Tag Archives: Richter Publishing

July 18, 2025 · 5:33 pm

66 Days of Summer Left — Your Book Reading List

Can you believe it? We’re smack in the middle of summer, and there are still 66 glorious days left to soak up the sun, chase sunsets, sip something icy—and yes, finally read those books you’ve been meaning to get to!

Maybe you started the season with a big stack and ambitious plans… and then life got busy. Or maybe you’ve been meaning to pick up just one book but haven’t found the time or the right story yet. Either way, this is your friendly reminder that summer is far from over—and it’s the perfect time to turn a few pages (or a few hundred).

Why Summer is the Best Time to Read:

  • Longer days = more natural reading light
  • Slower pace = perfect for lazy afternoons on the porch or beach
  • Fewer obligations = more time to escape into fictional worlds or inspiring memoirs
  • That summer feeling = books somehow just feel better with sunshine

Need a Little Inspiration?

Here are a few ways to reignite your reading flame:

📚 Make a 66-Day Reading Challenge: Pick 3-5 books and aim to finish them before summer ends.

📚 Join a Book Club (or start one!): Whether in person or online, discussing books can keep you motivated and make it more fun.

📚 Pair Books with Places: Take that mystery to the pool. Bring your romance novel to the park. Tuck a sci-fi thriller in your carry-on. Let your environment elevate the experience.

📚 Revisit a Childhood Favorite: There’s nothing more nostalgic than summer reading—and sometimes the books we loved as kids still hold magic for us as adults.

Don’t Know Where to Start?

Whether you love swoony summer romances, twisty thrillers, self-help motivation, or deep historical fiction, here are some great new books waiting to be read!

Rainforest to Rainbow: Will a Parrot Unlock the Secret?

Rainforest to Rainbow: Will a Parrot Unlock the Secret? by Barry & Darlene Greenawald. How far would you go to save the one you love? In “Rainforest to Rainbow: Will a Parrot Unlock the Secret?” embark on a gripping journey with Deirdre, a fiercely devoted aunt shattered by the imminent loss of her beloved eight-year-old niece. After exhausting every medical avenue, Deirdre stumbles upon an ancient legend that whispers of a miraculous gift of healing hidden deep within the Amazon rainforest. Could this myth hold the key to saving her niece’s life? Driven by love and desperation, Deirdre sets off on a daring adventure, guided by the enigmatic lineage of an Amazon parrot rumored to possess the insights needed to unlock the ancient secret. As she navigates the dangers of the rainforest, Deirdre confronts not only the beauty of nature but also the greed of a relentless faith healer determined to eliminate any competition, forcing her into life-and-death decisions.

The Sun Still Rises: My Secrets for Survival by Gail Gray Dove. Discover Gail’s inspiring journey, a remarkable woman whose life story transcends mere survival. From her humble beginnings in the picturesque landscapes of Maine to the vibrant shores of Florida, Gail’s narrative is one of unwavering strength and resilience against life’s toughest challenges. Throughout her life, Gail faced a myriad of health obstacles that threatened to define her. Rather than succumb to despair, she harnessed her faith and determination, transforming her pain into profound power. Through heartfelt storytelling, she shares the invaluable lessons she learned along the way—lessons that serve as a beacon of hope for those facing their own struggles.

The Man From Rock Bottom by Stephen Eric Johnson now available in audiobook! Humanity has pushed itself to the brink of extinction. After a deadly series of internal wars, most of Earth is now an uninhabitable, monster-infested wasteland. All hope seemed lost until an alien society, the Pan-Galactic Republic, came to the rescue, building Sunflower City as a safe haven. This is humanity’s last chance for survival. However, not everyone accepts this new inter-species relationship, and a dangerous movement is rising up to compromise humanity’s survival yet again. In the midst of this terrifying conflict, an unexpected individual ends up as the only hope for stopping the carnage to come: the Man from Rock Bottom. But will this accidental hero be enough to save Earth itself from planet-wide murder-suicide?

