What About the New York Publishers?

For years I sought publication with some of the big publishers in New York. I submitted manuscripts to agents as well, and I got represented by several "well-respected" agents in the field. However, those agents turned out to be not what I expected. One went to jail for a couple of years; another was banished from the industry; yet another decided to start a children's book company and gave up being an agent. What a disappointment, and what a waste of time--a few years in fact.

After realizing the waiting period for manuscripts to be considered for acceptance or rejection was too long, I gave up on the New York Publishers. Looking back now, I wonder if I was wrong to give up after putting so much time into the process. Others who began at the same time I did have met with considerable success. Now I wonder.

What about you? What do you think about the importance now of being with a New York publisher? Can authors gain enough success with small publishers or by self-publishing?

Insecure Writers Support Group - Concerns of a Book Author

I just remembered it is the first Wednesday and time for the Insecure Writers Support Group. The A to Z Challenge just completed has made me rethink my writing and has definitely made me insecure about it. Creating a Painting a Day has turned me back in the direction of my art which I somewhat deserted when I started to write novels.

Here are the questions racing about in my head:

1. If a writer is unwilling or unable to work on developing a long "Great American Novel", is it worthwhile to continue to write shorter books to entertain but without a meaningful message?

2. If there is little monetary gain for the time devoted to novel-writing, is it worth continuing?

3. Should a writer consider giving even more time to marketing, promoting, presenting programs, doing book signings, etc. if the potential gain appears limited?

4. More people than ever appear to be self-publishing. Is this a better route for authors than continuing with a small publisher? I've read that mid-list and even some big mainstream authors are going this route.

The book publishing world is crazy and growing ever crazier. What do you think?
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"Williamsburg Gardens" - pastel painting ©Mary Montague Sikes

On Saturday, May 4, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., I'm teaching a pastel workshop at This Century Art Gallery Education Center.

This is for artists of all levels from beginner to advanced. Pastels are one of my favorite art tools. If you are in this area, I would love to show you the joy of working with soft pastels!