Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.6.2, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Book Shelf Press ARE YOU READY TO CHANGE THE WORLD? ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://thebookshelfpress.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Our Blog](https://thebookshelfpress.com/blog/) - Welcome to The Book Shelf® Blog! We're a team of passionate book lovers who like to share our knowledge of writing and publishing with the world. We know that the publishing industry can be confusing and overwhelming at times, so on our blog, we'll share insights and tips to make your publishing journey easier. PS. - [Will This Year Be the Year You Write a Book?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/will-2021-be-the-year-you-write-a-book/) - New Year, new you … new book? It’s that time when lots of us set New Year’s Resolutions or goals for the upcoming year. For many people, it’s a time for about working out and working off the Christmas indulgences, but with gyms shut over lockdown, you might find yourself with spare time on your - [Your 5-Step Guide on How to Become an Author](https://thebookshelfpress.com/your-5-step-guide-on-how-to-become-an-author-in-2022/) - So, 2022 is the year you’re going to become an author, right? Whether you set a New Year’s Resolution to write more or a goal to become a published author, it can seem daunting and you might not know where to start or how to reach the point of having a printed book in front - [Penguin Random House Spring Showcase Event](https://thebookshelfpress.com/penguin-random-house-spring-showcase-2023-event/) - by Shelby Jones When the invite came through from Penguin Random House to attend the General Spring Fiction Showcase Event for 2023, I nearly dropped tea all over my laptop (which is terrible as I would have ruined it and, worse still, been unable to accept this wonderful opportunity). This was the first in-person showcase - [New Nonfiction Releases: November](https://thebookshelfpress.com/new-nonfiction-releases-november-2022/) - by Shelby Jones Looking for something new read this month? We've got your back! This November, check out the following new nonfiction... Toil and Trouble: A Woman’s History of the Occult by Lisa Kröger and Melanie R. Anderson Categories: Philosophy | HistoryRelease: 1 November The first nonfiction book of November is a celebration of mystical - [New Nonfiction: December](https://thebookshelfpress.com/new-nonfiction-december-2022/) - 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 the books you can read in a day, the nonfiction released in November, and even the trending - [New Nonfiction Releases for January](https://thebookshelfpress.com/january-23-nonfiction-releases/) - 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) or even trending nonfiction BookTok titles, and now you’re here scouring for new January 2023 nonfiction releases. - [New Nonfiction Releases for February](https://thebookshelfpress.com/new-nonfiction-releases-for-february-2023/) - It's not the season of love – it's the season of history books and war memoirs. Take a look at brand-new nonfiction hitting shelves in February 2023 📖 - [January in Books: Out of Five Cats Reviews](https://thebookshelfpress.com/january-2023-in-books-out-of-five-cats-reviews/) - The Book Shelf Editorial Assistant Shelby writes her book reviews in the best way: out of five cats. I'm here to give nonfiction the attention it deserves. 📖 - [Author Interview - Sarah McDevitt](https://thebookshelfpress.com/author-interview-sarah-mcdevitt/) - At The Book Shelf, we love talking to authors about their books, and today we’re delighted to talk to Sarah McDevitt, author of The Round Table: How Relational Intelligence Will Become Your Human Advantage in the AI Age. The Process Congratulations on the release of The Round Table. How long did it take you to - [Spotlighting our Female Authors ](https://thebookshelfpress.com/spotlighting-our-female-authors/) - Our services supported these women on their publishing journey, whether it was book coaching, design, editing, or publishing support. Katie Gray Katie Gray is a writer, singer and counsellor dedicated to supporting those navigating emotional pain. Drawing from her own experience of recovering from a 17-year struggle with food addiction and bulimia, she uses her - [What is book design, and how do I work with a book designer? Your questions answered.](https://thebookshelfpress.com/what-is-book-design-and-how-do-i-work-with-a-book-designer-your-questions-answered/) - If you’re an author in the process of getting ready to publish your book, the topic of book design has no doubt come up at some point. If you have a traditional publishing deal, the publisher will likely deal with the design process for you. But if you’re self-publishing, then you’re dealing with all aspects - [What is a Book Shepherd and Do You Need One as an Author?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/what-is-a-book-shepherd-and-do-you-need-one-as-an-author/) - When you’re writing a book and exploring the publishing industry, there can be lots of confusing terminology. Some of the words you might come across are “book shepherd” or “book coach”. You might be wondering whether you need one of these, and if so, whether they’re different from each other. We’re here to clear up - [Should Authors Create and Narrate Their Own Audiobooks?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/should-authors-create-and-narrate-their-own-audiobooks/) - In the last five years, audiobooks have grown in popularity, which is understandable when you consider the changes in people’s lifestyles, the limited time available to sit down and read, and differing consumer habits such as listening to podcasts. So, it’s no surprise that services such as Amazon's Audible are proving lucrative for some authors - [The Golden Ticket: How much money can you make from publishing a book?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/the-golden-ticket-how-much-money-can-you-make-from-publishing-a-book/) - As an aspiring author, you might be wondering how much money you can potentially earn from writing a book. In fact, if we had a pound for every time a soon-to-be author asked us this question, we’d be rich! Whether you’re thinking about the income from selling a moderate amount of copies or publishing a - [AI Can Help You Write a Book, But It Doesn't Replace Human Book Editors](https://thebookshelfpress.com/yes-your-editor-can-tell-youve-used-chatgpt/) - If you’re an aspiring author, or even an experienced one, you may have considered using AI to help write your book. With tools like ChatGPT and Claude being so mainstream these days, we’ve seen first-hand that many nonfiction authors are using AI to brainstorm ideas, structure their thoughts, overcome writer’s block, or even write entire - [Audiobooks, E-books, or Print: A Guide for Writers and Readers](https://thebookshelfpress.com/audiobooks-e-books-or-print-a-guide-for-writers-and-readers/) - If you have spent any time in online reading or writing spaces, you've probably heard this argument: “Audiobooks don’t count as real reading.” It’s one of those surprisingly intense book debates, up there with “the book was better than the film” and whether it’s ever okay to dog-ear a page. But, whether you're a reader - [5 Common Proofreading Mistakes to Avoid](https://thebookshelfpress.com/5-common-proofreading-mistakes-to-avoid/) - Proofreading, the final hurdle of the writing process. You’ve drafted, redrafted, and edited… and now you have to go through it all again, just to catch typos? It may not be the most exciting or glamourous stage, but proofreading is essential if you want your writing to be polished and professional. Whether you’re just starting - [Why do 50% of people want to write a book, yet less than 1% publish?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/why-do-50-of-people-want-to-write-a-book-yet-less-than-1-publish/) - If you’re an aspiring writer who is worried about writing a book, then you’re not alone. According to research, between 50% and 80% of people want to write a book, yet less than 1% make it to publishing. Why? A mixture of practical issues, psychological worries, and personal concerns hold potential authors back. At the - [Writing tips for ADHD authors](https://thebookshelfpress.com/writing-tips-for-adhd-authors/) - Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a form of neurodiversity that affects daily life, and it is characterised by hyperactivity, impulsivity, and concentration difficulties. Writing a book can be a different experience to someone who is neurotypical (meaning that they do not have neurodiversity). If you have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), you may find - [Writing tips for autistic authors](https://thebookshelfpress.com/writing-tips-for-autistic-authors/) - Autism is a form of neurodiversity that can affect the way that people think, communicate, and interact with the world. It can present very differently depending on the individual, and so there isn’t a “one size fits all” approach to how you write. We’ll give you our top tips to optimise your writing experience, then - [Our guide to all things e-book publishing](https://thebookshelfpress.com/our-guide-to-all-things-e-book-publishing/) - With Amazon KDP making it quick and easy for authors to self-publish their e-books, you might be wondering how to go about creating an e-book in the first place. Or maybe you’ve had someone create an e-book for you, but it looks messy when you load it in your Kindle? In this blog, we’ll look - [Should I be writing a niche or for the mainstream?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/should-i-be-writing-a-niche-or-for-the-mainstream/) - Many writers suffer from the question to niche or not to niche. Commit to writing in a niche or forget about them entirely? - [Can the publishing industry ever be eco-friendly?