Why Bigger Isn't Necessarily Better In the Publishing Industry
United States of America (Press Release) February 16, 2008 --
Annapolis, MD – No, that’s not a spelling error in the headline. Maryland author Cynthia Polansky is referring to the independents (read “not owned by a huge conglomerate”) in the book industry.
Her latest book, a paranormal “thinking chick’s lit” novel called Remote Control, was released in January by independent publisher Echelon Press, based in Laurel, Maryland. “New authors sometimes feel that unless they are published by one of the New York houses, they haven’t really ‘made it.’” says Polansky. “I consider myself lucky to be with Echelon. They’ve taught me a lot about the industry. Large publishing corporations simply don’t have the time or the inclination to mentor authors, especially regarding promotion. The lion’s share of publicity funds go to celebrity or best-selling authors.”
Polansky acknowledges the personal attention and unique opportunities Echelon Press offers. Editor Karen Syed attends trade shows and book festivals, affording Echelon authors the opportunity to promote and sell their books. “She’s even helped me stamp postcards for a mass mailing,” Polansky says. “How many busy editors will do that?”
The benefits of industry independents don’t stop at the printing press. “The independent book seller is an author’s best friend,” affirms Polansky, “Hard Bean Coffee & Booksellers in downtown Annapolis continues to be so supportive, hosting and promoting book events. It’s no wonder they’re a favorite watering hole for area authors.”
This doesn’t mean that national bookstore chains don’t support local authors, too – when they can. “It’s just a different operation at the chains,”explains Hard Bean General Manager Andy Juskelis. “Corporate policy isn’t always consistent with an individual store manager’s ideas.”
Not surprisingly, the independent book store owner appreciates the benefits of a successful store-author relationship. Many writers have left the isolation of home offices in favor of the quietly companionable atmosphere of cozy book stores and coffee shops. “I wrote most of Remote Control at Hard Bean Coffee & Booksellers,” says Polansky. “It’s a special place to me.” Owner Gary Amoth enjoys the local authors who are part of the store scenery. “We’re truly a community here, working together. I’m proud that our local authors will one day look back fondly at the little shop that could.”
Cynthia Polansky returns to Hard Bean Coffee & Booksellers for an encore book signing on Sunday, March 9th, 1:30 to 4:30 pm. For more information, visit www.cynthiapolansky.com or www.beansandbooks.com.
Annapolis, MD – No, that’s not a spelling error in the headline. Maryland author Cynthia Polansky is referring to the independents (read “not owned by a huge conglomerate”) in the book industry.
Her latest book, a paranormal “thinking chick’s lit” novel called Remote Control, was released in January by independent publisher Echelon Press, based in Laurel, Maryland. “New authors sometimes feel that unless they are published by one of the New York houses, they haven’t really ‘made it.’” says Polansky. “I consider myself lucky to be with Echelon. They’ve taught me a lot about the industry. Large publishing corporations simply don’t have the time or the inclination to mentor authors, especially regarding promotion. The lion’s share of publicity funds go to celebrity or best-selling authors.”
Polansky acknowledges the personal attention and unique opportunities Echelon Press offers. Editor Karen Syed attends trade shows and book festivals, affording Echelon authors the opportunity to promote and sell their books. “She’s even helped me stamp postcards for a mass mailing,” Polansky says. “How many busy editors will do that?”
The benefits of industry independents don’t stop at the printing press. “The independent book seller is an author’s best friend,” affirms Polansky, “Hard Bean Coffee & Booksellers in downtown Annapolis continues to be so supportive, hosting and promoting book events. It’s no wonder they’re a favorite watering hole for area authors.”
This doesn’t mean that national bookstore chains don’t support local authors, too – when they can. “It’s just a different operation at the chains,”explains Hard Bean General Manager Andy Juskelis. “Corporate policy isn’t always consistent with an individual store manager’s ideas.”
Not surprisingly, the independent book store owner appreciates the benefits of a successful store-author relationship. Many writers have left the isolation of home offices in favor of the quietly companionable atmosphere of cozy book stores and coffee shops. “I wrote most of Remote Control at Hard Bean Coffee & Booksellers,” says Polansky. “It’s a special place to me.” Owner Gary Amoth enjoys the local authors who are part of the store scenery. “We’re truly a community here, working together. I’m proud that our local authors will one day look back fondly at the little shop that could.”
Cynthia Polansky returns to Hard Bean Coffee & Booksellers for an encore book signing on Sunday, March 9th, 1:30 to 4:30 pm. For more information, visit www.cynthiapolansky.com or www.beansandbooks.com.
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