Formatting Soap Opera Scripts
In style, television and movie script are similar; however, television programs must format around commercials and station identification. While movies contain a full hour of entertainment, broadcast television is broken down into approximately 22 minutes of entertainment and 8 minutes of commercials per half hour.
Most one hour shows have six 2.02 minute breaks with two 1.34, which fall at the top and bottom of the hour. Generally this leaves 22 minutes per half hour for the actual show, which is broken down further into the teaser/open, three acts and bottom of the hour teaser/bridge for the local break. The second half hour also has three acts, but it is ended with a teaser/closing credits and the top of the hour break.
Whether starting at the top or bottom of the hour, the initial segment, contains the show teaser and opening; its run time varies between 2-4 minutes in length. The following three acts divide the remaining entertainment time between them without any set length; however, most stations, especially during ratings, identify themselves within a two minute margin at the quarter hour; therefore, there is usually a break written in to accommodate this standard. The second half hour also begins with a teaser, which identifies the show and the network, and is followed by a local commercial with identification. Most shows end with a 2-4 minute teaser of the next episode and the ending credits with another local break following.
Unless you have a talent that milks their part, usually one page of script equals one minute of air time. This generality helps the writer pace the storyline and time the scenes to maximize the suspense in order to hold the audience’s attention through the commercial breaks. By splitting the action between multiply scenes to create mini cliffhangers, the writer suspends the action in order to height the drama and prevent channel surfing. It is also how a creative writer creates an effective end of an episode cliffhanger to torment the viewers into returning to see what happens to their favorite characters.
Format for one hour television script
2-4 minutes teaser and show open
2.02 minute commercial break
Act 1
2.02 minute commercial break
Act 2
2.02 minute commercial break
Act 3
1:34 minute commercial break
20 second teaser- 10 seconds from each half hour
1:34 bottom of the hour local break
Act 4
2.02 minute commercial break
Act 5
2.02 minute commercial break
Act 6
2.02 minute commercial break
2-4 tag and end credits
1:34 local top of the hour break
No doubt many of you are asking why the script I have been writing for Days doesn’t meet this industry standard. Very simple. There are two reasons. When I started, it was a protest that I never thought would go any where. Originally I was going to write a few scenes to embarrass the writers into their job. However, I received so much positive feedback that I just kept going. Secondly, a major of my script writing experience was for the stage and screen. Even then, it had been a while since I worked on a long project. My information was not only dated, but I had forgotten a few little details. The new scenes will be in the correct format. I’ve also started the process of reformatting and restructuring the rest to not only meet the industry standards but to also put it into episodes. During the process a few scenes will have to be tweaked, but it will give me a chance to improve them as well. Although I knew how I wanted the storylines to unfold, everything that I have posted still qualifies for first draft status. The reality is that I had put little effort into the project yet it was still be better than the so called professionals; hat do you think I could do if I actually put work it to the project?
Showing posts with label writing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label writing. Show all posts
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Authors: A New Ebook on Writing and Marketing Your Book
Authors: A New Ebook on Writing and Marketing Your Book
From Blank Page to Book Shelves--How to Successfully Create and Market Your Book is a new ebook, which shares writing tips, and marketing strategies, which will make your publishing experience more successful. The marketing information includes how to effectively use SEO keywords in press releases, chose a publisher and low cost to free promotional options, while sharing writing tips.
The first part of the ebook gives basic writing tips. From plot organization to creating conflicts, this ebook help authors understand the basic structure of both short stories and novels. In addition, there are chapters on characterization and sensory writing, which help the authors draw in their readers into a multi-dimensional reading experience.
The second part of the book includes the importance of protecting the rights of the author, not only by copyrighting the work, but choosing the proper publishing venue. Safeguarding a work can be done easily and inexpensively; if done properly it insures that it will be legally protected. Choosing the correct publishing format and publisher can also make or break a book’s opportunities to reach the reading public.
Marketing and Promotions is explained in the third part of the ebook. It describes how the publishing venue affects how a book can be best advertised not only to readers, but also to bookstore owners. In addition, it lists low cost or free promotional ideas that can be used both on and offline. Search Engine Optimization makes press releases more effective; using the correct key words in the proper format will efficiently attract the attention of the search engines, thereby raising the article or site higher in the rankings and drawing more traffic to it.
From Blank Page to Book Shelves--How to Successfully Create and Market Your Book can’t guarantee to place an authors on the New York Times best seller‘s list; however, it will help improve their writing skills and understanding of the business end of the industry. Currently, this ebook is available at www.theresachaze.com for $7.00.
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SEO, key words, desktop publishing, publishing, self publishing, book publishing, epublishing, writing, creative writing, Theresa Chaze, marketing, book marketing, best seller
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Writing to Activate the Reader's Imagination
Writing to Activate the Readers Imagination
By
Theresa Chaze
Although novels are written in two dimensional black and white, the story actually happens in the four dimensional realms of the reader‘s mind. Multi-sensory books are the ones that become the most successful. Capturing your reader's imagination, by helping them to be able to see, hear, smell and feel every aspect of your story draws them and helps them experience the story through the characters.
Sight involves more than what the characters see or don’t see. It involves the subtle shades of color, shape, dimension and distance. A writer could write about “a new green leaf” or just as easily write that the “slow unfurling of the heart shaped leaf, contrasted against the darker older foliage of the plant.” Giving details doesn’t necessarily mean a long string of adjectives or adverbs, but a creative use of description that shows instead of tells.
Hearing is the most versatile of the senses. Sound or the lack of sound can also add to the story’s dept. What the character hears can extend her or his awareness beyond the immediate environment. Sound’s ability to travel great distances, allows remote action to be brought into a scene without disrupting the point of view. A wolf howling from somewhere in the night will be heard both in and out of the cabin. The characters inside don’t have to see it to know that the wolf lurks some where outside their door.
Touch can be experienced as a caress or a punch along with everything in between. However, touch is more than skin on skin, but it also includes any contact that is important to the story. The soft fur of cat rubbing against the character’s leg feels different than a skunk brushing passed while trying to escape. In the same way, the rough scales of an alligator feel different than the bark of a tree, so are reactions the images elicit in the reader.
The sense of taste is the most personal and individual. What one person finds appealing, another could just as easily find repulsive. How the character reacts will further define her or him. Most people are aware of the more common foods and drinks. If an author introduces something out of the ordinary, it is simple to you use comparisons to give the reader a sense of the taste and texture.
The sense of smells is the most effective way to activate memories and emotions. The two areas of the brain are closely related in location and synaptic connection. Using odors, either pleasant or unpleasant, is the fastest way to get a response out of the character in such a way that the reader will be able to relate.
Perception or intuition is the sixth sense that is frequently over looked by writers. This is not a reference to ESP or psychic gifts, but how a character sees or judges her or his world and everything in it. By showing how the character perceives her/himself and others, you define her or him without long descriptive sentences. The best example is a character that is afraid of other people; she or he may be paranoid or someone might actually be out to get her or him. By contrasting the perceptions with the reactions of the other characters, the writer reveals more about the personality and the inner motivation of the character.
In addition, similes, allegories and contrasting comparisons can add texture and set the mood. Sarah was as graceful as a bird is an example of simile. Like Amazon warriors of old, she marched into the room would be an allegory. While looking dapper and smart in his new suit, Dan smelled like down wind of a pig farm would be a contrasting comparison. All three examples give added information about the character in a pro-active way that allows the reader to visualize the character.
It is unusual for one sense to be used alone. More often than not, they are combined to give layers of images and sensations. Sight and hearing are frequently combined. A character hears a noise and starts looking for the source or a character smells something wonderful and decides to taste what is in the pot. By coalescing the senses, the author creates a four dimensional world on a two dimensional medium. It makes the characters and their environment more real and relatable for the reader, which in turn makes the novel more popular.
Technorati Tags:
writing, publishing, best selling, Theresa Chaze, ebooks, successful, writing techniques,
By
Theresa Chaze
Although novels are written in two dimensional black and white, the story actually happens in the four dimensional realms of the reader‘s mind. Multi-sensory books are the ones that become the most successful. Capturing your reader's imagination, by helping them to be able to see, hear, smell and feel every aspect of your story draws them and helps them experience the story through the characters.
Sight involves more than what the characters see or don’t see. It involves the subtle shades of color, shape, dimension and distance. A writer could write about “a new green leaf” or just as easily write that the “slow unfurling of the heart shaped leaf, contrasted against the darker older foliage of the plant.” Giving details doesn’t necessarily mean a long string of adjectives or adverbs, but a creative use of description that shows instead of tells.
Hearing is the most versatile of the senses. Sound or the lack of sound can also add to the story’s dept. What the character hears can extend her or his awareness beyond the immediate environment. Sound’s ability to travel great distances, allows remote action to be brought into a scene without disrupting the point of view. A wolf howling from somewhere in the night will be heard both in and out of the cabin. The characters inside don’t have to see it to know that the wolf lurks some where outside their door.
Touch can be experienced as a caress or a punch along with everything in between. However, touch is more than skin on skin, but it also includes any contact that is important to the story. The soft fur of cat rubbing against the character’s leg feels different than a skunk brushing passed while trying to escape. In the same way, the rough scales of an alligator feel different than the bark of a tree, so are reactions the images elicit in the reader.
The sense of taste is the most personal and individual. What one person finds appealing, another could just as easily find repulsive. How the character reacts will further define her or him. Most people are aware of the more common foods and drinks. If an author introduces something out of the ordinary, it is simple to you use comparisons to give the reader a sense of the taste and texture.
The sense of smells is the most effective way to activate memories and emotions. The two areas of the brain are closely related in location and synaptic connection. Using odors, either pleasant or unpleasant, is the fastest way to get a response out of the character in such a way that the reader will be able to relate.
Perception or intuition is the sixth sense that is frequently over looked by writers. This is not a reference to ESP or psychic gifts, but how a character sees or judges her or his world and everything in it. By showing how the character perceives her/himself and others, you define her or him without long descriptive sentences. The best example is a character that is afraid of other people; she or he may be paranoid or someone might actually be out to get her or him. By contrasting the perceptions with the reactions of the other characters, the writer reveals more about the personality and the inner motivation of the character.
In addition, similes, allegories and contrasting comparisons can add texture and set the mood. Sarah was as graceful as a bird is an example of simile. Like Amazon warriors of old, she marched into the room would be an allegory. While looking dapper and smart in his new suit, Dan smelled like down wind of a pig farm would be a contrasting comparison. All three examples give added information about the character in a pro-active way that allows the reader to visualize the character.
It is unusual for one sense to be used alone. More often than not, they are combined to give layers of images and sensations. Sight and hearing are frequently combined. A character hears a noise and starts looking for the source or a character smells something wonderful and decides to taste what is in the pot. By coalescing the senses, the author creates a four dimensional world on a two dimensional medium. It makes the characters and their environment more real and relatable for the reader, which in turn makes the novel more popular.
Technorati Tags:
writing, publishing, best selling, Theresa Chaze, ebooks, successful, writing techniques,
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Are You Seeing What Love is Showing You?
A & E airs a show called "Sell This House". The premise is that a decorating team comes into homes that have been on the market for several months and restages them to make them more appealing to home buyers. Although some of their decorating ideas are unique, what caught my attention about the show were the comments made about the owners.
Under the guise of searching for a new house, buyers walked through the homes; however, instead of looking at the structure of the house and envisioning themselves living there, they critiqued the owners and their possessions. Sarcastic remarks were made about not only the style of the furniture, but the placement in the rooms. They didn’t like the color scheme, the knickknacks or the personal possessions of the current owners. Instead of looking at the beautiful bay window, the focused on the curtains. They didn’t consider the size of the rooms, number of bedrooms or any of the other features of the home that are actually relevant to their needs.
The middle part of the show focused on the redecorating. It could be as simple as moving or removing furniture. However, frequently there was extensive painting of walls, cabinets, and furniture. Personal items are removed or placed out of sight. The whole idea is to make the house look as impersonal as possible. In most cases, the changes did little to make the room seem larger, but they did make the house seem uncomfortable.
The best part of buying a new home is making it yours with your stuff. One of the first things I did when I bought my home was to paint the rooms to match my tastes and my furniture. The changes made it a reflection of me. It is my home. My refuge from the world. I made if comfortable for me.
The last segment of the show was the same buyers going through and marveling at how the changes made the home so much better. Some of the changes did. But why should they have cared. All the furniture, curtains and artwork were all going with the owners. None of the things they found so amazing were going to stay with the home. How often do we get caught up in critiquing others that we fail see that what we are seeking is right in front of us? We look for love, yet we only see the shallow aspects of size, shape and color; we over look the beautiful soul inside with whom we could share a wonderful relationship based on mutual love and respect. It’s only when we release our expectations and open our hearts to see the real foundation of a person that we are able to see if there is a true love match.
Sunday, December 09, 2007
Virtual Book Tour: An Excerpt of the Magical Fantasy Awakening the Dragon
Impatiently he tapped the saddle with the reigns. "Lady, next time you can explain to the sheriff. Now get off my property."
Rachael was impressed with his self-control. Her little voice told her Abigail Hanson was extremely lucky woman to be able to leave under her own power. There was more involved in this situation than just the sale of a house.
