The following is exactly why we do what we do. Imagine how running across something like this might change your day, your hopes, and keep you pushing ever onward. When I began, I had an idea how I was going to organize this blog but something like this review, and the things that come up in your everyday writing life are going to take the fore, I’m thinking. I’m a person who works on impulse and usually jumps in without thinking. So, consider yourself warned.
One of the things I wanted to do with this blog was to try many of things suggested as good avenues by other creatives. But they need to at least make a little sense to me. I would then share my experiences on this blog, what worked and what didn’t work for me. That is still my plan. But often I will throw in something about that which remains to be seen. Like today.
I think I mentioned in an earlier blog that I discovered Reedsy early on in this venture. I was looking for an editor and hooked up with Jessica from https://emerald-books.com/ So I have continued to view and use Reedsy at various times along the way. There are fees involved for most things you want, but to me they are worth it for the quality you get in return. Everything is vetted to the max.
Now to get to my story. This year I am determined to learn marketing. After publishing seven books I’ve discovered I have done everything backwards, which I talk about in other posts. So this year I decided to focus all my attention on two books and see what happened. We, as writers, love every book we write. Why else would we release them? But as businesspeople, we need to figure out what works. Where we should aim our limited energy.
I chose two books, Absurd, Said Bird, because I have fallen in love with Mouse (the main character) and Grandma’s Kitchen because I love this story of Grandma and girls carrying on a great family tradition. From the get-go, I thought Grandma’s Kitchen would be top dog.
Everything I’ve done, I’ve entered both books. I did a Goodreads Giveaway, which I will talk about in a later post. Absurd beat Grandma by around 500 requests– if I remember right. There have been other things I may talk about later. Right now, I will focus on my Reedsy https://reedsy.com/ reviews. Here I submitted both Absurd and Grandma. Both received five stars from reviewer Kameron Brooks. So far so good. Then when a book is released, it is in the running for a chance to be on the featured books of the week list—depending on how many upvotes the book gets. I still have no idea where these people come from. I mentioned on Facebook my need for upvotes and recognized the name of only one person who upvoted my books. But here’s the kicker, Absurd made the list, but Grandma didn’t.
No way to describe the first-time pleasure something like this brings. Didn’t matter at all if it didn’t mean much in the scheme of things. It was a step. A teeny, tiny baby step. Which I happily shared on Facebook and did get a few likes.
But then came the magic. People are still upvoting my books, it seems, and you get messages from Reedsy via email when they do. Last night I was looking at my notifications on Reedsy when I discovered the following. Absurd, again! I have no idea who this man is, but I can tell you one thing, he sure made my night a sleep of dreams.
Thank you Fazlul Karim, wherever you are.
The Absurd, Said Bird book is an absolute delight! From the moment I began reading, I was transported to a world of whimsy and wonder. The characters are so lovable and charming, with unique personalities that make them unforgettable.
The illustrations are breathtaking and perfectly complement the enchanting story. Every page is filled with vibrant colors and intricate details that make you feel like you’re right there alongside the characters, exploring this magical world.
What I appreciate most about this book is the way it encourages children to embrace their imagination and think outside the box. The message of the story is both heartwarming and empowering, reminding us that sometimes the most absurd ideas can lead to the greatest adventures.
Overall, I can’t recommend the Absurd, Said Bird book enough. It’s a masterpiece of children’s literature that will capture the hearts of readers of all ages. Thank you to the author and illustrator for creating such a beautiful and inspiring book!
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