A nice place to read or write… bonne lecture! Today we talk about publishing one's blog posts… in book form! Read on!
bonne lecture (bohn-lek-toor) n.f.
: happy reading!
A Day in a French Life… by Kristin Espinasse
Why on earth would anyone pay for a book that they have read for free, on-line?
Now this is a timely question! Indeed, these days publishers resist blog-to-book projects (they are relying, in part, on the blogger's readers to figure into the targeted audience—and they are betting that such readers, no matter how faithful, will not be interested in buying what they have already read).
The Cyberwriter's Plight Continues…
Certain readers, too, seem to have a bone to pick with bloggers who have the audacity to try to repackage and to resell their work. I often check out the reader comments at Amazon, on blogs that have been made into books (or "blooks"). It is always disheartening to read such a call to arms as: "Don't waste your money! You can read all of these stories for free, on-line!" It sometimes seems as though they (the readers) were against us: the very writers whose stories they enjoy!
Why, I wonder, shouldn't a writer (or blogger if you prefer…) collect their stories and offer them via another, or non-cyber, medium: in paperback form? Are we "bloggers" some sort of second-class "writerzens" because we have first offered our work here for free?
Meantime…
Here are two or three examples of why it isn't, after all, insane, to purchase a book of stories that have already appeared before the eyes of many:
1) It is a reader-writer tradition! The writers of yesteryear saw their works serialized in newspapers or journals… before the stories were collected in book form, to go on to sell as classics! Daudet's Lettres de Mon Moulin comes to mind. Though I would not begin to compare my writing to that of The Masters, I know in my heart there is a place for these classic "stories of French life" to linger, beyond cyberspace…
2) And what about comparing a story to a song?! How many songs are just that, les petites histoires! And yet we listen to the stories over and over. Songwriters would have put down their pencils eons ago, had listeners refused to "revisit" their soulful ballads. Most of us listen to a heartening song dozens of times! And then we end up buying the album.
3) Or take the example of the television series. As I stroll down the aisle at our mega supermarket, I see that French women are clamoring to buy a multi-volume set of Desperate Housewives (this, after they bought the Beverly Hills, 90210 series, when it finally came to France, years ago and Californication, after that). It didn't seem to matter that the viewers had recently seen the episodes… they wanted a copy for their video library!
Though my book "Words in a French Life," a compilation of stories that have appeared on this blog—before being published by Simon & Schuster—received modest sales (to date, it has sold nearly 50,000 copies—not the blockbuster millions-of-copies—but nothing to shake a finger at, either), the publisher was willing to bet that a "Volume Two" would not do so well.
Perhaps. But should this stop me from publishing more books in the series? That is the question. Minus the backing of a big publishing house with a big PR team, I'm going ahead with my dream. And I am betting that a larger audience awaits, in addition to this blog. It may take time to reach these readers, but when I do, I cannot wait to wish them "bonne lecture!" and to thank them for finding me. All this jumping up and down and frantically waving my hands may just get their attention, after all.
And, psst, psst! I'm over here!
***
For those of you who are just now tuning in, today marks Day 8 of a self-imposed "Publish a Book in 21 Days" challenge. Do you think I will make it? With your help I know I will! Here, now, are the next two stories that I'll need your help editing.
LE BETON: My son's mohawk… and career choices…
CROTTE: A Frenchwoman's dirty trick
***
I didn't mean to rant today, just wanted to share some behind-the-scenes issues that pop up in one's writing life: specifically, the frustration in encountering roadblocks to publishing one's stories. The good news is that the publishing world is changing, and there are more and more opportunities for everyone: both readers and writers. And these are exciting times! To leave a comment about this post or this writing project, click here.