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/can-the-publishing-industry-ever-be-eco-friendly/) - Books are undoubtedly one of life’s greatest joys. However, in light of our current environmental crisis, the question of how readers, authors, and the publishing industry sustain the production of books is necessary. You may have stumbled across attempts to make the practice more sustainable from a consumer point of view, for example, switching to - [What is an ISBN and can I publish a book without one?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/what-is-an-isbn-and-can-i-publish-a-book-without-one/) - When it comes to book publishing, there’s plenty of things you’ll know you need to do. Getting an ISBN for your book is one of them, so, we’re going to address all the questions you might have about ISBNs and why you need them if you are self-publishing. Let’s dive in. What is an ISBN? - [Are shorter word counts more popular?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/are-shorter-word-counts-more-popular/) - Are nonfiction books getting shorter, and what (if anything) should writers do about it? If you’ve been wondering whether the length of nonfiction books is shrinking before your very eyes, you’re not the only one. Recently, a lot of research has been done into whether shorter word counts are becoming more popular with readers and, - [How to handle historical representation in nonfiction](https://thebookshelfpress.com/how-to-handle-historical-representation-in-nonfiction/) - If you’re writing a nonfiction history book, you may have encountered the dilemma of historical representation. In a nutshell, it’s the communication and interpretation of history in creative media. Maybe you’re writing a book based on a family member's diary or a biography, or a historical essay. Either way, mastering historical representation is tricky. In - [How to tailor your academic work to a wider audience](https://thebookshelfpress.com/how-to-tailor-your-academic-work-to-a-wider-audience/) - How to tailor your academic work to a wider audience Often, when readers think about books written by academics, wordy texts spring to mind, and people switch off. However, this doesn’t have to be the case. If you’re looking to convert your academic writing (whether it be a dissertation, essay, or PhD thesis) into a - [Should you hire a book coach, a writing coach, or an editor?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/should-you-hire-a-book-coach-a-writing-coach-or-an-editor/) - If you’re thinking of writing a book or in the process of writing, you may find that you get stuck somewhere along the way—many aspiring authors do. At this point, you may seek external support to get unstuck. The question is: who should you get support from with the range of publishing professionals out there? - [10 Gift ideas for the writer in your life - From most affordable to most lavish.](https://thebookshelfpress.com/10-gift-ideas-for-the-writer-in-your-life-from-most-affordable-to-most-lavish/) - Considering the passion of a loved one when shopping for a gift is an amazing way to show you care. But, getting the right thing demands you consider several factors: preference, usability, and quite importantly, budget. So, if you have a writer in your life who you want to shop for, let us take the - [Author Interview - Suri Chan](https://thebookshelfpress.com/author-interview-suri-chan/) - At The Book Shelf, we love talking to authors about their books, and today we’re delighted to talk to Suri Chan, author of But I Don’t Feel Empowered (Andrews McMeel Publishing). Congratulations on your debut book, Suri. Can you tell us about But I Don’t Feel Empowered? It’s a fun and thought-provoking illustrated poetry book - [So, You Want to Be a Proofreader?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/so-you-want-to-be-a-proofreader/) - Do you dream of eliminating typos from your favourite books or magazines? Do you find yourself spotting errors in adverts, menus, and billboards? - [How to get gender-inclusive language right in your book](https://thebookshelfpress.com/how-to-get-gender-inclusive-language-right-in-your-book/) - by Anna Kiousi The topic of gender inclusivity can be intimidating for authors as being respectful to everyone is important but we might not know exactly what to say (or avoid saying) to make that happen. Many writers worry that a wrong pronoun or phrase might get them in trouble or unintentionally offend an entire - [5 Ways audiobooks make the world of reading more accessible](https://thebookshelfpress.com/5-ways-audiobooks-make-the-world-of-reading-more-accessible/) - Audiobooks are one of the top publishing trends for 2023, and their demand and popularity continue to soar. Whether you're an avid audiobook listener or you've never tried playing a book through your earbuds, the truth remains: in some ways, audiobooks make reading more accessible than physical books. "How," I hear you ask? Here are five - [Will you accept the challenge to write a book this NaNoWriMo?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/will-you-accept-the-challenge-to-write-a-book-this-nanowrimo/) - Book writing can be an incredibly long process, and that's scary. But, what if writing a book didn't have to take months or years? Let’s look at whether it’s possible to write a book in one month or less in this year's NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) challenge! Even though the challenge is focused on novels, note that it can - [Where Can I Find the Best Editor for Me?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/where-can-i-find-the-best-editor-for-me/) - You might have the perfect date or partner for Valentine's day, but how do you find the perfect editor for you? As an author looking for an editor, where do you look? After all, there’s no Tinder or Bumble for editors! The process is actually not that different to searching for the love of your - [5 Reasons to Write a Nonfiction Book during Coronavirus Lockdown](https://thebookshelfpress.com/5-reasons-to-write-a-nonfiction-book-during-coronavirus-lockdown/) - We’re living in unprecedented times, when many people are worried about the physical and mental health of their loved ones and vulnerable people in society, concerned that they will lose their job or business, and feeling isolated from their friends and family during the lockdown. With everything going on, writing a book might be the last thing on your mind. However, there - [The Worst 5 Pitfalls of Self-Publishing and How to Avoid them](https://thebookshelfpress.com/the-worst-5-pitfalls-of-self-publishing-and-how-to-avoid-them/) - Self-publishing can be a magical thing. It opened up the publishing world to the masses, enabling anybody to publish a book without needing agents, a publishing contract, and traditional publishers. However, just because self-publishing is open to everybody isn’t a guaranteed mark of success. In fact, there are many potential pitfalls in self-publishing. So, here’s your - [Do I Need Content Editing or a Proofreader?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/editing-vs-proofreading-whats-the-difference/) - Do I Need Content Editing or a Proofreader? - 💻 - [Why Don’t We Spot Our Own Typos?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/why-dont-we-spot-our-own-typos/) - Have you ever written a blog, proofread it, and posted it—only for someone to point out a glaring typo? Or carefully checked an essay for errors only for it to come back covered in red pen? In other words, why do we seem incapable of noticing typos in our own work? Even the best writers - [How Much Does Professional Book Editing Cost?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/how-much-does-professional-book-editing-cost/) - You’ve written a book. You’ve done some self-editing. You’ve made the decision to hire an editor and you’re ready to start your search. Inevitably, the question on your mind is how much is this going to cost me? It’s fair to assume that a professional editor won’t be cheap, but how do you know what kind of - [So, You Want to Be a Book Editor?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/so-you-want-to-be-a-book-editor/) - Is it your dream to read and critique books all day? Would you love to help authors bring their books to life? If this sound like the dream role for you, then perhaps you should consider becoming a book editor. But how do you become a book editor? What skills and knowledge do you need? - [To Hire an Editor or Not to Hire an Editor?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/to-hire-an-editor-or-not-to-hire-an-editor/) - I was delighted to be featured as a guest blogger on author Sally Jenkins' writing blog recently. You can check out the original post here... Whether you’re a professional writer making a living from your words or someone who enjoys hobby blogging, there will no doubt come a time when you wonder whether it’s worth - [How Not to Write a Book: 5 mistakes to avoid when writing nonfiction](https://thebookshelfpress.com/how-not-to-write-a-book-5-mistakes-to-avoid-when-writing-nonfiction/) - As a nonfiction book editor, I see my fair share of great first drafts, but also some pretty average ones. A mediocre first draft isn’t too much to worry about if you have a talented editor to help you get it into shape. But if you can avoid making these mistakes in the first place, you don’t necessarily need to hire an editor. So, let’s take a look - [Top 3 Capitalisation Errors](https://thebookshelfpress.com/top-3-capitalisation-errors/) - In the last few guides, we looked at the top five grammar errors and the top three punctuation errors. But there's another area of writing where mistakes are lurking around every corner, and that's capitalisation. While correct capitals were once the preserve of publishers, magazines, and newspapers, the rise of the internet has seen these incorrect capitals popping - [Top 3 Common Punctuation Errors](https://thebookshelfpress.com/top-3-common-punctuation-errors/) - So, we've looked at the most common grammar errors. But what about punctuation? Some of the most heinous crimes against writing have been committed with bad punctuation. Once you know these bad boys, you'll see them everywhere. Even in company names! I'll show you the top three punctuation errors, and how to avoid these mistakes in - [Fact Check: Should books be checked for accuracy before publishing?