Coveted remunerations from writing . . .

 

Disclaimer: Monsta Reader is affiliated with bookshop.org and Waterstones. If you should make a purchase through any of the links in this blog, I might earn a small commission from the sale. However, this does not affect the prices of the items, and it does not influence the content of this blog.

I harbour hopes and dreams of making money from my writing. Not just that, but making a career out of it too.

In my teens, I was racked with anxiety and, perhaps consequently, an almost complete lack of confidence and self-esteem. And I didn't even begin to make sense of that until I was in my twenties, so I was kind of distracted in my younger years. I didn't figure out what I wanted from life, including the career path I wanted to take. So, in adulthood, I drifted into jobs that meant very little to me, and I never found myself at the bottom of any ladders that I wanted to climb.

From my youngest years, I had been an avid reader, but I didn't know how to do anything with that. The thought of being a writer didn't even occur to me; books were magic things, created by otherworldly beings, a sort of divine thing that I could never hope to touch! In my council house home, hand-me-down world, such hopes and dreams weren't even considered.

It's no coincidence that this blog concerns itself with books. It is driven by a love for the written word; my love for writing is an extension of my love for reading. And I am addicted!

When I started this blog, I had very few motivating factors, just that I wanted to write and a blog seemed an avenue wide open for exploration. There was, in the back of my mind, thoughts of how I might exploit an online presence in the future, but they were the vaguest of thoughts, not even half-formed. They were but wisps of mist, hanging over the main body of the idea - to write!

This blog, this space, is where I come most to write. I also write poems and little stories, but none have gotten me recognition or remuneration yet. There have been a few filler pieces in magazines published but, overall, in terms of money and recognition, it has to be said, I am a rather unsuccessful writer!

Now, partly, I must shoulder some of the blame for this. Like many writers before me, both great and mediocre, I am prone to procrastination - the great enemy of every writer! And, I am an embarrassingly ineffective self-marketer. Rather than striving to understand algorithms and all that jazz, I have been immersing myself into "How to write . . ." books, and trying to perfect technique and style. I research, write, proofread, edit, rewrite . . . and by the time I get to the marketing, sharing all over social media, and whatnot, I am ready for coffee, cake, and not much else.

Here's the problem - I am a writer, and so, I am trying to perfect my writing. And, as much as I read all about how one can go about being a more effective creator of content for social media, and improve chances of being found through online searches, my heart is only half in all that stuff. The problem is, I don't want to sell, I want to engage. But, we live in a world of CEOs and influencers, I suppose . . . One has to diversify to be successful, don't ya know.

I enjoy writing. It exorcises, it invigorates, it quiets the ego, feeds the soul . . . And I will continue to write, despite the lack of money and recognition. I will write because of all that deeper and richer stuff, and I will write just because I enjoy writing. But I will also continue to hope for, and work towards, a career as a writer. I think I deserve it. I think I am a good writer. Not the best - though I certainly see others whose work I could surpass getting the recognition that I covet - but I am getting better.

Will you do me a favour? If you read a piece, and if it's well written, and well researched, will you share that piece with your friends on social media? If the writer asks for a donation, and you are able to do so, will you give that donation? If you are able to offer a little time, effort, or money to support their efforts, will you do so?

Because, here's the thing; if that piece is well written, and well researched, it might have taken you minutes to read, but it has probably taken that writer hours of their time and effort. And you know, I look around, and I see the articles and the headlines that are obviously just there to get clicks - we all resent them! - but they exist because they work. Because they get the clicks and the support. Like I said, it's a world of CEOs and influencers, and the quality of the writing takes a backseat. But, if we support the good writers (and I don't know if I can lay claim to that title, that's up to you to decide), they rise - when you pay for good writing, you get good writing.

Anyway, if you do that, I swear that I shall try to be a better writer, worthy of the hopes and dreams I hold to me.

Thank you.

Just before you go, can I ask that you please consider supporting this blog with a coffee from ko-fi.com - the caffeine keeps me getting better . . .

Though I am affiliated with booksellers, I resist ad space where it is unnecessary because I would prefer to generate conversation and engagement, rather than sales. Plus, them ads are annoying! Disrupting the flow and what have you . . . !

With writerly ambitions, I throw myself on the support of readers for this blog, and so, if you can, please visit ko-fi.com, where you can offer support, find links to other blog posts, and read other writing efforts.

And, thank you again, readers and supporters!

Wondering what the ultimate solution is to RUNNING OUT OF SHELF SPACE?

 

Disclaimer: should you make a purchase through any of the links in this blog, I may earn a small commission from the sellers, but this does not affect the cost to the consumer, and it does not influence the content of this blog.

I can't stop buying books.

There are books on my shelves that I haven't yet read, and those shelves are pretty much full. But, still, I've a list of books noted down that I just have to get my hands on at some point. And every time I get an email from Waterstones or bookshop.org or one of the publishing houses, at least half the books mentioned in one of those emails end up being added to the list.

I am fairly certain I will die with books on my shelves that I never read. Of course I will; I buy books quicker than I can read them. It's the curse of the bibliophile!

Why do I do it? Why do any of us do it?

It's almost Sisyphean, right?

The TBR pile that never gets any smaller because, before you've even finished the book you're reading, you've found yourself in a bookshop handing over money to buy two more books that will be added to the pile!

There are books on my shelves that I bought excitedly months ago but still haven't got round to reading because of this habit.

But, the thing is, a book requires time and attention. A book requires consideration and thought and care. Reading a book is more than just taking in the words. Sometimes it requires some note-taking. Sometimes it requires going away to read something else, or visit a website, or contact someone . . . Reading a book can lead to a lot of things, and it takes time.

And in that time I am probably going to end up buying other books as well!

Buying a new book is all about the promise of what waits inside, between the covers. I am not particularly fussed about the beauty of the covers themselves, but the anticipation of discovering the beauty of the words inside . . . Oh!

Having a book on the shelves is having access to new ideas. And new ideas can spark so much. With a new idea, another way of looking at things, you may just end up discovering something wonderful. It could lead to a new project, a new friend, a new career . . . Anything really, depending on the kind of books you are reading. Who knows. There is a lot of promise in a new book on the shelves. And that, I think, is why I can't stop buying them quicker than I can read them. And why I feel wistful when I have finished a book that lived up to that promise; wishing I had savoured and appreciated the writing more as I'd made my way through the book, knowing that I'll never again be able to discover the book anew.

I'm afraid I don't have an answer to the question posed in the title of this post. I suppose I could buy a Kindle. But what sort of joyless existence would that be? I mean, jeez, go visit your local bookshop already. Bezos has made it! He and his buddies have enough money!

Thank you for reading. If you found anything entertaining therein, you can support my writing with a coffee on ko-fi.com because writing for free is fun, but at a certain point you're like, "Wait, I am making an effort here and writers worse than me are getting paid, so . . . " Stuff like that! Thank you - all support is much appreciated!

A day in the life of a book blogger

 

Disclaimer: if you should make a purchase through any of the links in this blog, I may earn a commission from the sellers, but this does not impact the cost to the consumer and it does not influence the content of this blog.

I'm afraid my first thoughts today were not bookish ones. No, my mind turned toward more horticultural matters.

I have come to stay at my parents house for a while because plumbers have been putting holes in the ceilings where I live. It's been a bit unpleasant, and I would have been left without a bathroom for days, so I threw myself on the mercy of mum and dad.

