An accomplished speaker, Sandra has given presentations on writing and her book topics at libraries, colleges, writers' conferences, and other groups. Click here for a partial list of venues. Below are brief descriptions of some of her more recent presentations:
Inventing (and Re-Inventing) Yourself as a Writer. No matter how many years you've been at it, writing is a continual process of discovery. Aimed at both novice and experienced writers, this workshop helps explore the many ways you can use your skills and experiences to boost your career. Participants will get a chance to evaluate their present and future aspirations, along with finding new ways to earn income as a freelancer. Versatility and risk-taking ability, along with other traits and requirements to help grow your writing career will be discussed and brainstorming and idea-sharing will help define goals.
The Art of Book Promotion: Today's authors need to be more than good writers, they also must learn how to sell themselves and their ideas, be they fiction or nonfiction. This workshop focuses on: getting your book reviewed by newspapers and magazines, using conventions and other special interest groups as marketing opportunities, contacting and talking to people who will help spread the word about your book, snagging television and radio interviews, promoting your work over the Internet, persuading bookstores to feature your book, utilizing booksignings to their maximum effect, and working with publishers to achieve the greatest exposure. A list of promotion and Internet resources will be provided, along with suggestions as to organizing such efforts to fit into a regular work schedule.
What "They" Don't Tell You About Publishing. Many newcomers to the publishing world feel as if they're on the outside looking in. The truth is that no one knows what the next bestseller will be. This workshop helps demystify the publishing process and, step-by-step, takes participants through the production of a book, from manuscript to copyediting to galleys to bookstore display. Aspects ranging from finding an agent to negotiating a budget for promotion to collecting and computing royalties to decisions on cover art will be discussed as will locating the appropriate publisher. Pros and cons of self-publishing, publishing on demand, and electronic publishing will be discussed as well. This workshop will help authors focus on finding the right publisher and locating an audience for their work.
Flashing Back to the '60s: From Long Hair to No Hair. Click here for a detailed description and options for this program/coffeehouse.
**Denotes more than one occasion
References available upon request