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/fact-check-should-books-be-checked-for-accuracy-before-publishing/) - Times of crisis like this demonstrate how important it is to know truth from fiction. Written content has a huge impact on what people believe, and misleading or incorrect information can cause problems. When it comes to the Daily Mail or The Sun, we accept that at least some of the content is embellished or even entirely fabricated. - [RIP Books: Is the Written Word Dying?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/rip-books-is-the-written-word-dying/) - If you read the news, scour forums, or listen to podcasts, you might have encountered sensationalist headlines suggesting that the written word is dead. Or if it’s not quite dead yet—it’s certainly dying. But who certified its death? And is it a case of misdiagnosis? Is the written word really dying? Will books disappear from our bookshelves? Let’s investigate… What is the written word? Perhaps the most important thing - [7 Lessons from the Stoics on How to Cope with COVID-19](https://thebookshelfpress.com/7-lessons-from-the-stoics-on-how-to-cope-with-covid-19/) - Over recent years, the Ancient Greek philosophy of Stoicism has gained a new lease of life. 3rd Century BC ideas are now motivational quotes on Pinterest and proposed in mainstream books like Calm the F*ck Down. But how do the ideas of Stoic philosophers like Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and Seneca apply now? In a world of COVID-19, lockdowns, and impending recession, what can we learn from Stoicism? Well, in times of crisis or strife, we could - [An Editor’s Review: Brief Answers to the Big Questions, Stephen Hawking](https://thebookshelfpress.com/an-editors-review-brief-answers-to-the-big-questions-stephen-hawking/) - I'll be the first to admit that I hated science at school. And when I say hated, I mean that I’d actively avoid it if I could find a locker to hide behind. It didn’t help that my physics teacher was flat-out mean and terrifying, my chemistry teacher had a voice only dogs could hear, and - [An Editor’s Review: The Little Book of Tidying, Beth Penn](https://thebookshelfpress.com/an-editors-review-the-little-book-of-tidying-beth-penn/) - In this age of consumerism and materialism, on a planet drowning in stuff and fast fashion, it’s understandable that “tidying” books like Marie Kondo’s The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying have become incredibly popular. Ordinarily, a book on tidying isn’t a book I’d buy, but somebody obviously felt that I’d benefit from a little decluttering as I got The - [Graduate Entry Medicine, Dr. Graham Blackman](https://thebookshelfpress.com/graduate-entry-medicine-dr-graham-blackman/) - Thanks for speaking to us Graham. So, what is your book about? Graduate Entry Medicine is a step-by-step guide for graduates on how to gain a place at medical school. It includes routes into medicine for graduates, detailed information on the application process for each medical school that offers the course (such as interviews and entrance - [“I want to write a nonfiction book, but what should I write about?”](https://thebookshelfpress.com/i-want-to-write-a-nonfiction-book-but-what-should-i-write-about/) - According to a recent survey, 80% of adults have thought about writing a book at some point. But if you’re an aspiring book writer, the big question is: what do you write about? In fact, choosing your topic is arguably the first step in becoming an author. So, how do you choose your subject matter? At The Book - [What Is More Lucrative—Traditional Publishing or Self-Publishing?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/what-is-more-lucrative-traditional-publishing-or-self-publishing/) - Some people write books for the love. Some to entertain and enthral readers. Some to make the world a better place. Some to teach their readers a new skill or approach. But let’s be honest, most authors would like to earn something for their efforts, craft, and creations. The question is: what will make you - [What’s It Like to Work with a Book Editor?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/whats-it-like-to-work-with-a-book-editor/) - If you’re thinking about hiring a freelance editor for your book, you might be wondering what it’s like to work with an editor and what you’ll gain from the experience. At The Book Shelf, we work with authors on a daily basis, so we’ll tell you honestly what it’s like to work with a book editor. We promise you it can be - [Which is the best proofreading software - Grammarly or Word’s Spellchecker?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/which-is-the-best-proofreading-software-grammarly-or-words-spellchecker/) - Whether you’ve written a blog, a book, or some website content, you no doubt know that the text needs proofreading to ensure there are no errors or typos before you publish. You might also know that it’s very difficult to proofread your own writing (you can find out why here). So you might look to a - [Can I Use Quotes in My Book? Copyright, permissions, and plagiarism…](https://thebookshelfpress.com/can-i-use-quotes-in-my-book-copyright-permissions-and-plagiarism/) - As a nonfiction author, you may want to quote other people in your book—be it to set a certain tone, amplify your point, or teach the reader something important. However, the use of quotes is a minefield, and getting it wrong can result in getting sued. So, the question is: are you allowed to reprint quotes? Do you need the - [Happy 2nd Birthday to Us: What I’ve learned from two years of being a business owner](https://thebookshelfpress.com/happy-2nd-birthday-to-us-what-ive-learned-from-two-years-of-being-a-business-owner/) - In February 2016, I returned from travelling the world for a year and had no idea what to do next. Questions swirling around in my mind were: Do I wait to re-join the publisher I worked for before travelling? Do I take the employed proofreading job I’ve been offered at a marketing agency? Do I - [Let’s Talk about Race: My thoughts on “Why I’m No Longer Talking to White People about Race” as a mixed-race female book editor](https://thebookshelfpress.com/lets-talk-about-race-my-thoughts-on-why-im-no-longer-talking-to-white-people-about-race-as-a-mixed-race-female-book-editor/) - The news hit last week that Reni Eddo-Lodge had become the first black British author to ever top the UK paperback non-fiction charts. It’s no coincidence that her 2017 book Why I No Longer Talk to White People about Race has gained more attention now than it did after being published — in the wake of George Floyd’s murder - [Stranger than Fiction: Did E.M. Forster’s “The Machine Stops” predict the future?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/stranger-than-fiction-did-e-m-forsters-the-machine-stops-predict-the-future/) - While nonfiction is our bag at The Book Shelf, E.M. Forster’s The Machine Stops is stranger than fiction. It has an uncanny resemblance to the world we find ourselves living in, especially in the era of Covid-19, lockdown, and #fakenews. Humanity is on a path that could go two ways, and Forster’s novella can teach a thing or two about the route - [The E-Myth: The book every business owner needs to read](https://thebookshelfpress.com/the-e-myth-the-book-every-business-owner-needs-to-read/) - When it comes to business books, there’s no shortage of options available to entrepreneurs, wantrepreneurs, and small business owners hoping for success. But none of them have struck a chord with me quite like Michael Gerber’s The E-Myth. Or more specifically, his 2001 update The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About - [Nihilism, the New Cool? 4 nihilistic lessons for our COVID-19 world](https://thebookshelfpress.com/nihilism-the-new-cool-4-nihilistic-lessons-for-our-covid-19-world/) - In our world of #fakenews and #posttruth, the 19th Century philosophical bad boy of nihilism has reared its head. Nihilism stems from the Latin word for “nothing”, and in essence, that's what it's all about. While there are different branches of nihilism, the general ideas are: nothing is real, not absolute truth, not morality, not true knowledge, and that - [3 Simple Steps to Start Writing a Nonfiction Book](https://thebookshelfpress.com/3-simple-steps-to-start-writing-a-nonfiction-book/) - If you want to write a nonfiction book, the first question that probably comes to mind is: where do I start? As a nonfiction book coach, I’ve worked with hundreds of authors who wanted to teach readers how to do something, be it how to make their life better, how to make money on Amazon, or how - [How to Get Published: An insider’s guide to the four types of book publishing](https://thebookshelfpress.com/how-to-get-published-an-insiders-guide-to-the-four-types-of-book-publishing/) - If you’re an aspiring author, the age-old question is “How do I get my book published?” While it used to be a simple case of “find a publisher”, there are four main options to get published these days—from traditional publishers to self-publishing, and there are pros and cons to each. It can be difficult to - [What Format & Trim Size Should My Book Be? An inside guide to book design and formatting](https://thebookshelfpress.com/what-format-trim-size-should-my-book-be-an-inside-guide-to-book-design-and-formatting/) - With the rise of e-books and various ways to read books, long gone are the days of books just being printed things that sit on your bookshelf. These days, you might have virtual bookshelves on your phone, Kindle, tablet, and laptop. But if you’re self-publishing a book, it can be confusing trying to figure out which formats you - [10 Types of Editors You'll Come Across as a Writer](https://thebookshelfpress.com/what-type-of-editor-do-you-want-to-work-with-the-editors-inside-guide-to-editors/) - As an author or aspiring author, you’ll no doubt find yourself working with an editor at some point. In our last blog, we looked at the various types of authors that you might be. Today, we’ll look at the various types of editors so you know what you’re getting. 