Furious, Abigail threw the house keys in the dirt. "I’ll drive you back to the office." She turned heel to toe and marched to the sedan, yanking the door open and slamming it shut behind her.
The house seemed to call her; it was lonely. She picked up the keys, but felt reluctant to turn them over to their rightful owner. It wasn’t fair. They wanted to destroy it; he refused to live in it. It would be a perfect home for her and her feline kids. Looking up at the figure in the saddle, she hesitated. The keys were warm and comfortable in her hand.
"You’ll miss your ride." His voice held a hint of amusement. "And it’s a very long walk. Especially in those shoes.""
"I’d like to talk to you about the house."
"It’s not for sale." The harshness quickly returned.
Nervously, she sucked the front of her teeth. "It’s lonely."
Startled, his left eyebrow arched and he leaned forward in the saddle; it squeaked beneath him. "Aren’t you afraid of devils?"
"In the Wicca religion there are no devils."
"Are you sure?"
She looked up directly into the blueness. They were warm, yet distant, unreachable to the mere mortal. "Positive."
So began the battle of wills. He was trying to impress her; she refused to look away. His pupils narrowed, exposing a narrow band of brown. She leaned forward, placing her open palm on the mare’s neck. The muscles beneath quivered. The tail switched. A hoof stomped impatiently.
A fly landed on his cheek. Involuntarily the muscles twitched: he didn’t blink. She reached up and brushed it away.
Abigail blew the car’s horn. The horse snorted and danced away from the disturbance. Rachael jumped back. The moment was broken; the duel was a draw. The horn blew again, a long blast of frustration. The horse reared. He fought for control of the frightened animal both with the reins and with soothing words. Rachael dashed to the car. Through the open window, she grabbed Abigail’s hands and yanked them away from the steering wheel.
"You trying to kill us?"
"Get in the car!" Abigail snapped.
"Not even if my only other option was walking barefoot on broken glass!"
Abigail pulled her arms free, one bouncing off the back of the seat, the other banged against the inside of the door. Quickly she threw the car into reverse. "Find your own way back!" The wheels spun, kicking up dirt and gravel as the car shot backward out of the driveway and disappeared down the road in a huff of dust.
Coughing, Rachael tried to wave the dust away from her face. I’d done it again, she thought, me and my mouth. It truly was going to be a long walk back. Hitchhiking at my age, she laughed at herself, some day I’ll learn. But obviously not today.
The horse had calmed and he had dismounted. Gently he ran his hands down one of her legs then moved on to another, checking for injuries. He wasn’t as tall as she expected; slender build, but not so much he didn’t fill those jeans quite nicely.
Now, now she chided herself. Nearly run over. Finding herself in the middle of a holy war, deserted, and still having lusty thoughts. She smiled, that’s what happens when you approach your sexual prime. Pushing the stray strands back over her head and tucking them behind her ear, she crossed the distance between them. "Is she okay?"
Without looking up, he crouched. With a gentle tap of his finger, the mare allowed him to pick up her leg and he examined the hoof. Resting it against his thigh, he reached into his back pocket and removed a jackknife. Opening it, he used the larger blade to remove a stone jammed into the hoof. Carefully he cleaned away the remaining dirt, inspecting for damage. He smiled and slowly returned the foot to the ground. Experimentally she tested it by shifting her weight on to it. She stomped twice and her ears went forward. "Good girl." He straightened, patting the back of her neck.
Rachael released the breath, she hadn’t realized she was holding. "Is she okay?" She repeated.
His hands still holding the bridle, he turned to face her. "Seems so. How ’bout you?"
"Dusty."
He laughed and offered his hand. "Thanks. Kevin Mitchellson."
Accepting it, she stepped closer. "Rachael Franklin."
"New in town?"
"Month and a half."
"Why here?"
"I’ll answer your question if you answer mine." She indicated the house and the settling dust leading down the driveway.
"Long story."
"It’ll give me a chance to talk you out of a long walk."
"I’ll be having one of those as well. Belle has a bruised foot." Smiling he removed his hat and pushed back his auburn hair. It was damp and thinning at the temples. "This was my Grandmother’s home. She built it when my Grandfather died and my Father took over the lumberyard. She didn’t think it was right we live in a small house and she live alone in the big one. But she didn’t want to leave the grounds. She designed it herself."
"She used Feng Shui."
With a flick of his wrist, he snapped his hat back on. "You know the terminology. I’ll give you that." He turned on his toes and took the reins, heading toward the path he arrived on. "No comment. Have a nice walk."
"No comment. What does that mean?"
He stopped. "It means. You’re not the first reporter who’s tried to get me to admit my Father committed matricide then suicide."
"Wait."
"Why?"
"I’m not a reporter."
"Then why are you so interested?"
She searched for a reason to give. She found none. "I don’t have a reason beyond I‘m looking for a home. Before you ask. I don’t know why I like it. I just do." She hesitated briefly. "I’m not looking for trouble. I suspect I’ll get that when my bookstore, Dragon’s Den, opens on Beltane."
He halted in his tracks. Slowly turning, a smile replaced the sneer. "Good thing you didn’t mention it earlier. No telling what she’d done to the owner of the new devil store."
"Your sarcasm isn’t appreciated." Angrily Rachael decided she preferred to walk. She turned and towards the driveway.
"Where you going?"
"For a walk."
"It’s five miles. But only a half mile to the main house. I’ll drive you."
"Not enough room for me and that red wood size chip on your shoulder."
"Ouch!"
"Have a good life." She continued down the driveway.
"Don’t you want to talk about the house?"
It was her turn to suddenly stop. She pivoted on her toes, placing her hands firmly on her hips. "It’s not for sale."
He shrugged.
"Jerk me around and you won’t like the results."
"Do what you will, but harm none." He countered.
"So your Grandmother taught you."
"Who taught you?"
A breeze blew her bangs across her face; she tucked them back behind her ear. "None of your business."
"Now who has a chip?" Leading the horse, he walked closer. Would you like to see the inside? You might not even like it."
"Been there; done that."
"You got in?" The surprise in his voice raised the tone an octave.
She nodded.
"You lie!"
"That’s it!" She spun on her toes and marched down the driveway.
"Wait! Wait a minute!"
The horse whined. From behind, she heard the scuffle of boot and hoof dancing around each other. He swore. The horse snorted. Running feet came toward her. He grabbed her from behind. Her self-defense training kicked in and he went flying into the dirt, landing face first. Smugly she stepped over him. He caught her ankle. She stopped.
"Let go of me." The anger welled up in her. His moods changed faster than anybody she’d ever met and frankly, she wasn’t inclined to indulge him. "Or you won’t like the results."
He spit out the dirt and blood. His lip continued to bleed. "Are you always so violent?"
"I don’t believe in violence."
"Is that why I have a bloody lip?" Without releasing her ankle, he sat up, sliding his hold up her right leg. "I just want to know how you got in."
"The front door." She punctuated each word with anger. "We did have a key."
"Did Savannah go in?"
"No. She wouldn’t."
"Aren’t you curious why?" He released her ankle to wipe away a trickle of blood from the center of his bottom lip. "Only three of us have been able to go in since the coroner took Grandmother‘s body out. Myself and two of her closest friends. The house wouldn’t let anybody else in. Dad even tried breaking a window. The rock bounced off, nearly hitting him in the head."
"Maybe it doesn’t like bullies."
"Seems to like you well enough."
"I’m not a--" She stopped in mid sentence, realizing her words didn’t match her actions. "Sorry. I’m not usually so aggressive."
"Really?" His eyebrow arched. "You seem so well practiced."
Nervously, Rachael sucked the front of her teeth. She took the class for a reason and his behavior was it. She was sorry for hurting him, but didn’t regret protecting herself. You simply don’t invade a person’s body space without an invitation. She offered her hand to him. "Let me make amends."
"He wiped his lip with the sleeve of his shirt. "Will you help or hurt?"
"Who grabbed who first?"
"Point."
"I’m not keeping score." She again extended her hand. "Are you?"
Taking her hand, he pulled her to the ground. "I’d call us even."
Rachael lay on her side next to him, admiring his profile. With it tied back, you couldn’t tell how long his hair really was from the front. She guessed it fell past his shoulders. His features were angular. She thought he was attractive in a direct sort of way. She liked his ability to maintain eye contact without being intrusive or threatening.
Kevin looked down at her. At first, he cocked his head to the side. An expression of wonder crossed his face, adding a new dimension of light to his eyes. He blinked and smiled as his shield rose.
She didn’t know if he was protecting himself or hiding behind them. But what did he have to hide? For a moment, the battle of wills threatened a rematch, but only for that instant.
He gently clasped her hand and brought it to his lips, carefully wiping away the blood first. "I’m Kevin Mitchellson."
"I’m Rachael Davis Franklin. I’d like to buy your house."
"I’d love to sell it to you. But it’s not up to me."
"What was all that before?"
Laughing, he released her and fell back into the dust. "Oh, legally it’s mine. I pay the taxes. I still come twice a week to water the plants. Occasionally I even dust. But it’s not really mine."
"Unique perspective. Very Native American."
"With this hair color?" Kevin lifted himself onto his elbow. "What brought you to Coyote Springs?"
"A dart."
"A dart?"
Sitting up, Rachael pushed the stray strands back over her forehead, once again tucking them behind her left ear. "I was born sixty miles from here. I wasn’t happy. Family stuff. I worked my way though college at a small shop making incense and essential oils. It was owned by Beverly Franklin. She was like a mother to me. I earned my MA in business."
"She was your teacher?"
"Beverly taught me more than the arts. She taught me unconditional love. Because of her, I was able to release my anger and guilt, but mostly my fear."
"Fear?" He leaned closer, resting his folded arms on his bent knees. "You don’t seem to be afraid of anything."
"Even as a child, I saw things others didn’t. Now I know how to deal with them."
"Grandmother taught me how to use my gifts. She was an herbalist and a healer. She cared about everyone."
"Beverly never turns anyone away." Rachael smiled. "I’ll be carrying her line of products. She’ll also be teaching a class this fall. Anyway to shorten a long story. I won a lottery, which provided the prosperity for the store." She hesitated. "I asked the Goddess where she wanted me to go, then threw the dart. This is where it landed. Two out of three. Three out of five."
"Didn’t want to come back. Got the picture."
"Too close to the family."
Slightly nodding, he stood and offered her his hand. "I understand. Completely. If it wasn’t for Grandmother and my promise to care for the mill’s workers, I’d boogied on out of here long ago."
"It’s amazing what we’ll promise in the name of love." She nodded, but stood on her own and started brushing the dust from her jeans. "We all have free will."
"In any case. On to the next step."
"Which is?"
"You opening the front door and going in by yourself."
"Any particular reason?"
"Humor me."
Rachael held out her open palm. "Keys please. Unless I’m suppose to use open-says-me."
"Good trick if you can do it." He reached into his shirt pocket, taking out the keys the agent threw to the ground. He held them out. "If that doesn’t work, use these."
She took them. For a moment, their fingers touched. A shock went through her. It wasn’t sexual exactly, but the strong electrical impulse of his life force. It wasn’t light; it wasn’t dark. The color was gray. At sometime, he had been tempted, leaving footprints on the dark path. But what or when, she couldn’t read. She curled her short fingers around the keys and walked around him toward the house.
Climbing the front steps, she wondered why here, why him? She opened the screen door and inserted the key. It turned easily. The door swung open. Suddenly she felt nervous; more than she knew was at stake
She stepped in, closing the door behind her. It still smelled musty. No not musty, but the dusty settleness of a lonely house. The sun cast patterned shadows of the lace curtains across the floor and up the opposite wall. Plants were everywhere. Most needed transplanting. On the table in the corner, an asparagus fern had begun to wilt as the roots cried for more room. Rachael remembered seeing larger pots and soil in the kitchen. She picked up the fern and carried it down the hall to the back of the house.
The kitchen was cooler and darker than the more sun exposed front of the house. It was also the definitely heart of the house. Even in the shadows of the day and the tree, the room had a light of its own. She placed the fern on the counter next to the sink. Taking the largest pot from the shelf next to the back door, she filled it half-full with soil. Returning to the sink, she taped the clay sides of the fern's pot, pulling it free. With her available hand, she dug a hole in the soil of the new pot adjusting the depth and width to fit the root base. The soil was dry, leaving a find dust on her fingers and under her nails. Turning on the water, she rinsed her hands and adjusted the temperature. She watered the fern allowing the water to fill and flow through the pot, continuing down the drain.
She felt gratitude from the plant. A random act of kindness. She leaned forward and looked out the window. There was so much that needed to be done. Trimming. Pruning. Transplanting. Suddenly she felt as if she was no longer alone. Looking around the room, she saw no one, yet the feeling persisted. "Who’s here?"
The sensation lessoned, but remained.
Rachael knew she was being watched. Sensing the ones, who had crossed, was one of her families talents, but she was the only one of the last two generations who chose to develop it. Running her hand along the counter top, she sensed the love that had once filled the room. Not only in the food that had been prepared here, but also the intimate chats between loved ones around the small oval table in the center of the room. The woman who designed and had the cottage built was a strong, loving soul who knew how to find the good in the darkest shadow. Rachael wondered if that is what killed her. She smiled to herself looking at the hard on the eyes wallpaper.
