Web Wanderings - Aug. 19 - 22, 2013

With so many interesting posts this week, I'm sharing more frequently. Here are some web wanderings over the past few days, on the topics of publishing and writing.

Losing Bookstores is a Much Bigger Problem for Publishers than It Is for Readers
As I have argued in the past, publishing's decentralization and the widening options for distribution of content have led to changes in the publishing industry. In his link-filled article, Michael Shazkin expands on the publishing industry's challenges regarding the growth of ebook sales. He argues that readers are looking for convenience in book discovery, and that traditional publishers who rely on bookstores for distribution may need to re-consider their business models.

On Writing, Self-Publishing And The Business Of Being A ProWriter With James Scott Bell
by Joanna Penn
The Creative Penn
Joanna Penn interviews James Scott Bell and provides many useful writing and publishing-related links in this article and podcast.

7 Ways You’re Sabotaging Your Book Sales Without Even Realizing It
by Jonathan Gunson
Bestseller Labs
Some mistakes can prove more costly than others, and you can easily end up sabotaging your book sales without even realizing it. Gunderson explains why these issues can become sabotaging, and then gives you the tips you'll need so you can avoid those pitfalls.

With a Little Help From My Friends
By Charles Salzberg
New York Times
Rather than waste time conjuring up names for some characters in his new novel, writer Salzberg began using the names of people he knew, as a placeholder. Surprisingly, the characters began to spring to life. It didn't occur to him until later that he might decide to retain those names when the book was submitted for publication. But his publisher had qualms.

Sexual Tension, Without Any…you know…Sex
from Savvy Authors
Romance writer Alice Gaines gives tips on how to avoid revealing too much and how not to fall into clichés.

Why You Should Join a Critique Group
from Men With Pens
Kari of Men With Pens discusses the practicality of joining a critique group.

23 Literary Agent Query Letters That Worked
by Jason Boog
GalleyCat
Links to examples of query letters for many types of writing.

How to Publish Your Book
by Zachary Petit
Lighthearted "advice" in infographic format.

15 Places to Promote Your Book for Free
GalleyCat
If you're looking for places to promote your book, and not irritate others, give some of these a try.

Chronic Back Pain and The Writing Life: A Few Remedies
By Jane Friedman
Since I have suffered from chronic low back pain (due to problems with my discs), I am willing to try anything that won't further injure my back. Maybe you'll find these ideas worthy, too.

38% of Readers Will Finish a Book No Matter What
Which, of course, means that 62% will abandon a book if it doesn't keep their interest.
from GalleyCat

Elmore Leonard - A Man of Few Words
The New York Times' obituary. RIP, Mr. Leonard.

And, finally, Darren Rowse's 50 minute inspirational video talk on Following a Dream.

Enjoy!