It’s time for another Insecure Writer’s Support Group Post!
April 6 question – Have any of your books been made into audio books? If so, what is the main challenge in producing an audiobook?
I have never made any of my books into audiobooks. It’s just a little out of my price range. I think the main challenge would be finding someone who would do a great job of reading your book but not charge too much money.
I’m feeling particularly insecure this month. Not only have I not sold any more short stories, but most of the rejections have been form rejections, not even personal notes. I’ve been getting used to those personal notes, even if they were rejections. At least that meant my writing was good enough to get them to consider my story for a bit. Form rejections, though—you didn’t even get a temporary rise out of the editors.
I’m also feeling low because our job has been downsized and all but five of us were let go. I’m going to try applying for unemployment, but they may say we knew it was a temporary position going in, so … But the end result will be the same: I’m unemployed until the agency turns up another position for me and the rest of the team. That sort of anxiety can affect your writing, and it seems to be affecting mine. I’m having real trouble coming up with plots and story ideas. Hopefully, I can work through it soon.The important thing is to try not to stay insecure. Give yourself a good pep talk—or have your friends and family do it for you—and get right back in the saddle to try again.
My suggestion is go back to the basics with your query letter, etc. I’m thinking you’re too comfortable submitting and need to kick up your package. Don’t let it get you down. You’ll do it again. 🙂
Thank you Anna! I recently got a query letter critique and am revising my letters based on their suggestions so hopefully things will start looking up for my stories.
I’ve been hopping around to read the responses to the question of the month, which have been varied and informative. It seems like the cost is a major consideration when it comes to audiobook production.
The thing is, it’s a growing market which authors can use as a revenue stream. You’re right in saying that the main challenge would be finding the balance – someone who would do a great job of reading your book but not charge too much money.
Michelle, I’d love to have an audiobook but I have no idea where to even start looking for the right narrator! Maybe if I get a traditional book deal I’ll get some experience in the field but right now, I just don’t have the disposable income to play around with it.