I attended the OWFI Writer's Conference in Oklahoma City this past weekend.
I learned a few things.
Word processors do not give an accurate word count. Agents and Editors prefer the following method: 250 words per page for 12 point fonts ( New courier or Times New Roman ) double spaced, using one inch margins all around. I verified this with another editor and two literary agents. A lot of writers send stuff that is not properly formatted.
Printed books will always be with us, but E-books are going to be the way publishing continues to move forward. Printed Book Publishers market to book stores, not to readers. Book stores are getting fewer by the year. Book stores will sell things other than books to survive and one day we'll walk into a book store and the book we select will be printed on the spot right there in the store.
E-books are marketed directly to targeted readers, downloaded in seconds, and will cost far less to publish, to purchase, and they also inspire impulse buying.
The iPad will rule when it comes to Ebooks, according to a couple of agents there.
I love holding a book in my hands, but I'll try to adapt to whatever comes.
I was told I must have a Facebook page, a website, and a blog. Guess I'll have to figure those things out. I don't know how to follow anyone, much less know how to ask someone to follow me.
I met Dana Stabenow and liked her.
I spoke with two literary agents and liked them. They liked me too, apparently.
Actually, I liked everyone I met.
Had a great time. Came back revved up and ready to go.
If you've never been to a writers conference, they are tons of fun. You get to meet really cool people and every one of them understands what you're going through.
I hope I'm not the only person on this forum who did not know this stuff. If I am, please let me down gently.