However, I have had to leave my potted plants behind. So, this morning, when I awoke, some of my first thoughts turned towards my flowers and my strawberry plants. I hope that they are doing all right.

I made up some egg fried rice and turned my thoughts towards my entrepreneurial endeavours. You see, I am starting up as a freelance content writer/copywriter. After losing work during lockdowns, and getting bored of waiting around for somebody else to give me a job, I decided to go for it and pursue an idea I had had for a while. I mean, I am already blogging (creating content/copy) for pleasure, and there are mofos (do people still say mofos? Should I ever have been saying mofos?) that get paid to do it!!

This is my second bookish blog post of the day. I wrote this one earlier. As you can see, I am not writing review posts today. One of the reasons for this is that I have left some notes on the last book I read, and could review, back at the flat . . . Not much use there! The other reason for the lack of a review post is that the last book I read is a book on grammar and I am not entirely sure there'd be much interest in that . . . Still, that concern hasn't stopped me before!

As well as my bookish blogging, I write a nature blog here. Nature and wildlife are, in many ways, more important to me than my love for books. I hope, if you'll give my little nature blog a chance, you won't hold that sentiment against me!

As I navigate the rest of the day, I will mostly be considering my blogging and my efforts in copywriting, in trying to start up my own business. But, because I don't want to be a dull boy, I shan't be all work and no play - I see a little lazy television viewing and a glass or two of something naughty in my not too distant future.

I hope your day has been a good one, and I hope that you enjoyed this read. If you did, perhaps you could buy me a coffee on ko-fi.com - the caffeine gets me through the day and brings me back to my keyboard where I can write all about it! Thank you!

Life and book blogging . . .

 

Disclaimer: If you should make a purchase through any of the links in this blog, I may earn a small commission from the sellers, but this has no impact on the cost to the consumer and it does not influence the content of this blog.

It has been about a month since I last posted here. And it's been a pretty draining month.

For my family, the last month has consisted of a funeral, two birthdays, and holes in the ceiling. A lot has been happening and sometimes things fall by the wayside. Blogging doesn't seem all that important when you're trying to be there for family, or you're trying to juggle the everyday stuff.

But, books are still present in my life. They have been one of those constants . . .

A little bookish concern . . .

The other day, my mum told me a little story. She had had an exchange with my niece via one of the social media platforms, I forget which one, and my mum asked my niece whether she was still as avid a reader as she had always been. But, as it turns out, my niece feels that she cannot read as much as she used to because the schoolwork that she is given keeps her from doing so. And, to me, that is pretty sad . . .

I just thought I would bring that up because, well, here we are on a book blog, and it seemed an absurdity to me that school, of all things, should be keeping kids and teens from reading! What do you think? Sound familiar?

Book blogging self doubt . . .

I think that I am a good writer. What do you think?

I don't think that any of the greats are under any threat of being knocked from their pedestals because of what I am doing, but I think that I am decent enough. And, to be honest, I look at what I am doing, what I am capable of, and I think I am quite a bit better than others who get more recognition than I . . .

Perhaps I should stop there on that one, before I move completely and unforgiveably into bitterness!

I think though that the lack of recognition might be one of the reasons that it's so easy to let this whole blogging gig slide for a while when life throws me some challenges. I look at some of the figures other bloggers report for their visitor numbers and I think, "Shit! Really! Halve that, halve it again, and we're still not hitting the embarrassingly low number of people that are visiting my rather bookish blog!"

So, tell me, is it me? Am I doing something wrong? If you are reading this, what can I do for you that will improve the chances of you sharing these little rambling and rather bookish ponderings?

And, as for monetising my efforts? Jeez, don't get me started! I see people paying for articles that are not as well written as my own. And, I think that some of this stuff I tap onto my screen and throw out into the ether of the internet is enjoyable, entertaining, or informative. Some of it is just filler, I'm aware of that. But still, decent filler is still worth something.

Maybe I should stop giving anything away for free? But I don't want to do that because this is also about reaching out, finding a community . . .

Oh, I don't know . . .

Fill in this clueless bookish blogger in the comments.

Life, and books, and writing, and other things . . .

I'm trying to start up a business (copywriting). A funeral (I'm not going into it here - I don't feel the need and, to be honest, I'm not going to write about it purely for engagement). Two birthdays. Holes in the ceiling (pipes and plumbers) . . .

Books and writing are still there in my life. Even when life is throwing shit at us, books are still there. And I don't know exactly why I can't let them go. Maybe it's just a habit. Maybe it's a crutch. Maybe if I really threw it under a lens I would see it for what it really is and learn a little more about myself. But, I can't be bothered with all that right now. I've got enough going on. 

I am just happy that I have the time and space in my life for books and writing. Even when life and doubts and questions are flying around me, books and writing are there. And I guess I will keep them even if no one is paying attention.

If you made it this far, thank you for reading; I am truly appreciative of your time and your attention. If you enjoyed this piece, you can buy me a coffee on ko-fi.com - the caffeine keeps me reading, writing, and navigating all of life's highs and lows.

Wondering where you can find some rock 'n' roll between the pages?

 Nine books that rock!

Disclaimer: if you make a purchase through any of the links in this blog, I may earn a commission from the sellers but that does not effect the cost to the consumer, and it does not influence the content of this blog.

And, now that that's out of the way, shall we begin?

1. This is a Call: The Life and Times of Dave Grohl by Paul Brannigan

"Grohl and his groups dissected with gumption." - Mojo

Purchase this book here and be sure to look out for the new book written by the nicest guy in rock himself!

2. Heavier Than Heaven: The Biography of Kurt Cobain by Charles R. Cross

"A superbly researched and harrowing book . . . The squalor is ghastly but the sheer sadness of Cobain's brief life is conveyed here. Cross has painstakingly accumulated a wealth of telling detail." - Robert Sandall in The Sunday Times

You can purchase this book through the Waterstones link on this blog's home page!

3. Chronicles: Volume One by Bob Dylan

Chosen as a book of the year by so many different people it deserves it's very own post!

You can purchase the book here!

4. Bound for Glory by Woody Guthrie

"Wild as a train whistle in the mountains, a scrumptious picture of fighting, carousing, singing, laughing, migratory America." - The New York Times

You can purchase this book here!

5. On the Road by Jack Kerouac

Not a rock 'n' roll novel itself, but one that influenced many of the musicians that would read it!

"It changed my life like it changed everyone else's." - Bob Dylan

You can purchase this book here!

6. Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami

"This book is undeniably hip, full of student uprisings, free love, booze and 1960s' pop, it's also genuinely emotionally engaging, and describes the highs of adolescence as well as the lows." - Independent on Sunday

You can purchase this book here!

7. Perfume: The Story of a Murderer by Patrick Süskind

A book that Kurt Cobain enthused over and which inspired lyrics for Nirvana's final studio album, In Utero.

You can purchase this book here!

8. Waging Heavy Peace by Neil Young

"Eccentric, sprawling, absorbing. Before you know it you're at page 400 . . . and you don't want it to end. You see rock and roll history from the inside out." - Independent

You can purchase this book here!

9. Touching From a Distance: Ian Curtis & Joy Division by Deborah Curtis

"Revered by his peers and idolised by his fans, Ian Curtis left behind a legacy rich in artistic genius. Mesmerising on stage but introverted and prone to desperate mood swings in his private life, Curtis died by his own hand on 18 May 1980." - from the book's blurb

You can purchase this book here!