Striking Eight Bells: A Vietnam Memoir by George Trowbridge. Now available in audiobook! In Striking Eight Bells, George Trowbridge recounts his journey from the Midwest to a warship in the Gulf of Tonkin during the closing months of the Vietnam War. Choosing to enlist in the Navy at 19, versus being drafted into the military, Trowbridge left a wife and newborn son in the States as he traversed the oceans of the globe to fight in America’s most unpopular war. George shares the details of the living conditions on board a naval destroyer during this era, what it was like going through training, the grind for his ship’s crew in supporting ground forces with naval gunfire, as well as the strike attacks his ship made on enemy coastal defenses, and finally coming home at the end of the war. This emotional story is not only historically focused, but it also is informative about life in the military, all filtered through the personal lens of a firsthand perspective.

So as the days slowly count down, remember this: there’s still time. Time to read something that makes you laugh, think, cry, or dream. Time to finish that novel you put down in May. Time to start something brand new.

66 days. Endless possibilities. Let’s get reading.

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July 10, 2025 · 3:16 pm

Rainforest to Rainbow: Will a Parrot Unlock the Secret?

Rainforest to Rainbow: Will a Parrot Unlock the Secret?

How far would you go to save the one you love? In “Rainforest to Rainbow: Will a Parrot Unlock the Secret?” embark on a gripping journey with Deirdre, a fiercely devoted aunt shattered by the imminent loss of her beloved eight-year-old niece. After exhausting every medical avenue, Deirdre stumbles upon an ancient legend that whispers of a miraculous gift of healing hidden deep within the Amazon rainforest. Could this myth hold the key to saving her niece’s life? Driven by love and desperation, Deirdre sets off on a daring adventure, guided by the enigmatic lineage of an Amazon parrot rumored to possess the insights needed to unlock the ancient secret. As she navigates the dangers of the rainforest, Deirdre confronts not only the beauty of nature but also the greed of a relentless faith healer determined to eliminate any competition, forcing her into life-and-death decisions.

“Rainforest to Rainbow” masterfully intertwines two powerful narratives—one a thrilling adventure that plunges into the heart of the jungle, and another that explores the deep, emotional bonds between humans and animals, highlighting themes of hope, sacrifice, and resilience. As Deirdre races against time, she faces profound moral dilemmas and emotional journeys, ultimately questioning what she is willing to sacrifice in her quest to save her niece. Will she unlock the secrets of the past and fulfill her promise, or will the rainforest’s guardians guard its ancient knowledge against her? Prepare for a captivating tale filled with heart, courage, and the unyielding power of love. “Rainforest to Rainbow” challenges readers to reflect on the lengths they would go to for those they cherish, making it a timeless story of hope against all odds. Join Deirdre on her quest; you won’t just witness a journey, you’ll experience a life-changing adventure that resonates with the human spirit.

Get our newest publication on Amazon! Available in paperback and ebook by Barry and Darlene Greenawald.

Rainforest to Rainbow: Will a Parrot Unlock the Secret?

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July 4, 2025 · 8:00 am

The Fourth of July: A Celebration of Freedom, and a Call to Writers

Every year, on the Fourth of July, the skies over America light up with fireworks, the streets buzz with parades, and communities gather to celebrate the birth of the United States. But beyond the barbecues and sparkling displays, July 4th marks a pivotal moment in history—a moment when the written word sparked a revolution.

A Brief History of Independence Day

The Fourth of July commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. On that day, the thirteen American colonies formally declared their separation from British rule. It wasn’t a quiet decision—it was bold, dangerous, and transformative.

The Declaration itself, penned primarily by Thomas Jefferson, is one of the most powerful documents in history. With words like “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal,” it didn’t just announce independence—it gave a voice to a new vision of freedom and self-governance.

The power of that document is a reminder of something every writer knows: words can change the world.

The Writer’s Role in Shaping Freedom

The Fourth of July isn’t just a celebration of political freedom—it’s a celebration of expression. At its core, the American Revolution was fueled by writers: pamphleteers, essayists, poets, and journalists who dared to put their beliefs on paper. Writers like Thomas Paine, whose Common Sense ignited public support for independence, proved that the pen could indeed be mightier than the sword.

For modern authors, the holiday is a perfect time to reflect on the responsibility and privilege that comes with the written word. Freedom of speech, freedom of the press, freedom to tell the stories that matter—these are liberties that were hard-won.

Writing Your Own Declaration

As writers, we have our own declarations to make. Whether you’re writing fiction, memoir, poetry, or nonfiction, your words are part of a larger tapestry of freedom. You have the ability to challenge, to inspire, to uplift, and to spark change.

