So I'm contemplating writing a book. This is not the same project as writing a book with Fire Lyte. This is just my own little baby. The reason for this is pretty simple...I basically already have it written and it seems silly not to do anything with it. However, there is a bit of a snag. It's a Wicca/Witchcraft 101 book. Just what the world needs.
I'm trying to work out whether I think this is a good idea or not. Part of the problem is that I keep thinking, "yes, but the last thing we need is yet another 101 book," but then I stop to think about it and end up thinking, "yes, but this would be MY 101 book, so it would be better than the rest." Of course, I realize this is totally my own ego talking, and I'm quite certain that there would be plenty of people out there who would tell me it's the greatest 101 book that's ever been written, and plenty more (probably a lot more) people who would tell me that I'm being a complete moron for creating such a basic book, that I don't know what I'm talking about (because my way isn't their way, most likely), or that I should stop contributing to the plethora of basic information and contribute something more advanced to the community and stop wasting everyones time and money. In short, I want to do it, but I don't want to do it. It's quite a conundrum.
Plus, it's a major time commitment. Even though the majority of the text is written, there would be additions and changes and edits and agonizing and all the rest of it, and here I've already had to put my podcast on the back burner. I keep being wishy washy about it. In fact, the only reason I'm even thinking about it currently is because I got bored at work the other day and was poking around on Amazon and got to looking at their self-publishing options. I know, I know...I was just very critical of Amazon for letting anyone and everyone publish whatever they want on a recent episode of Inciting a Brewhaha. That's almost certainly the path I would take, though. It avoids having to get a deal with a publishing house and dealing with the endless rejection of "we don't need another 101 book" which I'm sure would be prevalent. On the flip side, though, it would then just be another highly questionable self-published book. I'm not sure if anything will come of my latest consideration of it...just wondering...what do you think? Should I do it? Should I not? I'm curious!
I say go for it. It may be another 101 book, but I think there should be a variety of different 101 books out there. Different things speak to different people. In a totally not sucking up kind of way, I will say that my entry into, and experience with Wicca and paganism would have been totally different had I had something like your podcast to listen to 15 years ago. I think people need to hear your POV, as in there is no "right" way to pagan, nor do you need to run out and buy out Azure Green to practice. And besides, it's your dream, do it, and screw anyone who doesn't like it :)
ReplyDeleteI, for one, think you should do it. I like reading someone elses way of practicing. It doesn't mean I have to do things your way but I can take pieces of everyone's way and make it my own. That's my take on things anyway. I'm both new and not new to Wicca so I can see the benefits of many people sharing their experience.
ReplyDeleteIf you were to write it, I would read it.
ReplyDeleteThat being said, you have already put your podcast on hiatus due to the time it takes to do - would you defeat your purpose of making time for yourself by filling that time with another project? Or would writing a book help you in the time you are taking for yourself? (did that make sense?)
I find myself in this same situation all time... I've considered starting a podcast probably five times this year already. Is it done? No. Because I find that my time is consumed by work and my desire to live alone (without roommates) which means that money is an absolute necessity - and in turn, work takes priority.
I myself have started a blog to kind of fill in the in between (work life and the want of a podcast)...
In the end, weigh your options. Is whats going on in your personal life going to be hindered just as much as the podcast does? Or is it going to help in the long run...?
That's my two cents. I know I just answered your question with a question - sorry.
Hi Velma! I think you should and then continue with a more 102 book. Make it a series of sorts! And by goddess make it spiral bound! Lol. If it were me I would want a publisher. Or at least try to get a publisher. And if all else fails the amazon thing then.
ReplyDeleteHi Velma!!
ReplyDeleteI think publishing a book would be a really good idea, but like you said the last thing we need is another 101 book. Now that's nothing to stop you from doing so, but maybe you could extrapolate some of the chapters and go into more depth on the subject. So perhaps a more in depth book regarding correspondences or the elements or even perhaps a 101-103 book about how to construct effective rituals or spells, I think people would find that more useful. But if you were to publish a 101 book you would have something to base later books (if any) on.
As regards to self-publishing I don't think that's the best idea, like you said it would be seen to be 'highly questionable', in my opinion the hassle of dealing with a publishing house is worth it in the long run.
So, ultimately it's your decision, but if I were in your position, I would think about focusing on just a few chapters of the 101 book and going in to more depth about those, I would use a publishing house (dare I say the 'L' word) and because of that I would wait until I had more time in order to fully devote myself to the project.
Saying all that it's just my opinion so feel free to totally disregard it all.
Best wishes, Matthew.
I hope that was coherent. :D
I think another point of view, would be welcome. I like having lots of resources. However, I would love a book from you that was a step up from 101.
ReplyDeleteDear Velma,
ReplyDeleteWith that same effort you could have said you won't do a Pagan podcast because there are so many already and all the world needs is yet another podcast. Now, would you take a moment and consider how bleak out podspace would have been without a star like you? Yes, there are like a thousand and ten Wicca/Witchcraft 101 books, but none of them is WitchesBreHaha's 101 on Wicca and Witchcraft, from the famous Velma Nightshade. As a matter of fact, if you contemplate the idea of an advanced Wicca/Witchcraft book, wouldn't be even better if you have paved the path with a 101? Start from the basics, go from there, and yes, trust me, the world needs another Wicca/Witchcraft101, but this time from you.
I've listened to you (and keep waiting for September to hear from you again) and I'd say you are talented. I'd suggest you to keep all your options open, after all, if you happen to mention at a publisher your podcast, your listeners, the statistics of download... well, sure you will advertize FOR FREE the book and tell us how adorable and awesome the publisher is, and that will make people 1. run and buy your book (I'll be the crazy lady at the begining of the line), and 2. check what else has the publisher printed, which brings them more money.
With a publisher you can learn the ropes, so to say, get around and see how the big boys do it. But self-publishing is another option, on your dime, on your time, on your terms. Both are good, and both have downsides, but they are not exclusive, so you can check both options knock some doors and let it to the Spirit to guide you to the mean it was meant for you.
Love, Suze.
(P.S.: the bread receipe... AWESOME! Can't wait for more of them. Will you include something like that in your book too, or that's reserved for another book?)
I say go for it, too. My father has found that self-publishing, and then getting a success record with his books, gets the publishing houses interested in taking on the books later. I think it's a very sensible approach. It's not like you won't have channels for promotion!
ReplyDeleteHi Velma,
ReplyDeletedefinitely go for it. Since you haven’t put out a new show recently (no pressure there :)) I'm having myself a bit of "Velma-rerun". I usually take notes for my BoS and I was just thinking how handy it would be to have something like this in a single (or more) volume(s). You mentioned a course you did before on the show and I got all excited, hoping that maybe you finally put yourself out there. Being a bookaholic myself I'd be thrilled to have your book (when it comes to 101 books I'm generally very picky but I'd be one of the first to buy it). Personally I’d prefer it as an actual book I can touch, smell, take anywhere with me. I know you’ll understand why that’s so important to me. On the other hand I know it’s a lot of hassle (more editing, graphic design etc.) and if you don’t want to go though all that, I take it any way it’s available :)
Hi Velma,
ReplyDeleteDo it! I'd love to read it, and I have to believe there are tens of thousands (a stadium full) of others who'd agree. You have a very sane, down-to-earth, pragmatic approach that a lot of other 101 authors don't have. And, as you say, people should read EVERYTHING. Besides - as Sophia Catherine suggests, it'll build demand for your more sophisticated book. I'm a firm believer in sharing your gifts. I say go for it.
I would definitely buy any book you or you and Fire Lyte wrote!
ReplyDelete