Well, that's it, nine rockin' books! If you found anything you like the look of here, you can buy me a coffee over on ko-fi - it keeps me reading and writing! Thank you for reading!

How Book Lovers Spend Their Time . . . And . . . We Don't Have a Problem!

 

Disclaimer: should you make a purchase through any of the links in this blog, Monsta Reader may earn a commission from the sellers, but that does not have any impact on the cost to you as consumer, nor does it influence the content of this blog.

Ever find yourself thinking, "Jeez, I would rather be reading!"? Of course you have, you're a card holding bibliophile! And, we love you here!

Whether we're out at the supermarket, in a meeting at work, spending time with the in-laws, we're just all too aware of the fact that this is eating into time that could be spent immersed in that book. That TBR pile is not getting any smaller, after all.

In fact, trying to get to the bottom of that particular pile is like Sisyphus trying to roll his boulder up that hill. I don't know about you, but I am forever spending money I don't really have on books I need (and, I do need them. I really do. But, I swear, once I have this last book, that'll be it for the month. I won't buy anoth . . . ooh, what's that book!).

But hey, you know what, the depressing state of my finances aside, there's no such thing as too many books, am I right? If I need to make space, I can always rearrange some stuff. I mean, do I really even need a bed? I'm sure I can make a corner pretty comfortable, just curl up there . . .

Here's a question, why do people think it's okay to come and disturb you when you're reading? Ever had that? Like, you're sitting there, caught up in the flow of the book in your hands and loving it, and someone interrupts you, assuming that you're reading only because you've nothing better to do. What is that all about!?

Maybe I just need to go and arrange my bookshelves to calm myself down. Speaking of which, how do you arrange yours? Colours? Alphabetically? Chronologically? By publisher? Personal significance? Size? Stacked?

Personally, I have gone for a mix of alphabetically, stacked, and personal significance. In other words, it's a bit of a mess; and, that's why you won't find any pretty bookshelf pictures in my Instagram feed.

I am not all that interested in how aesthetically pleasing my bookshelves are, to be honest. I even have some book series on my shelves with mismatching cover designs, mismatching editions. I know there are some for whom that's going to be a painful mental image. I can only apologise and hope that you will forgive me. If you cannot, I will completely understand and can only thank you for joining me on this crazy journey this far.

Some of the shelves hold books which, for me, have personal significance, and those books stand neatly for the most part, and they are alphabetised according to the authors surname. And, each authors work is ordered chronologically according to the date of publication. But then, I have other shelves upon which you will find books that I like very much, but which have less personal significance to me. These shelves are more disordered, the books here more likely to be stacked. Sometimes, books move from one set of shelves to another.

It's a hard system to explain, but it makes sense to me. And, uh, please don't touch my books without asking. Is that just me? Tell me I am not weird. I feel really uneasy about people being around my bookshelves.

Hm. Maybe I do have a problem . . .

No. It's others who are wrong!

I mean, those aren't just books. There are characters inside those books that I have walked beside, fought with, felt the love they have felt. And, when it all comes to an end, I have mourned the loss of them. Because, oh my god, what relief/sadness/emotional mess is left in the wake of reaching that final page.

Having said that, at least now the book is done, I don't have to delay going to the toilet, or eating, or sleeping. Don't have hold all that stuff in as I feverishly make my way through each chapter. 

Phew!

If you enjoyed this little piece, perhaps you could help me in my bookish/writerly endeavours, and support me on my ko-fi page; Ko-fi is a great platform for creatives and the fantastic folks that follow their work. All support is gratefully received, and much appreciated! 

Thank you for reading. Stay safe. Stay well. And, keep reading lots of good books.

The Success of Inspirational Books, Read by Hollywood Stars and Blue Collar Workers Alike!

 

Disclaimer: should you make a purchase through any of the links in this blog, I may earn a commission from the sellers, but that has no impact on the cost to you as the consumer, nor does it influence the content of this blog.

When I check what's trending on Twitter, most of the time, it feels as though I have descended into a pit of misery. It's like taking a shot of anxiety straight to the brain! And yet, for some reason, one of the first things I feel a need to do in the morning, within minutes of opening my eyes sometimes, is run through that list of bitterness and despair. Don't know why. But, I do know that I am not alone; articles, books, and documentaries about exactly how bad for us social media and our phones can be abound!

And, it's not just social media, the whole world seems kind of in a mess. The environment's kind of fucked, and we aren't doing enough about that (if only nature would give us a hint that it doesn't want us being quite so intrusive . . .); then there's politicians swinging their dicks around (in most instances, only figuratively speaking, thankfully); and, for some reason, people can still be driven to histrionics by the thought of someone, somewhere, not necessarily someone they know, engaging in consensual acts of love and sex that aren't strictly heterosexual (I dunno, you'd have thought they'd have more pressing things to be concerned about, but there it is!).

It's enough to make you want to never leave your bed!

With all that in mind, it's not hard to fathom the appeal of inspirational and motivational books. Those books that make us stop and consider the way we think and behave. Perhaps, just perhaps, there are other things we could be doing? Or, maybe there are things we should be letting go of? The answers out there somewhere, right? Right??

As someone who has spent nights awake, with thoughts in my head ugly like stagnant standing water, you can be sure I have my fair share of inspirational books on the subject of mental wellbeing. Because, thankfully, the discussions around mental health and wellbeing are just about beginning to become less taboo; the stigma is being questioned! 

Perhaps one of the best known authors writing about mental health, including his own struggles, and the successes, with regard to his mental health, is Matt Haig, the English novelist and journalist. When his book, Reasons to Stay Alive, was published in 2015 it was received to generally positive reviews. And, in those reviews can be found declarations of real thanks for a book about mental health written in such a frank way. Sort of memoir, definitely inspirational, this book takes a look at living with mental ill health, and how that doesn't have to mean being condemned to a life forever bleak.

On a personal note, I am thankful for the likes of Matt Haig. Men in the public eye who stand up and say, I struggle. And, that's okay. The discussion around male mental health, and why it is that men don't get the help they need is something we still need to work on; suicide has been the biggest killer of young men in the UK for a long time and, according to statistics, men appear most at risk of death from suicide.

Mr. Haig has written of the therapeutic power of writing, and the reading is pretty damn good for you too!

Of course, mental health isn't the only aspect of our lives that we might want to consider on the path to happiness, health, and a fulfilling life. But, it's a pretty good place to start!

In an age where we seem to be drifting from one screen to another, there's apparently an increased interest in wanting something more. Or, maybe something less. I've read plenty of pieces on the benefits of giving up smart phones, and returning to older models. Or giving up mobile phones completely (is such a thing even possible!). Then there's the abundance of books concerned with mindfulness, meditation, and the benefits of being in the moment. And, hygge. Remember hygge? I think it's safe to say we are looking for something.

One of the books in my "to be read" pile is How to do Everything and be Happy by Peter Jones, a practical look at how to get the most out of life without overburdening yourself and, as it says on the cover, be happy. You'd also find, as you nosed along my shelves, a copy of Happiness by Design by Paul Dolan, which I've read (in the wake of a relationship falling apart). Both, in their own way, suggest the benefits of finding balance in our lives; the balance of pleasure and purpose, and not trying to overload those scales.

