Book Published, What Next? (#3)



For Trail to Glory I went through the same process to find a publisher as I did for Two Ways West. Though I still gor rejections, I finally got a self-addressed envelope back rather than the manuscript. Yep, a major publisher wanted Trail to Glory.

This one was based on the genealogy of my mother's side of the family. I went through a lot of the same process for research as I did for Two Ways West. I must admit the earliest part of the book is more fiction than fact, although much of the information about the Menominee people came from a wonderfully informative article in a copy of National Geographic. 

Exuberant, of course I signed the contract for the book to be published. I went though the editing process and after what seemed like a long time, the book was a reality.

Remember, this was before the Internet. I had no idea how to promote. 

I sent out letters to everyone I knew about the availability of the book. I also arranged a book signing--only one. Only one bookstore was nearby. And at the time there was no such thing as book fairs.

The owner of the bookstore was fantastic! We had a huge crowd and sold many books. 

I have no idea how the book did overall, though I do know it appeared in some grocery stores. I never received any royalties until years later. 

When Two Ways West was published, the Fresno Bee ran a wonderful review, and I had a signing at Barnes in Noble in Fresno, which was a success though I never received my share of the money for the books sold.  (Something that happened to me a couple of other times at Barnes and Noble stores.)

Not sure of when, but personal computers were coming on the scene, so things began to change.


Marilyn

Comments

Lorna Collins - Author said…
This is one of my favorites. A wonderful story.
May 21, 2020 at 10:15 AM
Marilyn Meredith a.k.a. F. M. Meredith said…
Thanks, Lorna, for all you've done to make this one possible once again.
May 22, 2020 at 6:27 AM
Thonie Hevron said…
So interesting. We take the internet for granted. I also sent query letter after query letter. Even a few manuscripts but I think the key is being tenacious. Believe in yourself. You did and look at you now! So accomplished!
May 22, 2020 at 10:45 AM
Marilyn Meredith a.k.a. F. M. Meredith said…
None of this was easy, but the only way, back then.
May 25, 2020 at 6:25 AM
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