"What are you doing?"
Startled, Rachael spun around, her fingers catching with the spindly shoots, partially uprooting it. "It needed transplanting." She felt defensive and angry with herself for being so caught off guard. She patted the plant back into place. "It was going to die."
His voice softened. "I'm sorry. When you didn't come out, I got worried."
"Why?" She shook her head, the long strands dancing around her waist. "There's nothing wrong with the cottage."
"That's not it." Folding his arms across his chest, he leaned against the flowered-papered wall. "It's the house. Some places have energy of their own. Most can't handle the level here. It's too intense. For me I can last a couple of hours. After fifteen minutes, my skin begins to itch. After about a half-hour, my head begins to ache and it only gets worse. Most people can't handle it that long."
"I don't know what you mean."
"An energy vortex--"
"I know what that is." She snapped, not meaning to. "Sorry. But you're implying there is something wrong here. Miss Abigail," she motioned quotation marks around the name, "implied the same thing. I haven't found problem one. The water works. It tastes good. No bare wires that I can see. I haven't tried the furnace."
"You are comfortable here." The surprise was evident in his voice. He relaxed his arms, allowing one to drop to his side; the other he tucked in to his front pocket. "You've been here almost a half-hour. It hasn't affected you."
"Earlier it was longer than that."
"The energy hasn't changed.
"Without a good airing, it never will."
"I open the windows twice a week and keep it clean.
"Short term it works." She softened her tone, sensing he was doing his best. "The house would eventually accept you."
"It’s been over ten years. It doesn’t want a master; the cottage wants a mistress. But not just any woman. A specific woman who knows how to channel the energy of the ley lines that interconnect in the back yard." He looked away. His gaze slowly drifted along the floor to the back door. "I also have other reasons."
"Which are your own."
His eyes focused on her, the blue seemingly brighter, more alive. "I won't sell the house. I'm not ready to let it go yet." He hesitated. "But you can live here. No rent. No strings. Just take care of it. Maybe with someone living here, they'll think twice about burning it down."
"I see." Her internal alarm went off, as her own past distrust of men surfaced. She shifted her weight away from him. Taking a deep breath and centering herself, she asked the Goddess for advice for the present situation, qualifying that the sign not be too ambiguous to be useful. She closed her eyes and exhaled. She reached for her center, the place of knowing without reason; it was her place of faith. An image came into focus. It was the house. The gardens were once again cared for and lush. The roses had reached to top of the trellis. She could almost smell the full blooms. A breeze blew through the trees, changing the shadow patterns on the well-maintained lawn. A blue jay swooped through the back yard and landed on the tree stump. A deer walked out of the brush. She walked to Rachael, nuzzling her palm. Gently she scratched between her ears. It was peaceful.
Blinking she opened her eyes. Kevin still stood in the same position. Rachael never knew how long her attention would be focused inward. This time it seemed to be only moments. She looked upward to meet his gaze. "There will be rules."
"Rules?"
"No unexpected visits. Midnight or otherwise."
"Excuse me?" Confused he tilted his head, but did not shift his eyes. "Oh, if I had wanted you as a sexual partner--" He stopped himself. Glancing downward, he scraped the heel of his left boot on the toe of the right. "It'd be your idea as well. Any others?"
"I consider the house my own. I make any changes I want."
"If the house lets you. It's cool by me. You pay the cost."
"Agreed. Lastly. When you are ready to sell, I want first option. And I want it in writing."
"Agreed." He extended his hand. "Will a handshake hold until we can make it legal?"
She took his hand. Electricity shot through his palm. He would bear watching. He did have talents and the will to use them. "Works for me."
"When would you like to move in?" He released her hand. Reaching past her to open the window, his shoulder brushed against her. The light scent of cinnamon surrounded him.
He knows his stuff, she thought. "Consider it mine now. But it'll take me almost a week to move in. There are a few things that need changing."
"Like the locks."
She didn't like it; he read her too well. She'd have to set up her defense systems as soon as possible; she wasn't going to let him see one vulnerable area in her life. Gently she pushed him away from her.
Smiling he backed off. "I'll go get my car and drive you back to town. I'll have the contract drawn up. You'll have that long to change your mind or have the utilities changed over into your name."
"I won't change my mind."
He nodded and reached into his pocket, pulling out his key ring and taking two keys off. "Here are my keys."
"Thanks. She took them from his out stretched hand, carefully avoiding contact with him. "I'll wait for you here. There are other plants that need my attention. I also need to make a list."
"A list?"
"Of what paint to buy. That wallpaper has to go."
He laughed from deep within. Stepping backward, he half turned and patted the flowered pattern. "Good luck. It's been here a while."
"Obviously since the sixties."
He wiggled his finger in front of his face. "Wrong. Grandmother loved it so she had it specially made in the eighties. She said she always wanted to have full blooms even in the dead of winter."
"According to Feng Shui, this is my relationship space. It'll be some shaded of pink, red or white."
"You have all that now."
She forced a smile. "They're lovely, I'm sure."
He laughed and shook his head. "Good luck. You'll need it."
Adding an Irish lit to her voice, she cocked head and leaned against the sink. "It's nota me who needs the luck blessing but anyone who comes without being invited to do so. This be a peaceful private place. I being a mind to keep it that way."
The color drained from his face. "I see."
"What's wrong?"
"Nothing." He staggered back, as if she had struck him. Quickly he turned on his heels and was gone.
Rachael stared at the empty doorway not knowing how to respond or what to think of his behavior. She slowly shook her head. He was too confusing to understand. She didn't want to try. Instead, she counted the empty pots and the amount of potting soil remaining. She calculated there was enough soil to transplant three
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
Virtual Book Tour: Win Free books and meet the authors
Virtual book tours with Pump Up Your Book Promotion continues! All authors on tour in December will be giving away FREE copies of their books to a few lucky people who comment on their blog stops. Winners will be announced at www.virtualbooktour sforauthors. blogspot. com on December 1!
The following authors on tour and their tour stops today are:
For the working links click here
Angela Benson, author of the christian fiction novel, THE AMEN SISTERS (Walk Worthy Press/Grand Central Publishing, Nov. ‘07), will be stopping off at Paperback Writer!
Theresa Chaze, author of the magical fantasy novel, AWAKENING THE DRAGON (Valkyrie Publishing), will be stopping off at Valley Girl Musings!
Holly Fretwell, author of the nonfiction children̢۪s book, THE SKY̢۪S NOT FALLING (Kids Ahead Publishing), will be stopping off at Plug Your Book!
Jean Hackensmith and Kathe Birch, authors of the time travel romance, THE ULTIMATE PASSAGE (Port Town Publishing, Sept. ‘07) will be stopping off at Inspired Author!
Roberta Isleib, author of the psychological mystery murder novel, PREACHING TO THE CORPSE (Berkley Prime, Dec. ‘07) will be stopping off at Don’t Tell the Stones in the Road!
Jim Melvin, author of book one of the DEATH WIZARD CHRONICLES epic fantasy series, THE PIT (Rain Publishing, Sept. ‘07) will be stopping off at Beyond the Books!
Marilyn Celeste Morris, author of the non-fiction self-help book, DIAGNOSIS: LUPUS (Publish America) will be stopping off at Shop This!
Sydney Molare, author of the christian fiction novel, DEVIL̢۪S ORCHESTRA (Fishbowl International) will be stopping off at Buzz the Book!
Nelson Pahl, author of the romantic fiction, BEE BALMS & BURGUNDY (Cafe Reverie Press, Sept. ‘07) will be stopping off at Sadie’s Storylines!
All authors will be giving away free copies of their books to a few lucky readers who comment on their blog stops. Don̢۪t miss out on this opportunity to win free books!
These virtual book tours are brought to you by Pump Up Your Book Promotion at www.pumpupyourbookp romotion. com.
PUMP UP YOUR BOOK PROMOTION VIRTUAL BOOK TOURS
"Leave your tour in our hands!"
www.pumpupyourbookp romotion. com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The following authors on tour and their tour stops today are:
For the working links click here
Angela Benson, author of the christian fiction novel, THE AMEN SISTERS (Walk Worthy Press/Grand Central Publishing, Nov. ‘07), will be stopping off at Paperback Writer!
Theresa Chaze, author of the magical fantasy novel, AWAKENING THE DRAGON (Valkyrie Publishing), will be stopping off at Valley Girl Musings!
Holly Fretwell, author of the nonfiction children̢۪s book, THE SKY̢۪S NOT FALLING (Kids Ahead Publishing), will be stopping off at Plug Your Book!
Jean Hackensmith and Kathe Birch, authors of the time travel romance, THE ULTIMATE PASSAGE (Port Town Publishing, Sept. ‘07) will be stopping off at Inspired Author!
Roberta Isleib, author of the psychological mystery murder novel, PREACHING TO THE CORPSE (Berkley Prime, Dec. ‘07) will be stopping off at Don’t Tell the Stones in the Road!
Jim Melvin, author of book one of the DEATH WIZARD CHRONICLES epic fantasy series, THE PIT (Rain Publishing, Sept. ‘07) will be stopping off at Beyond the Books!
Marilyn Celeste Morris, author of the non-fiction self-help book, DIAGNOSIS: LUPUS (Publish America) will be stopping off at Shop This!
Sydney Molare, author of the christian fiction novel, DEVIL̢۪S ORCHESTRA (Fishbowl International) will be stopping off at Buzz the Book!
Nelson Pahl, author of the romantic fiction, BEE BALMS & BURGUNDY (Cafe Reverie Press, Sept. ‘07) will be stopping off at Sadie’s Storylines!
All authors will be giving away free copies of their books to a few lucky readers who comment on their blog stops. Don̢۪t miss out on this opportunity to win free books!
These virtual book tours are brought to you by Pump Up Your Book Promotion at www.pumpupyourbookp romotion. com.
PUMP UP YOUR BOOK PROMOTION VIRTUAL BOOK TOURS
"Leave your tour in our hands!"
www.pumpupyourbookp romotion. com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday, November 30, 2007
Not Just Another Book of Shadows: A Wiccan Priestess Shares What She Has Learned
Not Just Another Book Of Shadows: A Wiccan Priestess Shares What she has learned.
With all the published Book of Shadows out there, many of which are authored by famous Wiccans and Pagans, why should anyone buy my ebook of shadows, Out of the Shadows and Into the Light? I'm not famous--at least not yet. I don't belong to a coven or church. The training I've had hasn't been structured or formal; I didn't go into a classroom to be taught by Lord or Lady High Priestess or Priest. None of this was around when I started down the path. Back in the late 70's and early 80's, there weren't occult bookstores, at least not where I grew up. If you were lucky you could find books on Astrology--what you sun sign meant, but not much more. Books on magic taught you tricks. Witches were evil. Pagans were backward and ignorant. If you were clever, you found books on Spiritualism. Nor did my family have a long history of casting spells and stirring cauldrons, so I can't lay claim to a long magical heritage. I was raise Catholic, which in a way prepared me for doing rituals
That is what I didn't have. What I did have was so much more than could be found in books or with title honored teachers. There are so many things that can't be taught with words or demonstrations in a classroom; it can only be found by practical experience and good old fashion hard work.
On both sides of my parentage, there were abilities. My grandmother was not only able to sense the dead, but frequently see them. She also had a way of knowing with out knowing how she knew, which helped know when to play the lottery. Although, she never won big, she won frequently. Unfortunately, her Christian heritage kept her from understanding and training her gift. When she saw the other side, it frequently frightened her. Her sister, Edith had a natural intuitiveness about people. She could read them like no other, but she also didn’t understand her talent. Instead, she used alcohol to suppress her impressions. There were family rumors about their mother, but back then, children were never included in the discussions about the weirdness in the family. My grandmother would say, “little pictures have big ears.” Sometimes at night, I would pretend to be asleep so that I could listen; unfortunately, it didn’t take too long for me to stop pretending and I missed out on a lot. My mother knew how to communicate with animals and instinctively knew they needed to be healed. We had two puppies that contracted parvo that the vet had given up on. She brought them home and proved him wrong. She had a knack of seeing into other’s lives. Once she described to a woman her entire house down to the color of the walls in her bedroom; the woman’s reaction prevented her from ever doing it again. They were Christian, yet they were also spiritually gifted in ways that they didn't understand therefore never gained control over their abilities.
When I was about five, I told my grandmother’s neighbor, Kate, that I saw fairies in her garden. She took me into her kitchen and poured water into an old bowl and put candlestick in the center. She lit the candle and had me watch the flame as she talked to me. Decades later I remembered in a dream how she shut down that part of my natural gifts. When I was ready, not only did the memory come back but the ability as well. Kate was a very spiritual woman, who went to church every morning at 6 am. Her faith was an active part in her life, yet she still knew how to reach the earth spirits. Although her age kept her from doing much work, her gardens were always lush and her grapevine remained fertile in spite of its age. Her home was old and run down. She was one of the last people in town to install indoor plumbing. The only source of heat for the large two story home was a wood stove in the kitchen, yet it was always warm. Her house was unique. It was two story, but the upper level could be reached both from the inside and out. The wooden stairs led to a porch and then the entrance. She had board it up, keeping whatever was in on the inside and keeping the rest of us out. When she died, so did her gardens and the house seem to collapse into itself.