So, maybe we just need to stop, take a breath or two, and get some balance back into our lives. Sounds good to me. Maybe, if we could do that, learn to stop, just now and then, we might all calm down a bit, and the Twitter trending list wouldn't be quite so fevered, and riddled with fearful/hateful knee jerk reactions.

Recently, a copy of Mae Martin's Can Everyone Please Calm Down? arrived in the mail. And, though I would hesitate to call it a self help book, the author does hope for a more considerate and considered conversation about sexuality. Like mental health, a subject that seems to, gradually, be something we can see our way to talking about openly. Sort of. As the blurb reads, Mae's mission is to ensure that in a world that's full of things to worry about, who we choose to kiss should not be one of them. And when it comes to sexuality, she asks: CAN EVERYONE PLEASE CALM DOWN? 

A couple of years ago, I watched Mae Martin's Comedians of the World special, on Netflix, and enjoyed it, but then forgot about it mostly. (Sorry, I was drinking my way through an unhealthy relationship and unaddressed mental issues at the time). But, Martin's work came to my attention again (once the relationship was over and I was beginning to get my shit together) and I have gotten to be a little bit obsessed. Not in a worrying way, mind. It's all good. But, yeah, she can write a book about as well as she can stand-up and TV, so . . .

To put it simply, I very much recommend Mae Martin's book. And, though this blog doesn't really concern itself with television, you should also check out Feel Good on Netflix! It's so good. I am delaying watching the final episode for myself because once it's gone what the hell am I supposed to do? Go outside? Watch something else? Pfft!

Links to a few inspirational books

Reasons to Stay Alive by Matt Haig

The Comfort Book by Matt Haig

Happiness by Design by Paul Dolan

How to be Human by Ruby Wax

Can Everybody Please Calm Down? by Mae Martin

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fuck by Mark Manson

If you enjoyed this piece, please consider following/supporting me over on my ko-fi page; Ko-fi is a platform for creative types and the people that follow their work. All support is gratefully received and very much appreciated!

Thank you, see you again soon. Stay safe. Be well. And, read lots of good books!

How Does a Master Procrastinator Get Down to Creating Bookish Blog Content?

 

The central theme of this blog was always going to be books, books, books. But, when I started, I was unsure as to exactly what I wanted to say. I came to the conclusion that I would simply write about the books I read. It was a simple idea, but whoever said things had to be complex to work?

I did, however, eventually decide to diverge now and then. Hence why I describe this little space of mine as my "rather bookish blog", as opposed to a book blog. I don't always discuss books, but instead have opted to, now and then, discuss bookish things. And, that approach seems to have served me quite well - my last post on bookish interests had a larger readership than some posts in which I've reviewed, analysed, and discussed books!

Our passion for books extends along the full spectrum of bookish things! And, I love chatting with you all about other book blogs, and that Etsy shop that sells bookish themed products, and concerns around the books we love.

Looking back at earlier posts, it's plain to see that I lacked direction. The posts ramble along, aimlessly wandering, until they tire themselves out. And, I sometimes wonder if I ought to go back and alter them, improve upon them. Not to fix broken links, or update the images. Not in the interest of improving the readership of those posts. But, just to improve the writing, bring them up to standard.

However, I sort of like that they are there. A reminder that things have improved, that this blog has grown and matured. It's like markers on a doorframe, marking the growth of a child. Or, perhaps, marking the height of floodwaters past. Whichever seems most appropriate to you.

I now believe that this blog has direction, and I have ambitions as a writer that inform that direction. It is those ambitions that get me to my laptop, get me typing. Those ambitions, and my passion for books. I do hope that that shines through everything else. Before this blog is about me trying to convince you to follow a link, or recommend a purchase to you, it is about my love for books. And yours too I hope. Because that's another reason we write and read bookish blogs, right? For the community, the friendship, the engagement with others who share our passion.

I write this blog because it is the sort of content I would enjoy reading! I sometimes try to tackle weightier subjects, such as how authors are paid, and sometimes I discuss reading challenges, just for fun. And, sometimes, as I originally intended, I discuss books that I have read. Whatever it is, I hope that it is enjoyable and interesting, both for me and you.

If you have found this post, or any others, enjoyable and interesting, please do consider following/supporting me over on ko-fi. Ko-fi is a platform for creatives and their followers. It makes supporting those folks whose work you enjoy super easy. All support is gratefully received and very much appreciated.

Thank you, and see you soon!

You're a book lover? You need to see these!

 

We're all book lovers here and we love bookish things. Book blogs, bookish gifts and treats, bookish places, and, of course, books themselves! So, if a round-up of a few bookish things were to come your way, there may just be something within that that piqued your interest. But, where might such a round-up be found? Well, funny you should ask . . .

If you're into book blogs, you could do a lot worse than checking out Linda's Book Bag, which is really what my own blog wants to be when it grows up and stops all its nonsense! 

Linda's book blog is well written, and offers reviews on books from various genres, including crime, thrillers, romance, and children's books. You can tell the content is written with a passion for the subject, a passion which is present in every published post. But, the real reason I include Linda's blog here is simple; it is the blog that has inspired in me most often the desire to make another book purchase.

But, maybe your "to be read" pile is already straining your bookshelves. What then? Well, you could take that desire for another bookish purchase and go see Team Asthers! With bookish products like bookmarks, journals, and tote bags you are spoilt for choice!

They make great gifts (or a little treat for yourself) for the self described bibliophile. I love the designs on their cool classics bookmarks, and think their site is well worth the visit. You can also find them on Twitter and Instagram.

However, maybe you just cannot wait to get another book on your shelves. And, who could blame you? We, all of us here, buy books quicker than we can read them.

Well, if that's the case, I urge you to consider visiting your local independent bookshop. If you're in my part of the world, that might mean a visit to The Eagle Bookshop. Now that businesses are opening up again, our smaller independent bookshops need our help. And, if the booklovers aren't going to do their bit, who will?

Still, it isn't always possible to get to the shops. So, in that case, consider visiting Bookshop.org (which also has a site for American book buyers). Bookshop is a fantastic site that supports independent bookshops; 10% of what is spent by customers goes into an overall earnings pool and this is then, every six months, shared between the participating independent bookshops. And, during Indie Bookshop Week (19 - 26 June 2021), that 10% is going to increase to 20% - sounds like a good week to make book buys.

If Jeff Bezos can afford to get in to space, I don't think he and his ilk will miss your contribution to their coffers. But, the local bookshops sure might be grateful you dropped by - especially with how independent businesses have been impacted by the pandemic.

As for books themselves, I am currently reading The Accidental Further Adventures of the Hundred Year Old Man by Jonas Jonasson, which I am thoroughly enjoying thus far, with William Boyd's A Good Man in Africa on the side, to keep me on my toes. I will be discussing both in future posts, so keep your eyes peeled for that.

None of the links in this post will take you to anyone that is going to pay me for sending you to them. There are no commissions involved this time. I just really like what these people are doing, and maybe you will like them too.

If you like what I am doing, please consider following/supporting me over at ko-fi where I update followers on many of my writerly endeavours, including what's going on here at my rather bookish blog. Every donation makes a difference, but if you can't donate right now, please do consider a follow.

Thank you, and see you again soon!

Stories in the sun

 

It's June, and, here in south east England, the sun has been shining. So, just like every good English person under the slightest sliver of sunshine, I find myself in a summery mood! With that in mind, I am going to take a little look at a few novels, and one novella, that are set in the summer time.

