The Complete Guide to Writers Groups That Work

Today I have a talented writer, B.J. Taylor , in the blog studio with me. Between writing on assignment for Guideposts, she has been published in Writer’s Digest and a multitude of Chicken Soup for the Soul books. Other credits include articles in Romantic Homes magazine, Victorian Homes magazine, Angels on Earth and Lexus. An accomplished speaker and a member in three active writers groups, she has conducted numerous workshops for writers—including one up-coming engagement at the Yosemite Writer’s Conference.

She recently completed a book titled, The Complete Guide to Writers Groups That Work. For the next two days we will be discussing her book and we will include an excerpt on Wednesday.



MD: Why did you write this book?

BJ: I was taking writing classes at a local college. It was just what I needed to fit writing into my life—it gave me deadlines and made me accountable. Then the classes ended. I knew I’d stop writing the first time I was rejected. It’s just so hard to stay positive without support and encouragement, so I started a writers group.

MD: What is the concept behind the book?

BJ: Successful writers don’t write alone. Yes, writing is a solitary effort, but if you want to get your work published, you need constructive, unbiased critiques. A writers group can suggest a different opening or hook, encourage you to try new word choices, guide you in polishing your writing to grab an editor’s attention, and empower you to find success. A writers group can elevate your writing to a quality level—a level that will get noticed by editors and agents—and that will increase your chances of getting published.

MD: Why did you decide to self-publish?

BJ: Many publishing houses will not take on a “niche” book such as Writers Groups That Work. After trying for quite a while to get it picked up by a publisher, I researched self-publishing. There is no longer a stigma associated with self-publishing. Even the big publishing houses are taking notice of self-published books. Many great books, like Bridges of Madison County and The Christmas Box, were originally self-published and later became bestsellers. And then there was the cost. It used to be that prices were pretty steep but costs have now plummeted with print on demand, and the quality of a self-published book is equal to a book put out by larger publishing houses. You can also make anywhere from 50-70% profit on each book sold.

MD: What are the advantages and disadvantages to self-publishing?

BJ: The advantages of self-publishing include complete control over the finished product: you design the cover (they’ll help you if you want), you set up and format the interior, you can include quotes or sidebars or text boxes. You write the back cover text and can include a photo of yourself and a biography as well. This is your book and you control all aspects of the publishing process.

The disadvantages of self-publishing encompass the considerable amount of time and attention which will be required for each and every detail of the finished work. But when you love something as much as you do your project, you won’t mind devoting time to it.

The book can be purchased through Infinity Books and here.

Stay tuned for more from B.J. tomorrow. Same bat time. Same bat channel.