Podcast Summary: "Behind the Scenes of The Small and the Mighty, Episode 3"
Introduction
In Episode 3 of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, host Sharon McMahon delves deep into the intricate process behind publishing her latest book, The Small and the Mighty. Joined by her audio producer, Craig Thompson, Sharon offers listeners an insider’s look at everything from book cover design to marketing strategies. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring authors and avid readers eager to understand the behind-the-scenes efforts that bring a book to life.
Book Cover Design: A Visual Journey
The episode begins with Sharon and Craig discussing the various iterations of the book cover for The Small and the Mighty. Sharon emphasizes the importance of a compelling cover, sharing her frustrations and eventual satisfaction with the final design.
Sharon McMahon [01:29]: "None of them were it. You would look at them and be like, immediately, no."
Sharon showcases multiple cover designs featuring a lady on an eagle, exploring different color schemes and background imagery. Craig provides candid feedback, highlighting elements that didn’t resonate with their vision.
Craig Thompson [03:03]: "This is it. The untold story of the nose picker."
Despite initial setbacks, Sharon remains steadfast in her pursuit of the perfect cover, ultimately finding a design that encapsulates the book’s essence.
The Publishing Process: Editing and Layout
Transitioning from cover design, Sharon outlines the comprehensive publishing process post-manuscript submission. She distinguishes between story editing, which focuses on content and structure, and copy editing, which ensures grammatical precision.
Sharon McMahon [08:25]: "Ultimately, they go with your final say."
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to formatting the book, including the meticulous creation of nearly 500 endnotes to substantiate her research. Sharon underscores the importance of detailed citations to lend credibility to her work.
Audiobook Recording: Bringing the Book to Life
Sharon shares her experience recording the audiobook version of The Small and the Mighty, highlighting the challenges and nuances of this medium. She appreciates the remote collaboration with her audiobook director, Carlin, who ensured she adhered to the manuscript faithfully.
Sharon McMahon [09:55]: "They are making sure that you are reading the script verbatim."
Craig commends Sharon’s dedication, acknowledging the significant effort required to transition from podcasting to audiobook narration.
Craig Thompson [11:08]: "I am very impressed at your ability to not only write the book, but go back in and read it all as a heavy lift to do."
Marketing Strategies: Reaching the Audience
Sharon delves into the multifaceted approach to marketing her book. She discusses leveraging her existing platform by appearing on other podcasts, writing op-eds, and engaging with media outlets. Emphasizing authenticity, she explains the necessity of clearly communicating the book’s content to attract the right readers.
Sharon McMahon [13:06]: "There is a perspective that only you can bring to the table, and that's why people are reading it, not because they want you to be somebody else."
Sharon also touches upon gathering endorsements from renowned authors to bolster her book’s credibility.
Sharon McMahon [14:08]: "To get somebody like David Graham to write you a blurb is, like, very coveted."
Navigating Bestseller Lists and the New York Times
A significant segment of the episode is dedicated to understanding the dynamics of bestseller lists, particularly the New York Times. Sharon explains that placement is not solely based on sales numbers but also involves editorial judgment and broad market support.
Sharon McMahon [19:47]: "There is an editorial component to it."
She elaborates on the challenges of competing with high-profile authors and the importance of diverse sales channels, including independent bookstores and major retailers like Amazon.
Planning the Book Tour: Engaging with Readers
Sharon unveils her ambitious 14-city book tour, aiming to create a memorable and interactive experience for her audience. Unlike typical bookstore signings, her tour includes live shows at theaters complete with DJs, videographers, merchandise, and interactive games.
Sharon McMahon [21:42]: "All of the venues are theaters. And it is going to be a whole thing."
She highlights the logistical complexities managed by her tour team, from travel arrangements to ensuring high-quality visuals for promotional photos.
Sharon McMahon [24:11]: "We're not doing cinder block wall in a hallway. We need the cute lighting. We need the ring light."
Advice for Aspiring Authors: Embrace Your Unique Voice
Towards the end of the episode, Sharon offers invaluable advice to those contemplating writing a book. She encourages writers to embrace their unique perspectives and stresses the importance of starting the writing process, despite fears of not measuring up to established authors.
Sharon McMahon [28:57]: "Understand that people aren't reading your book because they want you to be David Grant. They don't want you to be Kristin Hannah. That's not why they're reading the book."
Sharon also shares practical tips on overcoming writer’s block, such as setting achievable daily writing goals and leaving off in the middle of a compelling section to maintain momentum.
How to Buy The Small and the Mighty
In response to listener inquiries about purchasing the book, Sharon provides multiple avenues for acquisition. She passionately advocates for supporting independent bookstores and offers alternatives like Bookshop.org for those without access to local indie stores.
Sharon McMahon [32:46]: "If you have an independent bookstore, go there and support it."
Sharon ensures that The Small and the Mighty is available across various platforms, including major retailers and independent bookstores nationwide.
Conclusion
Episode 3 of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting provides a comprehensive exploration of the book publishing journey, enriched by Sharon McMahon’s candid reflections and expert insights. From the creative struggles of cover design to the strategic intricacies of marketing and touring, Sharon demystifies the path to bringing a book to market. Her encouraging words serve as motivation for aspiring authors, making this episode both informative and inspiring.
Notable Quotes:
- Sharon McMahon [01:29]: "None of them were it. You would look at them and be like, immediately, no."
- Craig Thompson [03:03]: "This is it. The untold story of the nose picker."
- Sharon McMahon [08:25]: "Ultimately, they go with your final say."
- Sharon McMahon [13:06]: "There is a perspective that only you can bring to the table..."
- Sharon McMahon [19:47]: "There is an editorial component to it."
- Sharon McMahon [28:57]: "Understand that people aren't reading your book because they want you to be David Grant..."
- Sharon McMahon [32:46]: "If you have an independent bookstore, go there and support it."
Relevant Links:
- Book Tour Tickets: sharonrefan.com/booktour
- Purchase the Book: Available at Bookshop.org and major retailers.
This detailed summary captures the essence of Episode 3, highlighting key discussions, insights, and actionable advice shared by Sharon McMahon and Craig Thompson. Whether you’re an aspiring writer or a fan eager to read The Small and the Mighty, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the multifaceted world of book publishing.