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

In my younger and more vulnerable years my father gave me some advice that I've been turning over in my mind ever since. And so begins this modern classic of American literature. Published in 1925, this short book (148 pages) tells the story of Jay Gatsby, through the eyes of Nick Carraway, and the characters around him. This is a story of decadence, longing, and tragedy. For, although Gatsby is a self-made man, known for his champagne-fuelled parties, he longs for Daisy Buchanan. And, in the telling of this story, we follow that longing to its tragic conclusion.

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

This book first came into my life when I was at school, as a book assigned to the English class. And now, I have my own copy standing proudly on my shelves. Like the previous entry, this book is something of a modern American classic. It tells the story of a lawyer defending a black man, who is accused of the rape of a white girl, in the Deep South of the 1930's. Through the eyes of young Scout and Jem Finch, the novel explores themes of prejudice, violence, and hypocrisy - themes still all too relevant today, sixty-one years after the novel's publication. 

Apt Pupil by Stephen King

I was torn between including this title or The Body, both novellas by King and featuring in his collection, Different Seasons. However, I opted for Apt Pupil because I think the other title (upon which the film Stand By Me is based) is the better known, and I would prefer to look at the lesser known story. So, in this offering from King, we are told the tale of Todd Bowden, the pupil of the title. He is an all-American kid, but, in his neighbourhood, a familiar and human evil lurks. And, as his curiosity reawakens that evil, it might just end up corrupting him too.

The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro

I took a look at this novel in more detail in an earlier post (here), and would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone that hasn't read it yet. It is a beautiful book. As we follow Stevens, the ageing butler of Darlington Hall, on a road trip deep into the countryside of England in the summer of 1956, the story explores themes of lost causes and lost love. It is a novel that explores those things that go unsaid, those things that can't be undone. It is a sad but beautiful story, and this Booker Prize winning novel is worthy of every ounce of praise it has received.

If you enjoyed this post, please do consider following/supporting me over on ko-fi where I post an update each time I publish a new post here, and I offer up some of my other writerly endeavours for scrutiny. Ko-fi is a platform specifically for creatives and their followers, and all support is gratefully received - it makes a real difference.

A Few Banned Books

 

If you pursue bookish/writerly endeavours of your own, please do keep reading to the end of this piece . . . .

Even back when tweeting was just the sound a bird made, people felt awfully threatened by thoughts and words they didn't agree with. But, you can't block a book or its author, so, instead, some tried to ban the works instead. What follows are a few of the books from my shelves which, at one time, in some place, have been banned for various reasons.

Brave New World by Aldous Huxley

Anyone that has visited my blog before, or perused previously published posts (do love a bit of alliteration), will know that I have a lot of time for Huxley. Huxley had the courage to critique the absurdities of politics and society as he saw them. In Brave New World, the author demonstrates how an ideal society might be created through the use of genetic engineering, brainwashing, recreational sex, and drug use; a dystopia presenting as utopia. The novel was banned in Ireland when it first appeared, in 1932, because they saw it as taking a stand against religion and the traditional family, but even just ten years ago a piece was published in The Guardian newspaper suggesting it was a book that many Americans took offence with (here is the article).

Animal Farm by George Orwell

Much like the author in the preceding entry, Orwell's fame stems from works that analyse and criticise political and social ills. Along with 1984, this novel secured George Orwell worldwide fame and recognition. However, not all of that recognition was favourable. Animal Farm is a veiled attack on Stalin and his brutal brand of communism. As you can imagine, the work was banned in the USSR. However, it is also, even today, banned in both Cuba and North Korea, both communist countries under a dictatorship. You might also be interested to learn that many countries in the Islamic world also have a ban on the novel. Why? Because it features talking pigs.

The Catcher in the Rye by J. D. Salinger

This book has been held up as a classic by its fans; a book that takes an honest look at the cares, fears, anxieties, and ennui of teenage life. Its protagonist, Holden Caulfield, is one of literature's defining moments in exploring adolescent angst. However, this novel was the subject of a ban in American schools almost since its publication. Being seen as a subversive text that included far too much sex, swearing, and violence for some to feel comfortable with (though, I don't think you are supposed to feel comfortable reading these books, that's kind of the point), one teacher in Tulsa, Oklahoma, was even fired in 1960 for assigning the book to his class. As an interesting aside, the novel popularised the slang term "screw up" - Boy, it really screws up my sex life something awful.

Lady Chatterley's Lover by D. H. Lawrence

Sex. We all have some relationship with it, many of us have had pleasant experiences because of it, and a lot of us want it. But, boy, that doesn't stop us from feeling pretty damn uncomfortable around it. This novel is erotically charged and explores adult relationships, and the gulf between classes. And so, of course, it was banned. The book was published in 1928, but it was banned in England, America, Canada, Australia, India, and Japan. It wasn't until 1960 that the novel was published, as an unexpurgated edition, in the United Kingdom, which resulted in an obscenity trial, under the Obscene Publications Act 1959. Penguin Books was found "not guilty" by the jury, and the publisher dedicated the second edition to the three women and nine men who made up that jury.

Thank you for reading this piece. In an upcoming post, I would love to promote others who pursue bookish/writerly endeavours. So, if you have an Etsy shop that sells bookish gifts, or you have a writerly/bookish blog, or anything else that's bookish/ writerly, all I want you to do is come and follow me on Twitter (here), and send me a message there, or a comment beneath my pinned tweet, with any links to websites or social media platforms you would want potential customers to know about!

I hope you enjoyed this piece. If you did, please consider following/supporting me on ko-fi - if everyone who read this piece donated just the minimum, it would be a huge boost, and it would be gratefully received. 

Thank you, and see you soon.

A Few More Films Based on Rather Good Books

 

As well as the books I love, I also enjoy a good film, and the last post I published on films based on books I so thoroughly enjoyed writing that I thought I might do another one. It should be noted though, before we get into this piece proper, that where I mention streaming options for some of these films I am basing those details on what is available here, in the UK. Sorry, everyone else. I do still love you though.

Room (based on the novel by Emma Donoghue)

I've read the book, but not seen the film. However, with a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 93%, I am expecting the adaptation to be quite good. 

Brie Larson won an Academy Award and Golden Globe for her performance in this film. She plays Jack's mother, trying to give her five-year-old son as normal an upbringing as she possibly can. A tall order when Jack has spent the entirety of his life so far in one room! Having been held captive by her abductor for years, Jack's "Ma" decides they must try and escape. And so, Jack will be introduced to something greater than he has known so far - the world outside the room.

Room is currently available to stream on Netflix.

Rosemary's Baby (based on the novel by Ira Levin)

Ira Levin's novel was the bestselling horror novel of the 1960's, and the film is one of the best horror films ever made. With a wonderful performance from Mia Farrow as Rosemary, and an Oscar winning performance from Ruth Gordon as one of her odd neighbours, if you haven't seen this perfect horror, it might be time you did so. 

Rosemary's husband, an ambitious but, so far, unsuccessful actor, makes a pact with the devil. And, from that act, the horror unfolds.

Rosemary's Baby is currently available on Amazon Prime from £2.49

IT (based on the novel by Stephen King)

They don't come much creepier than killer clowns. And Pennywise is about as creepy a killer clown as they come. Partly, of course, because he is much more than a simple murderous clown.

