Good information over at Debbie Weil's blog BlogWriteforCEOs on her book deal with Penguin Portfolio. Note the timeframe involved from first contact to contract signing. And, when the book will actually be out. This link to Elizabeth Wales' agent information is invaluable.
We congratulate Debbie on her accomplishments, and recommend her advice to all. While we promote self-publishing using an author services company, and the quick turn around of Print-on-Demand, there is something to be said for having an agent and getting a book contract from an old-fashioned publisher.
In this case, Debbie was already way ahead of the curve. Not only is she already a published author, she's personable, smart, talented, and in the know. All the qualities one needs to be an A-list blogger and famous author.
We know that the old-fashioned world of publishing is taking a long, hard look at us -- independent publishers who use POD. They're looking for good work, authors with talent, and places to partner with. If you visit Tom and Marilyn Ross's webpage on some high-powered self-published authors, you can see how this venue might be a good way to get started. Then, you can be just like Debbie Weil: writing great stuff and sharing insight into the way to a publisher's heart. 
One of the best things about Debbie is her openness. She's blogging her book...how cool is that? No wonder she gets the right attention from the right folks.
Books and blogging: it's a match made in heaven, whether you're using an author services company or an old-fashioned publishing company.
As you know, my partner Patsi Krakoff and I think using a blog is a terrific way to write and publicize one's book. In our Blog to Book Project we work with authors to do just this. http://www.blogtobook.com
Posted by: Denise Wakeman | August 10, 2005 at 02:09 PM
My ears are burning. Thanks for your kind comments. I don't know how brave I'm going to be in terms of posting my book-in-progress. I'm still feeling shy about that. We'll see!
Posted by: Debbie Weil | August 03, 2005 at 10:12 AM
This whole idea of blogging of an author blogging about one's book is quite intriguing to me since I'm an author getting my first book published.
I've already written my book, and now I'm using the blog to build a platform, based upon what several speakers said at a recent Publishers Marketing Association University.
I'm intrigued by your comment of books and blogging being a match made in heaven.
Connie
Posted by: Connie | July 27, 2005 at 01:28 AM