So this Fourth of July, as you watch the fireworks, consider this:
What do you need to declare?
What story is burning inside you, waiting for your voice to set it free?

Just as Jefferson and his contemporaries wrote for their time, you can write for yours.

Final Thoughts

The Fourth of July is not only a day to remember the past but also to embrace the freedom we have to create, to question, and to imagine. For authors, this holiday is a celebration of the power of the written word—a reminder that stories, ideas, and bold declarations still have the potential to shape history.

So light your creative fire, pick up your pen, and let your words ring out—because freedom, after all, is a story still being written.

Happy 4th of July

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June 15, 2025 · 7:00 am

📖 This Father’s Day, Give the Gift of Legacy

Our stories matter. The moments, lessons, and laughter you’ve shared with your family are pieces of history that deserve to be remembered — not just now, but for generations to come.

Whether it’s how your family came to this country, the values your father instilled in you, or the trials you overcame together — writing and publishing your family history ensures those stories live on, long after you’re gone.

🖋️ Don’t wait for someone else to tell your story. Write the book. Publish it. Share it with your children, your grandchildren, and the world.

Because family isn’t just made of people — it’s made of stories.

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June 14, 2025 · 1:05 pm

🇺🇸 Celebrating Flag Day: Honoring the Stars and Stripes | June 14th 🇺🇸

happy flag day

Every year on June 14th, Americans across the country pause to celebrate Flag Day—a tribute to one of our nation’s most enduring symbols: the United States flag.

📜 The History Behind Flag Day

Flag Day commemorates the adoption of the Stars and Stripes as the official flag of the United States on June 14, 1777, by the Second Continental Congress. The resolution stated:

“Resolved, That the flag of the thirteen United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.”

Though it’s not a federal holiday, Flag Day holds deep patriotic significance. It was officially established by President Woodrow Wilson in 1916, and later President Harry Truman signed it into law in 1949 as a national observance.

🎨 What the Flag Represents

The U.S. flag is more than just cloth and color. It stands for freedom, resilience, and unity. Each element of the flag carries meaning:

  • Red: Valor and bravery
  • White: Purity and innocence
  • Blue: Vigilance, perseverance, and justice
  • Stars and Stripes: The 50 states and the original 13 colonies

🇺🇸 How Americans Celebrate

Flag Day is a chance to reflect on our shared values and national heritage. Here are a few ways people honor the flag:

  • Flying the American flag at homes, businesses, and public buildings
  • Community parades and patriotic ceremonies
  • Educational events in schools about the flag’s history and symbolism
  • Volunteering or supporting veterans’ groups and civic causes

In some places like Quincy, Massachusetts, and Waubeka, Wisconsin (the hometown of the “Father of Flag Day,” Bernard J. Cigrand), celebrations include festivals, speeches, and pageantry.

🌟 A Day to Reflect

Flag Day reminds us of the sacrifices made to protect the freedoms we enjoy and the unity that binds us as a nation. Whether it’s by displaying the flag, teaching children its history, or simply taking a quiet moment to reflect, June 14th is a day for all Americans to come together in gratitude and pride.

Happy Flag Day!
Long may she wave. 🇺🇸

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April 22, 2025 · 12:58 pm

Earth Day – Celebrating with Books

Earth Day is an event that originated from the need to spread awareness about environmental damage and create change to address it, and if possible, reverse some of it. Earth Day is the largest secular civic-engagement event in the world, usually celebrated by about one billion people worldwide. Within a decade after Earth Day was created in 1970, many influential environmentally protective initiatives and legislations had been established, including the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency, along with the Endangered Species Act, the Clean Air Act, and the Clean Water Act, among others. The use of lead in gasoline and the pesticide DDT had both also been banned. Over the following decades, organizations have continued to strive to create change to address the ever-evolving problems caused by modern practices that are harmful to the environment, even as new knowledge and problems spring up. The perseverance and resilience of scientists, researchers, and activists, along with support from the global community of eco-minded individuals connected through media, helps to create modest hope for change and improvements in some of these environmental issues.

