Pearl Tita of Blk Book Fair shares six tips for aspiring authors

BY DAVID ANDERSON

Many of us have a story to tell and wish to write a book. Well, I am here to tell you that becoming a self-published author is no easy task. It takes a lot of courage, motivation, dedication and support to publish a book. We have to ask ourselves questions like “Why do I want to publish a book? What do I wish my readers would feel or think about after reading my book? How can my book positively benefit others?” Answering these questions will put you on the path to success while limiting challenges along the way.

Writing a book can be challenging. Some of these challenges are that authors do never ending research, have lack of support, are too in love with their work and constantly forgetting brilliant ideas. Becoming an author without support will be challenging because you need a fresh pair of eyes to edit your work, give unbiased opinions and feedback. Spending too much time researching can result in information overload in the book, uninterested readers and it may seem like homework to read depending on your target audience.

Take some time and write down major points and ideas you wish to deliver. Sometimes we get ideas while working that can stray us from the message of the book or chapter. Whenever a great idea pops up, it’s okay to write it down on a separate document. The goal is to have a running document of ideas, and at the end of the day or start of your day read the list of ideas.

The motivation behind this article was an author named Pearl Tita, who is the founder of ‘Blk Book Fair’. She has an amazing story on her journey to becoming a self-published author. Pearl hosted her first event for ‘Blk Book Fair’ in October.

After speaking with her to get her feedback on the experience, I learned that even if you have an idea, it can be beneficial to share it with like-minded peers who can support your vision. Pearl also shared how stressful it can be organizing an event, while entertaining your guests. Before the end of our zoom meeting Pearl shared five tips for aspiring authors in hopes to educate our community.

Tip #1, Be patient with your mind
You will experience a lot of ups and downs but remember that there is a book at the end of the tunnel.

Tip #2, Don’t rush
Don’t race through your literary journey even though we have set deadlines for each other. The goal is to produce quality not quantity work.

Tip #3, Always be editing
Double check, triple check and get a friend to edit your work if you do not get an editor. Sometimes editors can take away from the authenticity of your work.

Tip #4, Research, research, research
You need to do extensive research on anyone you are trusting to publish your work. If you decide to self-publish, make sure you do extensive research on the platforms you are trusting to publish your work.

Tips #5, Find the right help
You can utilize websites to hire people with skills and are talented in the industry.

It is going to be a process and journey, but nobody said it was going to be easy. You are here to tell your story; you are here to inspire others with the words you write. If you are having trouble writing about a thoughtful topic, try writing a letter to a younger you that you wish you read in the past. In this letter you want to fill it up with words of inspiration, motivation and encouragement. Take notes and read them three times a day. This will help with the story and message you wish to produce.

Oh yeah, Pearl wanted to make sure to add one more bonus tip for aspiring authors. She said, “Always remember that your work is art. Art is subjective and do not be discouraged if your work is not received by your usual crowd, your work may not be for everyone, and that’s okay.”