Make your typesetting look as professional as your writing! We work with self-published authors so we know the importance of great writing, solid editing, and a good cover. Your book looks incredible – or does it? What’s with that… (Read More)
At least not for a few lightyears
As an editor, I can tell you why your articles don’t get a lot of views Here at The Book Shelf, we work with writers and professional editors. Editing articles is a pretty standard part of our day. Now,… (Read More)
“When I look back, I am so impressed again with the life-giving power of literature,” said Maya Angelou. “If I were a young person today, trying to gain a sense of myself in the world, I would do that… (Read More)
New year, same me. You already know that this list is procured with the love and attention of a proud bookworm. You may have read the nonfiction released in December (just in time for your final Christmas gifts)… (Read More)
A couple of weeks ago, we discussed (and subsequently smashed) the ‘Myth of the ‘Natural’ Writer’ and discussed the absolute best thing to do to improve your writing skills (spoiler alert: it’s practice). This week, we’re addressing another toxic preconception… (Read More)
Alpha? Beta? These Greek semantics serve a different purpose in the writing process. New and veteran authors alike find these phrases peculiar, so let’s break it down: What do Alpha and Beta Readers Do? These readers provide feedback… (Read More)
So, you’ve written a book. You’ve spent a lot of time researching, planning, and editing your manuscript, and it’s finally ready to go out into the world. If you’re self-publishing on Amazon KDP (or another book platform), you… (Read More)
Every year, I say: I will read more. And each December, I wonder why I don’t. I’m not alone. Reading is the world’s most popular New Year’s Resolution (and going to the gym, but you know which resolution… (Read More)
If we were to equate J.K. Rowling’s impressive rise to literary fame to one of the seven basic story archetypes, it would be Rags to Riches. From twiddling her thumbs on the platform of a delayed train to… (Read More)
“The Six Golden Rules of Writing: Read, read, read, write, write, write.” Ernest Gaines Like most writers, I started because I love reading. I read every day; I’ve done a book-a-day challenge (but all of these are less than 150 pages,… (Read More)
Let me preface by admitting that I started this list because I love reading. I read quite a lot (too much to the disapproval of a sister trying to coax me into watching a film!) Recently I’ve loved… (Read More)
Welcome to Out of Five Cats November! Here at The Book Shelf, we love reading, publishing, and cats. So, let’s combine all three—at the end of each month, we will post a roundup of our nonfiction reads for… (Read More)
It’s Nonfiction November and this month I’m reflecting on the great books which got me through the year. With the holidays approaching, some of these might do as gift ideas for people who love nonfiction. From memoirs to… (Read More)
Short nonfiction books are easy to read and snappy but packed full of lessons, teachings, and experiences that are vital to the human experience. The difference between nonfiction and fiction is that we’re reminded of how human we… (Read More)
by Olga Bialasik Last week, we talked about getting your poetry published and the various avenues available for this. But if you’re eager to read poetry instead—or as well, since the best way to refine your work and… (Read More)
by Peri Cimen At The Book Shelf, we help nonfiction authors publish their work. But we have a confession to make: we’ve got a soft spot for poetry! It’s a dynamic medium, and like poetry itself, the process… (Read More)
Photo credit: Algoquin Dutton; Ecco; Farrar, Straus & Giroux; the Feminist Press; Harper; Knopf; Riverhead; Scribner; Simon & Schuster. by Shelby Jones It’s the most wonderful time of the year (no, it’s not Christmas—not yet anyway). It’s Nonfiction… (Read More)