One of the principal purposes of Earth Day is to spread awareness and provide mass education about climate issues that need attention. The task of spreading awareness for this crisis involves many factors, activism through demonstrations, speaking engagements, media coverage, and petitions, along with providing education in schools, videos, online platforms, and through other forms of delivery. Education is the first essential step in this process, and is one of the most important motivators for inspiring change.

Books about climate issues, both nonfiction and fiction, are a priceless resource of information. Fiction especially helps us understand the world through the empathic lens of a character, and this both deepens our knowledge and initiates calls to action. The most successful of climate-related fiction books often educate and entertain simultaneously, spreading awareness and igniting the desire to support the earth without the reader realizing that this was one of the author’s goals.

With that in mind, we’d like to highlight one of our dedicated authors, Sim Johnson, whose book Seasons of Change centers on an ordinary but brave heroine surviving an environmentally devastated earth, who sets out on a mission to save the world from an apocalyptic freeze:

Seasons of Change, by Sim Johnson, edited by Maurice Billington

If you are looking for even more to read this Earth Day, here are a few books centering around our climate and actions to take to support our world and make it a healthier place to live:

We are Better Together, by Bill McKibben

Can I recycle this? A guide to better recycling and how to reduce single-use plastics, by Jennie Romer

Rising – Dispatches from the New American Shore, by Elizabeth Rush

Our House Is on Fire – Greta Thunberg’s Call to Save the Planet, by Jeanette Winter

The Uninhabitable Earth – Life After Warming, by David Wallace-Wells

Salvage the Bones, by Jesmyn Ward

A Terrible Thing to Waste, by Harriet A. Washington

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April 20, 2025 · 2:39 am

Living Wisdom – Principles for a Life Well Lived. A faithful Easter read!

Easter is an international holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the cross. It is a day for those who believe in the significance of this Christian event to honor this sacrifice and contemplate the beauty and meaning of new beginnings. It is a day to reflect on the contributions and efforts of those that came before us, focusing on gratitude for all that we have been given as the radiance of spring unfolds.

In honor of this holiday, we would like to highlight the work of one of our authors, Living Wisdom – Principles of a Life Well Lived, by Reverend Chad Fernald. His book explores the concept of Living Wisdom, which he defines as that which is contained in the books Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Solomon. These books offer a framework for interacting with the world and for conducting life in accordance with the principles of wisdom literature.

Living Wisdom recognizes the source of all wisdom as YAHWEH, the One True God. Each chapter considers different arenas related to implementing these principles in all areas of life, from ourselves, to our homes, to our communities, and discusses the spiritual elements and methods of applying proverbs to modern life as it is today.

The book urges followers of Christ to maintain self-reflection as they enforce the principles of Living Wisdom in their lives, pushing readers to deeply ponder and fully confront life’s challenges. Readers are encouraged to intentionally contemplate proverbs to address seemingly contradictory or confusing statements found in wisdom, rather than simply accepting the whole as messy. Living Wisdom believes that this is part of the true work of Christians, to find a way to actively apply these principles written thousands of years ago to today’s world. Reverend Fernald posits that these principles may be even more relevant and necessary today than they were back when they were written.

Reverend Fernald also analyzes factors, both internal and external, that keep us from walking straight on the path of God. Internally, our emotions and flaws, such traits as pride, hypocrisy, and self-inflicted suffering, can cloud our judgement. Outwardly, we face stress and daily temptations, resulting in behaviors that fly outside the principles of a life devoted to Christ. Reverend Fernald addresses these daily challenges and points to the Word of God to lead the way in illuminating and choosing right actions to help guide you toward living the wisdom ideal of good character.

Another arena Reverend Fernald urges readers to concentrate on Living Wisdom is the home. The home is where the sacred bond of marriage can face challenges of conflict, and Living Wisdom urges cooperation, providing the tools needed to work together as partners. Additionally, the both exhausting and rewarding nature of parenting involves the dilemmas of discipline in today’s critical world, and the importance of modeling trust in God as an influential factor in guiding children to stay faithful to God throughout their lives.

In the community, wisdom highlights the importance of leadership that practices benevolent and faithful character, encouraging leaders to employ fairness, embody righteousness, and guide the growth of followers. Living Wisdom urges Christians to follow God’s principles in the workplace as an employer or employee, embodying devotion, integrity, and benevolence in our commitments and how we treat others. This contributes to bringing God’s light into the community.

