Wednesday, July 1, 2020

Sizzling IWSG First Wednesday in July


Alex J. Cavanaugh, Founder

Is anyone new to this site? Anyone who doesn't know about IWSG? Just in case. Here's what we are and what we do.

This is a place for writers to express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!

We post the first Wednesday of every month. This is our official Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. You can also choose to answer the question of the month if you'd like. 

Be sure to visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer - aim for a dozen new people each time - and return comments. This group is all about connecting! Be sure to link to this page and display the badge in your post. And please be sure your avatar links back to your blog! Otherwise, when you leave a comment, people can't find you to comment back.

Our Twitter handle is @TheIWSG and hashtag is #IWSG.

July 1 question (answering is optional)- There have been many industry changes in the last decade, so what are some changes you would like to see happen in the next decade?


The awesome co-hosts for the July 1 posting of the IWSG are Jenni Enzor, Beth Camp, Liesbet, Tyrean Martinson, and Sandra Cox! 


As a hybrid author (one who's traditionally and self-published) I've already seen one change that I wanted. The Indie author has become much more professional and, therefore, much more respected. 

In the future, I'd like to see more combinations of media, and I believe this is already happening. Recently I purchased a picture book that came in print but that was also accompanied by a musical version of the story. This was perfect for the young reader, but I think it also appeals to some older readers. There has always been a fascination about what music suits a story--a lot like what happens in the film industry. 

I'd like to see more Podcasts used in conjunction with published books, too. I think that hearing the stories behind the story enhances the reader's experience and connects authors to their readers. 

How would you answer this month's question?


Check Out The Guidelines & Rules
Don't miss this next opportunity to be included in a IWSG Anthology. This contest is up and running. If you want to submit a story, find all the details about how you do it HERE.

Quick Overview

Word count: 4500-6000
Genre: Science Fiction
Theme: Dark Matter
Submissions accepted: May 6 - September 2, 2020

I'm rambling on about writing and reading over at my BLOG, so stop by if you have time. 



21 comments:

nashvillecats2 said...

Thanks for posting what you would like to see change, Will remember what you have written for future reference.
Hope you are well.

Yvonne.

L. Diane Wolfe said...

Podcasts would be good. That's why DLP suggested videos from its authors as a start. Something more interactive would be even better.

Natalie Aguirre said...

Yes, more podcasts would be good. But it would be good if there were certain podcasts that authors could easily be interviewed on to get the word out.

Susan B.Rouchard said...

Thanks Clee, that was very interesting. I agree with you music and podcasts should definitely play a greater part in books, but as an option. I think reading is always best on its own first as the imagination then gets to do all the work and this is so very satisfying and enjoyable. For children, reading aloud first, then listening to the music is a lovely way to approach a story. I remember listening to a record of Peter and the Wolf but I didn’t like the voice of the reader, it spoiled the music ...
Wishing you an inspiring summer of writing.

Jemi Fraser said...

Great ideas! Music and podcasts are great ideas!

Pat Hatt said...

A music addition is a neat idea to go along with a book. Podcasts would be too.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Music to accompany a book - that would be cool.

cleemckenzie said...

Hi Yvonne, Yes, keep an eye out and let's see if I get any of my wishes.

Diane, I loved your suggestion about authors creating mini videos. I certainly need some practice and you gave me an opportunity to get some.

You do great interviews, Natalie. I'll bet podcasts with you authors would be excellent.

Hi Susan B. I agree that reading of itself is a beautiful experience. And the voice actors in audible books can make or break a story. I don't often listen to books, but I've enjoyed a few--hated a few just because of the reader.

So glad you liked the ideas, Jemi.

There's something about music, Pat, isn't there? It can carry you away and make the world a bit better.

I hear what you're saying, Joylene. When those best sellers price their books so high, I go to the library.

I figured you'd be down with music coordinated with books, Alex.

Karen Baldwin said...

Interesting you mention podcasts. Just today my niece asked if I would consider doing a podcast. All of a sudden I felt pressure. While I like the idea, would it become the norm? Expected? I guess time will tell.

Susan Gourley/Kelley said...

I'm very hopeful that things like interactive books will inspire more young readers and writers.

A Hundred Quills said...

Music and podcasts would be great. Would involve the other senses too.Though I wonder if reading would then take a backseat!
Sonia from https://soniadogra.com

Juneta key said...

A book with music sound wonderful.

dolorah said...

I forgot all about the Anthology contest.

Lots of "dark matter" to write about now.

Patsy said...

It's getting easier for indie authors to produce a more professional book – but it's also easier for those who think a first draft is good enough. I wouldn't want to stop anyone from being able to publish whatever they like, but I'd like readers who've read a poorly edited and proofed book to realise they're not all like that.

Michelle Wallace said...

From an educational perspective, I’d like to see more of a three-way collaboration with authors, libraries and schools

Karen Baldwin said...

Yup, I agree that now many self-published authors are not looked at as wannabes.

Donna Hanton said...

Podcasts to tie in with books... I like that idea. I might steal that one down the road!

Steph W. said...

Podcasts are a super great idea. I know I have tons of extra research and back story that I needed to create for my own purpose and I can see where readers might want access to that as well.

Aaron sutton said...

This is cool, keep it up.👍


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Toi Thomas said...

I think podcasts and videos or both are good. I've been working on video for a while, but not podcasting. It can be a bit overwhelming. At least, I enjoy doing videos.

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

Hi Lee - we need all kinds of media for authors ... as different deliveries will appeal to some and not others. I am boggled by all the things one can find out about ... me: I'll stick to books with some timber appearing - sad, but true! Actually I love the idea of the music with the kid's book - just a great idea. Take care and stay safe - and all the best - Hilary