Lessons From The Traditional-Publishing Model—Timing

By Susan Mary Malone

Okay, so in the past, I’ve talked about focusing on the book, honing in on the genre, and now for the third thing to take from Traditional-publishing’s successes: Timing. Here I’m not talking about all the time involved waiting on agents’ and editors’ responses to submissions. Or the time waiting for feedback from a developmental editor and working on editing a novel. But rather, once you’ve signed that contract, the time lag that exists before the book comes out. Which can seem like an eternity.
Oh, how writers bemoan the idea of waiting 18 months before publication with a Traditional publisher. And often I hear from writers intending to self-publish for this very reason: “I want my book out now.” But any acquisition’s editor or agent can tell you that the time lag is actually vital.

So what happens between the signing of the contract until publication?
Plenty!

First off, an editor will position the book on the publishing house’s list. Seems straight forward enough. But a reason exists as to why something comes out at Christmas (late Fall list) vs. why another gets designated a beach read (late Spring list). Beach reads, for example, are lighter fare. In other words, you wouldn’t put out a book about depression or suicide in either of those seasons! Choose when your book comes out carefully.

Next, the lag gives editors time to get book-jacket blurbs for the back cover. And this can take a bit. But never underestimate the power of these. One huge way readers buy books is by word of mouth, and that includes blurbs by the rich and famous. Spend the time to round those up!

Covers are done differently with the Traditional houses than most Indie and self-published books. Usually the covers on the former are of higher quality than the latter, but they don’t have to be. Take the time to get a fabulous one, even if it costs you. What good is it to do things right and spend time or money on things like professional manuscript editing, and then turn people off with a low quality cover!

ARCs. These help tremendously in creating buzz for a book. Traditional houses get reviews in place from the major reviewers, and they almost all require ARCs (you pay for reviews once the book is already out but for “real” reviews, you need ARCs). Now, with the new Amazon policy of putting a book in the system up to three months before publication, anyone can take this time to get reviews in place. Do so!

Social Media. As we all know, this is king these days in promoting books. And it takes a good while to get up and going. Conventional wisdom from experts says a blog takes 6 months to a year to get noticed. You want the best promotion for your book possible. So get the website and blog going, your Twitter, FB, and LinkedIn up and healthy, long before the book comes out. Goodreads is a must, and Goodreads giveaways are quite effective. One before publication and one after. Of course a whole host of other such sites exist as well. Give yourself that time!

Promotional Materials. This also gives you time to put together your press kit, along with postcards, bookmarks, etc. Even in today’s “virtual” world, these still work wonders. Get these printed well in advance, and send them out!

Book Signings. Both brick-and-mortar stores and online book tours work great! They can also take a while to set up. Local bookstores are usually quite keen to set up signings, especially if you get some media out with it. And they are much more excited about an upcoming book, than one that’s been out six months. Work with them!

So even in today’s world of “instant” publishing, slow down here. Get your promotional ducks in line so you can launch your book in the most advantageous way possible. Because no matter which way you publish, your point is to be successful. Be that!

Susan Mary Malone (http://www.maloneeditorial.com), book editor, has gotten many authors published, edited books featured in Publishers Weekly & won numerous awards. See more writing tips at http://www.maloneeditorial.com/blog/editorial-tips/ & see her latest video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NSM6ifeJxS4&index=4&list=UU7Q8OdBNjpnfvVCwVyymIjw

Tree Planting Tips

by Nancy Penrose

If you are planning on buying a tree or transplanting trees, here are a few tips about bare root, containerized and balled and burlapped trees.

Bare Root - A bare root tree is a tree that has been dug up and stored without any soil around the roots. After the tree has been pulled up from the ground, the soil is either shaken or washed from the roots. The roots are then packed in materials that retain moisture, such as moss, wood shavings or shredded paper.

You can find many different types of bare root trees for sale, including ornamental, fruit and shade trees. Most bare root trees are deciduous, which means they become dormant in the winter.

Bare root trees are usually less expensive than trees that have been stored in pots or wrapped in burlap. Because their roots have not been bound or confined, once they have been planted they quickly adjust to their new environment.