If you've read the book, you'll know what a hefty thing it is (clocking in at over 1000 pages), and so, when it was adapted for the big screen a few years ago now, it might come as no surprise the story was split into two films.

I enjoyed the book, and I enjoyed the film. The book is well crafted, and if you're a Stephen King fan but you've not read this one, I don't think you'll be disappointed. Though, like I say, it is a biggun. Of course, films based on King books can be a bit hit and miss, but I think this film is enjoyable enough.

IT is currently available on Amazon Prime from £3.49

Joker (based on the Batman comics character, created by Bill Finger, Bob Kane, and Jerry Robinson)

From one murderous clown to another . . .

Anyone familiar with the Batman comics will know that this character is the Dark Knight's most dangerous adversary. Seemingly completely detached from reality, but intelligent and with a desire for destruction, the Joker is the character that keeps coming back. He is also the adversary that has most affected the hero of the comics.

When Todd Phillips' Joker was released in 2019, there were some questions raised as to the need for a film about this character (a murderous white man), but I don't think there's any denying that the performances are solid and the story is decently told. And, as for those objections, I don't think we ought to sympathise with the character, but understanding the descent of the character might be worth the time.

Joker is currently available on Amazon Prime from £13.99

Let The Right One In (based on the novel by John Ajvide Lindqvist)

There is a distinctly bloody and horrific theme running throughout these suggestions. Well, why break the habit now!?

However, Let The Right One In, like the novel it is based on, is not quite a straightforward vampire horror story. No, in this story you will find themes of what it is to be an outsider, and forging a friendship even when it might seem doomed. And, the vampire here is no cardboard cutout vampire, but a cursed and tormented character. It is also a beautiful portrait of adolescence. It is perhaps that more than it is a vampire film.

Let The Right One In is currently available on Amazon Prime.

American Psycho (based on the novel by Bret Easton Ellis)

It's another bloody one. Sheesh! I know!

Patrick Bateman is a monster that fits nicely into the 1980s world of greed, money, and shallow self service. He has very little interest in anything beyond maintaining a pleasing veneer, and exploring the dark and intensely violent urges he has. And, though he often fears that his mask of sanity is slipping, it seems as though the world in which he lives is one that does not recognise the monster he is. For, it seems, it is not only he that is only interested in superficial and selfish desires.

The book is not an easy read. The film is not an easy watch. There is much violence. And, as I say, Bateman is a monster.

American Psycho is currently available on Netflix.

I hope you enjoyed this piece. If you did, perhaps you would consider following/supporting me on ko-fi, a platform specifically for creatives, and a great place to keep up to date with what your favourite creatives are up to. All support is gratefully received.

Thank you, and see you soon.

Author earnings and other bookish concerns.

 

In a previous blog post, I visited the topic of how authors get paid. It wasn't, I think you'll agree, an in depth look at the topic, but it is something of interest to me. And, it should probably be a topic of interest to you, if you read books. And, if you're reading this blog, you probably do read books.

Unless you've taken a wrong turn somewhere out here in the vastness of the internet . . .

Authors, generally speaking, earn far less than the minimum income standard for their writing, and rarely is it the case that a writer is able to work solely as a writer, to be able to afford a decent standard of living. There are many instances of writers earning more from giving talks than they do from sales of books. Even then, being a writer is not the profession to opt for if you want to, you know, earn enough money to live off. It's a damn struggle.

When I came across this article in The Guardian (01/06/2021), about a new initiative to get authors earning royalties from the sale of secondhand books, it put a smile on my face. And, you do wonder, when you think about it, why it hadn't occurred to anyone before now.

Out of a necessity to budget, and my bank account being almost perpetually overdrawn, I have often opted for a secondhand book when drawn beyond my will to making another book purchase. And, being slightly aware of how authors earn royalties from sales, I have felt guilt because of that. Though, I shouldn't have to - no one should be priced out of access to books.

I fully support the initiative to get authors royalties from the sale of secondhand books. We need to support our authors as much as we can. Authors don't earn enough for the time and effort they put into their work, and they earn less, on average, than they did just ten years ago. As readers, we need to support them. Otherwise, you lose it.

As an aside, I also believe in supporting independent bookshops. I know the local Waterstones is convenient, and they have some nice little gifts too. I know that Amazon isn't going anywhere. But, we need more than that. We need bookshops whose identities are informed by the local community in which they have come to being, we need bookshops that support local economies, we need bookshops that are concerned with more than the company brand. 

I have allowed myself a link to the Waterstones site on this blog because I have shopped with them. But, it's just the one general link on the home page. Every link, in every book review blog post, that takes you to the specific book being discussed in that post, takes you to bookshop.org. It just sits better with me to recommend a site that supports local bookshops. Because, after all, Mr. Bezos and his ilk don't need any more money.

Though some of his employees could do with a little more . . .

As book readers, we are also consumers. We are supporters of those authors that line our bookshelves. Those authors who sacrificed house work, time with loved ones, and days out so they could get that work out of their head and onto the page, never really sure that anyone would ever read it. But, they persevered nonetheless, and they put hours, days, weeks, months, or maybe even years, into writing and editing. And, they can still end up getting paid a pittance.

I don't always shop as ethically as I could. But, I try, and being aware is a pretty good place to start.

If you enjoyed this piece, or even found it useful, please do consider following/supporting me on ko-fi. Ko-fi is a platform specifically for creatives, and it's a great way to keep up to date with what your favourite creatives are up to. All support is gratefully received.

Thank you, and see you soon.

Some reading challenge ideas

 

Reading challenges can be a great way of getting out of a reading rut, or just introducing something a little different to your TBR pile. Or, it can just be a little bit of fun . . .

A book published in the 1970's

I plucked this decade from thin air. There is no special reason as to why this decade need be the decade you use for this little challenge. In fact, if you want to expand on this little challenge, you could read a book published from every decade over the last century. That sounds like a fun little challenge, and perhaps a way to introduce new books to your shelves. It might also be fun to see how the art of writing has evolved. The great thing about this challenge is that you can pick any genre, any author. But, since I picked the 1970's, let me offer a few suggestions, such as, Carrie by Stephen King; Breakfast of Champions by Kurt Vonnegut; Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas by Hunter S. Thompson. There are plenty of other great titles to choose from this decade.

A book that features a wedding

Now, this one is a tad more specific, and might at first suggest a selection from the romance genre. And, though it does sometimes unfairly get looked down upon, it is a genre worth exploring. Whether it's Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger, or Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë, there are plenty of romance novels to choose from. However, weddings aren't always an indication of love and happiness. The unsuccessful wedding of Miss Havisham, in Dickens' Great Expectations has much to do with the shaping of her character and, in turn, the events of the novel. And, in The Princess Bride by William Goldman, the plot is very much driven by the main character's desire to stop a wedding.

A book that has inspired music

Apparently, Katy Perry's song, Firework, was inspired by a passage in Jack Kerouac's On The Road. And, Kate Bush's Wuthering Heights shares its title with Emily Brontë's novel for the very simple reason that it was inspired by the book. In fact, there are a number of songs, in various genres of music, that have been inspired by literary works. If nineties grunge is more your thing, Kurt Cobain was influenced by Patrick Süskind's Perfume when he was writing lyrics for the songs on Nirvana's album, In Utero. Whatever, your favoured genres of music are, there are probably a few songs in your library that are influenced by novels. Why not get your hands on one of those books, and read it while you listen to the music? 