Living Wisdom proposes five truths that serve as a guide for practicing wisdom and faithfully growing before God. Reverend Fernald discusses each of these steps: Learn and Remember Truth, Internalize and Practice Truth, Speak What Suits the Truth, See What Honors Truth, and Measure Your Life According to the Truth. As Christians practice these truths in earnest and seek wisdom, they will naturally experience individual growth, leading them to display humility, remain guarded against sin, seek justice, and exhibit devotion, characteristics of a life lived in accordance with principles of Living Wisdom.

Reverend Fernald lives in the Tampa Bay area. He began his ministry in 1999, and is a founding minister/lead elder of Community Faith Network, a house church ministry. He is an ordained minister of the Advent Christian Association. He received his bachelor’s degree in history from Gordon College in 1995, and a Masters of Divinity from Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary in 2001.

If you’d like to read Living Wisdom – Principles of a Life Well Lived, you can buy it here.

Happy Easter from Richter Publishing!

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April 16, 2025 · 2:40 am

Tips for Building Your Author Website

Your book has been written. It’s being published or it’s already been published. Now, you’re looking into marketing to promote yourself and your book. There are many benefits to maintaining a personal website, including promotion, sales, reader engagement, and the power of working outside of the algorithms of social media. Despite these benefits, it can seem like a daunting task to build a website independently, especially if you are not confident in your tech-savvy skills. Sometimes the hardest step to take is the first one, so here are a few tips to getting started with building your website:

Creating a Domain Name:

The expense of buying a domain for a website is usually very small, about $10 to $50 annually. When choosing the name, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Your domain name be simple, easy to remember, and should relate to you, rather than any of your specific books. For example, if your name or pen name is already taken, then try adding words like “author” or “writer” after your name to narrow the options. Alternatively, you could follow your name with the genre you tend to stick to, as this will function as a keyword to help search engines find you. Try to steer clear of special characters like numbers or hyphens.

Remember, choosing a name that reflects you as an author is important because it will enable you to market yourself and any other books you write in the future under that umbrella. If you’d like to create a separate website for an individual book, then go for it!

Choosing a website platform:

There are many options available to choose from when selecting a platform for your website. Here are a few tips to help narrow down your search and hopefully find an option that suits you:

User-friendliness — your website should be easy for you to use, so if you happen to be on the less than tech-savvy side, search for pre-made templates, as this will help remove some of the confusion.

Affordability — it goes without saying that a website needs to be affordable for you. Inexpensive options are tempting, and you may be just fine with platforms where your control over customization is limited. The pricier options, while expensive, usually come with additional features and may be easier to use.

Flexibility and Longevity — ensure that whatever platform/template you use looks good on different types of devices, as some websites will look different on a laptop, phone, or tablet. Additionally, consider open-source options rather than proprietary ones, as the latter platforms are tied to the success of the companies that provide them. Open-source platforms may be more difficult to learn to use, but will help ensure the longevity of your website.

Just a few of the popular website platforms include:

WordPress — a tech-savvy option. WordPress offers highly customizable designs, as well SEO features. While it may take some effort to learn how to use, it offers broader control of your website.

Squarespace — less tech-savvy than WordPress but still requires some knowledge to utilize, offers built-in SEO and blogging tools. They offer a variety of templates to choose from.

BookBub— an inexpensive ($10/month) platform that requires less technical skill than the two above. If you don’t mind less freedom for customization, this offers a less technical route to build a website. BookBub contains templates designed specifically with authors in mind.

Wix — great for beginners, with easy to understand building tools. Like BookBub, this platform offers designs directed toward authors.

Note: When choosing a website template, keep in mind your brand. The aesthetic of the template you use will reinforce your brand. Which genre do you write in? A horror author’s website will look very different from a business author’s. Choose designs that will create a space that is both professional and will allow you to continue to grow and flourish with time.

Essential aspects of a website:

When you’ve chosen your platform and are ready to build your website, keep in mind these essential features to include:

Homepage — include your name and a blurb about yourself (ex: I am … welcome to my website!), your book covers (or select one or two), and social media links. If you decide to create a newsletter or blog, you can place the option to sign up or view them here, along with select reviews of your work.

