Indie authors learn how to create online bookstore, Sept. 10

What does it mean to be an independent author? And how can independent authors set up their own online bookstores? Those questions will be addressed at the next meeting of the National Press Club's informal independent authors group on Thursday, September 10, at 9:30 a.m.

Special guest speaker is Darcy Pattison, an author of  numerous books, who she operates her publishing company, Mims House, and blogs on topics of interest to indie authors.

Pattison writes award-winning fiction and non-fiction books for children. Her works have received starred PW, Kirkus, and BCCB reviews. Awards include the Irma Black Honor award, five NSTA Outstanding Science Trade Books, Eureka! Nonfiction Honor book, two Junior Library Guild selections, and two NCTE Notable Children’s Book in Language Arts. She’s the 2007 recipient of the Arkansas Governor’s Arts Award for Individual Artist for her work in children’s literature.

The September 10 meeting, one informal member benefit maintained during the club's reduction in services during the health crisis, will be held via videoconference. Remote monthly meetings will continue throughout 2020 unless health and safety conditions take a significant turn for the better.

The group is open to new attendees. Club members may request an invitation by contacting Ed Barks, [email protected]. In order to be considered, you must indicate your experience with or interest in independent authorship (sometimes called self-publishing) when making your request, and you must be a club member in good standing.

Independent authors manage their own publishing businesses rather than relying on agents and traditional publishing houses, gaining added control of their content and speed to market.