Writing a Book "Like Dumping the Legos Out Onto the Floor"

This week’s question comes from Dave Z. who asks:

Dear Dulcinea,

I have an idea for a story that would make a great book, but since I’m not a writer by trade, how do I get started? And once I have the book finished, how do I promote and sell it? Can you tell me the best way to start this process and get the ball rolling?

Dave,

Thank you for your question! I didn’t have to look far to find an expert on this one since I have a client—someone I work with for my other job in marketing (Ya know, when I’m not Patching it up) who has written several books and is in the process of publishing two even as I write this. (Yes, two at one time—some would say she's a bit of an over-achiever.)

Denise M. Baran-Unland is a resident of , a mother of six, a freelance writer and author of the vampire novel, Bryony, which soon will be published through Writelife LLC. I asked Unland for some tips on the subject.

“Get the book out first; if you have a story inside of you, get it on paper," Unland said. “The first draft is like dumping the Legos out onto the floor. From there, if you don’t know anything at all about writing, there are a host of things you can do to develop your story line."

Unland offered the following suggestions:

1.  Join a – A great way to get objective feedback.
2. Read some books on writing – Free at the .
3. Take a class – Joliet Junior College offers basic and creative writing classes.

“What I found especially useful throughout my process was reading other writers’ blogs, where I gained great insights and tips,” Unland said. “After you have a viable draft, you will spend a considerable amount of time rewriting and editing. Most of writing is rewriting."

In the interest of full disclosure, I work as Unland's publicist. She said it's a role she could not do without and recommends hiring a publicist as a must for any aspiring writer.

“As for promoting your book, if it’s fiction, it’s never too early to start getting the word out," Unland said. "My advice on marketing and promotions (is) don’t do it yourself, hire a publicist."

Unland recently turned the tables and interviewed me. To learn more and read the full three-part interview, visit bryonyseries.blogspot.com.