Publishing, Facebook, and Social Media

By Jennie Atkins

As someone who is experiencing repeated rejection letters based on the number of Facebook friends I have (or should I say, the number of Facebook friends I DON’T have), I will admit it is frustrating to me as well as my literary agency.

I hear statements from published authors like “Just write the book in your head/heart.” Or “Write a book that will catch the attention of the editors/agents.” I’ve paid for expensive conferences to learn ways to improve my writing, but it seems more and more publishing houses want authors to have a social presence.  The consensus is we need to twitter more, create fan pages on Facebook, create a blog, do a guest post on other people’s blogs, etc., etc., etc. When are we supposed to write the next great novel?

The nice thing is the agency with which I am associated with – WordServe Literary--has started a fantastic marketing vehicle called www.faithhappenings.com to help authors reach out to the masses. It is a local and national Christian website where writers can advertise their books, and Christians have faith-based resources at their fingertips.

FaithHappenings showcases events specific to a region, from concerts to fundraisers.  It’s for authors, speakers and musicians to advertise their work. Anyone can find a wide assortment of faith-filled books, music, audiobooks and videos. By selection, one can receive daily emails with devotionals suited to their life’s needs—male or female, college student or parent.  The opportunities are endless and the journey has only begun.

So if you’re just starting your writing journey—or deep into the adventure of a multi-book contract—check out what the folks at FaithHappenings have put together. It is your Complete, Tailored, Faith Resource.