1. The Accepter This editor will accept anything that’s thrown their way. Content editing, - [What Type of Author Are You? The editor’s inside guide to authors](https://thebookshelfpress.com/what-type-of-author-are-you-the-editors-inside-guide-to-authors/) - If you’re an author or aspiring to be one, you’ll probably end up working with an editor at some point, whether it’s a freelancer editor in the process of self-publishing or an in-house editor at a traditional publisher. In a recent blog, we looked at what it’s like to work with an editor. Today, we’ll look - [7 Brain Hacks to Better Remember What You’ve Read](https://thebookshelfpress.com/7-brain-hacks-to-better-remember-what-youve-read/) - Ever read an interesting, inspiring, or informative nonfiction book, then just a few weeks later find that you’ve forgotten most of it? Unless you’ve got an eidetic memory like Sheldon from The Big Bang Theory, then it’s likely that you’ll forget the finer parts of what you read in books. However, there are some quick and - [Richard Templar’s “The Rules of Life”: Self-help at its best](https://thebookshelfpress.com/richard-templars-the-rules-of-life-self-help-at-its-best/) - Self-help is the Marmite of the book world. It seems that readers either ravenously consume self-help books or find them utterly unhelpful. Personally, I believe that self-help books are only as effective as the person reading them allows them to be. In other words, they’re only useful if you actually implement the guidance to solve your problems. - [13 Business Lessons I Learned from Sun Tsu’s “The Art of War”](https://thebookshelfpress.com/13-business-lessons-i-learned-from-sun-tsus-the-art-of-war/) - In the world of nonfiction, there are a handful of classic books that it’s assumed one should read. One of those books is Sun Tsu’s The Art of War, a Chinese military treatise from approximately the 5th Century BC. As a pacifist, books on warfare have never really appealed to me, but this little book has influenced both Eastern and Western thinking in business and general - [Exclusive Interview: Samba Lékouye, Author of "Everythink: Wisdom 4 Freedom"](https://thebookshelfpress.com/exclusive-interview-samba-lekouye-author-of-everythink-wisdom-4-freedom/) - Hi Samba, it’s great to catch up with you! A few years ago, you published your first book Everythink and you’ve recently created a free app with inspirational quotes and thought-provoking philosophy. We’d love you to tell our readers more about it… Firstly, what is your book about? Everythink is a philosophical essay that visits - [Exclusive Interview with Jym Brown, Author of “#Life: The wisdom of philosophy, psychology, and pop culture for living a better life”](https://thebookshelfpress.com/exclusive-interview-with-jym-brown-author-of-life-the-wisdom-of-philosophy-psychology-and-pop-culture-for-living-a-better-life/) - Hi Jym, thanks for speaking to us today! So, you’ve just self-published your debut book #Life. What’s it about? It’s my humble attempt at putting together the common themes and wisdom that exist between philosophy and psychology, with the added twist of movie and TV quotes that help convey the message. The book contains hundreds of quotations - [So, You Want to Write a Nonfiction Book, But Why?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/so-you-want-to-write-a-nonfiction-book-but-why/) - So, you want to write a nonfiction book. Maybe a business book, a how-to book, a self-help book, or a memoir. But why? Why isn’t something that every author asks themselves. But they should, because why you’re writing a book determines what you write. So, let’s consider your aims and goals as an aspiring author and the best way to meet - [NaNoWriMo: Write a whole nonfiction book in November](https://thebookshelfpress.com/nanowrimo-write-a-whole-nonfiction-book-in-november/) - Traditionally, NaNoWriMo stands for “National Novel Writing Month”, and it takes place every November. The online writing race started back in 1991, and writers around the globe compete to write and finish a 50,000-word novel within 30 days. But the No could also stand for “nonfiction”. So let’s look at whether it’s possible to write - [Self-help vs. Memoir: Your no-nonsense guide to choosing the right genre for your inspirational book](https://thebookshelfpress.com/self-help-vs-memoir-your-no-nonsense-guide-to-choosing-the-right-genre-for-your-inspirational-book/) - One of the most common reasons for writing a nonfiction book is “I want to help people change their life”. For many authors, this means writing a self-help book. For others, it means writing their life story, also known as a memoir. However, the line between self-help and memoir has become blurry these days, and it’s easy - [What Is Vanity Publishing? A cautionary Christmas tale for aspiring authors](https://thebookshelfpress.com/what-is-vanity-publishing-a-cautionary-christmas-tale-for-aspiring-authors/) - All you want for Christmas is… to be an author. Yes, what you really want isn’t socks or smellies but a publishing deal. The question is: do you want it so badly that you would pay to get published? That’s what vanity publishers are banking on, literally. They are renowned for tricking aspiring authors into - [Why Authors Self-Publish and How Much It Really Costs](https://thebookshelfpress.com/why-authors-self-publish-and-how-much-it-really-costs/) - Twenty years ago, if you wanted to publish a book and have people actually read it, you needed a publisher on board. But with the rise of the e-reader and Amazon’s self-publishing platform (among others), the floodgates opened for millions of people to become authors. Many aspiring authors don’t even consider traditional publishing models these - [Why Authors Want a Publisher and Why It’s So Hard to Get One](https://thebookshelfpress.com/why-authors-want-a-publisher-and-why-its-so-hard-to-get-one/) - With the explosion of self-publishing over the last decade or so—and with its benefits of speed, ease, and accessibility—you might assume that there’s no good reason to opt for a traditional book publisher these days. Not so fast. There are still lots of benefits of getting published in the traditional way, and the bar for - [DIY or Hire Professionals? Your guide to self-publishing a book](https://thebookshelfpress.com/diy-or-hire-professionals-your-guide-to-self-publishing-a-book/) - Since the rise of self-publishing as an alternative to traditional publishers, millions of authors have been able to release their books into the world via Amazon and other platforms. But does self-publishing mean going it alone? As a nonfiction book coach, I’ve seen some authors do it all themselves while others hire a team of - [Why Nonfiction Needs to Have a Narrative](https://thebookshelfpress.com/why-nonfiction-needs-to-have-a-narrative/) - Guest post: By Shazeen Iqbal, The Writer Vending Machine A nonfiction book is a unique journey where the author communicates factual knowledge to the reader in the hope that they follow the concepts and ideas being taught. As an author, you might wonder, "Is the reader convinced by what I'm saying? Do they understand the emphasis - [10 Self-Help Clichés to Avoid in Your Writing](https://thebookshelfpress.com/10-self-help-cliches-to-avoid-in-your-writing/) - Whether you’re writing a self-help book, a personal development blog, or even an inspirational podcast script, your primary goal is most likely to help people—to pass on your wisdom to make people’s lives better. However, it can be easy to go wrong with self-help, and this genre is often criticised for its use of unhelpful - [What 2020 Made Me Realise about Life and Business](https://thebookshelfpress.com/what-2020-made-me-realise-about-life-and-business/) - While most people will be happy to see the back of 2020, there’s no denying that it forced many people to pause and get out of autopilot mode. Whether it was re-evaluating their priorities in life or considering whether we’re on the right path as a species, it has been a year of reflection and - [How to Break into the Publishing Industry without Any Experience](https://thebookshelfpress.com/how-to-break-into-the-publishing-industry-without-any-experience/) - In the current climate, it can seem like jobs are scarce and opportunities are few and far between, even for graduates. This is especially true if you want to work in the publishing industry, which was already notoriously difficult to break into pre-Covid. However, all is not lost. There’s a way to get your foot - [Physical Books vs. e-books: which are more popular?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/physical-books-vs-e-books-which-are-more-popular/) - The first Kindle appeared on our shelves in 2007—and since then, the debate has raged: which format is more popular, physical books or e-books? In the early days of e-books, a rapid increase in sales caused a media frenzy, with wild predictions that e-books would overtake print books in the 2010s. A decade later, the - [Eight “Lessons in Stoicism”: How to be a better human](https://thebookshelfpress.com/eight-lessons-in-stoicism-how-to-be-a-better-human/) - Lately, the Ancient Greek and Roman philosophy of Stoicism has become surprisingly popular. In our world of excess, of always wanting more, of social media fame, it offers a different path. Yet Stoicism has been misunderstood and perceived as cold and unemotional. In Professor of Philosophy John Sellars’ new book Lessons in Stoicism, he dispels - [Exclusive Author Interview: People Skills for Analytical Thinkers](https://thebookshelfpress.com/exclusive-author-interview-people-skills-for-analytical-thinkers/) - We’re delighted that one of our authors, Gilbert Eijkelenboom, recently launched his debut self-published fiction book People Skills for Analytical Thinkers. Today, we’re letting you in on our exclusive interview with Gilbert. So Gilbert, congratulations on your launch! Tell us what the book is about… Many people working in technology have fantastic left-brain skills: analysing, - [Exclusive Interview with Laide Abel, Author of “People As Assets”](https://thebookshelfpress.com/exclusive-interview-with-laide-abel-author-of-people-as-assets/) - Hi Laide! Congratulations on self-publishing your debut book People As Assets: Building High Performance Organizations. What’s it all about? It combines the philosophical and practical aspects of people strategy in organisations, making a compelling argument for why organisations need to truly view and treat their people as assets. It also provides an accurate insight into - [Six Nonfiction Books to Celebrate LGBTQ+ Authors](https://thebookshelfpress.com/six-nonfiction-books-to-celebrate-lgbtq-authors/) - June is celebrated as Pride month in honour of the Stonewall riots, a significant event in LGBTQ+ history that set in motion the modern gay rights movement in America. While the pandemic means that traditional parades and events can’t take place, we can still celebrate the community by learning about their history and reading their - [A Book Lover’s Guide to a British Staycation](https://thebookshelfpress.com/a-book-lovers-guide-to-a-british-staycation/) - After a long year of lockdowns, dark nights, and isolation, I’m sure many of us were looking forward to booking a summer holiday abroad and enjoying some well-deserved escapism. But given the uncertainty of COVID restrictions and safety, most of us had to put our dreams of a sunny Spanish holiday on hold again. Although - [How Can I Establish Myself as a Writer?