So You Want to Be a Writer!
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So You Want to Be a Writer!

Insights and Practical Tips from a 60-Book Author

About the Book

"So You Want to Be a Writer?" is a collection of nine juicy insights and practical tips aimed at people who are or want to become writers. Whether you're a seasoned published author or a newcomer to the world of writing and publishing, you'll find something of value and interest in this slim volume. And by buying now you'll lock in all future updates as Shafer conjures up new ideas to share.

Dan Shafer is the author of more than 60 books, the vast majority of which have been computer technology titles published by traditional publishing houses. He has also written on spiritual subjects and technology user books. He has a knack for explaining difficult ideas of all kinds in simple-to-understand terms.

With a witty, irreverent stye, Dan shares his views on:

  • the importance of outlining and the basic techniques involved
  • how to identify and understand your target audience
  • overcoming writer's block (he has a specific  technique that might just be worth the price of the book)
  • self-marketing

and several others.

Dan has made a full-time living as a writer for more than 35 years, so he's eminently qualified to offer these insights and tidbits. And you'll do well to read them and implement those that make sense for you as a writer.

About the Author

Dan Shafer
Dan Shafer

Dan Shafer started his career in daily journalism, writing for Stars & Stripes in Vietnam and Europe, a small-town daily and a metro daily. He's also written over 60 books on a variety of topics, maintained one of the longest continuously active blogs on the Web, thousands of comments and posts and more than 25 user manuals under contract for companies including Apple Computer, Intel, Hewlett-Packard, Fujitsu, IBM and Sun Microsystems.

Dan figures he's written more than 3 million words for publication in his more than 35-year career. In addition, he's mentored a dozen writers, coached another 25 and helped several authors master the art and science of self-publishing. He is, in many ways, a writer's writer.

Dan's writing focus today is on spirituality, consumer technology and sports. In launching his own personal publishing company, he issued four books at the same time, including this title. All of his books are available through Leanpub.com and use their publishing models and marketing techniques. He also teaches other writers to use these approaches.

Based in the beautiful Central California Coastal city of Monterey, Dan lives with his wife of 35+ years, CJ, and their Shiitzu Einstein. He has four daughters, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. 

Table of Contents

  • “I’m a Writer”
  • First Things Last
  • Write what you know…or at least can find out.
  • Know where you are going
  • Write Now, Edit Later
  • Motivation vs. procrastination
  • Decide Early Who Your Readers Are. And Some Other Stuff
  • Marketing
  • Where’s This Book Headed Next?

Other books by this author

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