For information on reprinting material from this website, other than the free
articles, contact info@beaconlit.com
*** Last updated on
Sunday June 20, 2010
New and
enlarged by over 40 pages, the second edition
of this bestselling book was released on August 18, 2008.
Also available for Amazon's Kindle, Sony e-readers, and Smartphones
BOOK MAGIC:
TURNING WRITERS INTO
PUBLISHED AUTHORS
by
Julie H. Ferguson
Book Magic
is indispensable for every writer who
dreams of publication. Easy to read and practical, it provides all
the information and tools you need to understand the publishing
industry and increase your chances of getting commercially published
or ably manage your own self-publication.
Books are magic! They turn unknown
writers into authors and, perhaps, even into household names. But
publishing is a complex world, full of insider rules and financial
constraints that, if not respected, cause good book ideas to vanish
into thin air and writers to question their calling.
Aspiring authors will discover:
how to weave some spells that
boost your chances of getting published, in print or
electronically
the wizardry surrounding agents,
query letters, and phone calls to editors
the crystal ball that interprets trends in the North American market, as well as what's happening
in electronic and self-publishing
how to disappear from the dreaded
slush pile
the magic bullets called book
proposals, synopses, etc.
how Canadian and American
publishing scenes differ, and how approachable medium and small
publishers really are
how to shape-shift into an author
with credentials
electronic sorcery
the enchantment of holding your
first published book in your hand.
Join Julie, the author of 17 books,
as she waves her magic wand and takes you ...from inspiration to
publication!!™
Through Mobipocket™
for your Smartphone USD$6.99 - click
here
Through Amazon.com and .ca
Reaction to the second edition of Book Magic
Julie H. Ferguson's Book Magic is the one how-to book
on getting a manuscript into print that I recommend without
reservation to all my writing classes. Ferguson's book brings
together a wealth of practical, up to date information in one
compact, well-organized, intensively researched and inexpensive
package. In an easy to read, entertaining style Ferguson offers
essential advice and insider tips on agents, grants, building
your writing credentials, approaching publishers -- or
publishing your book yourself; as well, she sheds light on the
often bewildering world of the new e-publishing technologies.
That, and a great deal more.
This is the perfect introduction to a rapidly changing twenty-first
century market. I wish it had been written when I first started
my writing career. Eileen Kernaghan, award-winning author and
writing instructor,
http://www.lonelycry.ca/ek/, May 2010
Before you read this
review, please note that author, Julie H. Ferguson, is a
colleague who interviewed me for the book to gain insights into
my publishing experience. If you think I'm too biased to provide
an adequate review of Book Magic then read no further. But also
note that I wouldn't have agreed to the interview if I didn't
believe in the quality of Julie's work as a writer and
publisher. If you still wish to continue, then . . .
They say that everyone has a story to tell and, based on my
experience, many folks would love to have their stories
published. Those with the courage to write their stories,
though, soon discover how difficult writing is. And writing well
is absolutely formidable. But to see one's story in print is
truly a magical experience, and if you want a legitimate shot at
experiencing this magic, then Julie's practical guide can help
you achieve your dream.
She begins by demolishing prevailing myths about getting published,
such as needing an agent or that publishers prefer fiction. From
there, she delves into the different ways one can be published,
thanks to technology. Topics include finding a publisher,
avoiding the slush pile, pitching your book, writing query
letters, and what you need to know about publishing
electronically. This book is full of useful information
including appendices that provide sample pitches and query
letters.
Needless to say, Book Magic covers a lot of ground in a mere 122
pages, which might frustrate those readers looking for more
details regarding editing, book production, or the
publishing/marketing process. However, the author provides a
great list of books that cover these issues.
What I liked best about Book Magic is that Ferguson addresses
nearly every type of writer from those who want to write a
memoir for family and friends only, to those seeking bestseller
status. Whether you've been writing for years or are just
beginning, you'll find something in Book Magic to make the
journey easier, and that too is magical. Debra Purdy Kong, author of The Alex
Bellamy mystery series
here, May 2010
I, too, am a colleague and friend of Julie Ferguson's, and I
helped with the editing and formatting of Book Magic. If
you think I am therefore biased, then move on to the next
review, but I think I am as qualified as anyone to tell the
writing and reading world that this book is a gem. It will help
any writer figure out what to do next to get published. Julie
knows, really knows, the publishing world, because she has
navigated it herself with her own books and has stayed on top of
things so that she can coach others. The book is short and
snappy and tells you what you need to know without overwhelming
you with so much detail you just want to give up. As an editor
who also helps writers publish and self-publish, I keep Book
Magic as handy as my dictionaries and I refer to it on a
regular basis. Highly recommended. Joyce Gram, editor and writer,
www.gramediting.com, July 2008
and June 2010
Book Magic hits the nail right on the head for anyone
contemplating becoming a first-time author or even publishing a
second or third book. Julie Ferguson covers all the latest
techniques for getting your book published and includes some
very useful insider tips on the publishing industry. I have used
her advice with great success and highly recommend this book. Doug Matthews, February 2009
...Even published authors will find valuable insight in these
pages. Ferguson plainly lays out the pros and cons of each
publishing method, as she herself has published in several
genres and explored every avenue....
Book Magic
would be an invaluable resource on the shelf of most Canadian
writers*, especially those new to publishing. The important
information offered is succinct, and its 121 pages (plus helpful
appendix) cover a lot of ground. And when you're done,
publishing won't feel like such a huge obstacle.
*Ferguson, a Canadian, focuses on Canadian
publishing information, but
doesn't neglect the more numerous
publishing businesses in the US, either.
Jena Lohrbach, October 2008.
For Jena's full review, click
here
A very good book – one every writer hoping to get published
should read.
Jim Bisakowsi, Book Magic's cover designer,
www.bookdesign.ca,
October 2008
Book
Magic has everything I need to know about the publishing
process in a concise, complete, and easily understood format. In
your usual manner of not wasting or mincing words, the book is
sized so I was able to read it in an afternoon, and specific
sections can quickly be revisited. Thank you for sharing your
expertise. Irene Butler,
September 2008
... you continue to be an inspiration to
me. I will definitely be purchasing a copy of Book Magic.
Thank you for the advance notice of your new release!
Lorna Hall, July
2008
Praise forthe first edition of
Book Magic
"Spectacular! You have saved me
months, if not a year, of discovery." "Packed with solid, practical how-tos!" "Your book gave me the tools and confidence." "An information-packed book that provided guidance and inspiration."
***
A freelance writer since 1971,Julie H.
Fergusonis the author of five other books for writers
and teachers (Beacon), and four on Canadian
history (Dundurn). She is
also a sought-after professional speaker for writers' events and
conferences and instructs
for the Surrey Writers' School. Her coaching practice offers
individual guidance for writers seeking commercial or
self-publication