Nancy Claus' Blog

Writing Class

Writing class started up today. Hooray. I've missed it. We took the summer off. We had a good crowd. We are all working on different projects. The class leans towards memoirs, but we write anything that is of interest to us. We read our work to the class. Then we are evaluated. It's all good constructive thoughts. I always come away inspired and ready to write. No one pushes me but it makes me push myself. Our assignment this week is to write about 300 words on how I got engaged to my ex husband.  I'm not sure I can remember that far back. All I remember is it was on halloween and I was wearing a blond wig. Maybe that's why the marriage didn't last. He he 

I just wrote a whole story about how Santa and Mrs. Claus got engaged. It was much better than my story. It was too long for this blog, so I just printed it to use another day.

I feel like I do a lot of writing but I've realized I need to be a  lot more disciplined and write every day. I should exercise every day also. I'm waiting for more than 24 hours in a day. Since that probably won't happen, I'm going towards the next step and organizing. I'll let you know how that turns out.  See you soon

 

More about self publishing

My last post I was just writing about some of the differences of self publishing and traditional publishing. There are a lot of examples of what happens between writers and their illustrators. Finding an illustrator was difficult in the beginning. I believe it would be much easier now because almost all illustrators have a web site. I joined children's writers and illustrators. I believe their offices are in Los Angeles. I haven't continued with my membership but it was very helpful. The book had names address's and phone numbers of illustrators. The problem was no pictures. I interviewed several and of course they could all draw Santa. When I received their work, the artwork didn't look like what I had in mind. Finally someone gave me three names of illustrators that he had used. They all had websites. They were all very good. Steve Ferchaud loves drawing gnomes. They looked like elves to me. I was ecstatic ! I was warned by several people to meet him, because you will be working so close, if you have any issues, you should try someone else.  Our first meeting was great, an instant friendship was born. Now with internet searches I believe you would have more choices. Did I mention, this took 21/2 years to find Steve. There were a lot of decisions to be made. I.E What type of paper would this be printed on? Several children's illustrators draw in pastels. I was writing Christmas books. We needed to use primary colors. Steve is a watercolor artist, so he layers his colors until he comes to what he thinks is the perfect shade. It's interesting for both of us to see the difference of my first book, to the fourth one. I can tell he is really into the characters. Wait until you see the new one.

If you have been signed by a tradional publisher, your only worry is if they will like your writing. For some authors that is the perfect setup. The world is going though a major change because of technology. In the past the worst thing about self publishing is that it doesn't look professional. Sometimes I do think some books were made at the kitchen table. Today it's a completely different story. The amount of info on the computer, your self published books look every bit as good, sometimes even better, since you have control over colors etc. It really comes down to one thing. If you don't mind the extra work and you can talk to people, being a self publisher isn't that hard. I'm thinking of writing a how to book especially for Children's authors. Why should both of us make the same mistakes. I'm sure I could save you some time. It's really very helpful to know the ins and outs of the publishing business, so that when a publishers or distributor comes knocking at your door, you'll know what to look for in contract. Some are deceiving. Please don't ever give your work away for years at a time.

 Please comment on this blog especially if you think more info would be important to you.

Happy writing

To publish or self publish

 I've attended different writers event this week. There is always talk about self publishing or trying to get on with a publisher. As I'm listening to different stories, the word that keeps coming into my mind is control. I don't consider my self a control freak, just as long as it's done my way, it must be right. Hopefully anyone reading this is smiling.

I waited until my first Granddaughter was born before I started my journey into writing. I went to several writers seminars trying to learn as much as I could absorb. At one of those seminars there were two women publishers. They were asked how many books they publish. Their answer was "we get two hundred submissions a month, we can only publish two and one hundred and eighty are good.

My whole direction changed in that minute.  I realized it takes years of networking with an industry to get noticed. I decided to learn how to self publish and then if a publisher found me, I would be that much farther ahead understanding the business.

Self publishing a Children's book is by far the most challenging. There are a lot of people involved. You have to find an illustrator, a graphic designer and a printer. The price ceiling on children's books is $19.95. I've seen some that are more expensive, I'm writing in general terms.

I made a lot of mistakes along the way, but I won't make them again. It's amazing how much you learn by your mistakes.

When your working with a publisher there are so many things you don't have any control over. For me the biggest thing is not being able to choose your own illustrator. In my other working life, I'm a manufactures representative. It's similar to a book agent, except I'm selling different product to stores. I repped different artists though the years, so I had a more complete understanding of how the art world works. Publishers hit it right at times. They pair illustrators with the right writers. Sadly most of the time it's a different story. When I'm writing my stories, I'm seeing the pictures in my mind. When I send my work to my illustrator, I've written not only my words, but what I have pictured. My illustrator tells me that it makes his job easier. He also makes suggestions, it's a great collaboration. Have you ever looked at a children's book that the words have nothing to do with the pictures? The people that get this more than anyone are the children. I'm sure the publishers have very well thought out reasons for not letting the writer even meet their illustrator, I just don't know what it is.

This blog is getting too long, I'll stay on this subject on my next blog. Happy writing 

So busy so spring

Such an interesting busy spring, so far. I've learned I can sell Christmas books during the year.  I was invited to a Soroptimist tea and fashion show, met nice people and sold books. Then I was asked to speak at the American Assoc. of University Women about writing. There were 4 other authors that day. It was really interesting listening to their different stories. The book sales were wonderful. I'm learning everyday. I'm still looking for a VA . I would love to hear suggestions from anyone out there. Happy day.