Growing up, I felt safer and more at home in woods than anywhere else. My grandmother's boyfriend had an 80 acre farm. I would spend hours wandering by myself, knowing that nothing could harm me while I was among the trees. It was the place I where I was the most connected. Just before the swamp, there was a natural circular field with a single tree in the center. It was a was the place I went to hide and think.
Just out of high school, my friend, Kim and her father, Bobby taught me channeling. Kim, another friend, Lynne and myself spent the summer walking between worlds. To say we were obsessive would be an understatement. We became very good at allowing the Goddesses and Gods to speak through us and they helped us open the spiritual doors within us. We were young and felt immortal, which made us fearless of the unknown and the consequences of our actions. It was a spiritual summer that changed all of us, especially me. That fall the three of us parted ways. I wandered through life for almost a year. What I had experienced made me question everything that I had been taught. I was very confused, so I did a lot of drinking and partying to stop the thinking.
In 1977, I started community college before going on to Michigan State University. By moving away, I was able to start releasing the old negative beliefs about not only myself but also the world beyond. I started doing more research and join the Metaphysical Society that met on the MSU campus. Through this group I met a beautiful soul could have very well been an incarnated angel; Mary was an older woman, who was not only wise but also very loving. Her nurturing heart helped me have faith in my abilities. She helped me open the doors that Kate had closed. We studied Eastern philosophies, kabala, and energy healing. It was also the time I picked up my first Tarot deck and started to use them to focus my intuition. The summer of 1981 when I officially initiated, my dragon spirit awakened and reentered by soul. It was a time of great awareness and challenge. What I had received what had I asked for, but it was more than what I was emotionally prepared to deal with. It took me several years to regain balance.
That all happened before the mid eighties. It was years ahead of the spiritual awakening that was to come for others. The late 80's and the 90's when the spiritual awakenings began in mass, I had already gone through the karmic test of air, fire and had started the emotional test of water. I had learned how focus my energy into healing through Reiki and became disciplined enough to control my other gifts. When I gained control over myself, I was able to reawaken memories from the lives before, which brought forward past lessons and gave me access to old talents.
All that I have experience has given me a unique perspective not only on life, but also gave me the ability to see how we are all interconnected. None of us are really alone. Like pieces of a puzzle, we all have our own unique shape and image, but we are also part of one big picture. Out of the Shadows and Into the Light is more than a book of spells and rituals; it contains what I have learned along the way. When we lack something in our life, whether it be love, prosperity or security, the sources is always an emotional or spiritual wound. By healing the injury, the path to healing opens and you will be able to find what you seek. Oprah once said there are two emotions, love and fear. I have gone one step further by adding--if you come from fear, you can never have love; however, if you come from love, you will never lack for it. By healing ourselves, we open our hearts and souls to that which we desire the most. It is this perspective that make Out of the Shadows and Into the Light different than other Book of Shadows. It is a 114 page full color ebook with information on healing, love, prosperity and protection. There are also sections on Dragon Magic and Justice Rituals. In addition, there are articles on Kundalini, the elements and manifesting. The download costs 5.00 through paypal and is only available on my site at www.theresachaze.com.
With all the published Book of Shadows out there, many of which are authored by famous Wiccans and Pagans, why should anyone buy my ebook of shadows, Out of the Shadows and Into the Light? I'm not famous--at least not yet. I don't belong to a coven or church. The training I've had hasn't been structured or formal; I didn't go into a classroom to be taught by Lord or Lady High Priestess or Priest. None of this was around when I started down the path. Back in the late 70's and early 80's, there weren't occult bookstores, at least not where I grew up. If you were lucky you could find books on Astrology--what you sun sign meant, but not much more. Books on magic taught you tricks. Witches were evil. Pagans were backward and ignorant. If you were clever, you found books on Spiritualism. Nor did my family have a long history of casting spells and stirring cauldrons, so I can't lay claim to a long magical heritage. I was raise Catholic, which in a way prepared me for doing rituals
That is what I didn't have. What I did have was so much more than could be found in books or with title honored teachers. There are so many things that can't be taught with words or demonstrations in a classroom; it can only be found by practical experience and good old fashion hard work.
On both sides of my parentage, there were abilities. My grandmother was not only able to sense the dead, but frequently see them. She also had a way of knowing with out knowing how she knew, which helped know when to play the lottery. Although, she never won big, she won frequently. Unfortunately, her Christian heritage kept her from understanding and training her gift. When she saw the other side, it frequently frightened her. Her sister, Edith had a natural intuitiveness about people. She could read them like no other, but she also didn’t understand her talent. Instead, she used alcohol to suppress her impressions. There were family rumors about their mother, but back then, children were never included in the discussions about the weirdness in the family. My grandmother would say, “little pictures have big ears.” Sometimes at night, I would pretend to be asleep so that I could listen; unfortunately, it didn’t take too long for me to stop pretending and I missed out on a lot. My mother knew how to communicate with animals and instinctively knew they needed to be healed. We had two puppies that contracted parvo that the vet had given up on. She brought them home and proved him wrong. She had a knack of seeing into other’s lives. Once she described to a woman her entire house down to the color of the walls in her bedroom; the woman’s reaction prevented her from ever doing it again. They were Christian, yet they were also spiritually gifted in ways that they didn't understand therefore never gained control over their abilities.
When I was about five, I told my grandmother’s neighbor, Kate, that I saw fairies in her garden. She took me into her kitchen and poured water into an old bowl and put candlestick in the center. She lit the candle and had me watch the flame as she talked to me. Decades later I remembered in a dream how she shut down that part of my natural gifts. When I was ready, not only did the memory come back but the ability as well. Kate was a very spiritual woman, who went to church every morning at 6 am. Her faith was an active part in her life, yet she still knew how to reach the earth spirits. Although her age kept her from doing much work, her gardens were always lush and her grapevine remained fertile in spite of its age. Her home was old and run down. She was one of the last people in town to install indoor plumbing. The only source of heat for the large two story home was a wood stove in the kitchen, yet it was always warm. Her house was unique. It was two story, but the upper level could be reached both from the inside and out. The wooden stairs led to a porch and then the entrance. She had board it up, keeping whatever was in on the inside and keeping the rest of us out. When she died, so did her gardens and the house seem to collapse into itself.
Growing up, I felt safer and more at home in woods than anywhere else. My grandmother's boyfriend had an 80 acre farm. I would spend hours wandering by myself, knowing that nothing could harm me while I was among the trees. It was the place I where I was the most connected. Just before the swamp, there was a natural circular field with a single tree in the center. It was a was the place I went to hide and think.
Just out of high school, my friend, Kim and her father, Bobby taught me channeling. Kim, another friend, Lynne and myself spent the summer walking between worlds. To say we were obsessive would be an understatement. We became very good at allowing the Goddesses and Gods to speak through us and they helped us open the spiritual doors within us. We were young and felt immortal, which made us fearless of the unknown and the consequences of our actions. It was a spiritual summer that changed all of us, especially me. That fall the three of us parted ways. I wandered through life for almost a year. What I had experienced made me question everything that I had been taught. I was very confused, so I did a lot of drinking and partying to stop the thinking.
In 1977, I started community college before going on to Michigan State University. By moving away, I was able to start releasing the old negative beliefs about not only myself but also the world beyond. I started doing more research and join the Metaphysical Society that met on the MSU campus. Through this group I met a beautiful soul could have very well been an incarnated angel; Mary was an older woman, who was not only wise but also very loving. Her nurturing heart helped me have faith in my abilities. She helped me open the doors that Kate had closed. We studied Eastern philosophies, kabala, and energy healing. It was also the time I picked up my first Tarot deck and started to use them to focus my intuition. The summer of 1981 when I officially initiated, my dragon spirit awakened and reentered by soul. It was a time of great awareness and challenge. What I had received what had I asked for, but it was more than what I was emotionally prepared to deal with. It took me several years to regain balance.
That all happened before the mid eighties. It was years ahead of the spiritual awakening that was to come for others. The late 80's and the 90's when the spiritual awakenings began in mass, I had already gone through the karmic test of air, fire and had started the emotional test of water. I had learned how focus my energy into healing through Reiki and became disciplined enough to control my other gifts. When I gained control over myself, I was able to reawaken memories from the lives before, which brought forward past lessons and gave me access to old talents.
All that I have experience has given me a unique perspective not only on life, but also gave me the ability to see how we are all interconnected. None of us are really alone. Like pieces of a puzzle, we all have our own unique shape and image, but we are also part of one big picture. Out of the Shadows and Into the Light is more than a book of spells and rituals; it contains what I have learned along the way. When we lack something in our life, whether it be love, prosperity or security, the sources is always an emotional or spiritual wound. By healing the injury, the path to healing opens and you will be able to find what you seek. Oprah once said there are two emotions, love and fear. I have gone one step further by adding--if you come from fear, you can never have love; however, if you come from love, you will never lack for it. By healing ourselves, we open our hearts and souls to that which we desire the most. It is this perspective that make Out of the Shadows and Into the Light different than other Book of Shadows. It is a 114 page full color ebook with information on healing, love, prosperity and protection. There are also sections on Dragon Magic and Justice Rituals. In addition, there are articles on Kundalini, the elements and manifesting. The download costs 5.00 through paypal and is only available on my site at www.theresachaze.com.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
National Disability Arts Forum.
National Disablitiy Arts Forum Main page
Established in 1991 and based in Newcastle's Ouseburn Valley, the National Disability Arts Forum aims to create equality of opportunity for disabled people in all aspects of the arts. It does this by:
Supporting the development of Disability Arts Agencies, both regional and local throughout the UK
Maintaining and developing a network through which these Agencies can support and assist each others development
Establishing favourable conditions within which disabled people can explore and express the condition of disability through the arts
Promoting the value of art by disabled people.
We are also involved in:
Promoting and supporting examples of good and or innovative practice that encourages the participation of disabled people in the arts
Assisting organisations in developing good and or innovative practice that encourages the participation of disabled people in the arts.
If you are new to Disability Arts, you might be interested to learn what the Disability Arts movement is all about.
You can find out who this site is aimed at and what services we can offer, or alternatively read more about our work in this pdf. Alternatively, please feel very welcome to contact us.
The National Disability Arts Forum is a registered charity (charity number 1089377) and a company limited by guarantee.
Established in 1991 and based in Newcastle's Ouseburn Valley, the National Disability Arts Forum aims to create equality of opportunity for disabled people in all aspects of the arts. It does this by:
Supporting the development of Disability Arts Agencies, both regional and local throughout the UK
Maintaining and developing a network through which these Agencies can support and assist each others development
Establishing favourable conditions within which disabled people can explore and express the condition of disability through the arts
Promoting the value of art by disabled people.
We are also involved in:
Promoting and supporting examples of good and or innovative practice that encourages the participation of disabled people in the arts
Assisting organisations in developing good and or innovative practice that encourages the participation of disabled people in the arts.
If you are new to Disability Arts, you might be interested to learn what the Disability Arts movement is all about.
You can find out who this site is aimed at and what services we can offer, or alternatively read more about our work in this pdf. Alternatively, please feel very welcome to contact us.
The National Disability Arts Forum is a registered charity (charity number 1089377) and a company limited by guarantee.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Magical Fantasy Novel Synopsis: Would You Read This Book?
Cheyenne and Celeste came to Coyote Springs to save a child; instead, Cheyenne found a home. With the help of their new friend, Jane, they created a spiritual sanctuary. But when Celeste stopped running, her past caught up with her. Dominic arrived with promises of love and passion. Instead of love, he reawakened Celeste’s dark side, turning her against those she loved. With the aid of the dragons, Cheyenne was barely able to ward off their first attack. With each soul they bound to them, Celeste and Dominic’s hatred grew until they would not settle for less than totally destroying Cheyenne and all she loves. How do you protect yourself from someone who knows how to steal your soul?
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Direct Marketing to Independent Bookstores
Direct Marketing to Independent Bookstores
By
Theresa Chaze
Active book promotion and marketing is important to every book's success, especially when it comes to the beginning writer. Contacting independent bookstores is a direct marketing method that is not only cost effective but a successful way for the authors to bring their work to the attention of buyers. With the technological advancements of email, fax and unlimited long distance, it is easier and cheaper than ever before for authors to promote their work to brick and mortar stores.
In the past, authors used direct mailings and industry advertisements to gain the attention of independent bookstore owners. It was a costly and slow process. Not only was it expensive to print full color flyers, but the increasing postage rates made snail mail direct marketing cost prohibitive. Placing ad in trade magazines is effective only if the ad is well placed and designed. Yet even then, the message would only reach those stores that subscribed to the magazine or service.
The internet has opened the door to direct marketing to bookstores by making it cheaper, easier and quicker. Most stores have websites, which contain their contact information as well as accurate descriptions of the books they sell. It is an easy way for the author to reach their target audience by approaching only the stores who carry their genre. By searching the net, an author can find stores by state or specialty. However, compiling list of bookstores can be very time consuming and frustrating. There is no master site that lists bookstores. Instead, the search must be done by location or genre.
