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www.chucksambuchino.com
I’ve read several books on author platform but have to confess never fully grasping the term until reading Chuck Sambuchino’s CREATE YOUR WRITER PLATFORM. At its simplest level, a platform is an author’s visibility and reach -- the framework an author has and continues to build that let’s others know of his or her work.
Sambuchino describes his book as “a guide for all the hardworking writers out there who want a say in their own destinies.” Though there is no one-size-fits-all approach to establishing a platform, Sambuchino says the need for platform cannot be ignored, even for those of us who write fiction. The book is divided into three sections: The Principles of Platform, The Mechanics of Platform, and Author Case Studies. At the end of each chapter, literary agents weigh in on the chapter’s topic, giving readers perspectives outside of the author’s. One of the most helpful aspects of the book is the Case Study section, where twelve different authors from a variety of genres (memoir to self help, fiction to reference) reflect on the choices they made in building their platforms -- what worked, what they wish they’d done differently, what they believe makes them stand out from others in their field.
Sambuchino is also quick to say “this is a resource for those who realize that selling a book is not about blatant self-promotion.” It is more about relationships, the sharing of expertise, and supporting others along the way. Though written for the aspiring author, a lot of things resonated with me, a newly published author, such as the wisdom behind an author newsletter, establishing an “events” page on my blog, and always, that kindness and generosity go a long way.
2 Comments on Chuck Sambuchino's CREATE YOUR WRITER PLATFORM, last added: 2/11/2013
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I like Chuck's blog a lot. Would you say this is a great book for children's authors to read? I understand the importance of platform building for non-fiction and memoir. I'm sure it's important for all authors, but I haven't figured out yet what that means for MG and YA authors.
While this is geared toward adult authors, I definitely think there is a benefit for those of us who write for children. We have the added bonus of a built in, interested community of readers called teachers and librarians. Many of the things Chuck suggests are sensible and can be tailored to reaching out to these groups as well as beyond.