idiot because you misspell a word in a posting. Take me for example. Yesterday, I referred to a macro edit as a micro edit—big difference. Did planes fall out of the sky because I made a slip? No, it gives me an opportunity to share some important information.
In the editorial process, a macro edit is the first step. I read the manuscript and look at the “macro” issues to suggest changes in character (motivation, inconsistency), plot, pacing, etc.—the big stuff. A micro edit or substantive edit or content edit gets into the nitty-gritty of editing. Here’s how The Chicago Manual of Style defines a substantive edit:
“This second editorial process may be called substantive editing—rewriting, reorganizing, or suggesting other ways to present material. The editor will know by instinct and learn from experience how much of this kind of editing to do on a particular manuscript. An experienced editor will recognize, and not tamper with, unusual figures of speech and idiomatic usage and will know when to make an editorial change or simply to suggest it, when to delete a repetition or simply to point it out to the author, and many other matters. Since every manuscript is unique in the amount and kind of substantive editing desirable, no rules can be devised for the editor to follow.”
BTW, all book editors follow the guidelines set out in The Chicago Manual of Style.
Now for the last question from Sandie Bricker…even though she threatened to tell WW that I fell off the food wagon. Sandy wrote, “I'm very interested in hearing what issues dictate when you buy a series and when you don't. Is there something specific you look for (i.e., the author's popularity, the series concept), or is it just based on slot needs?
It’s a combination of all those things, Sandy. Sometimes it’s simply because if we put another series in the mix, we would have no room for standalones. Series are risky. The typical life cycle of a series is that the first book sells more than the second and the second more than the third. If you have a blockbuster series, those rules go out the window, but most series follow a pattern of declining sales. Many readers don’t want to commit to a series and move on to another author.
Thanks, Vince, for the vote of confidence!
I hear the plane engines warming up, so I’m out of here. Until next time…keep writing!
Sorry I wasn't able to be here yesterday, but I was, um, otherwise engaged.
ReplyDeleteI know Barbara's plane has already taken off, but I just had to stop by and extend my thanks for such a thorough and insightful view of the Christian publishing industry. Barbara is absolutely the best, both as my editor and as a person. It's truly my honor to be working with her.
Looks like I missed Barbara's plane, but I just wanted to mention what insights you all provide--with your questions and Barb's answers. You sound like every writer's dream editor, Barbara.
ReplyDeleteAnd thanks for taking the time to encourage all of us still working to get our book(s) published.
Rita Gerlach has been my personal inspiration and mentor. Her e-magazine, "Stepping Stones," faithfully keeps us up to date. I am not only looking forward to having her book, "Surrender the Wind," in hand this fall, but all of Barb's line read like stories that will be remembered long after their back covers are closed.
To be so involved in so many aspects of your books' publication, you must be like the Energizer bunny, Barbara. Do you think you're getting your pep from the chocolate you all mention? I wish I could eat chocolate but I'm allergic to it. Yep! So sad.
If any of you want me to review your fall launch of books, I would be happy to do it--on any web site you deem too.
An exciting year ahead with God beneath your wings!
Barb has a real winner with our Joyce Moccero! Everyone, if you want touching, quirky and laugh out loud, you'll love Agnes!
ReplyDelete