If an author is wise, she or he will create a list of the bookstores as they are contacted, not only to check back with them but for future use. However, there are short cuts that an author can take. There are sites that do sell lists of bookstores; however, they are very expensive and have been assembled by non writers. Valkyrie Publishing is offering the list it uses to promote their books. This list has contact information for over 2000 independent bookstores. Most of them have not only the contact information, but also details about the store itself. Below are examples of what the list contains.
Auburn University Bookstore
1360 Haley Center, Auburn, AL 36849
Phone: (334)844-1365
Fax: (334)844-1697
Type of Books Sold: Primarily New
Description: Auburn University Bookstore
Alabama Booksmith
2626 19th Place South, Birmingham, AL 35209
Phone: (205)870-4242
Fax: (205)870-4302
Type of Books Sold: Primarily New
Malcolm's Reading Room
404 17th Street, Birmingham, AL 35203
Phone: (205)563-4846
Fax: (205)802-2240
Page & Palette Inc.
32 South Section Street, Fairhope, AL 36532
Phone: (251)928-5295
Fax: (251)928-2550
Type of Books Sold: Primarily New
Description: For over 30 years we have been dedicated to enhancing the quality of life on the Eastern Shore.
Little Professor Book Center
2717 18th Street South, Homewood, AL 35209
Phone: (205)870-7461
Fax: (205)879-7563
Type of Books Sold: Primarily New
Accepts Book Sense Gift Cards
Description: Besides having an impressive assortment of books, we also have a wonderfully delicious cafe and one of the largest selections of magazines in Birmingham!
The stores are organized by state with additional listings for new age and fantasy stores. The list costs $20.00 payable through paypal only. It is found at www.theresachaze.com.
By
Theresa Chaze
Active book promotion and marketing is important to every book's success, especially when it comes to the beginning writer. Contacting independent bookstores is a direct marketing method that is not only cost effective but a successful way for the authors to bring their work to the attention of buyers. With the technological advancements of email, fax and unlimited long distance, it is easier and cheaper than ever before for authors to promote their work to brick and mortar stores.
In the past, authors used direct mailings and industry advertisements to gain the attention of independent bookstore owners. It was a costly and slow process. Not only was it expensive to print full color flyers, but the increasing postage rates made snail mail direct marketing cost prohibitive. Placing ad in trade magazines is effective only if the ad is well placed and designed. Yet even then, the message would only reach those stores that subscribed to the magazine or service.
The internet has opened the door to direct marketing to bookstores by making it cheaper, easier and quicker. Most stores have websites, which contain their contact information as well as accurate descriptions of the books they sell. It is an easy way for the author to reach their target audience by approaching only the stores who carry their genre. By searching the net, an author can find stores by state or specialty. However, compiling list of bookstores can be very time consuming and frustrating. There is no master site that lists bookstores. Instead, the search must be done by location or genre.
If an author is wise, she or he will create a list of the bookstores as they are contacted, not only to check back with them but for future use. However, there are short cuts that an author can take. There are sites that do sell lists of bookstores; however, they are very expensive and have been assembled by non writers. Valkyrie Publishing is offering the list it uses to promote their books. This list has contact information for over 2000 independent bookstores. Most of them have not only the contact information, but also details about the store itself. Below are examples of what the list contains.
Auburn University Bookstore
1360 Haley Center, Auburn, AL 36849
Phone: (334)844-1365
Fax: (334)844-1697
Type of Books Sold: Primarily New
Description: Auburn University Bookstore
Alabama Booksmith
2626 19th Place South, Birmingham, AL 35209
Phone: (205)870-4242
Fax: (205)870-4302
Type of Books Sold: Primarily New
Malcolm's Reading Room
404 17th Street, Birmingham, AL 35203
Phone: (205)563-4846
Fax: (205)802-2240
Page & Palette Inc.
32 South Section Street, Fairhope, AL 36532
Phone: (251)928-5295
Fax: (251)928-2550
Type of Books Sold: Primarily New
Description: For over 30 years we have been dedicated to enhancing the quality of life on the Eastern Shore.
Little Professor Book Center
2717 18th Street South, Homewood, AL 35209
Phone: (205)870-7461
Fax: (205)879-7563
Type of Books Sold: Primarily New
Accepts Book Sense Gift Cards
Description: Besides having an impressive assortment of books, we also have a wonderfully delicious cafe and one of the largest selections of magazines in Birmingham!
The stores are organized by state with additional listings for new age and fantasy stores. The list costs $20.00 payable through paypal only. It is found at www.theresachaze.com.
Friday, November 16, 2007
Wiccan Fantasy Sequel--Dragon Domain-Book Two of the Dragon Clan Trilogy
Dragon Domain (978-0-9798406-1-6) picks up the story several months and several miles down the road. Cheyenne and Celeste came to Coyote Springs to use their psychic gifts to find a missing child. They find the girl and made a new friend, Jane. Tired of rootless life, Cheyenne prays for a safe, stable home. With Jane's help, she find abandoned farm and decides to stay. Reluctantly, Celeste also remains. The threesome create a spiritual retreat that grows out of their shared wisdom, respect and sense of family. Cheyenne is happy for the first time since she awoke broken and bloody beneath the blinding desert son. Celeste had saved her then, but soon after Dominic appears on their doorstep, Celeste once again turns to the dark arts. Instead of a savior, she becomes vicious enemy with knowledge of all her strengths and weaknesses. With the dragons' aid, she was barely able to ward off their initial attack. But with each dark soul Celeste and Dominic bind to them, their malevolence grows until they will not settle for less that destroying Cheyenne and all she loves. How do you protect yourself from someone knows exactly how to steal your soul? (Available November 30, 2007)
CHAPTER FIFTEEN
Jane stood in front of the window, watching the rain being blown nearly horizontally. The wind howled around the house, shaking the windowpanes. Lightning flashed. Seconds later thunder cracked. It was the middle of the afternoon, yet it was as dark as night. The sensor turned on the streetlights and they bobbed like a lonely beacons on the street a washed with rain.
Lady Bridget and her daughter, Shelly, were in the kitchen, making ice tea by candlelight. Lady Bridget wasn’t exactly what she expected. But then again she didn’t know what to expect. But when the tall, full figured brunette answered the door, she was still surprised. Her long hair hung in a single braid down her back, disguising its true length. Her deep brown eyes shone brightly with the love of life and spirit. Shelly quickly joined her at the door. She was slightly younger version of Bridget. There was no mistaking their common gene pool. Originally, Jane had thought they were sisters. It wasn’t until later during conversation, did she learn Bridget was twenty years senior. The two of them had tittered about Jane’s mistake, implying that it was a common error. They had greeted her openly with trust and love. During dinner, she learned more about April. Some of her past, made Jane apprehensive, but the changes she had made in her path took great courage and strength; they were both qualities Jane admired. By the end of dinner, Jane was reassured.
That had been almost two days ago. Lady Bridget had insisted she stay until she was stronger. Gratefully she had agreed. Being pampered and mothered, she had slept and ate peacefully for the first time in months. The farm and all its problems were so far away, they no longer mattered. She was safe and protected. The urgency she had felt no longer prodded her to move on; something had changed, but she didn’t have a clue to what or how.
The power had been knocked out an hour or so ago. But she wasn’t really sure how long it had been. Her sense of time had gone weird since she arrived in Toledo. They had been talking on the back porch watching the storm blow in. The wind picked up. Together they had gathered the lawn furniture and safely tucked it in the garage. Before they could reach the house, the rain came down without warning. It was a hot summer rain that made it necessary to close the windows but made the inside unbearably hot. They left a few windows open on the sheltered side of the house. It didn’t help much. She felt her way to the chair and sat down. It was a comfy old chair that had already been softened by many other butts. Leaning back, she shifted her position so she’d still be able to look out the window.
Thunder rumbled. Lightning struck. The house shook. The room was ablaze like daylight. Suddenly Jane became uneasy. An electrical current surrounded her, making the air around her cold and rank. Its fingers reached for her heart. She screamed.
Lady Bridget and Shelly raced into the room, each carrying a candle. Bridget stopped short and shoved Shelly back out of the room. Quickly circling her left hand above the candle flame, she drew up an intense white ball of light. It grew to the size of a basketball. Angrily she shouted. “Dark One, who invades my domain, return whence you came.” She threw the ball at Jane. It hit in front of her, exposing the dark shadow of a figure looming over her. It crackled and hissed.
For an instant, Jane saw Celeste’s face. Horrified by the naked evil she saw in her eyes, she shrieked and covered her face.
The shadow folded into itself and disappeared through the window, cracking the pane. Another window cracked, echoing off the walls.
“Mother?” The younger woman’s voice questioned, but revealed no fear.
“Protect Jane.” Lady Bridget ordered.
Shelly nodded. Crossing the room, she stood behind Jane’s chair. Using the candlestick, she drew a double pentacle in the air. “I surround Jane and myself in the protection of the Goddess.” Stepping closer to the chair, she made a circle, which encompassed them both. “With this candle, I set up a barrier of light from each direction.” She raised the candle. “And from above.” She lowered the candle. “And below. This barrier is created from the will of the Goddess; it is seamless and impenetrable, unending as the Goddess’s love. It reflects back to the sender all negativity both the seen and the unseen the direct and the indirect. So mote it be.”
The air around them warmed. Jane felt like a child next to the younger woman. She looked up at her. Shelly was no longer a woman in her early twenties; she was a Priestess, knowledgeable in her craft and strong with the energy of the Goddess. “What about your mother?”
Shelly leaned around the chair, carefully keeping with in the glow of the candle. “Mother is safe. She has battled worse before and sent him squealing with his tail between his legs. No matter what. Stay in the circle of light. She needs to concentrate on him. Not worry about us.”
It made sense to Jane.
The younger woman sat on the arm of the chair, taking Jane’s hand in her own. “We’ll be ok. Mom called the others when we heard you scream. Her working partners are just minutes away. Besides,” she proudly shook back her long wavy hair, “my mother can take care of it herself.”
“Shush!” Lady Bridget hissed. The candle held high, she scanned the room. Her brown eyes darted from corner to corner. She walked toward the center of the room. The floor beneath her creaked. Lightning flashed, illuminating the room. For an instant, a dark form was revealed hovering within the folds of the drapes.
Jane’s scream as cut short by Shelly’s hand, becoming more of a muffled squeak.
“Shussh.” Shelly whispered. “You’re safe. Mom knows it’s there.”
“I know who it is.” Jane whispered back.
“Later.” The younger woman brought a single finger to her lips.”
Nodding, Jane involuntary pulled her feet onto the cushions of the chair. Her stomach churned. She was out of her league, out of possibilities, and nearly out of courage. She was an intuitive who studied Wicca. But nothing she had learned had prepared her for this kind of experience.
Lady Bridget stood alone in the darkness of the room. Her attention totally focused.
Lightning flashed in sequence, giving the room a strobbing effect. It was enough to give the shadow dimension and form. It was the size of a serving platter. Patches were nearly transparent. Other parts were too dense to see through. It pulsed in the rhythm of a heart beating. The general shape changing with each beat.
Streams of pure white light came up from the floor and down from the ceiling, engulfing Lady Bridget. It folded around her as the streams met and combined. Holding the candle with both hands before her, she released it. Instead of falling, it was held suspended. Spreading her arm out palms up, she slowly pivoted her hands. Highly focused beams of silver shot out of her palms, combining in the flame of the candle, and shot across the room, hitting the shadow.
It squealed. Shrinking back, it tried to hide deeper in the folds of the curtains. The light followed, spreading out to cover the shadow in violet flames. The squeal increased in pitch until it went beyond what the human ear could register, yet the sound vibration could be felt on their skin like an itch scratching wouldn’t cure. The windowpane rattled, threatening to break. Lightning flashed. Thunder cracked. Another flash revealed the presence of a second shadow. It joined with the first. The itch stopped. Together they disburse the flame, eating their way up the light to Lady Bridget.
Jane saw her weaken. She tugged on Shelly’s sleeve. “Go help her.” She whispered. “Never mind me.”
“I can’t” Shelly cried.
The front door burst open. Footsteps raced across the entranceway. Two men followed by a woman appeared in the archway. The younger man continued into the room; stepping behind Lady Bridget, he placed his open hands behind hers. Gold streams of light joined the silver, intertwining and reinforcing.
The shadows were forced back. Pushed, but not injured, both shadows escaped out the window. The storm continued. For a moment, the house was silent. The candle flickered out and fell to the floor with a clatter. The streams ceased. Only Shelly’s candle remained; its light was the only illumination in the room.
“It’s over.” Lady Bridget collapsed against the man behind her.
“What the hell brought him back?” The elderly man demanded from the darkness.
“Is she ok?” The unknown woman beside him asked. “We need light.” She continued. “Shelly drop your shield. It’s over and start lighting the candles.”
“Yes Grandmother.” Shelly licked her lips. “All is well. All is clear. Time for the shield to disappear.” The candle flickered but did not go out. She quickly stood and circled the room, lighting every candle she could find. With in minutes the room was a maze of flickering candle shadows and intertwining circles of candlelight.
