Author Interview with Lynn Sanders

Below is my interview with author Lynn Sanders who, after some bad luck with traditional publishers, decided to self-publish. With some effort, she was able to put out a children's book about the conservation of whooping cranes. Check out my interview with Sanders along with a link to buy her book.

Book title:

Dancing With Tex: The Remarkable Friendship To Save The Whooping Cranes

Genre: Children’s Non-Fiction

How long have you been a published author? Since 2009.

1. What made you decide to become an indie author? What do you like to write about?

After almost getting published by a traditional press, which ran out of money, I didn’t want to wait for years to get my story eventually published by a traditional publishing company. I also wanted to be able to donate a percentage of my profits towards nonprofit environmental groups. I like to write about true inspirational stories that can empower youth to follow their dreams.

2. How did you publish your first book?

I did crowdfunding on Indiegogo to raise money for the illustrator and related publishing fees. A colleague did the graphic layout and uploaded the files into Ingram Spark and Create Space.

3. Did you ever try to submit to traditional publishers?

One of my books is published through a traditional company – Capstone Press. It was a work for hire so I don’t receive any royalties. My second self-published book was originally going to be published by The Benefactory, a traditional press which ran out of money.

If so, what was your experience like?

My experience with traditional publishing companies is that it can be difficult to get a book published traditionally. Most publishing companies require an agent, and then it still takes time to get a book published. Traditional publishing typically provides no more than 5-10% of profits for the author.

4. How did you market your first book? Has your process changed with subsequent books?

My first book was marketed through Capstone Press. I’m doing what I can with my self-published book to do marketing through environmental groups. I’ve also been informed of resources through IBPA – Independent Book Publishing Association and SCBWI – Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators.

5. How do you support other indie authors?

I’ve offered consultations about tips that I learned during the writing and publishing process.

6. What responses have you received from telling people that you are a writer?

Very positive.

7. What/who has been your biggest support as an indie author?

Ann Knipp, who did the graphic layout and uploading of my book into Amazon and Ingram Spark has provided the greatest support as an indie author. Ann started the LinkedIn Group called, “Chicago Kids Media.”

8. Quote from a positive review of your work.

“A beautiful and compelling, real-life story of love and caring between a human and his endangered, feathered friend. Not only was it a joy to read, but the author powerfully makes her point that it is up to all of us to make sure that earth’s creatures are allowed to survive and to thrive. Thank you, Lynn Sanders for the heart-warming way you educated us, and Sergio Drumond for your terrific illustrations.” - Bob Burg, Internationally Best-Selling Author, Co-Author of The Go-Giver.