The end of another writing day… sometime in 2004
Meantime, my book director (Hi, Mom!) and I are scrambling for an author photo for the back cover. Stay with me now… for I know the proposed picture may be a tad informal (is it the toads on those pajamas pants? or the "toadally cool" quotes, below the bug-eye frogs?) This aside, I hope to sell you on this photo for three reasons: One, it is in theme with the book (in which a desert rat struggles to adapt to a foreign culture—no offence to fellow desert rats… who may or may not wear frog pj's), Two, the writer's eyes are always "looking to" and imagining the next story, and Three, this photo was taken during the period in which the stories in the book were written. My son snapped the image, after he and his sister had won the most recent match of "Tickle to Death a Marathon Writer". They always knew how to keep me grounded, literally, when my sky-high writing goals began to get carried away.
Or do you prefer a more "brushed" image (at least my hair got brushed, in this one). The good thing about a recent photo (this is from June 2011) is that it makes for less embarrassment during book readings (readers actually recognize you!). I once did a meetup in which a reader arrived… only to ask me where I was…. my answer was to offer my hand (here I am!, nice to meet you)! The woman was a little taken aback; she seemed to be looking for someone else… maybe she was, after all… we writers are so oversensitive! During yet another meetup, I had a similar mistaken-identity moment, only in the positive sense: "oh, so you're the word-a-day blogger… I thought you were much older!" Your comments are welcome here, in the comments box.
And then there's the photo from I recently posted, here. Voilà.
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I agree you look great in both but for the book I would go with the second one :). I am sure you will meet your deadline…goodluck! Hope you are well.
As everyone has already written Kristin, you are so lovely and photogenic. I agree that the more recent photo for the back cover, cropped is wisest. The others if $ allows would be wonderful inside the book …along with a few more of the family, friends…
I also bought your book after reading your blog and agree that a real book is a true treasure to keep and savor! To your continued happiness, health and success…so glad you are receiving such wonderful support. Not surprising given the many gifts of wisdom, insight and uplifting of hearts you have given to all of your readers over the years. Bravo and best of luck!
I love the black and white photo with the books in the background, the distant gaze, pajamas and all. This is authentic, natural and full of information. Good luck with your project, The blog is fascinating and the book will be, too.
Betsy
Dear Kristen
Just a quick word to say I was so enjoying your blog, just reading your lovely prose. I’m not a writer, don’t want to read about the mechanics of writing, so I’m not reading your blog at the moment. Will you be coming back to ordinary blogging for us mere mortals?
The B & W is really a good photo, but it’s probably not quite right for the back of the book. The outdoors one is nice, but it doesn’t seem to be of high enough resolution or clear and distinct enough of your face. I vote for something similar but shot intentionally to be used for the book.
Either the B&W on the landscape shot would do, but I’d crop them both way in (eliminating the js).
Hi Kristin
I agree with Edie from Savannah. Love both photos but the colour and landscape in the second one evoke your French landscape and the ambience of your life, which is partly the subject of the book.
Jill
PS Edie, I would love to visit Savannah on day – is it great?? Always sounds so in novels.
(My apologies if my post is not original) There is a long tradition of writers publishing collections of their writings – Some of C S Lewis I believe was a collection of his speeches on the radio, others publish collections of their short stories, so why NOT publish a collection of your articles? No one is obliged to read them, and if they’ve liked them on the blog, they might find the book to be something special to give someone, or something they can recommend to a friend who hasn’t been following the blog.
You Go Girl, and unless the comments are from someone who has written a book and published it themselves, they hardly should be being critical of someone who is actually doing something.
Je vous embrasse
Carolyn
PS – I love the picture of you that you say is June 2011 – the “brushed” image.
I like the last two photos which show that you are in a unique place. The jammy photo is interesting, but you could be anywhere in the world. You may want to catch people’s attention immediately on the bookshelf.
For this supporter (from your earliest FWD’s) of your blossoming talents, the black & white reflects so much of your soul/essence.
Your are comfortable in your “skin” & clothes, the lounge wear revealing your loving humility and willingness to share so much of your real self.
The shining glint in your eyes are searching into your world..