The best time to buy a bare root tree from big tree suppliers is during the late fall or early spring. When choosing a bare root tree for planting, look for healthy, flexible roots. Before planting the tree, re-hydrate it by soaking it in water.

Containerized – The majority of containerized trees have been grown in pots since they were very young. The tree’s soil is usually fertilized, which helps provide the nutrients it needs to remain healthy.

Most containerized trees can be planted at any time of the year. When shopping for a containerized tree, the tree’s health will be apparent. Because the tree has already adapted to a growing environment and is more established, transplant “shock” is less likely. You will also find many potted or container trees blooming or bearing fruit earlier.

Balled & Burlapped – A balled or burlapped tree has often been grown in a field. When these trees are dug out of the field, many of the roots are removed in order to keep the rootball as small and light as possible. The remaining roots are wrapped in burlap that is secured by twine.

B&B trees have usually been growing in the field for two or more years. They are typically dug up during the winter. Tree removal is done either by machine or hand. When purchasing a B&B tree, make sure the ball is large enough to support the tree. Big tree suppliers will usually base the size of the ball on the thickness of the tree’s trunk.

Planting a B&B tree will often require the knowledge and skills of a big tree specialist. To begin with, even small rootballs can be extremely heavy (some rootballs can weigh over 1000 lbs.!). They also need to be handled carefully to prevent root damage. Special tools and techniques are usually required to safely load, transport and plant a B&B tree.

An expert in big trees will also test the soil before your tree is purchased. Every tree needs specific soil conditions in order to grow well. Variables can include texture (the ratio of sand, silt and clay), structure (how soil particles bond) and compaction. If you are considering adding a tree to your landscape, consult an experienced tree specialist from a big tree nursery who can give you reliable advice on tree selection and planting. It’s the best way to avoid mistakes that can result in tree failure.

Nancy Penrose is owner of Big Trees Inc. (http://www.bigtreesupply.com) in Snohomish, WA, one of the largest Seattle tree nurseries (see inventory at http://bigtreesupply.com/sales-inventory/), specializing in tree transplanting. See our video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zpactBDUPmQ

6 Ton Tree Transplanted on Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Grounds

Big Trees Inc Transports Large Tree from Oregon to Gates Foundation Estate in Seattle

SEATTLE, WA: Big Trees, Inc., (http://bigtreesupply.com/) a tree transplanting and tree nursery company in the Seattle area, recently undertook a large project of planting a 25 foot tall, 13,000 pound tree on the grounds of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation in Seattle. The project received high marks from all the staff present for being well thought and streamlined in its execution.

The project involved unloading and placing the tree into its planting location from its shipping truck. This involved standing up and handling the tree with Big Trees’ special rigging techniques. A large 175 ton crane was present for the significant lift and placement operation. The planting area was quite a distance into a court yard from where any crane could be set up, making the need for the larger crane. A lot of care was put into the set up and safe processes needed for this kind of a reach with this large of a tree. Once the tree had reached its final location, and was spun and adjusted for planting height, the crane was disconnected and the onsite landscaping staff finished the rest of the planting details.

Nancy Penrose, owner of Big Trees Inc., stated: “It’s always difficult when you’re asked to receive a large tree from a source and you’re not sure how it was loaded or what to expect when it arrives. Our crew can adapt to most every circumstance, and they did so again today. The lift dynamics and rigging all went without a hitch, and the tree looked very happy in its new location. Our team received a couple of compliments on how smooth and easy they make their work appear. Here’s to hoping the tree brings all the peace and enjoyment it can to the space for many years to come!”

Nancy Penrose is the owner of Big Trees Inc. (http://www.bigtreesupply.com), located in Snohomish, WA, in the Seattle area. The company is one of the largest tree nurseries in the Seattle area with over 120,000 trees available in over 300 varieties. They not only can deliver young trees but also mature trees in a wide range of sizes. Some types of trees available include spring flowering, deciduous, evergreen, and privacy trees. The company also does tree transplanting, including with large trees. Their blog can be seen at http://www.bigtreesupply.com/blog/

Developmental Editor Looking for Next Big Authors in 2015

Developmental Editor Susan Mary Malone Seeks Out the Next Big Names of Literature

DALLAS, TX: Susan Mary Malone, (http://www.maloneeditorial.com/) developmental editor and award-winning book author, is looking for up and coming authors who are ready to publish in the new year. Ms. Malone has worked with dozens of authors to get their works published with traditional publication markets.

