7 great publishing and author resources worth checking out

Posted on March 13, 2020 at 8:17 AM by Guest Author

To become a successful author, you need to learn as much about the industry as you can. Here are 7 great publishing and author resources to get you started.

How Publishing and Author Resources Can Benefit You

“Publication is a marathon, not a sprint. Writing the book is only the start.” – Jo Linsdell

In a previous blog, we provided a list of seven writing resources to assist you with grammar, character development, and more.

This time, however, we’re focusing on publishing and author resources that can give you insight into the industry.

Why?

Well, because becoming a successful author takes more than just talent, skill, and creativity (although those things certainly are important, which is why we’ve included another writing-centric website in this list).

It also requires familiarity with the industry.

Navigating the complex world of authorship can be tricky, so it helps to have publishing and author resources you can turn to for guidance.

By bookmarking the websites listed below, you can equip yourself with the knowledge necessary to turn your passion for writing into a career.

Stay Up to Date with Publishing Industry News

Regardless of whether you’ve decided to self-publish or partner with an established publisher, it’s worth staying up to date with publishing industry news.

Doing so ensures that you are aware of current challenges and opportunities facing those in the business.

With that in mind, here are a couple of publishing resources you should consider checking out.

Publishers Weekly

Publishers Weekly has been around for quite some time (since 1872, to be exact), so you’re likely familiar with this weekly news magazine already. If not, this is one of many publishing resources you’ll find helpful.

There’s a reason PW is known as “the bible of the book business.” It offers valuable content to authors, booksellers, literary agents, librarians, publishers, and the media.

In addition to providing readers with industry-related news, PW also offers feature articles, bestseller lists, and statistics.

What’s especially notable about PW is that the focus isn’t on publishing in the US but on publishing worldwide. No matter where you reside, you can look forward to relevant and insightful information.

Publishing Perspectives

Although relatively new, Publishing Perspectives has cultivated a significant following since 2009.

A project of the Frankfurt Book Fair New York Inc., this online magazine covers a wide array of topics related to the global book industry.

As with the previous resource, Publishing Perspectives isn’t just read by publishers, literary agents, scouts, and industry specialists.

It’s also considered a leading source of information for authors looking to expand their view of the publishing world.

If you want to learn more about the trends, people, and companies affecting the international book publishing industry, Publishing Perspectives is a great place to start.

Avoid Literary Schemes and Scams

Sadly, there are those who seek to take advantage of writers who are just trying to share their stories with the world.

Many authors have fallen victim to ruses designed to rob them of their work and money. That’s why it’s so crucial that you protect yourself.

The good news is that some author resources, including the one listed below, are available to help both aspiring and seasoned writers do just that.

Writer Beware

Founded in 1998, Writer Beware® provides authors with general advice and warnings they can use to steer clear of scams.

Further, the Writer Beware® blog offers up-to-the-minute information regarding questionable individuals, schemes, contests, services, and more.

Writer Beware® is sponsored by the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, with additional support from the Mystery Writers of America, the Horror Writers Association, and the American Society of Journalists and Authors.

However, any writer — regardless of subject, style, genre, publication history, or nationality — can find useful tips and guidance on the website.

This industry lookout strives to track, expose, and raise awareness of potential threats to writers, which makes it one of the most important author resources on this list.

Improve Your Writing Skills

Here’s a piece of advice: A good writer never stops learning about the craft.

As you continue to put pen to paper (or, more likely, fingers to keys), you should take advantage of every opportunity to improve your writing skills.

In doing so, you can ensure you’re providing readers with the most engaging and readable content possible.

That’s why you should have a good website about writing in your virtual toolbox of author resources. For your convenience, we’ve included one below.

Daily Writing Tips

Daily Writing Tips is a website by writers and for writers. However, its use isn’t restricted to authors; anyone who wants to boost their writing skills can find valuable information on the site.

The blog is updated regularly with informative articles on the following:

Grammar
Spelling
Punctuation
Vocabulary
And more…

Authors can even receive guidance on outlining a novel, naming characters, moving the plot forward, and creating dialogue.

No matter what issue you may be struggling with, chances are Daily Writing Tips can provide you with the help you need.

Learn about the Business of Writing

On your journey to becoming a successful author, it’s imperative that you learn about the business of writing.

There’s a lot to take into consideration when it comes to making a living through writing.

Without the proper tools and information, it can be difficult to transform your dream into a reality.

Fortunately, the two author resources listed below can help in saving you time, money, and frustration.

Jane Friedman

With more than 20 years of experience in the publishing industry — plus several articles and creative nonfiction pieces under her belt — Jane Friedman is an excellent guide for those wanting to learn more about the business of writing.

In fact, we feature her insights on our newswire quite often.

In addition to offering a number of online classes and books, she updates her blog regularly with articles covering a wide range of topics.

Whether you’re interested in attending a writers conference, building an author website, writing a query letter, or furthering your career in any other way, you can be sure you’ll find the help you need on Friedman’s website.

The Creative Penn

Developed by Joanna Penn, another industry professional we frequently highlight on our newswire, The Creative Penn provides authors with lessons Penn learned over a long and successful writing career.

On The Creative Penn, you’ll find a host of valuable tools, podcasts, courses, and books.

Further, Penn and other contributors provide blog articles on subjects such as writing partnerships, pitching, genre stigma, and more.

If you’re having a tough time with the business side of things (or even the creative side), The Creative Penn will quickly become one of your new favorite author resources.

Discover Helpful Book Marketing Tips

At The Fussy Librarian, we know how difficult book marketing can be for new and seasoned authors alike.

That’s why we put together our own guide with advice from successful authors and marketing consultants.

However, given the ever-changing world of book marketing, it’s helpful to have additional author resources you can consult for tips, news, and more. The website listed below is one we highly recommend.

Kindlepreneur

The Kindlepreneur is the brainchild of Dave Chesson, whose wisdom can often be found on our newswire. Specializing in Kindle ebook marketing, Chesson’s mission is to provide authors with tips and tools to generate greater interest in their work.

On the Kindlepreneur blog, you’ll find articles covering everything from choosing an ebook format to reading data. You can even find reviews on software and courses to help you along your writing journey.