The younger man had carried Lady Bridget to the sofa and was kneeling on the floor beside her. His build and general appearance was that of the elderly man, only his hair was longer and age hadn’t weighed down on his back. “You called Hon. I’ll be the first to admit you were right. He did come back.”
Taking one of the candles, the elderly woman quietly slipped from the room.
“Sometimes it would be good to be wrong.” She dryly answered. “Shelly, are you and Jane ok?”
“Yes, Mom. Are you?”
Lady Bridget nodded. “He has found a companion and followers.” She looked directly at the elderly man. “He’s stronger than before.” Her voice held the angry edge of an accusation.
“Is she one of them?” The elderly man demanded.
“No.” Lady Bridge countered. “One of his intended victims. One of many that didn’t need to be.”
CHAPTER FIFTEEN
Jane stood in front of the window, watching the rain being blown nearly horizontally. The wind howled around the house, shaking the windowpanes. Lightning flashed. Seconds later thunder cracked. It was the middle of the afternoon, yet it was as dark as night. The sensor turned on the streetlights and they bobbed like a lonely beacons on the street a washed with rain.
Lady Bridget and her daughter, Shelly, were in the kitchen, making ice tea by candlelight. Lady Bridget wasn’t exactly what she expected. But then again she didn’t know what to expect. But when the tall, full figured brunette answered the door, she was still surprised. Her long hair hung in a single braid down her back, disguising its true length. Her deep brown eyes shone brightly with the love of life and spirit. Shelly quickly joined her at the door. She was slightly younger version of Bridget. There was no mistaking their common gene pool. Originally, Jane had thought they were sisters. It wasn’t until later during conversation, did she learn Bridget was twenty years senior. The two of them had tittered about Jane’s mistake, implying that it was a common error. They had greeted her openly with trust and love. During dinner, she learned more about April. Some of her past, made Jane apprehensive, but the changes she had made in her path took great courage and strength; they were both qualities Jane admired. By the end of dinner, Jane was reassured.
That had been almost two days ago. Lady Bridget had insisted she stay until she was stronger. Gratefully she had agreed. Being pampered and mothered, she had slept and ate peacefully for the first time in months. The farm and all its problems were so far away, they no longer mattered. She was safe and protected. The urgency she had felt no longer prodded her to move on; something had changed, but she didn’t have a clue to what or how.
The power had been knocked out an hour or so ago. But she wasn’t really sure how long it had been. Her sense of time had gone weird since she arrived in Toledo. They had been talking on the back porch watching the storm blow in. The wind picked up. Together they had gathered the lawn furniture and safely tucked it in the garage. Before they could reach the house, the rain came down without warning. It was a hot summer rain that made it necessary to close the windows but made the inside unbearably hot. They left a few windows open on the sheltered side of the house. It didn’t help much. She felt her way to the chair and sat down. It was a comfy old chair that had already been softened by many other butts. Leaning back, she shifted her position so she’d still be able to look out the window.
Thunder rumbled. Lightning struck. The house shook. The room was ablaze like daylight. Suddenly Jane became uneasy. An electrical current surrounded her, making the air around her cold and rank. Its fingers reached for her heart. She screamed.
Lady Bridget and Shelly raced into the room, each carrying a candle. Bridget stopped short and shoved Shelly back out of the room. Quickly circling her left hand above the candle flame, she drew up an intense white ball of light. It grew to the size of a basketball. Angrily she shouted. “Dark One, who invades my domain, return whence you came.” She threw the ball at Jane. It hit in front of her, exposing the dark shadow of a figure looming over her. It crackled and hissed.
For an instant, Jane saw Celeste’s face. Horrified by the naked evil she saw in her eyes, she shrieked and covered her face.
The shadow folded into itself and disappeared through the window, cracking the pane. Another window cracked, echoing off the walls.
“Mother?” The younger woman’s voice questioned, but revealed no fear.
“Protect Jane.” Lady Bridget ordered.
Shelly nodded. Crossing the room, she stood behind Jane’s chair. Using the candlestick, she drew a double pentacle in the air. “I surround Jane and myself in the protection of the Goddess.” Stepping closer to the chair, she made a circle, which encompassed them both. “With this candle, I set up a barrier of light from each direction.” She raised the candle. “And from above.” She lowered the candle. “And below. This barrier is created from the will of the Goddess; it is seamless and impenetrable, unending as the Goddess’s love. It reflects back to the sender all negativity both the seen and the unseen the direct and the indirect. So mote it be.”
The air around them warmed. Jane felt like a child next to the younger woman. She looked up at her. Shelly was no longer a woman in her early twenties; she was a Priestess, knowledgeable in her craft and strong with the energy of the Goddess. “What about your mother?”
Shelly leaned around the chair, carefully keeping with in the glow of the candle. “Mother is safe. She has battled worse before and sent him squealing with his tail between his legs. No matter what. Stay in the circle of light. She needs to concentrate on him. Not worry about us.”
It made sense to Jane.
The younger woman sat on the arm of the chair, taking Jane’s hand in her own. “We’ll be ok. Mom called the others when we heard you scream. Her working partners are just minutes away. Besides,” she proudly shook back her long wavy hair, “my mother can take care of it herself.”
“Shush!” Lady Bridget hissed. The candle held high, she scanned the room. Her brown eyes darted from corner to corner. She walked toward the center of the room. The floor beneath her creaked. Lightning flashed, illuminating the room. For an instant, a dark form was revealed hovering within the folds of the drapes.
Jane’s scream as cut short by Shelly’s hand, becoming more of a muffled squeak.
“Shussh.” Shelly whispered. “You’re safe. Mom knows it’s there.”
“I know who it is.” Jane whispered back.
“Later.” The younger woman brought a single finger to her lips.”
Nodding, Jane involuntary pulled her feet onto the cushions of the chair. Her stomach churned. She was out of her league, out of possibilities, and nearly out of courage. She was an intuitive who studied Wicca. But nothing she had learned had prepared her for this kind of experience.
Lady Bridget stood alone in the darkness of the room. Her attention totally focused.
Lightning flashed in sequence, giving the room a strobbing effect. It was enough to give the shadow dimension and form. It was the size of a serving platter. Patches were nearly transparent. Other parts were too dense to see through. It pulsed in the rhythm of a heart beating. The general shape changing with each beat.
Streams of pure white light came up from the floor and down from the ceiling, engulfing Lady Bridget. It folded around her as the streams met and combined. Holding the candle with both hands before her, she released it. Instead of falling, it was held suspended. Spreading her arm out palms up, she slowly pivoted her hands. Highly focused beams of silver shot out of her palms, combining in the flame of the candle, and shot across the room, hitting the shadow.
It squealed. Shrinking back, it tried to hide deeper in the folds of the curtains. The light followed, spreading out to cover the shadow in violet flames. The squeal increased in pitch until it went beyond what the human ear could register, yet the sound vibration could be felt on their skin like an itch scratching wouldn’t cure. The windowpane rattled, threatening to break. Lightning flashed. Thunder cracked. Another flash revealed the presence of a second shadow. It joined with the first. The itch stopped. Together they disburse the flame, eating their way up the light to Lady Bridget.
Jane saw her weaken. She tugged on Shelly’s sleeve. “Go help her.” She whispered. “Never mind me.”
“I can’t” Shelly cried.
The front door burst open. Footsteps raced across the entranceway. Two men followed by a woman appeared in the archway. The younger man continued into the room; stepping behind Lady Bridget, he placed his open hands behind hers. Gold streams of light joined the silver, intertwining and reinforcing.
The shadows were forced back. Pushed, but not injured, both shadows escaped out the window. The storm continued. For a moment, the house was silent. The candle flickered out and fell to the floor with a clatter. The streams ceased. Only Shelly’s candle remained; its light was the only illumination in the room.
“It’s over.” Lady Bridget collapsed against the man behind her.
“What the hell brought him back?” The elderly man demanded from the darkness.
“Is she ok?” The unknown woman beside him asked. “We need light.” She continued. “Shelly drop your shield. It’s over and start lighting the candles.”
“Yes Grandmother.” Shelly licked her lips. “All is well. All is clear. Time for the shield to disappear.” The candle flickered but did not go out. She quickly stood and circled the room, lighting every candle she could find. With in minutes the room was a maze of flickering candle shadows and intertwining circles of candlelight.
The younger man had carried Lady Bridget to the sofa and was kneeling on the floor beside her. His build and general appearance was that of the elderly man, only his hair was longer and age hadn’t weighed down on his back. “You called Hon. I’ll be the first to admit you were right. He did come back.”
Taking one of the candles, the elderly woman quietly slipped from the room.
“Sometimes it would be good to be wrong.” She dryly answered. “Shelly, are you and Jane ok?”
“Yes, Mom. Are you?”
Lady Bridget nodded. “He has found a companion and followers.” She looked directly at the elderly man. “He’s stronger than before.” Her voice held the angry edge of an accusation.
“Is she one of them?” The elderly man demanded.
“No.” Lady Bridge countered. “One of his intended victims. One of many that didn’t need to be.”
Friday, November 09, 2007
Book of Shadows: The Truth Behind Prosperity Magic
The Truth Behind Prosperity Magic
By
Theresa Chaze
Prosperity is more than the sum total of what is in you bank account; who you are and what you have accomplished is far more important that what you own. In the end, the only things you take with you are your honor, the love you shared and the wisdom you have learned. That doesn't mean you can set aside the mundane needs of life and go meditate on a hill--even then you have to eat. What it does mean that you need to take responsibility for your decisions and your life. Casting spells and doing rituals can help, but I have yet to meet a rich witch. The best way to insure a successful, prosperous life is to remain in school and get a good education. In doing so, you'll find a source of satisfaction as well as being able to live comfortably.
If you want a new job, do the ritual, but also check the want ads, fill out applications and all the things you would normally need to do on a mundane level to get a job. You can ask for the winning lottery numbers, but don't start spending the money until the check is not only in your hand but has cleared in the bank.
As with all magic, what you send out is what you will receive back. If you help others, you will receive aid when you need it. Whatever aspect of your life that you feed energy to will be the strongest. If you feed the fear of loss and the poverty mind set that is what the universe will expand; however, if you keep your focus on your blessings, being able to share them and be confident you will always be provide for, the universe will increase that energy as well. Being able to release the society taught belief of limited resources is the biggest challenge all of us have to face. From every corner, the message is that there is not enough for all--not enough food, energy, money or resources for everyone to have an equal share. The messages is that you have to fight for what you want, disregarding the needs and rights of others for they are the enemy competing for the scarce blessings. If you feel this way, the whole universe will not be enough to fill you or make you feel safe. However, by releasing the fear and being open to the miracles of the universe, you will find that miracles happen everyday and that there is indeed enough for all to live well and be safe.
After all the rituals have been done and the candles have been burned out, the most effective prosperity spells are the ones that come under the heading "Random Acts of Kindness". The simple things we do for one another, without expecting anything return, are the most powerful magic. True charity is anonymous; it expects nothing in return. It is giving change at the check out when the person in front of you is a little short. It is taking meals or offering rides to someone in need. It is taking the time to smile at someone simply because you care that they have a little joy in their lives. Praying for peace is great, but taking the time to clean up a roadside is prosperity in action; not only do you get some fresh air and sunshine, but also you make the world a little better just by cleaning up the trash. By giving of ourselves freely and openly, we create a prosperity magnet around us that is more powerful than any ritual.
Out of the Shadows and Into the Light will not only teach you more about prosperity rituals, but those for love, protection and healing. This ebook give rituals to heal your heart and make you dreams to come true. Both old and new magic is combined in this colorful book that seeks only to inform and protect. If you seek wisdom, love or justice this ebook of shadows can help you find what you need. It is only found at www.theresachaze.com.
By
Theresa Chaze
Prosperity is more than the sum total of what is in you bank account; who you are and what you have accomplished is far more important that what you own. In the end, the only things you take with you are your honor, the love you shared and the wisdom you have learned. That doesn't mean you can set aside the mundane needs of life and go meditate on a hill--even then you have to eat. What it does mean that you need to take responsibility for your decisions and your life. Casting spells and doing rituals can help, but I have yet to meet a rich witch. The best way to insure a successful, prosperous life is to remain in school and get a good education. In doing so, you'll find a source of satisfaction as well as being able to live comfortably.
If you want a new job, do the ritual, but also check the want ads, fill out applications and all the things you would normally need to do on a mundane level to get a job. You can ask for the winning lottery numbers, but don't start spending the money until the check is not only in your hand but has cleared in the bank.
As with all magic, what you send out is what you will receive back. If you help others, you will receive aid when you need it. Whatever aspect of your life that you feed energy to will be the strongest. If you feed the fear of loss and the poverty mind set that is what the universe will expand; however, if you keep your focus on your blessings, being able to share them and be confident you will always be provide for, the universe will increase that energy as well. Being able to release the society taught belief of limited resources is the biggest challenge all of us have to face. From every corner, the message is that there is not enough for all--not enough food, energy, money or resources for everyone to have an equal share. The messages is that you have to fight for what you want, disregarding the needs and rights of others for they are the enemy competing for the scarce blessings. If you feel this way, the whole universe will not be enough to fill you or make you feel safe. However, by releasing the fear and being open to the miracles of the universe, you will find that miracles happen everyday and that there is indeed enough for all to live well and be safe.