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/how-can-i-establish-myself-as-a-writer/) - by Olga Bialasik Carving out a space for yourself among thousands of other writers can seem like a daunting, if not impossible, task. But despite how saturated the market might appear, there is a constant and growing demand for all kinds of writers. Whether you’re a freelance copywriter, a casual blog writer, or an aspirational - [The Best Independent Bookshops in the West Midlands](https://thebookshelfpress.com/the-best-independent-bookshops-in-the-west-midlands/) - For readers, there are few things lovelier in life than visiting a beautiful indie bookshop, browsing their selection, and leaving with a brand-new favourite. Independents tend to go that extra mile—they not only offer great recommendations, but also provide a unique, welcoming space for book lovers to discover some hidden gems. While it’s been a - [What Makes a Good Self-Help Book?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/what-makes-a-good-self-help-book/) - by Phoebe Geary Whether you want to restructure your lifestyle, maximise your true potential, or simply boost productivity, self-help books can be an invaluable tool for achieving self-fulfilment and happiness. Getting the right book can lead to real life improvement, personal and social change, and increased emotional wellbeing. But what separates the good from the - [How to Tell a Good Editor from a Bad One](https://thebookshelfpress.com/how-to-tell-a-good-editor-from-a-bad-one/) - by Phoebe Geary In today’s industry, securing the right editor can mean the difference between your book’s make or break. Book editors bring your manuscript to life by providing valuable feedback and ensuring that your message is communicated in a clear, cohesive way. There are many different editors and editing styles on offer out there, - [Will Bookshops Ever Die Out?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/will-bookshops-ever-die-out/) - by Shakira Morar No one in the industry can certainly say whether bookshops will die out—and if they do, when that time will come. But we can look at the evidence and trends to gain a better idea of what may happen in the future... Physical books vs. e-books In the past decade, there has - [5 Steps to Getting Published after Finishing Your Book](https://thebookshelfpress.com/5-steps-to-getting-published-after-finishing-your-book/) - by Shelby Jones The end of your story isn’t really the end. By all means, celebrate and breathe a sigh of relief now that you’ve finished the mighty task of finishing your manuscript. We congratulate you. But there is still work to be done and the journey to publication is not over. After celebrating, it’s - [What's the Best Way to Self-Publish My Memoir?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/whats-the-best-way-to-self-publish-my-memoir/) - by Phoebe Geary Memoirs are one of the most popular genres of narrative nonfiction for both readers and writers. They’re inspiring and uplifting, educational and entertaining, and they remind us that we each have a unique tale to tell. If you want to get your story out there but don’t know how to, self-publishing can - [Around the World in 8 Nonfiction Books: The Book Shelf Edition](https://thebookshelfpress.com/around-the-world-in-8-nonfiction-books-the-book-shelf-edition/) - by Shakira Morar Many of the authors we work with are based all over the world! Here are eight of their nonfiction books and where they were based when they wrote them: (Descriptions taken and modified from the Amazon website descriptions.) 1. #Life: The Wisdom of Philosophy, Psychology and Pop-culture for Living a Better Life - [5 Ways the Publishing Industry Can Have a Better Impact on the Environment](https://thebookshelfpress.com/5-ways-the-publishing-industry-can-have-a-better-impact-on-the-environment/) - by Alicja Sowinska In the past few decades, many of us have become aware of environmental issues such as pollution and deforestation. As a result, we might wonder “how can we be more considerate in our choices?” This applies to many aspects of life, such as recycling, diet, and fashion. But what about the books - [A Book Lover’s Guide to the Best of Birmingham](https://thebookshelfpress.com/a-book-lovers-guide-to-the-best-of-birmingham/) - by Beth Hutton With its rich literary history of liberal writers and radical thinkers, Birmingham is a creative hotspot for aspiring authors to flourish. So, whether you’re looking for a bustling writing space, the best coffee to complement your next novel, or a quiet read in the morning sun, this bookworms’ guide to Brum has - [New to Reading? A guide to starting a love affair with reading](https://thebookshelfpress.com/new-to-reading-a-guide-to-starting-a-love-affair-with-reading/) - by Summer Black Some people are born to read, but others don’t fall in love with books until later in life. For first-timers, the idea of picking up a book and reading it front to back might seem daunting, but don’t worry—we’ve got some tips and tricks to help you embark on your journey. Fiction - [Your Guide to Writing a Nonfiction Book This NaNoWriMo](https://thebookshelfpress.com/your-guide-to-writing-a-nonfiction-book-this-nanowrimo/) - by Olga Bialasik With November right around the corner, writers all around the world are preparing for NaNoWriMo—National Novel Writing Month. At The Book Shelf, we like to swap the "Novel" for "Nonfiction". Do you have an idea for a nonfiction book? Have you been looking for an excuse to start writing it? This November - [Top 5 Marketing Trends Authors Should Not Overlook](https://thebookshelfpress.com/top-5-marketing-trends-authors-should-not-overlook/) - Sometimes, marketing your book can be harder than writing it. There are so many different strategies out there that it can quickly become confusing and overwhelming. At The Book Shelf, we’ve compiled a list of book marketing trends that will help you as an author gain a greater understanding of what’s hot right now and - [Binge Culture and Its Impact on the Publishing Industry](https://thebookshelfpress.com/binge-culture-and-its-impact-on-the-publishing-industry/) - by Becky Tandy With the growing popularity of streaming services such as Netflix and Disney+, bingeing has become a mainstream phenomenon. Roughly 80% of adults in the UK say they binge-watch content to some extent. But for reading enthusiasts, how does bingeing a book compare to indulging in a moreish TV show? And how has - [Cancelling “Cancel Culture”: What the new social buzzword means for the world of publishing](https://thebookshelfpress.com/cancelling-cancel-culture-what-the-new-social-buzzword-means-for-the-world-of-publishing/) - by Beth Hutton Cancel culture is gaining momentum across academic circles and social media platforms alike, as people have been calling for authors, celebrities, and other public figures to be “cancelled” for their failure to comply with modern sensibilities. Even the statuses of canonical, traditionally celebrated authors—from Shakespeare to Mark Twain to J. K. Rowling—are - [Facing Our Literary History: Is "cancel culture" threatening the classics?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/facing-our-literary-history-is-cancel-culture-threatening-the-classics/) - by Beth Hutton The question of whether we can separate an artist from their work persists not only within the contemporary publishing industry, but also current discussions surrounding British literary classics. “Cancel culture” is a hot topic in this growing debate, and it seems no one is free from its watchful eye. Roald Dahl, Shakespeare, - [5 Winter Holiday Destinations for Book Lovers](https://thebookshelfpress.com/5-winter-holiday-destinations-for-book-lovers/) - by Beth Hutton If you’re anything like me, then you’ll agree there’s nothing better than cosying up on the sofa with a cup of tea, a crackling fire, and a good book on a chilly winter’s evening. But for many of us, the encroaching winter months can incite a bookworm’s affliction; although I’m a sucker - [10 Best Gifts for Book Lovers (That Aren’t Just Books)](https://thebookshelfpress.com/10-best-gifts-for-book-lovers-that-arent-just-books/) - by Hana Walker With the holiday season fast approaching, it can sometimes feel overwhelming trying to find the perfect gifts for the people you love. And when getting a present for a book lover, it can be all too easy to settle for buying the latest bestseller, even if you’re not sure they will like - [Physical Books vs. E-books: How is technology changing our reading habits?