Three Writerly Treats . . .
Friday, 9.12
Hello everyone—and thanks for being here.
This week has been especially filled with challenges, all the way from the wide world down to my little corner of it. And I’ve had some new Misfit realizations, which I’ll share next week.
But for now, a crazy-quilt of treats I’ve come across recently.
1. Authors and Assistants
I made a few notes while auditing Story Origin’s “Authoring Like a Pro” webinar. Speaker Lorna Bailey (owner of Moonstone Virtual Assistance) explained who needs an assistant, and what makes a good one.
These are just things that caught my attention:
Lorna uses Notion to keep track of gaps in her horse's training--like standing at the mounting block. A great example of how a model assistant can micro-focus on anything. (Plus it’s always nice to think about horses.)
Lorna’s philosophy includes this aesthetic principle: "If it's not cute, I don't want it in my world." I gave some thought to which must-have quality I would substitute for "cute”—but I’m keeping it a secret. Fun exercise!
Lorna’s tip for getting started as an author assistant:
Niche down--pick a genre and really get to know it
Lorna’s tip for hiring an author’s assistant:
Look for someone who’s naturally both responsive and proactive, with a strong grasp of organization and project management
I’m nowhere near needing/affording an author’s assistant, but I enjoyed the presentation, and learned some things in case I ever do get to that point. I think you can watch the replay here.
2. Kajabi’s Take on Book Promotion
I recently did a trial of Kajabi (the everything-ever ecommerce platform), and learned a lot. FYI: every once in a while they offer a 90-day trial for $99, which is like stealing, since regular price for the full product is roughly equal to a monthly car payment.
But you can always get a 14-day trial, or just poke around the free bits.
For example, I came across:
Nothing break-through, but it’s a concise look at how authors can use email marketing to promote their work.
3. Must-haves for“Writing Out in the World”
Hurley Winkler is still shopping—and if you too can’t resist writer stuff:
4. Today’s Substack Gem
We are no relation—but I really wish we were, because I’d love to tag along on this writer’s continuing adventure: hiking the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, 1,200 miles across North Carolina.
I think you’ll enjoy having him drop by your Inbox.
And there you have it for this week. See you Monday! C
Thanks for the share! Wishing you many new notebooks and pens ✏️