After all the rituals have been done and the candles have been burned out, the most effective prosperity spells are the ones that come under the heading "Random Acts of Kindness". The simple things we do for one another, without expecting anything return, are the most powerful magic. True charity is anonymous; it expects nothing in return. It is giving change at the check out when the person in front of you is a little short. It is taking meals or offering rides to someone in need. It is taking the time to smile at someone simply because you care that they have a little joy in their lives. Praying for peace is great, but taking the time to clean up a roadside is prosperity in action; not only do you get some fresh air and sunshine, but also you make the world a little better just by cleaning up the trash. By giving of ourselves freely and openly, we create a prosperity magnet around us that is more powerful than any ritual.
Out of the Shadows and Into the Light will not only teach you more about prosperity rituals, but those for love, protection and healing. This ebook give rituals to heal your heart and make you dreams to come true. Both old and new magic is combined in this colorful book that seeks only to inform and protect. If you seek wisdom, love or justice this ebook of shadows can help you find what you need. It is only found at www.theresachaze.com.
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
The Writers's Strike Best Think For Days Of Our Lives
The Writer’s Strike Best Thing For Days Of Our Lives
The writers strike could be the best thing that happened to the daytime serial, Days of Our Lives. Their hack writers have taken an award winning show from first place to nearly dead last. Their story ideas are worn out, they are degrading to women and they lack the suspense and freshness that the soap was based on for decades.
Anybody remember Another World. When the network was trying to cancel it, they had the writers kill off Carl and dreadful stories with characters going against their history and the morals. Any of this sounding familiar? From Sami "loving her rapist" to the murder of John, the writers have been chipping away at the foundation of the show so the network can substitute a cheaper talk show. I've been watching since Doug and Julie were the super couple. Back when Alice Horton broke Roman out of jail, the storylines enhanced the characters, now the writers are breaking down decades of traditions. If they had any creativity at all, they could have easily found a storyline for John and Marlena other than them necking in public. They keep focusing on the younger characters, ignoring the fact that most younger people follow the parents' soap viewing traditions. The more you ignore the characters we grew up with, the more annoyed the fans will be come and the faster the ratings will drop.
Drake Hogestyn as John has been a favorite character from the beginning. He was always a knight in shining armor and a true hero. Deidre Hall as Marlena Evans has been his equal. Together they have shared love and faced the devil. In life and death, they have been an exciting and romantic couple. Killing the character off was just simply stupid and has left a void in the show. Just like the killing of Carl in Another World, the lost of the character has left a void in the show that will not easily be filled. But there is a way to fix it. The last few weeks could have simply been one of Celeste's visions. The vision ends and Celeste arrives in time to save John. It is not as bad as the way Dallas brought Bobby back, but it would work within the show.
I love Allison is a fabulous actress; she does marvelous work making Sami grow and develop. But the whole idea of Sami marrying her rapist is a sexist, male driven view of the world. When women are raped, they don't fall in love with the men who have violated them. Some claim that it wasn't rape. Let see, she could either sleep with EJ or let Lucas die? She didn't have a choice. By definition, rape is a being forced to have sex. He didn't use a weapon, but he still raped her all the same. The whole storyline is absurd. It is a throw back to stupid romance novels where the woman is forcibly carried off and held hostage only to fall in love with the capture. Women are not prizes or possessions. There is nothing romantic about being raped. Sami doesn't forgive easily--true. EJ raped her. Shot John. Blackmailed her. The list goes on. The fact that she didn't drop the match and finish it all only shows how she has grown as a character. If she went back to being the old Sami, she would seek to revenge on the person who caused her pain, which would be EJ. She would make his life a living hell. If the writers actually knew any history of the show, there is a big old lie that would break Sami and Lucus up if it came out. If EJ used it, he would actually have a chance. But then again the writer would actually have to do...research and work
It is the whole cast that make the show work. Killing John was simply stupid. Not using Marlena is even worse. Patch and Kayla, Bo and Hope, the list under valued talent goes on. There is so many more interesting story ideas available--if they had writers who had even one creative bone in their collective body, the show would be first. They have the creative talent, they have the history, they have the best tech people--and the absolute worse writers. Rumor has it that they have enough scripts until February. It the producers had any brains or the will to keep the show on the air, they would seek alternative writers who had the creativity to undue the damage that has already been done.
The writers strike could be the best thing that happened to the daytime serial, Days of Our Lives. Their hack writers have taken an award winning show from first place to nearly dead last. Their story ideas are worn out, they are degrading to women and they lack the suspense and freshness that the soap was based on for decades.
Anybody remember Another World. When the network was trying to cancel it, they had the writers kill off Carl and dreadful stories with characters going against their history and the morals. Any of this sounding familiar? From Sami "loving her rapist" to the murder of John, the writers have been chipping away at the foundation of the show so the network can substitute a cheaper talk show. I've been watching since Doug and Julie were the super couple. Back when Alice Horton broke Roman out of jail, the storylines enhanced the characters, now the writers are breaking down decades of traditions. If they had any creativity at all, they could have easily found a storyline for John and Marlena other than them necking in public. They keep focusing on the younger characters, ignoring the fact that most younger people follow the parents' soap viewing traditions. The more you ignore the characters we grew up with, the more annoyed the fans will be come and the faster the ratings will drop.
Drake Hogestyn as John has been a favorite character from the beginning. He was always a knight in shining armor and a true hero. Deidre Hall as Marlena Evans has been his equal. Together they have shared love and faced the devil. In life and death, they have been an exciting and romantic couple. Killing the character off was just simply stupid and has left a void in the show. Just like the killing of Carl in Another World, the lost of the character has left a void in the show that will not easily be filled. But there is a way to fix it. The last few weeks could have simply been one of Celeste's visions. The vision ends and Celeste arrives in time to save John. It is not as bad as the way Dallas brought Bobby back, but it would work within the show.
I love Allison is a fabulous actress; she does marvelous work making Sami grow and develop. But the whole idea of Sami marrying her rapist is a sexist, male driven view of the world. When women are raped, they don't fall in love with the men who have violated them. Some claim that it wasn't rape. Let see, she could either sleep with EJ or let Lucas die? She didn't have a choice. By definition, rape is a being forced to have sex. He didn't use a weapon, but he still raped her all the same. The whole storyline is absurd. It is a throw back to stupid romance novels where the woman is forcibly carried off and held hostage only to fall in love with the capture. Women are not prizes or possessions. There is nothing romantic about being raped. Sami doesn't forgive easily--true. EJ raped her. Shot John. Blackmailed her. The list goes on. The fact that she didn't drop the match and finish it all only shows how she has grown as a character. If she went back to being the old Sami, she would seek to revenge on the person who caused her pain, which would be EJ. She would make his life a living hell. If the writers actually knew any history of the show, there is a big old lie that would break Sami and Lucus up if it came out. If EJ used it, he would actually have a chance. But then again the writer would actually have to do...research and work
It is the whole cast that make the show work. Killing John was simply stupid. Not using Marlena is even worse. Patch and Kayla, Bo and Hope, the list under valued talent goes on. There is so many more interesting story ideas available--if they had writers who had even one creative bone in their collective body, the show would be first. They have the creative talent, they have the history, they have the best tech people--and the absolute worse writers. Rumor has it that they have enough scripts until February. It the producers had any brains or the will to keep the show on the air, they would seek alternative writers who had the creativity to undue the damage that has already been done.
Saturday, November 03, 2007
Free Spiritually Incorrect Ezine--Messages From The Universe November Issue
Greetings,
Here is the November issue of Messages From the Universe. As always it has the Tarot Energy reading for the month along with articles by Rev. Marci Drewy, Bruce Seah, Moriah Marston and many others. Although you are welcome to share the ezine as a whole, the individual articles remain the property of the authors.
The address is below. You may have to cut and paste it into your browser.
http://us.share.geocities.com/tirgana/MessagesNov2007.pdf
If you would like to insure you receive Messages From the Universe every month, please join the free Yahoo group at:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/MessagesFromtheUniverse/
Here is the November issue of Messages From the Universe. As always it has the Tarot Energy reading for the month along with articles by Rev. Marci Drewy, Bruce Seah, Moriah Marston and many others. Although you are welcome to share the ezine as a whole, the individual articles remain the property of the authors.
The address is below. You may have to cut and paste it into your browser.
http://us.share.geocities.com/tirgana/MessagesNov2007.pdf
If you would like to insure you receive Messages From the Universe every month, please join the free Yahoo group at:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/MessagesFromtheUniverse/
Thursday, November 01, 2007
Six Simple Steps For Successfull Publishing
Doing a simple search on the net for predators and editors, it is easy to discover how many individuals and companies are waiting to take advantage of writers. Making grandiose promises of making their book a best seller, they con unsuspecting writers out of the money, talent and royalties. Even those writers who do the research can find that they have been taken advantage, However, with the new technological advances in computers and in printing, writers no long have to depend on others to make their publishing dream come true. Print on demand opens the door for authors to not only maintain creative control, but also retain all of the profits from their work. There are six simple steps to getting your book successfully published and distributed.
1. Write your book, making sure that it is properly edited.
Not only does you book have to be creative and interesting, but it has to be readable. Meaning that you need to do more than run it through the spell checker. Punctuation, spelling, and grammar errors will detract from the content and discredit the author. Although mistakes can even be found best selling books, they are rare and quickly fixed in the next edition. First time authors especially need to make sure the work reaches the highest standard possible.
2. Format you book so that it is easy to read and looks professional with an eye catching cover and enticing back cover blurb.
Formatting your book not only is resizing it to fit the appropriate book size, but it is also making sure the typesetting gives the pages a professional appearance. Margins need to be justified to give the pages a clean look. In most cases, book covers should be kept simple and uncomplicated; the graphics need to lure the reader to pick it up. The back cover blurb needs to tempt the reader into reading a few pages. The pages within should persuade the reader the book is worth the money.
3. Find a printer who can produce quality books at a cost effective price.
The list of POD printers is rapidly growing. By Googling the “print on demand printers”, the writer can find an impressive of list that varies not only in price but also in services. Some POD printers provide printing services without set up fees; however, they have limited distribution, which will also reduce the number brick and mortar stores who will be willing to carry the books. However, if an author only needs a few copies or intends to sell solely online, theses services are inexpensive ways to get a book in print. Most POD printers charge set up fees, but they also provide other printing options for book size, colors, and binding.
4. Make you book financially attractive to bookstores.
New authors have be realistic about their profit margins. In order for bookstores to be interested, the books have to be reasonably priced with at least a 50% discount off the cover price. However, the current standard discount is 55% off. In addition, making the books returnable is a must. Very few bookstores will risk their money and shelf space on a book by an unknown author if it isn’t returnable. When setting the cover price all three factors must be considered in along with a royalty fee. Never forget to pay yourself for your work, but don’t forget that the higher the cost of the book, the few copies that will be sold.
5. List your book with a distributor who is widely used.
Ingram is one of the widest know distributors in the country. However, they will not work with publishing houses that have less than ten titles in print. For a new publishing house, this can be a temporary obstacle. They do however have a list of associated distributors who will represent books from smaller publishers. The site address for the list is http://www.ingrambook.com/new/distributors.asp. Each of these distributors has their own standards and genres that they represent. Some of which require an exclusive contract for each book.
6. Promoted and market you book 24/7
Whether traditional or POD, a beginning author does nearly all of the marketing and promotions. In order to be effective, the author has to not only find a niche market, but has to create brand name for her or himself. The niche market is the target market that you are seeking according to genre, age, gender and readership. Creating a brand name is process where an author creates a strong connection with the target audience. In the past, traditional publishers placed ads and arranged for reviews. These are both still important venues; however, the internet has opened up many different options. Blogs, vblogs, and homepages are only three opportunities to attract readers, which cost little or no money. Online groups, chat rooms, and message boards are not only places to promote your work, but it is a great way to make connections with like minds.
No longer costing thousands of dollars to get their books in print, more authors are starting their own publishing houses and going out on their own. By doing it themselves, an author can published and distributed to the public for less than three hundred dollars.
Valkyrie Publishing is a consulting service, which helps authors create their dream without risking their royalties or answering to another. It is their job to make the publishing experience as simple and inexpensive as possible. For authors who are not technologically savvy or would just like help with the process, they are an excellent resource and beneficial asset.
1. Write your book, making sure that it is properly edited.
Not only does you book have to be creative and interesting, but it has to be readable. Meaning that you need to do more than run it through the spell checker. Punctuation, spelling, and grammar errors will detract from the content and discredit the author. Although mistakes can even be found best selling books, they are rare and quickly fixed in the next edition. First time authors especially need to make sure the work reaches the highest standard possible.
2. Format you book so that it is easy to read and looks professional with an eye catching cover and enticing back cover blurb.
Formatting your book not only is resizing it to fit the appropriate book size, but it is also making sure the typesetting gives the pages a professional appearance. Margins need to be justified to give the pages a clean look. In most cases, book covers should be kept simple and uncomplicated; the graphics need to lure the reader to pick it up. The back cover blurb needs to tempt the reader into reading a few pages. The pages within should persuade the reader the book is worth the money.
