I'm so happy to be interviewing Karin Lefranc, author of A QUEST FOR GOOD MANNERS. You will find my review of her book here. In fact, she has generously offered her book as a give-away to one lucky reader. More information about this below, after the interview.
Karin will be my first in a series of first-time author interviews. By doing so, I hope to shed light on the creative process and give inspiration and hope to aspiring book writers. Let's welcome Karin.
Karin will be my first in a series of first-time author interviews. By doing so, I hope to shed light on the creative process and give inspiration and hope to aspiring book writers. Let's welcome Karin.
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| Author: Karin Lefranc |
When and why did you begin writing?
KL: I have been writing since college. My first job was as a reporter for a local newspaper. Then I wrote blurbs and press releases as an assistant editor for Virgin Books in London, and about five years ago, I started writing for children.
What made you decide to write a book on good manners?
KL: I was teaching kids manners classes, and there were not many fun manners books. I wanted to write an entertaining story that also happened to teach good manners.
Why did you choose a princess and a dragon to share your message?
KL: There are a lot of princess stories out there but Rosalind is a little different. She is not girly and she has a pet dragon. I have heard as many stories about boys loving this book as girls so definitely not your average princess story!
How long did it take you to complete the book from draft to picture book?
KL: I think it took about a year.
What made you decide to self-publish your book?
KL: I wanted to get my
book to market faster than with a traditional publisher. I could also use the
illustrator that I wanted. Finally, I felt somewhat confident as I have worked
in book publishing for 10 years in editorial and then in rights.
What did you learn from writing the book?
KL: Wow, I learned so much from writing and editing to book production and marketing. I am still learning about the publishing business!
RB: Thank you, Karin. It's been wonderful learning about your publishing journey. You make a good point about self-publishing. Unless you have worked in publishing or have editorial experience, it's best to elicit the expertise of professionals who can help you with editing, marketing, book packaging so that your book is as best as it can be.
And now for the book give-away.... Just comment below by May 13, 2012. A winner will be randomly selected and announced on May 16. So be sure to check back then. Thanks for visiting!
Looks like a fun book! Irreverent, offbeat princesses are my favorite. :)
ReplyDeleteDe Jackson (WhimsyGizmo)
whimsygizmo.wordpress.com
Oh, then you'll like the book. Makes a great gift.
DeleteThis looks like the perfect book for my rowdy three-year-old. :) If I don't win, I might just have to buy it. Thanks for the spotlight, Romelle.
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome! You have your hands full, Rebecca.
DeleteIt looks like such a cute book. Publishing is not what it used to be, either traditional or self publishing. Self publishers can hire professional freelance editors and illustrators. That's what I'm in the process of doing - like Karin says, it gets your book out there more quickly and you have control over everything to include illustration, not to mention a bigger share of royalties. Some trad. publishers are taking more than a year to get your book on the market. With today's media capabilities, self marketing isn't as hard as it once was. Definitely more work for the self pubber, though, without the backing of a traditional publisher :<)
ReplyDeleteThe downside of self-pub is the cost! But good for you. I can't wait to hear more about your process with self-pub once you get your novel out!
DeleteThank you for sharing Karin's journey! Her creative approach on manners and the fanciful illustrations should make this a winner.
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by Susan! Yes, I'm impressed by the book being that it is self-published. Of course, Karin has been in the publishing business for 10 years so she knows what she's doing.
DeleteWhat a great topic for a book...and concept! It looks fun and whimsical. Kids will love it!
ReplyDeleteMy boys thought it was a fun book.
DeleteYour interview was very well done. It made me aware of how many authors are choosing to self-publish.
ReplyDeleteThank you Kim. Yes, it's encouraging for many who are choosing the self-pub route. I'd still rather try the traditional way. I love a good challenge!
DeleteSounds like a needed book in my household. Dragons and princesses make a winning combination.
ReplyDeleteI love the dragon name - Sparkler! Great. I would like to hear more about the self-publishing journey too.
ReplyDelete