The little lamp emits just enough light to put a glow on your beautiful face, as do your writing enlighten our lives. Keep the books.
After reading all our numerous choices, maybe do like JM did with his wine line — make your own original choice! Much love, Fred (The story behind the photo is super!)
I believe some of Dickens’s novels first appeared as serials.
Still reading your blog and still have your first book.
Kristin,
I have been an avid reader of your blog since back in the day when you wrote 7 entries per week. I bought “Words in a French Life” vol. I, II, and III as well as the beautiful hardbound version issued in 2006 by Simon & Schuster. I purchased “French Word-A-Day: Summer 2009 Stories”. Why? Because the stories you write for “free” are worth revisiting and I’d rather do so in a nice handy book I can peruse any day of the week, untethered to a computer. Plus, the 2009 summer stories included your lovely photos in color.
I will continue to purchase the books you publish, for my own entertainment as well as for gifts. I never take for granted that which you give away free 3 times a week. I’m very grateful that you share with the public your experiences via the written word.
I am cheering you on in your journey to write and publish a book in 21 days. For the author photo, I vote for the picture of you in your frog PJ pants. This image best reflects the woman I “hear” when I read your blog.
Amities,
Catie
We like all of you, Kristin, but I would have to say for the book, I’d choose photo #2. How do you have such beautiful glowing skin in every photo? If it’s French makeup foundation (fond du teint), I want to know where to buy it! Keep up the good work. I have not been able to contribute on the editing, but there are others more talented than I helping you.
I like the one with the hat on in the alley.
But you can’t really see your face and people always want to know what the author looks like.
And about that scar….the world is not perfect, nor are people…..NOT ANYONE. In fact I really dislike that word. I think it would be a pretty boring place if everything were perfect. A scar shows that someone has lived and are stronger for it. Jean-Marc and the kids and dogs and Jules and any of your other friends could care less if there was a visable scar. They all still love you. If something works to lessen it….great….if not c’est la vie.
hugs and starry nights and thoughtful days to you.
Joie
Kristin,
You are too photogenic to be concerned about which photo to use. Just pick one… babe.
2- Baby boomers will ALWAYS prefer a real book over a cyber-book, kindle gadget, or on-line free-bee… FYI I just ordered 5 books about an artist I am studying, and I will ALWAYS write in the columns, highlight large sections, fold corners, and otherwise interact with a REAL book – feel it, smell it, touch it and mark it up. And I believe there will be old-fashioned book lovers for some time to come. Or at least one!
Mes amites….
I would go with the 2011 photo.
Seems I posted earlier and don’t see it? Please excuse if this is a duplicate!
I HEART books! They are like old friends to me (especially dear are those written by longtime friends)! If we can’t vote on the felt hat photo, I’m leaning towards the color photo.
Way to go Jules aka The DIRECTOR! When are you available to hire as my assistant? Love that you were greeted by FWAD fans when you stepped outside your door for some fresh air.
The first picture is cute, but not good for your purpose- main reason, because you are not looking at the camera. The second picture is nice but could use a little Photoshop adjusting. I’m a professional photographer/artist – send me the photo and I’ll fix it up – no charge.
Hi Kristin,
The photo of you with autumn leaves in the background is pretty but the one of you with the books in the background – the writers’ muses perhaps – seems more appropriate to the theme.
I’d also love to see more of your lovely photos in the new publication. I struggle to capture the feel and character of a place like you do.
Regards,
Lorena
go with the color shot….more professional and more you.
Blogs to a book..why not? Very rational and interesting arguments in favor..and yes, those other cases are quite convincing. I say, write the book and if you wish, you may find that you do some other pages inspired by the ones already written. Go for that which you feel is right for you. And good luck!
Hugs,
Cerelle
I agree with your mom!
Black & White photo. Very artsy, fun, writerly, timeful. I love it.