A classic

Chances are that there is a classic title you've had recommended to you, or seen discussed online, that you haven't got around to reading. And, sometimes, the pretentious can make you feel as though you are obliged to read these books. Otherwise, how can you say you're a real bibliophile, right? Well, don't let them put you off. The classics are just stories, just books like the modern ones we read. They come with a certain amount of respect and cultural weight because, after all, they have endured, sometimes for a century and more. Personally, I am a fan of Dickens. But, I would also recommend Oscar Wilde's The Picture of Dorian Gray, or Bram Stoker's Dracula (discussed in greater detail here). However, don't lert me tell you what to do. Go find a story you like the sound of, and find a classic for you.

A book you've been had recommended to you

If you're a book lover, and you have bookish friends, chances are, as mentioned above, you've had countless recommendations thrown your way. Reading a book is a very private thing a lot of the time, unless you to choose to read your book aloud to others. And, when we read a book that rocks our world, or one that we just really enjoy, we want to share it with anyone and everyone. Well, pick up one of those books you have been recommended. We follow enough algorithms and advertising in this world, we might be a little better off if we followed the recommendations of some of our living, breathing, loving fellow human beings a little more too.

A book published the year you were born

This one, a little like the first suggestion in this piece, is flexible in terms of genre. Only rule is that it be a book that was published the year you were born. For me, I might pick up Margaret Atwood's popular novel, The Handmaid's Tale. Or maybe The Accidental Tourist by Anne Tyler. What about you? What books were published the year you were born? Any of them look good?

(Extra points to you if you figured out the year I was born!)

Well, I hope you enjoyed this piece. If you did, perhaps you would consider following/supporting me on ko-fi. Ko-fi is a platform specifically for creatives, and is a great way to stay up-to-date with what they're up to. All support is very much appreciated!

Thank you, keep reading lots, and see you soon.

How to be a rather bookish blogger

 

Every blog is different because each blogger is different. And, presumably, every blogger starts blogging for different reasons. So, there is going to be plenty that you will need to figure out for yourself. You don't want to follow a formula, because then you end up with something formulaic. However, I can tell you a little bit about my own experience, and you can take from that what you will.

Beginning

When I started blogging, I didn't really have a clear idea in my head as to why I had started blogging. I have an interest in writing - writing stories and poetry, pitching to magazine editors, etc. - and blogging was just another avenue to explore in pursuing that interest.

Of course, as a writer, I have taken more than my share of rejection, and the great bonus of starting up a blog seemed to be that I could write, publish, and attract readers without having to go through an editor, publisher, or agent (this can also be considered a negative - having to go through this is something that must be learned at some point as a writer). And so, I started a blog.

If you look back at earlier posts, I think you can tell that they are a bit less well structured, a bit less well written. I was still experimenting, and I do believe it shows. I haven't altered them though since I originally published them. I kind of like that they are there, reminders of how I have progressed.

Aside from my still experimenting back then, figuring out what was possible and the identity of this space, I didn't, as I said, really know why I had started the blog. I settled on writing about books and bookish things because I love to read, as simple as that. But, there were no goals or ambitions beyond having a place to write, preferably with a few readers along for the ride.

Ambitions have developed though as I have progressed. I have come to see that having a blog can be a great way to demonstrate my ability as a writer for those other writerly pursuits I undertake. Also, I have joined a couple of affiliate marketing schemes. However, I have tried to keep advertising in this space tasteful - this blog will never be primarily about trying to sell anything, it will always be about books and bookish things.

My interest in using this space to try and gain some supplementary income was really instigated by my losing work during the first UK lockdown, last year, because of the Covid-19 pandemic. However, as I say, making money will never be the primary goal. I suppose, having some sort of community is the goal, reaching out to people who share similar interests, values, and passions.

Writing articles

From the other book blogs that I have seen, I have noticed that a lot of bloggers have genre specific blog content. Whereas, you may have noticed, my content is more diverse. The original idea being that I would simply discuss those books that make up my bookshelves. I'm not sure if this holds me back - potential readers being put off by my lack of specificity - or whether the broad range of books I discuss might be a help in the long term. Time will tell.

Beyond discussing the books I read, I also decided to write and publish posts about bookish related topics. So, if you explore the blog, you might find posts on how to make time for reading (here), films based on books (here), or even on my experiences as a bookish blogger (this post you're reading right now).

It's hard to say which posts are going to be popular and which ones aren't. And, besides, posts tend to garner attention incrementally, or at least they do in my experience. However, my most recently published posts which have been relatively popular are ones on reading challenges (here), and a review of Kazuo Ishiguro's The Buried Giant (here). But again, other posts have gained attention as well and reader numbers increase incrementally.

Outside of analysing and reviewing books that I have read, I have written a few list pieces, "how to" pieces, pieces inspired by news items . . . Pretty much anything bookish related that captures my interest, is a joy to write, and hopefully of interest to readers. And, chances are that if it is a pleasure for you to write there will be someone for whom it is a pleasure to read.

I think my one piece of advice would be to persevere. Even if you are writing and you suspect that no one is reading, you started blogging for a reason. If you still have that reason, and the writing is good, and getting better, the readers will come. 

Of course, getting the readers to come may mean having to leave the blog for a while . . .

Followers/support

Social media, especially Twitter, has been great in terms of finding support, even something of a community.

On Twitter, I have felt embraced by the book blogger community. From sharing each others' blog posts, to tagging each other to boost awareness of your efforts, the Twitter book blogger community has been wonderful. They are gosh darn friendly bunch too!

Beyond Twitter, I don't really make much use of Facebook for my bookish/writerly pursuits, simply out of personal preferences, but you can sometimes find me sharing bookish things on Instagram, though my bookish interests there are nestled amongst other of my interests too.

Away from social media, I have also set up a ko-fi page. Ko-fi is a platform specifically for creatives, and it is designed as a way for those creatives to stay in touch with supporters and, yes, to try and garner some monetary support for their efforts. This I set up with a view to gaining some donations for my writing, and also as a space for sharing what I am up to and learning from others.

Unfortunately, ko-fi hasn't garnered any donations/support for me yet, money wise at least, but I have found other creatives on there who have been kind enough to offer support in other ways (following my page, critiquing work in progress, etc.) which is very much appreciated.

Going forward, I have made something of a little promise to myself. I will, in the not too distant future, and at least once a month, donate to other creatives on the platform. It is pretty tricky to get support as creatives, and I have come to the conclusion that you gotta give, even if you don't get. If you're not getting, you know how hard it is, right? Give someone else that little boost!

Search engine optimisation

Okay. I am not going to talk about this one very much at all because . . . Well, because I don't know very much about how to make use of it, to be honest!

However, I am aware of it, and I am trying to learn more about it and how to make use of it. This because a better understanding of SEO can improve readership numbers, and at a certain point a desire to see your blog grow will kick in. So, search engine optimisation is something to be aware of and, if you're not sure of how to make use of it, research.

Again, the community on Twitter has been a great source of support in my pursuit of trying to better understand SEO. If you are just starting out as a book blogger, just search "#bookblogger" on Twitter, and immerse yourself into the wonderful world of the book blogging Twitterverse!

This piece can be taken as a bit of a "how to" guide to bookish blogging, but really all I can tell you is how I went about putting my blog together. However, maybe you hate the look of my blog (how could you!?), and you want to do something totally different. And, of course you do! You're you, and I'm me, and you should make the blog that you would want to read. Whatever you do, I hope you found this post useful, or at least enjoyable.