Susan Malone works with authors to get their manuscript ready to be published. As a developmental editor, she works with the author to not only edit the grammar and syntax of the manuscript, but also the plot, character development, and all other aspects which go into making the story itself. Having helped over 45 authors become published through traditional publishers so far, in 2015 she is looking for the next authors who will enter the literary publishing field. Ms. Malone welcomes manuscripts to be sent to her from new or experienced authors alike.

Ms. Malone stated: “I’m really looking forward to what 2015 will bring in terms of new up-and-coming writers and the works they will produce. Some things in this field change, as I have noted numerous times in my articles, but one thing that never will is the need for really well-written stories. Audiences are out there, eager to read well-crafted and imaginative stories. My goal is to help those authors with real talent to get their novels ready for publication, from beginning to end.”

Susan Mary Malone has worked as a freelance professionl editor since 1993, with a BS in Political Science and minors in English and Journalism. Her client list includes NY Times Bestsellers, Essence Bestsellers and books featured in Publishers Weekly. She is also an award-winning author of fiction and non-fiction herself. She participates as a speaker in literary conferences such as the Harriett Austin Writer's Conference (at the University of Georgia), the Blue Ridge Writer's Conference, the SouthWest Writer's Conference, and the East Texas Writer’s Guild, among others. Her full biography and featured list of published authors can be viewed at http://www.maloneeditorial.com

Is Your Home Safe?

By Shawn Kyles

In California, earthquakes are a major threat to the safety and well-being of residents. Over the years they have caused billions of dollars in property damage as well as thousands of injuries and deaths.

According to the California Seismic Safety Commission’s “The Homeowner’s Guide to Earthquake Safety,” many homes have common weaknesses that can result in damage during a quake. These weaknesses include a home that isn’t anchored to its foundation, unbraced water heaters, weak cripple walls, homes built on pier and post foundations, unreinforced masonry foundations, or steep hillsides; and homes with unreinforced masonry walls or rooms over garages.

When a home isn’t bolted to its foundation, it can slip off and even collapse during a quake. The damage can be so severe that the home needs to be torn down. This potentially dangerous situation can be fixed with house bolting – anchoring the home to its foundation.

A foundation can also become weak over time due to the materials used in its construction, soil or water issues. The chances of damage from an earthquake are much higher when there is any type of pre-existing foundation problems.

A water heater is considered properly braced when it has two straps that wrap completely around it and are screwed into the studs or masonry of the wall. Water heaters that aren’t braced can fall over during a quake, causing broken water and gas lines, and fire from gas leaks.

Cripple walls can be strengthened by adding braces. When a quake hits, the braces will help prevent wall movement and collapse.

Pier and post foundations can fall over during a quake if they are not well-supported. There are various ways to strengthen these types of foundations, including bracing.

An earthquake can also easily damage foundations made of concrete, brick or stone, in addition to masonry walls and chimneys. Reinforcement can prevent cracks, sliding, slipping and collapses during a quake. House leveling ahead of a quake can minimize damage.

The support structure for houses built on hills can also be strengthened with bracing and other types of support.

Many times the walls supporting a room built over a garage aren’t strong enough to support the weight of the addition. Without additional support or reinforcement, the walls can tip over.

When a structure isn’t properly braced or supported, earthquake damage can also include floor, wall and window damage; damage to personal items within the house, broken gas and utility lines, fire (from broken gas lines), in addition to physical injuries to the home’s occupants.

The CSSC recommends earthquake retrofitting, which it states is “relatively cheap” compared to “doing major structural repairs to your home after an earthquake.” If you look at how much does foundation repair cost, it’s a worthwhile investment. The CSSC also notes that “After an earthquake, there is usually a shortage of available licensed contractors and engineers in the impacted area, because of the sudden high demand for their services.”