Hi Kristin,
I like both photos – you are very photogenic! If you prefer the one with you in pjs and are worried about the frog pants, you could always crop the photo a bit and cut out the frog pants :-). Good luck on your 21-day book writing adventure!
Go with the grapevines!
Kristi – you are a beautiful person and the photos are just window dressing. However, from a photocomposition standpoint, the black and white pic alludes to a life of the mind, with the contrapuntal components of your hotness in the near portion, and the weighty component of your recent intellectual pursuits in the portion to the right (a little further back to suggest an intellectual base from which you are evolving). The B&W is more intimate; the color photo in outdoor light really does compositionally not draw the new reader into much of anything; an open field with your photo rather marginalized.
Sorry I don’t recall the fedora pic, but you can’t beat the B&W for composition, intrigue, intimacy, depth. You and your writing are both beautiful. -Ed
Hi Ed,
I just read your comment – love every word you expressed regarding Kristi in the “black & white” photo.
COMPOSITION
INTRIGUE
INTIMACY
DEPTH
All of your words convey the meaning of this journey we are on with Kristi at this time of her life.
I don’t recall meeting you here in the comments box. I must say I am so happy you are on-board for this journey.
XOXO
JULES
Hi Cerelle,
Love your advice above to Kristi. I think if she is not already overwhelmed and over-stressed that your advice settles the worry I have about filling a healthy number of pages for this book.
XOXO
JULES
Darling Fred,
Believe it or not you just helped me outline some points on a project I am working on for this book. You have always been such a wonderful friend – thanks for your words posted above.
XOXO
JULES ( THE DIRECTOR )
A NEW photo with the landscape background is called for. Get your face with light on it, and avoid blowing out the background. You are a very good photographer, and you should be able to instruct anyone (including your son) as to how to get the correct lighting.
Late to the party again, but I also wonder if there is a way to use both. The colored picture says “France”; the B&W one says “writer.” As for book to blog issue — if the pieces chosen stand alone and don’t need more background than a brief intro at the beginning of the book about how you came to this life in the first place then I don’t think it’s odd. After all, I’m always reading collections of essays and stories I can find elsewhere online or in the library or the like. With your previous books I bought copies for people who would love your stories and photos but who don’t tie themselves to the computer every moment like some of us. They would love them, but would never find or follow them online. And I do pull your books out still when I need a brief vacation. I’ve got thousands of pictures of France, but that doesn’t stop me from buying books with pictures of France. It’s not an either-or for me. And it really would make a great gift to give again this year.
Oh, go with the more recent photo. It makes me crazy when people choose an older photo for the very reasons you listed. Who is that person? S/he sure doesn’t look like that today! Besides, the second photo is charming.
Dear Kristin,
I am absolutely fascinated by your goal and determination to reach it. You will!!
I want this 21-day publishing marathon to be translated into a book too. As a journalist and would-be writer who tends to get defeated too eaily, I NEED it as inspiration.
I am afraid I have been slacking as an ‘editor’ – my son is home – taller than I remember and with long hair like a hippie, after a marathon drive through your part of America – travelling from Canada through the national parks from Yellowstone, south through Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, Arizona and Nevada, with a host of magnificent photos and amazing tales.
He is sleeping off some jet lag today, so I will now look over your stories.
Keep going. We are all behind you from all over the world.
Love,
Jan
I don’t think it’s unreasonable to buy a book if one has read parts of it on a blog. For many people, blogging is new; others just don’t read blogs. But even those of us who do might believe it good to have the posts collected in one place, portable (when one is away from the computer), etc.
As I recall, I bought “Words in a French Life” after I discovered the blog, and I was glad to have so many articles together. I bought it, and the 2009 sequel, to improve my French. By the second volume, I also was glad to have the great photos.
At this point, I consider La Famille Espinasse friends, and who wouldn’t want a book by/about one’s friends? Nevertheless, I hope it will have French in it, which for me is a selling point. (I don’t think a book about the travails of publishing would appeal to a large audience.)
