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This month's VBT - Writers on the Move Viewpoint is hosted by Nancy Famolari and she poses this question.

My comment on Nancy's site:

This is such a powerful question. I think many writers don't view themselves as "real writers" unless they're accepted by traditional publishers.

The problems arises in that there are a sea of writers and only a bucket of publishers. What happens to the majority of writers who don't fit into the bucket?

I, most days, don't feel like a "real writer," but I keep plugging away!

But, there's so much more to this topic. Nancy mentions self-publishing as a means to an end and believes it's a courageous option. But, as a self-published author and a reviewer for BookPleasures.com, I need to delve into this topic a bit more.

First, I have to say there are some self-published books that are excellent. It is evident in their books that the authors followed the rules of writing and had their work professionally edited (and a reader and reviewer can certainly tell the difference). But, there are a number of authors who it appears do not even have their work proofread or even critiqued. This is where self-publishing get into trouble.

While I think self-publishing is a great avenue for writers to get their work published, I would strongly advise to have the manuscript in a critique group, have it proofread and professionally edited.

Then, what about freelance writers who write for free online magazines or news sources, or get $2.00 to $5.00 for their articles. Do they consider themselves real writers?

Back to the original question: I think any writer who turns out a well-written and engaging book or article is a "real writer," not matter how it gets published!

That's my 2 cents!

Be sure to check out Nancy's original post.

Talk to you soon,
Karen

Yesterday, I received a wonderful award from Lea Schizas at The Writing Jungle – the One Lovely Blog Award.

I have to say I was totally surprised and honored. I’m relatively new to the business of writing and promotion so being included among Donna McDine, Katie Hines, Nancy Famolari, and Carolyn Howard-Johnson is thrilling.

As Lea mentioned in her blog, “It’s truly touching when some acknowledges your work…” I feel the same way.

Now, as an awardee, I’m responsible to pay it forward. For those individuals I choose, just follow the instructions below.

The rules are simple:

1) Accept the award, and don’t forget to post a link back to the awarding person.
2) Pass the award on.
3) Notify the award winners.

Two people I would have immediately chosen for this award is Lea Schizas and Carolyn Howard-Johnson. These two ladies definitely inspire and motivate me. Lea always makes me laugh, and is always so helpful; I don’t know how she does all she does. And, Carolyn always goes above and beyond. In addition, they work tirelessly to put together the Muse Online Writers Conference and offer it for FREE! These are two women I certainly admire and trust.

Okay, now for my choices of the women who inspire and motivate me in some way:

Kathy Stemke: Kathy is someone I can say, I knew her when. I had the privilege of critiquing her mss. I knew she’d have no problem finding a publisher. Kathy is a talented writer and I’m happy to call her my friend. It’s great to watch Kathy become all she can be.

Helena Harper: I reviewed Helena’s book, Family and More – Enemies or Friends and greatly admire her writing. Helena is a wonderful writer and goes the extra mile. She reviewed my book and posted the review in numerous sites for me. I truly appreciate it.

Heather Paye: Heather is a new member to VBT – Writers on the Move and she is only 15. There is an expression that youth is wasted on the young; well, this isn’t true of Heather. She if the most enterprising, determined, and enthusiastic young person I’ve ever known. She jumped into our group with both feet and does a great job as a host and a participating member. I’m very impressed by Heather Paye and pleased to have her in our group.

Next, I award this to all the members of VBT – Writers on the Move. Each member is talented, and they each give of their time and put forth effort to promote the other members. Being part of a participating group that is ongoing takes commitment – these members definitely have what it takes. I’m honored to be part of this wonderful group and they each inspire and motivate me.

Karen