This Week in the Blogs, August 5 – 11, 2017

by Shelley Sturgeon | Aug 13, 2017

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By Shelley Sturgeon

Sometimes we just need a big dose of cuteness and I think this is one of those times. If you’re tired of reading the depressing headlines in the news, hang out here at The Book Designer instead and learn more about how to self-publish and promote your book. And, don’t forget, you can access our past articles through our post archives (found at the bottom of this page) or by category here.

Anne R. Allen on Anne R. Allen …with Ruth Harris
10 Reasons to Start an Author Blog: And Why It’s Easier than You Think
“Some people have been saying blogging is dead for a while now. But for authors, it’s anything but.”

Sandra Beckwith on Build Book Buzz
How to schedule a Facebook group post
“If you’re working to build a community around your book, its topic, or its genre, you might have started a Facebook group for it. … Until recently, groups have had a few limitations. In particular, group administrators couldn’t schedule a Facebook group post (as you can on your author Page)”

Shari Stauch on Where Writers Win
Indie Author Day: How a needs-based approach has created a national library event
“The indie author community is growing–and so is the demand for books from indie publishers, at both booksellers and libraries. … How do you harness that community and create an impact? That was the question waiting to be answered in early 2016.”

Jane Friedman on Jane Friedman
What Belongs on an Author Website Homepage? 4 Key Elements
“Whether you’re an emerging author or one that is well-established, it can be challenging to figure out what belongs on your website’s homepage and what to say about yourself on the front door to your online presence.”

Dan Wagstaff on The Casual Optimist
Book Covers of Note August 2017
“Oh hey, August.”

Self-Publishing News You Can Use

By Amy Collins

New York Public Library announces September 2nd deadline for Young Lions Fiction Award

The New York Public Library has announced a September 2nd deadline for the five prizes of $10,000 are each given annually. Entries are eligible only for a novel or short story collection published in the current year by a writer age 35 or younger. Publishers may submit 10 copies of a book (or bound galleys). There is no entry fee. Visit the website for complete guidelines.