First Issue

Just for fun on this sunny Wednesday, click over to someecards.com for a couple of bookish e-cards with a dry twist.

A recent article in Publisher’s Weekly made reference to print books as “slow media”. Given the never-ending proliferation of technologies that facilitate constant and instantaneous communication, the term — and the article — intrigued me.

Slow media, as I understand it, is about appreciating the time that goes into producing and consuming a piece of information. It reminded me of the Slow Food movement, which touts the leisurely enjoyment of an organically grown and naturally prepared meal.

I decided to do some digging, and sure enough, I wasn’t the only one to draw parallels between slow media and slow food. Blogger Matt Shepherd wonders if anyone is actively forming a slow media movement to underscore the value of printed books and handwritten letters.

While Matt acknowledges that “fast media” has its place, this blogger from the Rocky Mountain News sees slow media as an either/or proposition. In his or her opinion, choosing slow media is a conscious rejection of fast media — because you’re tired of fast media, overwhelmed by it, or simply unconvinced of its usefulness. You choose slow media because your “inner Luddite” is screaming to be free.

I disagree. I don’t think one delivery has to be valued over the other. Each has its place, its benefits, and its pleasures. Perhaps books in the form that we know them aren’t doomed for the dustbin of history after all. We just need to acknowledge that both the tortoise AND the hare have their place in the world.

Doot-doo-doo-doooo! (that’s one of those old-timey announcement horn calls, just so you know)

Well, this is it…the official launch of First Issue, the new blog for trade non-fiction authors and self-publishers.

First Issue aims to clarify and simplify the steps involved in sharing your ideas with the world through a book. Publishing can seem like a bewildering endeavour—but we’ve been there, done that, so can share from our experience.

What can you expect here? Let’s lay it out.

The focus
Information, commentary, and advice covering all aspects of non-fiction book writing, publishing, and marketing. Tidbits on trends and developments in the publishing industry. News on what the “big guys” are doing and what that means for the “little guys.” A look at marketing innovations. An exploration of how books and related intellectual property can expand or enhance a business.

The niche
Trade non-fiction (books written for the layperson), especially on business topics.

The goal
Provide support and guidance to non-fiction authors, especially those navigating the publishing industry for the first time.

Who’s the blog writer?
I’m Jennifer, one of the principals at Highspot. In a nutshell, we help business owners turn their ideas into books. Believe it or not, despite years working as a writer and editor, this post marks my initiation into the world of blog writing. First Issue indeed. Yes, I’m a bit of a blog newb so feel free to provide pokes and guidance if I’m off course. Insightful comments, engaging debate, and constructive feedback are always welcome.

Find me at:
Email: blogger@highspotinc.com
Twitter: jennifertribe
Facebook: 623661635
LinkedIn: Jennifer Tribe