I used to reread books a lot as a child. As an adult, with limited time, I rarely do, but it depends on the kind of book. Last year when I was really sick for 3 days or so and hardly left my bed (but couldn’t sleep 24 hours a day), I read through “Words” again, and enjoyed it, and saw things in it that I’d missed the first time. Ditto for the second book at another time.
I’ve read that most authors want a “young picture” on the dust jacket. Kristin, I don’t think you look noticeably older in the second photo – I guess taken in your back yard – and I prefer that one. The fedora picture doesn’t show enough of you, I don’t think. The 2004 picture does have books in it, but the overall layout is too “busy”; one could even say “cluttered.” The 2011 photo focuses more on you, with a less complicated background. If opinion is divided on which picture, why not take another one, expressly intended to show the book’s author? That wouldn’t prevent you from including the two others inside. I think the front cover should be a picture of France, without people.
Maria B. noted that writers almost don’t need publishers these day. A new type of publication has appeared, the “e-book,” and I refuse to buy them. I don’t mean the ones on electronic readers (Kindle, etc.), although I don’t have one. I mean downloaded books. There are several reasons I can’t abide them, but the main one is the outrageous cost of printer cartridges it takes to print them out on a computer, and with lower quality than a real book has. They could well cost more than a bound regular book. And after pages are printed, they have to be put into a binder, etc. DON’T “publish” an e-book, please! If so, you have lost me as a customer. And have a paper version as well as an electronic one.
The idea of a picture in an easel on the cover is intriguing.
I haven’t read all of the comments, but I like the second one, but you need to lighten your face. It is too dark – little definition especially against he white shirt. Blue is usually the better color to wear for photographs.
I think that there might still be a picture of you (in hiding) which would be perfect for the book.
Wishing you the very very best in your 21-day challenge. I look forward to reading your book soon.
I love both the pics, they are so different from each other. It would be awesome if you could find a way to include both as several readers have already suggested.
Dang it! This post never made it to my inbox, so I’m just finding it now. You’ve probably read all these wonderful comments already, and mine is destined to languish here, unnoticed.
*sniff*
Your arguments in favor of publishing blog material are dead right, Kristin. Dickens, Thackeray, and Conan Doyle, among many others, published first in magazines and then collected the works into books many of us own today.
As for the pictures (if you haven’t made your mind up already), I like both of them. You look polished in one, casual in the other, and pretty and recognizable in both. (At least I assume you’re recognizable; maybe you look very different in person.)
It’s interesting that you’re pushed off to the side of both pictures. Is there deeper psychological meaning to be found in that? It works for the black & white pic, because what fills the rest of the frame is piles and piles of books. If, however, you decide to go with the color pic, please recrop it so you’re in the center. A swimming pool deck and a lounge chair don’t say anything about you as a writer.
Hi Kristin,
Sorry I’ve not commented in a terribly long time!
Yes! go with the froggy pj pic. It’s a great shot & totally real…yet somehow, as always, elegant!
Yes, again! Forge forward with your book publishing project. I fear too many wonderful works someday may not be read because they’ve only been in cyberspace.
Love to you & your family!
Had to marvel at the post about Max’s concrete hair gel. These teens!! My son has now quit the Civil Air patrol and gone into wrestling. He is currently on crutches due to a knee injury (we are 2 weeks into the sport!!) wishing he might switch to hair gel…. ;-D
Indeed many successful and well-respected contemporary writers publish books consisting of previously published material. I particularly enjoy the books of Nora Ephron, which happen to consist of personal essays previously having appeared in magazines such as Vogue, Harpers Bazaar, the New Yorker, The New York Times, O Mazagine, etc. Nothing wrong with that! Kristin, you are in good company. (By the way, I am one of those 50,000 purchasers of your first book!)
Dear Kristin,
Not sure where to go to help edit…
Mary keates