About Me page — should contain your professional bio. You can also include other information about yourself to help readers get to know you better, like your hobbies and interests.

Contact Information page — add information on how you’d like to be contacted for promotional opportunities. If applicable, include your agent, publicist, or other professional who can be contacted in order to reach you.

Individual book pages — each of your books should have their own designated page, with an image, a description (long or short), and a link to buy the book. You could also include content, such as the first chapter, to invite readers to sample your work before purchase.

Conclusion:

Choosing to build a website can be time consuming, and it’s easy to feel daunted by it, but it is a valuable investment of your time that can eventually pay off in a boost in sales, promotion, and community engagement. Additionally, a website adds a layer of professionalism to your identity as a writer, a badge of honor for the dedication and perseverance it took to write your books! If you’d like a more in-depth summary of the benefits of building and maintaining your website, check out our Benefits of Having and Website as an Author blog post for more ideas and tips.

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March 31, 2025 · 11:11 am

April Fool’s Day – a Brief History

For those of us who grew up with older siblings, April Fool’s Day is an event that probably left a mark of enduring memories from childhood (although hopefully cheerful ones). April Fool’s Day, the global custom of lighthearted pranks and mischief, is a day to enjoy practical jokes that end with a sense of surprise, amusement, and laughter from everyone involved, including the recipient. The day serves as an excuse for us all to let out a more mischievous side of ourselves in the name of good fun. The tendency toward playful teasing and pranks is a fairly universal aspect of human behavior that exists in every culture, and so it is not surprising that variations of this tradition are celebrated in many countries around the world. But what is the story behind such a unique tradition like April Fool’s Day?

History of April Fool’s Day:

When did April Fool’s Day originate? No one knows for sure, but there are several prevailing theories rooted in traditions scattered through European history that offer plausible origin stories. The ancient Romans held biannual religious festivals in both March and November called Hilaria, which was typically celebrated with parades, masquerades, and games, along with mockery of relatives and friends. The essence of the latter is what is thought to have endured through the centuries and reshaped into the April Fool’s Day we know today.

Another guess suggests that April Fool’s Day could have started with the adoption of the Gregorian calendar in the 16th century, a change that slid back the start of the new year from late March to January 1. Those who did not adopt (or did not hear of) this change in the calendar were mocked as “April fools,” for continuing to celebrate the new year in March.

Customs Around the World:

However the day of hoaxes originated, it is celebrated differently throughout the world.

In France, April Fool’s Day is called Poisson d’Avril, meaning “April fish,” a name that harkens back to a common prank of taping a paper fish to an unknowing person’s back. This is thought to have stemmed from fishermen, who were thought to have hung live fish from each other’s loose clothing, which often went unnoticed by the recipient until the fish started to smell. In its paper form, this is a prank that still exists currently, and is thought of as a symbol of gullibility. Italy shares this tradition with France, and calls the holiday Pesce d’Aprile.

Brazil celebrates the holiday “Dia das Mentiras,” meaning “Day of Lies,” which originated from a famous prank conducted on April 1, 1828 by the satirical newspaper A Mentira, in which the paper announced the death of Dom Pedro 1, the emperor of Brazil, who was not actually dead at the time.

Famous April Fool’s Day Pranks:

In honor of April Fool’s Day, let’s review a few of the most famous pranks in history:

  • One legendary hoax that is has stood the test of time is the Swiss Spaghetti-Tree prank. In 1957, the BBC aired a hilarious three-minute segment claiming that Swiss farmers had managed to grow and harvest spaghetti trees. This video features footage of families harvesting long spaghetti noodles dangling off tree branches and laying them out to dry. This prank earned calls from interested listeners who were eager to learn how to plant their own spaghetti trees.

  • In 1998, physicist Mark Boslough wrote an article in a journal called New Mexicans for Science and Reason, claiming that the state of Alabama would be changing the measure of PI, a value of 3.14159, to a value of 3.0, the Biblical number. This hoax was popularized on the internet, earning protests from around the world.

  • Finally, in 1996, Taco Bell released newspaper ads in six major newspapers (including The New York Times, The Washington Post, and USA Today) claiming that the company had bought the Liberty Bell, a historical artifact, and intended to rename it as the “Taco Liberty Bell.” The National Park Service was flooded with thousands of calls before the hoax was thankfully revealed later that day. This prank was extremely successful as a marketing campaign, earning the company millions in free publicity.