If you did like this post, or any others, perhaps you would consider following/supporting me on ko-fi. Ko-fi is a platform for creatives, and it's a great way to stay in touch with followers and supporters. Any and all donations/support are received gratefully and are very much appreciated!

Stay safe, and see you soon.

Good Films Based on Books

 

Disclaimer: If you make a purchase through links in this blog, I may earn a commission from the seller, however, that does not impact the cost to the consumer, nor does it influence the content of this blog.

This is a relatively simple post to follow. It's simply a brief list of films, ones that I think are worth a watch, that are based on books or short stories. Simples.

Okay, here we go . . .

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty

Starring, and directed by, Ben Stiller, this film takes James Thurber's dreamer character and gives us a film about how good and beautiful life can be. How hopes don't just have to be something we carry around in our heads to get us through dull days.

Rotten Tomatoes gives the film a pretty average rating of 51%, and in parts it can feel a tad slow. But, if you're a bit of a dreamer like me, I think you will like following Walter on his adventures as he goes from a world of fantasy to embracing life real. There are some really beautiful moments in this film. But then, I think I might be a bit of a Walter Mitty myself.

You can purchase The Secret Life of Walter Mitty by James Thurber here from bookshop.org, who support independent bookshops.

No Country For Old Men

When this Academy award winning film came out in 2007, Javier Bardem's character, Anton Chigurh, became one of film's most chilling characters. A killer who kills without a second thought, and definitely without any feeling for his victims. And, when Llewelyn Moss stumbles across a drug deal gone wrong, and a whole lot of money, he finds Chigurh, amongst others, after him.

The Coen Brothers' film stayed pretty damn faithful to the book, so if you liked the book, I imagine you will like the film, and vice versa. I liked the film a lot, and I will be writing about the book in a future post here, on this blog.

You can purchase No Country For Old Men by Cormac McCarthy here from bookshop.org.

The Silence of the Lambs

And, speaking of chilling characters, they don't get much more chilling than Anthony Hopkins' Hannibal Lecter. In fact, Hannibal the Cannibal is one of those characters that has developed cultural reach beyond the books/films where we first met him. And, though Mads Mikkelsen gave him a run for his money, Hopkins' turn, in my opinion, is still the best portrayal of this charming monster.

Again, as with the previous entry, the film is pretty darn faithful to the book. Though, you will find bits in the book that are missing from the film, a little more texture to the characters. But, again, with this one, if you liked either the film or the book, I think you will probably like the other.

You can purchase the book behind the Oscar winning film here from bookshop.org.

The Shawshank Redemption

This film, which went pretty much unnoticed upon cinematic release back in 1994, is a hard watch in places but is ultimately beautiful. It's based on Stephen King's novella, Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption, and is, in my opinion, a must see. 

Andy Dufresne (played by Tim Robbins in the film) is a mild mannered banker who is found guilty of murdering his wife and her lover, a golf pro that she was having an affair with, and is sentenced to life imprisonment. He is taken to Shawshank Prison where, at first, he doesn't make any friends, and corruption is rife. Eventually, Andy's talents as a banker come to the attention of the warden . . .

You can purchase Different Seasons, a collection of stories by Stephen King in which Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption appears, here from bookshop.org.

Well, that's my brief list of films based on books or short stories. I think they're pretty good. What do you think? Seen them? Want to?

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Thank you.

How our beloved authors get paid

 

A recent piece in The Telegraph (16/05/2021) tells us that Trainspotting by Irvine Welsh is the most stolen book from UK bookshops, and apparently Welsh is fine with that because he still gets paid!

Our authors are earning less they did just nine or ten years ago. Far less. From writing alone, a writer would be living far below the minimum income standard, they'd probably take home just over £800 a month, which is why the vast majority of writers are never solely writers. 

So, after reading what Irvine Welsh had to say about how he feels about his books being stolen, and how he still gets paid anyway, I thought I would take a brief look at how our beloved authors get paid.

When books get stolen

We'll start here since it is what inspired this piece.

Well, according to Irvine Welsh, when his books are stolen he will still get paid royalties. So, he thinks it is brilliant!

We are told that when a book is stolen from a shop, the shop has to cover the cost of the loss to the publisher. The publisher will sell the books to retailers and distributors at a discount, often on a sale or return basis, and if the retail outlets have any losses they have to cover that with the publisher. From this, the author will earn a percentage. Which will be determined by their contract.

Sales

This is probably the most obvious one.

An author writes a book, a writer gets that book published, the author gets paid. Simples. Right?

Uh . . .

Well, firstly, it depends on how they have published their work; is it through a traditional publisher, or have they self published? If they have a publisher, then what they earn from sales will be determined by the contract they have been able to negotiate with that publisher. If they have self-published, what they earn will be determined by the terms set out by the retailer and distributors through whom they sell their work.

When you self publish it is a tad more straightforward than when you sell through a publisher. And, if you want to learn more about how authors get paid from their sales (it's a little more complicated than a brief overview like this allows space for, I'm afraid), you might want to a look at this page here from The Society of Authors - it goes into a little more detail about percentages and different ways in which authors can get paid from sales.

As consumers, the main take away from this might be that the more we pay for our books, from retailers and distributors, the more the author receives in turn. And, when authors really are earning dismal amounts for their work in most cases, that really is something to bear in mind.

Talks

There are, of course, literary festivals. But, there are also schools, where authors of children's books might go to read, speak, and give the children some fun activities to do which relate to the author's books.

There are universities, perhaps where the academic writer might speak, or give a lecture, to the students.

Authors who specialise in certain areas, on certain topics, might be able to find venues appropriate to that field. For example, if you have written extensively on the business world, there might very well be companies in need of your experience and insight.

And, not only can you get paid for these speaking gigs, they are an opportunity to sell your book!

Though, as someone who enjoys talking to an audience about as much as swimming in raw sewage, I can understand that this one is not for everyone. However, there are writers who earn more from speaking engagements than from sales!

Library lending

The Public Lending Right Act 1979 gave British authors a legal right to receive remuneration for the free loan of their books by public libraries. This is a right that British authors campaigned for for thirty years!

You can follow the PLR here, on Twitter to find out more and stay informed.

You can also learn more from The Society of Authors here, along with how they are continuing to lobby for PLR.

I am unsure whether or not there are similar schemes in other countries, but the brief research that I did for this article suggests that it is not something one might find in the US. Though, as I say, my research was brief and I may be wrong.

If you are in the UK, or another country with a similar scheme, this seems to be just one more reason to make use of those fantastic places we call libraries.

There may be other ways in which authors can make money. I haven't considered them all here. For example, I do believe there is another scheme, at least here in the UK, that authors can sign up to after they have had work published. This pays them a little something for their work possibly being used as a resource for learning and research. Though, if I am right about there being such a scheme, the name of it escapes me for now. Do pop the name of this scheme in the comments, if you know what it is!

As consumers, as readers of books, it is worth us considering these methods by which authors are paid because we, essentially, are their supporters. They, the vast majority of the time, are not earning very much for what they do. Especially, if you are like me, you consider the joy, hope, and insight that they have given us.

I do hope that you found this piece interesting or, at least, enjoyable. If you did, perhaps you'd consider following/supporting me on ko-fi, a platform for creative types.

Thank you for reading, and see you soon!