Beautiful Day

We've had some crazy weather this winter. But today is so crystal clear and beautiful I'm having a hard time staying at my desk. I had so many great ideas of what I was going to accomplish today, but the gardens are calling.

I did have a good conversation with a VA. Vitual Assistant. What a fun job that must be. If anyone has used a VA I would love to hear comments. I've reached a point when there really isn't enough hours in the day. Except today, The gardens are still calling.  Let me know

Trade Shows

The trade shows start right after Christmas. Buyers come from all over the United States to buy guess what? Christmas! it's hard to imagine this has to be done in January. Atlanta is the first show. The weather  was a challenge this year. There was 4" of ice. Most restaurants were closed because no one could deliver food. Most Cabs weren't interested  in being out in such a mess. I'm a California girl I'm not used to 13 degrees. Most buyers still showed up, it turned out to be a very good show. I sold my first books to Canada. After Atlanta comes Dallas. They are a day apart. Dallas was a much better show for me at least. It's a lot of work, but I'm working in such a wonderful atmosphere. Everyone wants to see what's new and this year for the most part people were a lot more positive. All their stores had a slight increase over the year before. In some of the markets there are three buildings most are 22 floors. Some of the showrooms are 25,000 square feet. I've always been in awe of the buyers being able to make decisions with the thousands of choices they have to make. I'm still on Dallas time, I'll catch up by tomorrow, I have a whole story to tell you about how Santa and Mrs. Claus surprised me!

New Years Eve

It's hard to believe New Years Eve is here. Where did this year go? I was very very busy all year. I certainly moved forward with the book business. As always there is a lot more to accomplish. I'm very hopeful the economy will take a step forward this year. Mrs. Claus was very excited about last year, I was able to put Mrs.Claus on facebook, but still didn't quite know how to do it properly. She needs tons and tons of fans. If anyone has suggestions they would be appreciated. Do you think I should continue with her during the year. Maybe a couple times of month? She would love to talk about what goes on at the North Pole during the year.

"HI Nancy" "Oh hi Mrs. Claus""Nancy I had so much fun this year. I met so many people. They all had great questions" Children wrote me after Christmas thanking Santa and I for their presents. They got just what they wanted. In years past we've gotten letters but much later in  the year. Being on facebook is great, could we do it some more?"" Sure I also thought it was good, now I want you to think of all the stories you would like to share with your new friends""Could I tell everyone what Santa bought me for Christmas? "Thats up  to you Mrs. Claus""OK I have to go now I have a lot to do" "Bye, Mrs.Claus"

Maybe, I have my answer but I would still love some feedback from the people that read this blog.

Have a safe happy New Year everyone

Rogers Gardens

I've got a lot to catching up to do. I told you a month ago I would let you know the outcome of Rogers. The day turned out awesome. There were more kids than ever. The weather was really bad, so they decided to move me inside. Everyone was more comfortable. We not only had a huge crowd of kids but we also had the red hat ladies. It was nosier inside than out, but that was mostly the parents enjoying themselves. I read a couple of stories then talked about a couple of the books. We had made up a huge list of food and supplies for Mrs. Claus to buy for Santa. Everyone liked the idea. The whole day was fun. I especially want to thank Christine you makes everything go so smooth. The pure hope and magic that you see in childrens eyes is what makes the world such a perfect place.

Rogers Gardens

I've been writting about Rogers Gardens on Facebook, but I thought I would write a little bit more. Rogers is a Nursery in Corona Del Mar CA. I believe it is about 8 acres. Very close to the Ocean. When you first enter you realize your in a very special place. They have all the items  that a regular Nursery would carry. Inside the buildings they have created a magic that is hard to describe. I remember my first visit seeing an overstuffed chair completely made out of red carnations. If they don't have the props that are ininspired to do some copying.  their imagination, they just build them. I guess what makes it so much fun to see is it is so unexpected. It's always great to have new ideas when your putting up your decorations for Christmas. Most people are very This is the only place that I dress as Mrs. Claus. By the time the event is over I feel like I could fly. It is so well orgainized and so much fun. Kids don't quite know what to do with Mrs. Claus but they are in awe. I'll write again next week to tell you the outcome. If your anywhere in the area, stop by, it truly is magical. I'll be there between 10:00-12:00

Catching Up

                  So many events are going on right now. I can’t believe how time is flying. I keep promising to blog more often, but obviously it has become a work in progress for me.Great news Mrs. Claus is on Facebook. The first entry happened yesterday. I have been on Facebook and twitter for quite a while. I can see their value in keeping in touch with old friends. I’ve been learning a ton of things that both Facebook and twitter can do for your business. It’s really amazing. This is the first time in history that I’m on a level playing field with major companies, when it comes to marketing. Writing my books from Mrs. Claus’ perspective is rewarding and fun. Getting the rest of the world involved with her is really exciting. I need to get as many fans as possible. If she comes your way, I hope you’ll take her in to your Facebook page and also become a fan.               

 
Nancy, when do I start writing? “Mrs. Claus I’ll give you your special password. Then you can write anytime you have time” “This year we’re in high gear. Santa has made so many new wonderful  toys we have been working night and day . “Great! I’m sure they will be special. I’ll talk to you soon. Bye”