Lately, I’ve received quite a bit of “back channel” communication—mostly emails to addresses I’ve not advertised for the purpose. Certainly most of it is spam; everyone gets it; but some of what I’m getting is different, much more pointed and detailed. These requests also seem to be all over the map, so I’ve decided to tackle them here all at once.
For months now I’ve been inundated with all sorts of various requests to pay for AI book trailers, pay for reviews, pay Listopia gangsters, “collaborate” with book clubs, and that’s not all. Some assure me I need to somehow to re-jigger my Amazon listings; others remind me of the importance of audiobook conversions. There have even been multiple people offering to take my books to executives, studio executives that produce for television and the movies.
Here’s the thing: I’m not going to pay you to make me a book trailer, nor do I need or want an expensive new website. My listings on Amazon are what they are, and if you have a Listopia on Goodreads, great, go ahead and add my books! Just stop trying to shake me down.
In short, I’m not buying. I’m the one that’s selling—three books and counting, all over the world. So STOP already. This is the sign; don’t make me tap it. It’s very rude to fill up a box with fliers, email or otherwise.
As for “collaborating” with book clubs, I don’t know what this means. These emails have been vague, leaving me to guess. Does it mean recommendations? Creating reading guides? Whatever the case, the lack of details makes me incredibly skeptical. If your club is considering one of my books, but you’re not quite sure if it’s right, contact your local library and check me out first. I still have a few promotional copies for libraries on a budget. And nothing beats Hoopla and Overdrive if you’re armed with e-readers.
Regarding audiobooks, I have an ACX (audible creators) account, but I haven’t yet done anything with it. This is where authors post their books, soliciting vocal talent collaboration. It’s going to happen at some point, but I’d like to finish my fourth book first. However, I am open to making an exception here should the right opportunity come along (i.e. If you absolutely love one of my books and are an experienced audiobook reader, by all means let me know; I might just drop everything to work with you first!).
Lastly, on the topic of studio submissions (book to screenplay conversion): Since you’ve asked, I alone control ALL RIGHTS to each and every one of my books. There’s not a one of ‘em I consider in any way un-filmable. So, if you want to discuss the rights to film, I am ALL EARS. What I’m not going to do, however, is entertain generic solicitations. Don’t say you can put me in front of a producer when you have no official links, and the name you provide doesn’t even match the one in your email.
If you’re curious, here’s my thinking on this topic broken down by book:
A Witch’s Burden would be the trickiest one to capture in its complexity. My thinking would be live action with a really brilliant director.
A Southern Fried Fantasy Adventure Story could really go either way. What’s anime in my mind could easily be done live with today’s technology.
I’ve already mentioned HERE what inspired me to write Meet Maybeth. Boom! Just literally make another American Girl period picture, and Bob’s your uncle, Fanny’s your aunt, you’ve got yourself another star maker! Surely there’s another little AnnaSophia Robb out there somewhere just itchin’ to carry a movie and wear period dress. You could even put a little wig on her, whatever it takes. My novella is practically a screenplay already. This one is just too easy.
In summary, if your solicitation on any of these topics is genuine and sincere, contact me only through my official contact form HERE. And BE SPECIFIC. Who are you? Who are you with? What is your website? Do you have references (authors you have previously collaborated with)?
With spam being what it is and AI getting better (creepier?) every day, perhaps none of these scores of emails I’m getting are serious attempts at collaboration but instead just data mining. However, if even one or two of what I receive is real, I don’t want to miss out on making a real connection. I’m being absolutely real with you, so please be real with me.
None of this, of course, has anything to do with fans. You guys are welcome—always welcome—to contact me as much as you like!