Kay Elam Writes

Popular agent and blogger, Rachelle Gardner, has written a series of books she calls “A Field Guide for Authors.” The first title “How Do I Decide? Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing” was just released. It’s available in e-book format from Amazon and will soon be available at Barnes & Noble online, iBooks, Kobo, Sony and other sites.

Future titles include Successful Blogging, Where Do I Start? And How Do I Get an Agent?

Rachelle is one of the most respected agents around. I’ve read her blog for years. It’s obvious she cares about her readers even though the majority aren not her clients. As an agent and mom, she’s got a busy life, but she writes thoughtful, helpful posts, answers questions, addresses issues and, most of all is consistent. I’ve e-mailed her a few times with specific questions and she’s always taken time to respond–even though I’m represented by someone else.

As an agent, her bread and butter is traditional publishing yet she recognizes that’s not the path for everyone. It’s very, very difficult to get a traditional publishing contract these days. Heck, it’s a pretty big deal to even get an agent. The number I’ve heard tossed around is about 2% of authors have representation. Wow!

So here’s the irony, Rachelle’s books are self-published. An agent who self publishes? That alone makes me want to read the book.

Rachelle could probably sell a gazillion books based on her blog following alone, but she developed a brilliant marketing strategy. She formed a “launch team” of 100 of her readers who have the web presence to help promote her books. I must repeat myself. Brilliant!

Released less than a week ago, and it’s already getting lots of buzz on Facebook, Twitter and other social media sites. And, here I am, doing my part. So, if you have written a book and don’t know which way to go, buy Rachelle’s new book. It’s a bargain at $3.99.

Until next time.

~Kay