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/physical-books-vs-e-books-how-is-technology-changing-our-reading-habits/) - by Becky Tandy Recently, I had an interesting conversation with a friend about whether print or digital books are better. Although I typically read print books, I argued that it’s very convenient to have possibly thousands of books on one device, especially with a subscription service such as Kindle Unlimited. But they made an interesting - [Does a Million Social Media Followers Translate to a Million Book Sales?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/does-a-million-social-media-followers-translate-to-a-million-book-sales/) - by Ameesha Smith-Green When it comes to pitching a manuscript to agents or publishers, having an author platform is seen as essential these days. However, a recent article from The New York Times is causing a big stir on the subject of followers; titled Millions of Followers? For Book Sales, ‘It’s Unreliable.’, it argues that millions of followers - [Reflections on 2021: A year of book launches, teamwork, and charity](https://thebookshelfpress.com/reflections-on-2021-a-year-of-book-launches-teamwork-and-charity/) - by Ameesha Smith-Green 2021 was a year to forget for many reasons, but we also like to look back on the positives and end the year with a little reflection on what went well and what could have gone better. While this year was tough with Covid, restrictions, and business uncertainty, it was actually a - [12 Hours in York: An indie book shopping and tea drinking heaven](https://thebookshelfpress.com/12-hours-in-york-an-indie-book-shopping-and-tea-drinking-heaven/) - by Ameesha Smith-Green The pretty cathedral city of York is well-known for its black and white wooden buildings and confectionary, such as local fudge; but it’s also a haven for bookworms and tea drinkers with its thriving independent coffeeshop scene and an abundance of indie bookshops. As the city is compact, it’s easy to fit - [How Do You Make a Self-Published Book Look Professional?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/how-do-you-make-a-self-published-book-look-professional/) - by Ameesha Smith-Green Self-publishing can be a fantastic thing. It gives any aspiring author the ability to publish a book without encountering the barriers of the traditional publishing industry. However, self-publishing has a reputation as “the poor man’s publishing” due to the high number of amateur, unedited, and unprofessional-looking books put out there. If you’re - [Do You Really Need a Book Editor? Yes, and This Is Why](https://thebookshelfpress.com/do-you-really-need-a-book-editor-yes-and-this-is-why/) - by Hana Walker Imagine this: you’ve dedicated the past couple of years to working on a new book that you are obsessed with. It’s the longest you have ever spent on a project and you’re excited to get it out into the world. But there’s just one issue—you’ve heard that most books get edited and - [What Is the Difference between Self-help and Self-improvement Books?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/what-is-the-difference-between-self-help-and-self-improvement-books/) - by Ameesha Smith-Green Even for those who love nonfiction, the terminology can sometimes get confusing. After all, there’s self-help, self-improvement, and personal development books, plus books on personality. What does it all mean, and how do you know which is right for you? Have no fear, our simple guide is here… What is self-help? Self-help - [The 5 Biggest Mistakes That Nonfiction Authors Make… and They're Not What You Think They Are](https://thebookshelfpress.com/the-5-biggest-mistakes-that-nonfiction-authors-make-and-theyre-not-what-you-think-they-are/) - by Ameesha Smith-Green Having worked in and around the publishing industry for the past 12 years, I’ve seen a lot of nonfiction authors get it right and a lot get it wrong. I started to notice certain patterns in the writers who were successful and spot common mistakes made by those whose books flopped. As - [Which Type of Publishing Do You Choose? The pros and cons of traditional publishing, self-publishing, vanity publishing, and hybrid publishing](https://thebookshelfpress.com/which-type-of-publishing-do-you-choose-the-pros-and-cons-of-traditional-publishing-self-publishing-vanity-publishing-and-hybrid-publishing/) - by Ameesha Smith-Green As an aspiring author, you’re faced with a difficult decision early on: do you seek a traditional publishing deal or self-publish? The path you choose determines your next actions, like a choose-your-own-adventure book. And wait… there’s also vanity publishing and hybrid publishing to consider. So, how do you choose your publishing path? - [How Can I Become a Better Writer?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/how-can-i-become-a-better-writer/) - by Shelby Jones Writing can be a minefield and many would certainly prefer to traverse great fields of potential dynamite than attempt to put their own writing out into the world. Even thinking of the overwhelming number of authors, bloggers, and journalists who appear to have their knack for the medium sorted is petrifying. But - [Mirror Mirror on the Wall, Should I Avoid Vanity Publishers?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/mirror-mirror-on-the-wall-should-i-avoid-vanity-publishers/) - by Ameesha Smith-Green “Mirror mirror on the wall, whose book is fairest of them all?” The term “vanity publishing” certainly conjures up images of Snow White and her vain step-mother. However, some authors unwittingly fall into its snares without realising what they’re really getting themselves into. So, in this guide we’ll explain what vanity publishing - [5 Ways to Start Writing](https://thebookshelfpress.com/5-ways-to-start-writing/) - by Shelby Jones The beginning is the hardest part—of anything. And you’re a writer, so putting your thoughts into action takes an immense amount of strength. If you already have your story idea, how do you begin writing it? Here are five ways to start... #1: Free writing Write freely, unemotionally, and without much thought. - [How to Embrace Writer’s Block](https://thebookshelfpress.com/how-to-embrace-writers-block/) - by Peri Cimen We’ve all been there. Whether you’ve been staring at a blank Word document for days or hit a wall during a long-term project, writer’s block can be frustrating and disruptive, and leave you feeling less than confident in your abilities. You may have scoured the internet for a solution and found that - [The Pros and Cons of a Creative Writing Degree](https://thebookshelfpress.com/the-pros-and-cons-of-a-creative-writing-degree/) - by Peri Cimen You may have found yourself wondering whether you need a creative writing degree to succeed as an author. Of course, many writers specialise in other fields before deciding to write their first book, with some of them having no prior experience in writing. So, the answer is no. But that doesn’t mean - [How to Find the Right Creative Writing Degree](https://thebookshelfpress.com/how-to-find-the-right-creative-writing-degree/) - by Peri Cimen Undertaking a creative writing degree is a big decision and research is the first step. Whether you’re an aspiring writer or you’ve already published some work and are looking to expand your understanding of the craft, there are many things to consider, especially since you’ll be investing a lot into your degree. - [The BookTok Effect: How social media influences book marketing](https://thebookshelfpress.com/the-booktok-effect-how-social-media-influences-book-marketing/) - by Olga Bialasik Since the rise of social media, industries have taken advantage of its marketing potential and the internationality it affords businesses. The publishing industry is no different. For book publishers and authors, it’s a chance to boost sales through a higher global reach and to connect with enthusiastic audiences. For readers, it’s an - [8 Top Tips for Getting over Writer's Block](https://thebookshelfpress.com/8-top-tips-for-getting-over-writers-block/) - by Soria Nicholson Most writers fear those dreaded two words that we find ourselves plagued with every once in a while: writer’s block. Although a terrible affliction, it has simple yet effective remedies. We have put together a list of ways to guide you out of such a state. #1. Get rid of distractions Removing - [This Is Your Sign to Do a Year Abroad](https://thebookshelfpress.com/this-is-your-sign-to-do-a-year-abroad/) - by Soria Nicholson Eleven months ago, if someone had told me I’d soon be packing my bags and moving across the ocean to live in France, I would have been amazed. Back then, fear and uncertainty clouded my vision and all I could think about was how I would navigate a country I’d visited only - [Spooky Season Shelf: Nonfiction book recommendations for autumn](https://thebookshelfpress.com/spooky-season-shelf-nonfiction-book-recommendations-for-autumn/) - by Olga Bialasik October is flying by and Halloween is closing in so fast that we might not even notice it’s on our doorstep until we hear “trick or treat!” This time of year is perfect for cosying up with a spooky novel, whether it’s a bloody slasher or an eerie haunting of a story, - [October Publishing News Roundup](https://thebookshelfpress.com/october-publishing-news-roundup/) - by Shelby Jones What’s happened in the world of publishing over the last week? Here is your monthly roundup of news, announcements, book launches, and more. HarperCollins Union Workers Planning Second Strike in November “Publishing made me absolutely miserable.” After months of negotiations, unionised HarperCollins employees have announced that they will go on strike to - [How to Publish Poetry](https://thebookshelfpress.com/how-to-publish-poetry/) - 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 of publishing it isn’t restricted in the same ways that publishing fiction or nonfiction can be. If - [Out of Five Cats: October](https://thebookshelfpress.com/out-of-five-cats-october/) - Welcome to Out of Five Cats! 