Working with a Small Publisher
I first want to thank Leah and the rest of the Book Divas for allowing me to talk with you today. My name is Sean McCartney and I am the author of the new young adult action adventure series from Mountainland Publishing entitled THE TREASURE HUNTERS CLUB: SECRETS OF THE MAGICAL MEDALLIONS which is available for sale at Barnes and Noble, Amazon, and Borders.
I’ve been asked what it has been like working for a small publisher like Mountainland?
I have got to say it has been both rewarding and frustrating. At times it is both of those feelings in the same day.
I’ll start with the rewarding aspects.
I liked the idea of a small publisher from the start. I felt I would get more personal attention, and I do. I also felt a small publisher would have more interest in my book succeeding because they would have a vested interest. For example Mountainland created a great web site for my book (www.treasurehuntersclubbook.com) that serves as a 24-hour advertisement for me and my writing.
The other thing I didn’t realize you get from working with a small publisher is input. I have been with my publisher through every aspect of the book. I’ve been asked my opinions and they are taken seriously and at times even used. The other nice thing is they always get back to you in a short amount of time when you e-mail or call about questions, which I ask a lot.
As great as it sounds there are some drawbacks to working with a small publisher. Some are obvious and others not.
The main problem comes down to money. Often times a small publisher, mine included, does not have the promotional budget to get the word out about the book. This is usually left to the author, which if they are new (like me!) can be like walking through a dark forest trying to find your way out.
While distribution is not that big of a problem, books can be ordered and at your home quite quickly but the book is not in many book stores. In many instances you get a small or no advance. In fact I don’t receive any up front money; however, my royalty rate is much higher than other authors. Due to the lack of dollars it is important for the author to get out and promote his work. This can be very difficult; however, what we have tried to do is turn a negative into a positive. With no money you have to become very creative on how you promote your book. The Internet has really opened up the possibilities with Blog Tours and Book Trailers, which is my favorite, and you are able to reach more readers.
To be honest, small publisher or big publisher doesn’t really matter. I found someone who believed in me as a writer and the series I created, that’s what is important.
Basically, if I can make The Treasure Hunters Club the next great series that every kid wants to read, I would have done my job as a writer. It could also lead to the ultimate dream of becoming a full-time writer.
I believe it’s different for everyone and you have to make the choice on how you want to proceed. There are many ways to get your voice out there. Find what works for you and go for it.
Remember the only who can tell you “you can’t” is yourself and you don’t have to listen.
Thank you again for your time. I won’t beg, that’s undignified, but go out and pickup a copy of THE TREASURE HUNTERS CLUB: SECRETS OF THE MAGICAL MEDALLIONS, or pick up two or three and make some friends. It’s a read you’ll enjoy.
About Sean McCartney
Currently Sean is promoting his first novel THE TREASURE HUNTERS CLUB: SECRETS OF THE MAGICAL MEDALLIONS. He lives in Canton, Ohio with his wife and two kids. He has been a teacher in the Plain Local School District for the last thirteen years.
