I have just read a blog post on The Story Syren that brings a glimmer of hope to new writers. The post encourages the public to read books from debut authors. In this case the object seems to be to introduce readers to Young Adult books - but why not extend the challenge to include ALL debut writers. In fact my own challenge is for everyone to read at least ONE book from an unknown writer - who knows, you might be pleasantly surprised.
Too many books from celebrities
Okay I know I have a biased opinion, but in my view, too many people are reading books from over-paid, over-exposed, semi-literate celebrities. All well and good to read this stuff, but unfortunately, it's at the expense of books from real and talented authors.
No Budget
Each year, on the American market alone, we see something like 150,000 new books published. Steve Weber suggestes that of these 100,00 will sell less than 100 copies - not because they are not good enough, but because no publicity is made available for them, no book promotion because publishers plough their budgets into sure-fire hits from celebrities. The public has no idea which books are available. If this sort of thing continues, if there is no encouragement for new writers, there could be a stage where real novels are no longer available.
- So what is the 2010 Debut Author Challenge on The Story Syren?
- "The objective is to read a set number of YA (Young Adult) or MG (Middle Grade) novels from debut authors published this year.* I'm going to challenge everyone to read at least 12 debut novels! I’m hoping to read at least 30! You don’t have to list your choices right away, but if you do feel free to change them throughout the year. I will also be focusing on mostly Young Adult novels.
- Anyone can join, you don’t need a blog to participate. If you don’t have a blog you can always share your views by posting a review on Amazon.com/ BarnesandNoble.com/ GoodReads/Shelfari, or any other bookish site.
- The challenge will run from January 1, 2010- December 31, 2010. You can join at anytime!"
- For more information check the post out at The Story Syren
- Next post on Tell Me a Story
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Creative writing tips, conflict and tension
Book writing, 20 ways to polish that manuscript