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 you to sample. This October we read some extraordinary nonfiction books, some being new releases and others long - [Nonfiction November Is Here!](https://thebookshelfpress.com/nonfiction-november-is-here/) - 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 November! This month, we celebrate stories of fact and footnotes and the truths that can be stranger - [8 Contemporary Poetry Recommendations](https://thebookshelfpress.com/8-contemporary-poetry-recommendations/) - 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 experiment with the craft is to read others’ poetry—we have some recommendations for you. Prepare to shed - [10 Nonfiction Books You Can Read in a Day](https://thebookshelfpress.com/10-nonfiction-books-you-can-read-in-a-day/) - 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 are. Here are a few of our top short nonfiction books. Some are from the New York - [Our Year in Nonfiction](https://thebookshelfpress.com/our-year-in-nonfiction/) - 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 nature writing, biographies, anthologies and philosophy books, this year has been a journey of the mind. The - [November: Out of Five Cats](https://thebookshelfpress.com/november-out-of-five-cats/) - 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 you to sample. This November, we read some extraordinary nonfiction books, some being new releases and others - [5 Books That Inspired Me to Write](https://thebookshelfpress.com/5-books-that-inspired-me-to-write/) - “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, so I cheat a little with this hack), I take note of new nonfiction every month and keep in - [7 Lessons from J.K Rowling’s Success](https://thebookshelfpress.com/lessons-on-j-k-rowlings-success-and-where-to-find-them/) - 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 using those same thumbs to write the best-selling series of all time, JK Rowling is undoubtedly a - [How Can I Read More? ](https://thebookshelfpress.com/how-can-i-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 I prefer). And the thing is, life gets busy and hours spent reading end up being hours - [How to Price Your Nonfiction Book on Amazon](https://thebookshelfpress.com/how-to-price-your-nonfiction-book-on-amazon/) - If you’re self-publishing on Amazon KDP (or another book platform), you might find yourself asking: how should I price my book? - [Do I Need an Alpha or Beta Reader?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/alpha-and-beta-readers-who-are-they-why-do-i-need-one/) - 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. - [Essential Writing Hacks for Neurodivergent Writers: ADHD/Autism](https://thebookshelfpress.com/essential-writing-hacks-for-neurodivergent-writers-adhd-autism/) - 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 challenging a key group in our community; the idea that having ADHD and/or Autism fundamentally inhibits writing - [5 Books to Read in Time for the New Year](https://thebookshelfpress.com/top-5-books-to-start-2023-right/) - 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 again by reading, just as I did when I was young.” - [3 Mistakes Article Writers Make](https://thebookshelfpress.com/3-mistakes-article-writers-make/) - 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, I’m not going to admit I’m a world-class editor. I’m still learning the art of my craft, - [The Truth about Typesetting & Why it Matters](https://thebookshelfpress.com/the-truth-about-typesetting-why-it-matters/) - We know the importance of great writing, solid editing, and a good cover. Your book looks incredible – or does it? What's with that typesetting? - [Do You Want to Write Online? Start with Quora](https://thebookshelfpress.com/do-you-want-to-write-online-start-with-quora/) - If you want to start writing online, write on Quora. It’s the golden goose in the heavens of digital writing. - [Do You Want to Write? Here Are 4 Writing Styles](https://thebookshelfpress.com/do-you-want-to-write-here-are-4-writing-styles/) - There are four general stylistic categories that writing falls into. Knowing which type you fall into is essential, as it will support your writing goals ✍️ - [How to Write a Nonfiction Book: 10 Simple Steps](https://thebookshelfpress.com/how-to-write-a-nonfiction-book-10-simple-steps-2/) - How to Write a Nonfiction Book: 10 Simple Steps Christopher Hitchens stat, “Everyone has a book in them and that, in most cases, is where it should stay.” - [To Publish or Self-Publish? That is the Special Question…](https://thebookshelfpress.com/to-publish-or-self-publish-that-is-the-special-question/) - As a book editor, the authors I work with often ask: should I self-publish or look for a traditional publisher? - [5 Books to Gift Your Loved One](https://thebookshelfpress.com/5-books-to-gift-your-loved-one/) - “Books make great gifts because they have whole worlds inside of them.” (Neil Gaiman) We all know Valentine’s Day — the season of red roses, heart-shaped chocolates, and endless rom-coms. However, most people will have never heard of ‘International Book Giving Day.’ Both holidays share two things in common; 1.) the same 14th February calendar - [Editor Secrets: How Long Will it Take to Edit and Publish Your Book?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/editor-secrets-how-long-will-it-take-to-edit-and-publish-your-book/) - As a book editor, I often get approached by authors who have just finished writing and now need an editor. - [Introduction or Preface: Is There Really a Difference?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/introduction-or-preface-is-there-really-a-difference/) - When you’re writing a nonfiction book, you might wonder what the difference is between an introduction and a preface. Do you need both? - [How to Self-Publish Your Book: A Step-by-Step Guide](https://thebookshelfpress.com/how-to-self-publish-your-book-a-step-by-step-guide/) - As a book editor, authors often ask me how to self-publish a book and what the self-publishing process entails. In this article, I’ll run through the self-publishing process, the people you may need to hire, and the options. The rise of self-publishing has provided a great alternative for authors who don’t wish to use traditional - [The 5 Grammar Mistakes You Don't Want to Make](https://thebookshelfpress.com/the-5-grammar-mistakes-you-dont-want-to-make/) - Having proofread over 400 books, I've encountered many a common grammar error. The same mistakes pop up time and time again. - [Writing a Book in a Non-Native Language](https://thebookshelfpress.com/writing-a-book-in-a-non-native-language/) - As a nonfiction book editor, I’m often asked whether it’s possible to publish a book as a non-native speaker or writer, and my answer is always you can! - [How to Choose an Editor or Proofreader](https://thebookshelfpress.com/how-to-choose-an-editor-or-proofreader/) - So, you’ve written a book, blog post, article, or essay, and now you need an editor or perhaps a proofreader. But how do you know who to choose? ## Pages - [Are you ready to make a difference?](https://thebookshelfpress.com/) - The people who change the conversation and disrupt their industry don’t just think differently. They turn their thinking into a nonfiction book. It’s time to take the next step towards becoming an author. - [Our Ethos](https://thebookshelfpress.com/how-we-work/) - We understand that trusting someone with your idea or manuscript can be scary, and that’s why we want to let you know what it’s like to work with us. In other words, our ethos… - [About Us](https://thebookshelfpress.com/about-us/) - At The Book Shelf®, we’ve been bringing nonfiction to life since 2018. We've worked on over 1,500 books with authors around the globe… from first-timers to New York Times bestsellers. We help entrepreneurs, leaders, and changemakers turn their knowledge into professionally published books. Our role is simple: to help important ideas reach the people who - [Our Services](https://thebookshelfpress.com/services/) - Ever wonder how those books on your shelf went from ideas in someone's head to printed and bound collections of papers? It might seem like alchemy, but it's actually a simple 7-step process that we take people through, from draft to bookshelf (and beyond). It goes something like this… - [Submissions](https://thebookshelfpress.com/submissions/) - Thank you for your interest in publishing with Book Shelf Press. We are passionate about supporting emerging and established authors who share our commitment to life-changing, high-quality, and meaningful books. Here, you will find our submissions guidelines and submissions form. If you’re unsure whether we’re the right press for you, feel free to book a - [Submit a manuscript](https://thebookshelfpress.com/submit-a-manuscript-2/) - [Contact Us](https://thebookshelfpress.com/contact-us/) - What do you need to know… We offer full hybrid publishing services, this includes editorial, marketing, ghostwriting, and book and cover design. Our working hours are Monday to Friday 10am until 6pm. We will endeavour to get back to you within 5 working days. - [Successful authors](https://thebookshelfpress.com/successful-authors/) - [Privacy Policy](https://thebookshelfpress.com/privacy-policy/) - Who we areOur website address is: https://bookshelf.ovaltwo.com.What personal data we collect and why we collect itCommentsWhen visitors leave comments on the site we collect the data shown in the comments form, and also the visitor’s IP address and browser user agent string to help spam detection.An anonymized string created from your email address (also called - [The latest from the blog](https://thebookshelfpress.com/the-latest-from-the-blog/) - Welcome to The Book Shelf® Blog! We're a team of passionate book lovers who like to share our knowledge of writing and publishing with the world. We know that the publishing industry can be confusing and overwhelming at times, so on our blog, we'll share insights and tips to make your publishing journey easier. PS. ## Authors - [Fiona Van Petegem](https://thebookshelfpress.com/successful-authors/fiona-van-petegem/) - Founder and Product Risk Strategist “Working with Ameesha at The Book Shelf was instrumental in turning my writing into a finished book. Coming from a background of writing technical reports and theses, I had a steep learning curve in understanding how to structure and present a nonfiction book in a way that would engage readers.” - [Walter