3. Find a printer who can produce quality books at a cost effective price.
The list of POD printers is rapidly growing. By Googling the “print on demand printers”, the writer can find an impressive of list that varies not only in price but also in services. Some POD printers provide printing services without set up fees; however, they have limited distribution, which will also reduce the number brick and mortar stores who will be willing to carry the books. However, if an author only needs a few copies or intends to sell solely online, theses services are inexpensive ways to get a book in print. Most POD printers charge set up fees, but they also provide other printing options for book size, colors, and binding.
4. Make you book financially attractive to bookstores.
New authors have be realistic about their profit margins. In order for bookstores to be interested, the books have to be reasonably priced with at least a 50% discount off the cover price. However, the current standard discount is 55% off. In addition, making the books returnable is a must. Very few bookstores will risk their money and shelf space on a book by an unknown author if it isn’t returnable. When setting the cover price all three factors must be considered in along with a royalty fee. Never forget to pay yourself for your work, but don’t forget that the higher the cost of the book, the few copies that will be sold.
5. List your book with a distributor who is widely used.
Ingram is one of the widest know distributors in the country. However, they will not work with publishing houses that have less than ten titles in print. For a new publishing house, this can be a temporary obstacle. They do however have a list of associated distributors who will represent books from smaller publishers. The site address for the list is http://www.ingrambook.com/new/distributors.asp. Each of these distributors has their own standards and genres that they represent. Some of which require an exclusive contract for each book.
6. Promoted and market you book 24/7
Whether traditional or POD, a beginning author does nearly all of the marketing and promotions. In order to be effective, the author has to not only find a niche market, but has to create brand name for her or himself. The niche market is the target market that you are seeking according to genre, age, gender and readership. Creating a brand name is process where an author creates a strong connection with the target audience. In the past, traditional publishers placed ads and arranged for reviews. These are both still important venues; however, the internet has opened up many different options. Blogs, vblogs, and homepages are only three opportunities to attract readers, which cost little or no money. Online groups, chat rooms, and message boards are not only places to promote your work, but it is a great way to make connections with like minds.
No longer costing thousands of dollars to get their books in print, more authors are starting their own publishing houses and going out on their own. By doing it themselves, an author can published and distributed to the public for less than three hundred dollars.
Valkyrie Publishing is a consulting service, which helps authors create their dream without risking their royalties or answering to another. It is their job to make the publishing experience as simple and inexpensive as possible. For authors who are not technologically savvy or would just like help with the process, they are an excellent resource and beneficial asset.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Make Your Publishing Dream A Reality: paperback and ebooks
Publish You Own Book. Tired of doing all the work and receiving little or no profits. POD makes self-publishing cheaper and give authors more access to distributors. Traditional publishers throw good books into slush piles. Many POD publishers take your money, keep most of the profits, and give you minimal royalties. Beginning authors do all the writing, promotion and marketing, yet receive very little of the profits. It costs very little to get your book into print and accepted by distributors. Valkyrie Publishing helps you publish your own work and keep all the profits. For more information go to http://www.geocitie s.com/tirgana/Valkyrieserves.pdf or www.theresachaze.com
Thursday, October 04, 2007
Magical Fantasy Novel: An Adult Version Of Harry Potter
Magic, suspense and Karmic Justice combine in a tale of horror in Awakening the Dragon as Rachael awakens her dragon spirit prematurely to protect herself and all she loves from a cult intent on killing the new witch. To read an excerpt go to:
http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/excerptatdebook.pdf
Valkyrie Publishing presents Awakening the Dragon--Book One of the Dragon Clan Trilogy. ISBN-978-9798406-0-9. The ebook available at www.theresachaze.com
http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/excerptatdebook.pdf
Valkyrie Publishing presents Awakening the Dragon--Book One of the Dragon Clan Trilogy. ISBN-978-9798406-0-9. The ebook available at www.theresachaze.com
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
Monday, October 01, 2007
Print on Demand Opens Options for Writers
Print on Demand Opens Options for Writers
By
Theresa Chaze
The Print on Demand technology has given writers the freedom to take total control of their work. No long bound to publishers’ demands and limited expectations, writers can affordably publish their own work, circumventing both traditional and POD publishers all together. With the willingness of distributors to widen their standards, smaller publishers now have access to brick and mortar stores as well as the online shops. The internet not only makes marketing and promotion accessible and affordable, but it gives authors and readers greater access to each other.
Print on Demand or POD is the printing process that is capable of producing one book at a time for a relatively reasonable price. The printing process opens alternative options for authors to not only get their work into print, but to control the business end. By becoming their own publisher, the writer is able to manage the pricing and discounts of their work as well as maintain creative discretion. No longer do the private tastes of an editor stand between the author and the reading public.
Ingram is one of the widest know distributors in the country. However, they will not work with a publishing house that has less than ten titles in print. For a new publishing house, this can be a temporary obstacle. They do however have a list of associated distributors who will represent books from smaller publishers. The site address for the list is:
http://www.ingrambook.com/new/distributors.asp. Each of these distributors have their own standards and genres that they represent. Some of which require an exclusive contract for each book. For a fee, these distributors also provide a wide range of services from editing, promotions and marketing advisors.
Whereas there are limited amounts of distributors, the list of POD printers is rapidly growing. By Googling the “print on demand printers”, the writer can find an impress of list that varies not only in price but also in services. Lulu Publishing (www.Lulu.com) provides printing services without set up fees; however, their distribution is does not have the availability of Ingram, so it is more difficult to get into brick and mortar stores. Cafepress (www.cafepress.com) provides a similar service with equal distribution issues. However, if an author only needs a few copies or intends to sell solely online, both of theses services are inexpensive ways to get a book in print. Other POD printers are also available. The difference is that they not only charge set up fees, but they also provide other printing options. Lightning Press (www.lightning-press.com) is only one such printer who will provide professional printing services for reasonable prices.
No matter which printer is chosen, the author will have to provide all their materials print ready. The cover needs to be at least 300 DPI and be formatted correctly to include the full cover including the spine. The text will have to be typeset for the for the appropriate size and margin settings. In addition, the author will have to provide his or her own ISBN number. The ISBN is the International Standard Book Number (ISBN) that uniquely identifies books and book-like products published internationally, however the standard has been update to a 13-digit number. No matter what some publishing house advertise, ISBN numbers cannot be legally transferred or sold to individuals. The number is permanently connected to the publishing house. However, there is an option to buy individual numbers. For those authors who are planning to publish multiple books the cheapest option is to buy a block. Ranging from 10 to 10,000, the cost per number radically drops as the quantity increases. When a writer provides the ISBN number, it remains consistent no matter which printer or distributor works with the book. R. R. Bowker (www.isbn.org) is the exclusive US source of publisher prefixes and accompanying ranges of ISBN numbers for eligible publishers. They will also create barcodes for a fee. There are also barcode generator programs available; in addition, by doing a search on the net, the writer can find sites that will create the barcode for free.
Bookstores and chains are looking for quality books that are reasonably priced, with a good discount, and are returnable. These four qualities make it easier for a new author to find shelve space, which increases the probability for sales. Although online sales are increasing, the majority of book sales are still made in brick and mortar stores. Making the book returnable will not guarantee placement, but it will increase the number of stores who will be take a risk on a new author.
Whether traditional or POD, a beginning author does nearly all of the marketing and promotions. In order to be effective, the author has to not only find a niche market, but has to create brand name for her or himself. The niche market is the target market that you are seeking according to genre, age, gender and interest of the readership. Creating a brand name is creating a strong connection between the author and the target audience. In the past, traditional publishers placed ads and arranged for reviews. These are both still important venues; however, the internet has opened up many different options. Blogs, vblogs, and homepages are only three opportunities to attract readers. Online groups, chat rooms, and message boards are not only places to promote your work, but it is a great way to make connections with like minds. To just jump in to just do an ad, will annoy people. However, if you participate in the conversations, you will not only meet interesting people but allow them to see the author behind the words thereby creating an interest in you work. By creating cooperatives, such as blog rolls, you help other writers while increasing you readership. Dorothy Thompson of Pump Up Your Book Promotions (http://www.pumpupyourbookpromotion.com/) is a full service online book promotion agency who can show you how to sell books without leaving the comfort of your home. They specialize in virtual book tours and video book trailers.
Valkyrie Publishing provides the technical support for authors who decide they want to publish their own work. Their services include typesetting and the creation of custom book covers. The author maintains all right and profits from the work. Valkyrie Publishing only provides the technical service to make the work printer ready. For more information, email Valkyrie@theresachaze.com.
By
Theresa Chaze
The Print on Demand technology has given writers the freedom to take total control of their work. No long bound to publishers’ demands and limited expectations, writers can affordably publish their own work, circumventing both traditional and POD publishers all together. With the willingness of distributors to widen their standards, smaller publishers now have access to brick and mortar stores as well as the online shops. The internet not only makes marketing and promotion accessible and affordable, but it gives authors and readers greater access to each other.
Print on Demand or POD is the printing process that is capable of producing one book at a time for a relatively reasonable price. The printing process opens alternative options for authors to not only get their work into print, but to control the business end. By becoming their own publisher, the writer is able to manage the pricing and discounts of their work as well as maintain creative discretion. No longer do the private tastes of an editor stand between the author and the reading public.
Ingram is one of the widest know distributors in the country. However, they will not work with a publishing house that has less than ten titles in print. For a new publishing house, this can be a temporary obstacle. They do however have a list of associated distributors who will represent books from smaller publishers. The site address for the list is:
http://www.ingrambook.com/new/distributors.asp. Each of these distributors have their own standards and genres that they represent. Some of which require an exclusive contract for each book. For a fee, these distributors also provide a wide range of services from editing, promotions and marketing advisors.
Whereas there are limited amounts of distributors, the list of POD printers is rapidly growing. By Googling the “print on demand printers”, the writer can find an impress of list that varies not only in price but also in services. Lulu Publishing (www.Lulu.com) provides printing services without set up fees; however, their distribution is does not have the availability of Ingram, so it is more difficult to get into brick and mortar stores. Cafepress (www.cafepress.com) provides a similar service with equal distribution issues. However, if an author only needs a few copies or intends to sell solely online, both of theses services are inexpensive ways to get a book in print. Other POD printers are also available. The difference is that they not only charge set up fees, but they also provide other printing options. Lightning Press (www.lightning-press.com) is only one such printer who will provide professional printing services for reasonable prices.
No matter which printer is chosen, the author will have to provide all their materials print ready. The cover needs to be at least 300 DPI and be formatted correctly to include the full cover including the spine. The text will have to be typeset for the for the appropriate size and margin settings. In addition, the author will have to provide his or her own ISBN number. The ISBN is the International Standard Book Number (ISBN) that uniquely identifies books and book-like products published internationally, however the standard has been update to a 13-digit number. No matter what some publishing house advertise, ISBN numbers cannot be legally transferred or sold to individuals. The number is permanently connected to the publishing house. However, there is an option to buy individual numbers. For those authors who are planning to publish multiple books the cheapest option is to buy a block. Ranging from 10 to 10,000, the cost per number radically drops as the quantity increases. When a writer provides the ISBN number, it remains consistent no matter which printer or distributor works with the book. R. R. Bowker (www.isbn.org) is the exclusive US source of publisher prefixes and accompanying ranges of ISBN numbers for eligible publishers. They will also create barcodes for a fee. There are also barcode generator programs available; in addition, by doing a search on the net, the writer can find sites that will create the barcode for free.
Bookstores and chains are looking for quality books that are reasonably priced, with a good discount, and are returnable. These four qualities make it easier for a new author to find shelve space, which increases the probability for sales. Although online sales are increasing, the majority of book sales are still made in brick and mortar stores. Making the book returnable will not guarantee placement, but it will increase the number of stores who will be take a risk on a new author.
Whether traditional or POD, a beginning author does nearly all of the marketing and promotions. In order to be effective, the author has to not only find a niche market, but has to create brand name for her or himself. The niche market is the target market that you are seeking according to genre, age, gender and interest of the readership. Creating a brand name is creating a strong connection between the author and the target audience. In the past, traditional publishers placed ads and arranged for reviews. These are both still important venues; however, the internet has opened up many different options. Blogs, vblogs, and homepages are only three opportunities to attract readers. Online groups, chat rooms, and message boards are not only places to promote your work, but it is a great way to make connections with like minds. To just jump in to just do an ad, will annoy people. However, if you participate in the conversations, you will not only meet interesting people but allow them to see the author behind the words thereby creating an interest in you work. By creating cooperatives, such as blog rolls, you help other writers while increasing you readership. Dorothy Thompson of Pump Up Your Book Promotions (http://www.pumpupyourbookpromotion.com/) is a full service online book promotion agency who can show you how to sell books without leaving the comfort of your home. They specialize in virtual book tours and video book trailers.
Valkyrie Publishing provides the technical support for authors who decide they want to publish their own work. Their services include typesetting and the creation of custom book covers. The author maintains all right and profits from the work. Valkyrie Publishing only provides the technical service to make the work printer ready. For more information, email Valkyrie@theresachaze.com.
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