With these notable pranks in mind, we hope you have a happy and mischievous April Fool’s!

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March 24, 2025 · 12:23 am

Benefits of Having a Website as an Author

If you are an author, you may be considering creating your own website, even if you are just publishing your first book! A website is a place for all your information to come together, a one-stop shop to collect and promote your work, upcoming projects, events, press engagements, and relevant personal achievements. It also allows you to communicate directly with your audience without the hassles of social media algorithms, while adding professionalism to your reputation and solidifying your brand on your own terms. These are just a few reasons to go ahead and dive into creating that website. Let’s look a bit more deeply at some of the benefits of a website and what you can do with it.  

Benefits of having a website:

Marketing and Sales — The first benefit of having a website is the most obvious—promotion. You can promote your books (and other merchandise if applicable) on your website, and provide a list of links to purchase all your books in one place. Websites are also a straightforward and time-saving method for journalists to contact an author for PR purposes, which helps you to network efficiently.

A Home Base — A website provides a central hub where all your information, including your promotional materials, links to your books, contact info, and other specialized content like blogs, email lists, newsletters, and more are tied together by your brand and presented to the world. Customized on your terms, a website is the place interested readers can seek out to learn more about you, an author they enjoy and want to see more of.

Visibility — This refers to the amount of traffic you are getting on your media platforms, and there are many layers related to this topic. As it relates to websites, traffic is impacted by search engines. When your name or your book title is entered into a search engine, what comes up? Is it your information or something else? Maintaining a website helps search engines discover you when your book title and/or name are entered, increasing the probability that your information will surface when searched.

Community Engagement — Interacting with your audience is essential to growing your reader community. Creating an email list, blog posts, newsletters, or other specialized content unique to the website enables a sense of community to arise as readers respond to your content.

Freedom – A website empowers you to present your work to the world on your own terms, with authenticity and control. Conducting book promotion and community interaction on social media platforms means that you must navigate their algorithms, which can often work against you by not efficiently showing all your posted content to your followers. A website ensures that interested followers can easily access all of your content relatively easily, especially those who are subscribed to your newsletters, emails, and/or blog posts.

Now that we’ve talked about a few of the benefits of creating a website, let’s think about a few of the possibilities for what you can fill it with:

What to include in your website:

Personal Stories — Along with the usual contact info and personal biography, etc., you may also decide to share some behind the scenes content. Although it is not essential to share personal life stories, readers are often interested in your unique process, what inspires you, and your writing process. Giving readers a peek into what goes on behind the curtain can help them understand your writing style and who you are, fostering deeper connections within your readership community.

A List of Your Work — Although this is obvious, your website should contain links to purchase your book, or books, along with links to any other materials you’d like to include, such as online publications or reviews, articles, research, collaborations, press, notable achievements, etc.

Engaging Content — As previously mentioned, an excellent way to interact with readers is through email lists, newsletters, and blog posts. Blogs can be filled with things you are interested in—current topics in the literature scene, pieces of news you find interesting, book reviews and recommendations, tropes familiar to your genre, lists of podcasts, books, films, and other things you like. This content can also include exclusive excerpts of your work, such as scenes that were cut from your book, but readers are still hungry to read.

Events and PR — Notifying readers of opportunities to connect with you makes you seem more approachable, helping them to feel more connected to you. Are you having a book signing? Are you engaged as a speaker, whether virtually or in person? Are you hosting an event? Promote it on your website!

Reader Reviews— Including reader reviews on your website helps to build trust and credibility, as many of us refer to the opinions of others before taking a chance on buying a book when we don’t know the author. Reviews also help to give your readers a voice, and when that is coupled with engagement from you, the author, it helps make readers feel like you are listening and accessible.

Conclusion:

It is up to you to decide if the home base offered by a website is for you. Some authors view the idea of creating a website as daunting and potentially time-consuming, especially in the midst of hectic lives filled with work, family, and other competing tasks. However, the time devoted can be worthwhile, materializing in the form of increased sales, community engagement, and publicity. As a writer, finding balance is essential. Hopefully this list will give you some food for thought as you consider building a website.

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