Simson](https://thebookshelfpress.com/successful-authors/walter-simson/) - Founder, CEO, and CFO “Ameesha from The Book Shelf is a complete pleasure to work with, and she adds a lot of value to the manuscript and to project planning. She went beyond the stated deliverables where she saw she could add value. She is dedicated to my genre (non-fiction business) which is an incredible - [Dr Amo Raju OBE](https://thebookshelfpress.com/successful-authors/dr-amo-raju-obe/) - TedX Talker, CEO, and Director “A truly professional service and enjoyable experience working with The Bookshelf team! Thoroughly recommend them to any new or established authors!” Accolades: Bestselling book, landed TV speaking slots, contributed to author being awarded an OBE Dr Amo Raju OBE, Walk Like a Man - [Donovan Bass](https://thebookshelfpress.com/successful-authors/donovan-bass-startup-stages/) - Product Leader, ex-Zoox “The Book Shelf was wonderful. I recently published my first book and am very proud of the outcome. I wouldn't be here without their help. Highly recommended! Ameesha at The Book Shelf provided a great mix of high-level and tactical feedback. Her notes were thoughtful, insightful, thorough and clever. She helped me - [Sam Sanders](https://thebookshelfpress.com/successful-authors/sam/) - Washington Post journalist, Games industry COO "I came to The Book Shelf with what was frankly a mess. They took me through the entire process and guided me to the finish line, which was incredibly helpful as a first-time author. Without their help, it would not have been as successful as it was… it opened - [Nicky Danks](https://thebookshelfpress.com/successful-authors/nicky-danks/) - Youtuber and influencer “As a first-time author, I had no idea what I was doing or the severity of the mountain that lay before me.Ameesha walked me step by step through the developmental edit, which allowed me to write a vastly superior manuscript. She had to sift through a wasteland that was my original manuscript. - [Kat Greenbrook](https://thebookshelfpress.com/successful-authors/kat-greenbrook/) - Founder & Data Storyteller “Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. I'm grateful to have found my way to Ameesha and her team. When we met, I didn't know where to start in terms of professionally writing and publishing a book. I had started (and stopped) writing over the years but the discipline of the practice - [Carly Peacock](https://thebookshelfpress.com/successful-authors/carly-peacock/) - “I needed help with a few things and Ameesha came up trumps. I found Ameesha very collaborative and full of useful advice. She definitely made a difference to my book. It was so good that my book ended up in magazines and newspapers which was the overall goal!! I can't recommend The Bookshelf enough!” Accolades: - [Matt Lerner](https://thebookshelfpress.com/successful-authors/matt-lerner-2/) - Founder, Ex-PayPal GM, VC Partner “Niall and Ameesha walked me through writing, editing, and publishing my book including the cover design and all the quirks of publishing on Amazon. I recommend them highly, and if I publish another book, I’ll use them again for sure!” Accolades: Bestselling book, sold over 1000 copies in 3 days - [Katie Gray](https://thebookshelfpress.com/successful-authors/katie-gray/) - Singer, Counsellor, and President of The Empowered Heart Foundation "When for so long I was filled with ideas and visions, I feel a sense of relief and freedom in having finally accomplished that first book. Once working with Ameesha and the others at the Book Shelf, I didn't feel so alone…" Accolades: Launched a successful ## Tips - [Tip 3](https://thebookshelfpress.com/tips/tip-3/) - I came to Ameesha with what was frankly a mess. I was a first-time author and had very little insight into how to publish a book. But doing so opened up doors for me in the future that I could not have imagined... - [Tip 2](https://thebookshelfpress.com/tips/tip-2/) - I came to Ameesha with what was frankly a mess. I was a first-time author and had very little insight into how to publish a book. But doing so opened up doors for me in the future that I could not have imagined… - [Tip 1](https://thebookshelfpress.com/tips/tip-1/) - I came to Ameesha with what was frankly a mess. I was a first-time author and had very little insight into how to publish a book. But doing so opened up doors for me in the future that I could not have imagined... ## Packages - [The Compass](https://thebookshelfpress.com/packages/the-heros-compass/) - Want to know whether your nonfiction book idea is any good? WHO IT'S IDEAL FOR: This service is for anyone who wants feedback on their nonfiction book idea. We will review your initial idea and provide you with written feedback. Our team will then provide 2x book coaching sessions to help you improve your concept. - [The Echo](https://thebookshelfpress.com/packages/the-echo/) - Your book to audiobook - [The Hero's Quest](https://thebookshelfpress.com/packages/guided-journey/) - Your book guided by us... - [The Hero's Journey](https://thebookshelfpress.com/packages/self-empowered/) - Your book empowered by us... - [The Shadow](https://thebookshelfpress.com/packages/the-shadow/) - Your book written for you, looked after by us... ## Testimonials - [Bruno Lowagie, author of "Entreprenerd", May 2021](https://thebookshelfpress.com/testimonial/bruno-lowagie-author-of-entreprenerd-may-2021/) - Bruno Lowagie - [Jeff Clark, upcoming author, Nov 2020](https://thebookshelfpress.com/testimonial/jeff-clark-upcoming-author-nov-2020/) - Jeff Clark - [Rebekah Mullen, upcoming author, Dec 2020](https://thebookshelfpress.com/testimonial/rebekah-mullen-upcoming-author-dec-2020/) - Rebekah Mullen - [Tenaz Sunavala, author of "The Path to Empowerment", June 2021](https://thebookshelfpress.com/testimonial/tenaz-sunavala-author-of-the-path-to-empowerment-june-2021/) - Tenaz Sunavala - [Sharrell Kline, author of "Positively Managing Performance", 2018](https://thebookshelfpress.com/testimonial/sharrell-kline-author-of-positively-managing-performance-2018/) - Sharrell Kline - [Mark Lanyon, author of "Who Stole Grandma?", June 2021](https://thebookshelfpress.com/testimonial/mark-lanyon-author-of-who-stole-grandma-june-2021/) - Mark Lanyon - [Samba Lékouye, author of "Everythink", 2020](https://thebookshelfpress.com/testimonial/samba-lekouye-author-of-everythink-2020/) - Samba Lékouye - [Jean de La Rochebrochard, author of "The Human Machine", 2019](https://thebookshelfpress.com/testimonial/jean-de-la-rochebrochard-author-of-the-human-machine-2019/) - Jean de La Rochebrochard - [James Shaw, author of "What Is Happiness?", Jan 2021](https://thebookshelfpress.com/testimonial/james-shaw-author-of-what-is-happiness-jan-2021/) - James Shaw - [Rad Wendzich, author of "Your Default Settings", 2019](https://thebookshelfpress.com/testimonial/rad-wendzich-author-of-your-default-settings-2019/) - Rad Wendzich - [Harrison Paul, upcoming psychology author, 2020](https://thebookshelfpress.com/testimonial/harrison-paul-upcoming-psychology-author-2020/) - Harrison Paul - [Laide Abel, author of "People as Assets", Aug 2020](https://thebookshelfpress.com/testimonial/laide-abel-author-of-people-as-assets-aug-2020/) - Laide Abel - [Danny D, April 2021](https://thebookshelfpress.com/testimonial/danny-d-april-2021/) - Danny D - [Timothy Chen, author of "The Religious Transaction", June 2021](https://thebookshelfpress.com/testimonial/timothy-chen-author-of-the-religious-transaction-june-2021/) - Timothy Chen - [Stacy Moroz, author of "Persistence is Futile: How Taking a Break Can Move You Forward"](https://thebookshelfpress.com/testimonial/stacy-moroz-author-of-persistence-is-futile-how-taking-a-break-can-move-you-forward/) - Stacy Moroz - [Eric Bravo, author of "How to Get an Animation Internship: A Guide That Helps You Apply, Interview, and Get Your Foot into Show Business"](https://thebookshelfpress.com/testimonial/eric-bravo-author-of-how-to-get-an-animation-internship-a-guide-that-helps-you-apply-interview-and-get-your-foot-into-show-business/) - Eric Bravo - [Carly Peacock, upcoming author of "A Pocketful of Porn"](https://thebookshelfpress.com/testimonial/carly-peacock-upcoming-author-of-a-pocketful-of-porn/) - Carly Peacock - [Jym Brown, author of Amazon bestseller "#Life: The Wisdom of Philosophy, Psychology and Pop-culture for Living a Better Life"](https://thebookshelfpress.com/testimonial/jym-brown-author-of-amazon-bestseller-life-the-wisdom-of-philosophy-psychology-and-pop-culture-for-living-a-better-life/) - Jym Brown - [Anna Simpson, author of "Create the Life You Dream About: Discover Your Inner Power to Change Your Life"](https://thebookshelfpress.com/testimonial/anna-simpson-author-of-create-the-life-you-dream-about-discover-your-inner-power-to-change-your-life/) - Anna Simpson ## Categories - [Planning your book](https://thebookshelfpress.com/category/planning-your-book/) - [Writing your book](https://thebookshelfpress.com/category/writing-your-book/) - [Editing your book](https://thebookshelfpress.com/category/editing-your-book/) - [Publishing your book](https://thebookshelfpress.com/category/publishing-your-book/) - [Designing & marketing your book](https://thebookshelfpress.com/category/designing-and-marketing-your-book/) - [Philosophising and discussion](https://thebookshelfpress.com/category/philosophising-and-discussion/) - [For bookworms](https://thebookshelfpress.com/category/for-bookworms/) - [Meet The Author](https://thebookshelfpress.com/category/meet-the-author/) ## Tags - [Historical nonfiction](https://thebookshelfpress.com/tag/historical-nonfiction/) - [Historical representation](https://thebookshelfpress.com/tag/historical-representation/) - [Nonfiction writing](https://thebookshelfpress.com/tag/nonfiction-writing/) - [ChatGPT](https://thebookshelfpress.com/tag/chatgpt/) - [GeminiAI](https://thebookshelfpress.com/tag/geminiai/) - [Writing support](https://thebookshelfpress.com/tag/writing-support/) - [Publishing](https://thebookshelfpress.com/tag/publishing/) - [Hybrid publishing](https://thebookshelfpress.com/tag/hybrid-publishing/) - 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