If you believe your home has structural weaknesses, you should get a foundation inspection (Los Angeles and in other earthquake prone areas) by experienced foundation contractors. Foundation issues are best addressed by a foundation repair expert who has an extensive history of working on homes throughout your area. Retrofitting your home can minimize the damage from a quake and prevent injuries.

About the author:
Shawn Kyles, expert in foundation repair & house bolting at Julian Construction (http://www.julianconstruction.com) in Los Angeles, has inspected over 15,000 structures for building & safety (http://julianconstruction.com/about/ ). See their video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6I8j7dXzpj4

Wall Cracks in a Home are Potentially a Much Bigger Problem

Foundation Inspector Warns Homeowners to be Wary of Cracks on Walls in a Home

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction, (http://julianconstruction.com/) a foundation repair, foundation construction, and general contractor company serving the Los Angeles area, is advising homeowners to be on the watch for cracks in the walls and ceiling of a home. Certain cracks are indicative of a problem in the home’s foundation, an issue which can cause further damage to the home’s structure. If any cracks are present in the walls or ceiling of a home, the company advises the owner to contact a foundation repair specialist at once to inspect the structure and determine the cause.

Shawn Kyles, partner in Julian Construction, is a professional building inspector, having inspected over 16,500 homes over the course of his career. He stated: “Look for cracks on interior and exterior wells, as well as cracks in ceilings. Also check your roof for buckled or missing shingles or tiles, and any other evidence of misalignment. If drywall tape has ripped, or is buckling or pulling away from the wall, have your home inspected by a professional foundation repair expert. Also check for cracks or damage on both sides of a foundation crawlspace. You will typically see vertical cracks in walls made of concrete. If the cracks are horizontal or have a stair-like appearance, the real problem may be your foundation and concrete foundation repair will be needed.”

Julian De La Torre, founder of Julian Construction, stated: “You should not ignore cracks or other imperfections on the ceiling or walls of your home. When you see that, you should call someone. When it is caused by a foundation problem, then if you know you can do something about it. Ignoring this and letting the problem get worse will cause much bigger damages down the line. These can threaten the safety of a home. You should be prepared for this with all the necessary foundation repairs. That’s what we’re here for.”

Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model – no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com. A video about Julian and about foundation repair Los Angeles, can be seen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6I8j7dXzpj4

Winter Poses Hazardous Weather Conditions for Home Foundations

Construction Safety Inspector Briefs Public on Dangers of Winter Weather for a Home

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction, (http://julianconstruction.com/) a construction company specializing in foundation repair and foundation construction, recently issued statements advising the public to be on the watch for foundation problems arising with the cold winter weather. The company’s partner and resident building safety inspection expert, Shawn Kyles, has published a general briefing advising the public what to look for and what to do if foundation problems are detected. The article gives specific advice on what to look for in winter months, but the data can be applied broadly to periods of cold weather.

Mr. Kyles stated: “Cold weather can crack foundations, which can allow water to enter the structure. Water is a foundation’s biggest enemy. When it permeates a structure, it can cause more cracks and many other types of damage. Foundations can crack in cold weather even if the temperature is above freezing. How cold does it have to be to cause foundation problems? Start checking for damage when temperatures drop below 40 degrees for three or more days.”

The article goes into greater detail on what conditions to look for which prompt foundation problems, the indicators when a structural problem surfaces, and further goes into ways to address them. The full text of the article can be seen here: http://julianconstruction.com/foundation-problems-in-winter/

Julian De La Torre, founder of Julian Construction, stated: “It’s very important to stay on top of your home foundation’s maintenance. If there are any signs that it needs foundation repair, call a qualified specialist right away. Keeping it repaired at this time of year will prevent even worse damage as the soil and water conditions change, so we definitely recommend calling an expert. Your home’s safety is of the utmost importance.”

Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model – no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com. A video about Julian and about foundation repair Los Angeles, can be seen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6I8j7dXzpj4