Thanks for checking out The Creative Penn. Here are the most frequently asked questions which hopefully will help you find what you're looking for!
I'm new to writing and/or self-publishing and/or making money writing. Where do I begin?
First, sign up and download your free Author Blueprint. In this free ebook and email series, I share everything you need to write, publish and market your book, as well as how to make a living with your writing.
After providing your email and confirming it, you will have access to the Blueprint as well as receiving my tips by email every month.
While the ebook is free on signup, you can also buy the paperback or Large Print editions here.
Will you publish my book for me?
No. The Creative Penn is not a self-publishing service or publisher. I am an author and just trying to help other authors with my books, podcast, and community. Please check out the Publishing page for tips.
Help! My books aren't selling well. How do I market my book?
Writing and publishing your book are just steps along the way. Selling your book is a completely different process! But don't worry, we all go through a book marketing learning curve. Check out the articles on the Marketing page.
You can find more help in my book, How to Market a Book Third Edition, available in ebook, print and audio.
I want to hire you to speak at an event
I am always happy to consider professional (paid) speaking opportunities. You can find details on my Speaking page and Testimonials page and then you can use the Contact form if you'd like to get in touch.
I'm a publisher/rights buyer and I'd like to discuss licensing for your books
I'm always interested in licensing my work, so please use the Contact form to get in touch.
Will you read/review my manuscript?
No. I am an author, not an editor or a publisher so I don’t review manuscripts or accept books for review.
Check out the list of editors here, or find a writing group locally. For book cover design, check out the list of designers here.
I need an editor and/or book cover designer. Can you recommend one?
Check out the list of editors here. For book cover design, check out the list of designers here.
I'm having technical trouble with KDP / Kobo / IngramSpark /or another publishing site. Can you assist me?
No. For support with the online services related to self-publishing, please visit the site where you are encountering problems and use their Help page.
If you need someone to help you through the self-publishing process, I recommend finding a freelancer through Reedsy.
Can I advertise on The Creative Penn?
No. The Creative Penn podcast is fully sponsored and I don't accept other types of advertising on the site.
What are your recommendations for self-publishing services?
There are some great self-publishing service companies, and there are some you should avoid. For a vetted list of this type of service check out the Alliance of Independent Authors Watchdog list here.
Will you be a guest on my podcast?
I am always happy to consider interviews about my books or writing, publishing, book marketing, or making a living with your writing. If your podcast has more than 50 episodes, please use the Contact form to send a message.
I'd like to be a guest on your podcast
The Creative Penn podcast is booked at least four to six months in advance and usually, I choose the interviewee from my personal contacts. It's very unlikely that you would be suitable for the show if you only have one book and/or if you're a new author.
However, I am interested in hearing from you if you have a book/topic that would be specifically useful to my audience. You can review the backlist here to see what topics I cover. Please use the Contact form to send a message if you'd like to pitch, and please take these pitching recommendations into consideration.
I'm a student and I'd like to interview you for a project
Unfortunately, I receive so many requests for this type of interview that I have to say no to them all.
I'd like to write an article for The Creative Penn
Thanks for your interest, but The Creative Penn is no longer accepting guest posts.
I'd like to quote you / one of your books / one of your Creative Penn articles on my blog and/or in my book. How do I do that?
Thank you for asking! You're welcome to quote under the terms of fair use.
The books, services and other products that I sell from this site are Copyright material so you may not distribute those without specific permission. Please use the Contact form if you need more details.
I'm trying to find information on how to self-publish children's books
I recommend you listen to this podcast episode with Karen Inglis about writing and self-publishing for children, and also this interview with Crystal Swain-Bates on writing, publishing and marketing books for children.
I'm trying to find an illustrator for my children's book. Can you help me?
Check out the Society of Children’s Book Authors and Illustrators, ChildrensIllustrators.com, or the Reedsy Marketplace for vetted freelancers.
I have a question about a financial and/or legal situation with my contracts/agent/book/s. Can you offer me some advice?
No, I'm not a lawyer or a financial professional.
For legal things, check out Helen Sedwick's, The Self-Publisher's Legal Handbook, and you can also get contracts checked if you are a member of an author organization. I recommend the Alliance of Independent Authors.
Can I hire you to coach me or be my mentor?
I don't do ongoing coaching or mentoring, although I sometimes release limited consulting sessions as part of my Kickstarter campaigns. I share everything in my books and my podcast, and I also do a monthly Q&A in my Patreon Community.
If you need specific help, I recommend you check out Reedsy, who have vetted professionals who might be able to help, and also the Alliance of Independent Authors who have Partner Members who can help.
Where should I send my press release, manuscript, link exchange, buying links or offers for my business?
Please don't send me any of these.
If you still have questions …
Please use the Contact form here.