Audio from the session: Paddling Your Own Waka.
In a world of the internet, global publishing companies no longer have the same power as gatekeepers. This session looks at the possibilities - and problems - of finding your own audience. The session is chaired by Paul Diamond.
A special thank you to the organisers and participants for allowing us to record this event.
Summary
This summary provides an overview of the event "Paddling Your Own Waka" at the Same Same But Different writers festival, recorded at Auckland University of Technology on February 13, 2016. The session addressed the evolving landscape of publishing, considering how the waning influence of global publishing companies and the rise of the internet have opened new avenues for writers to connect with audiences.
The panel, comprising Anton Blank, Carole Beu, Chris Brickell, Ian Watt, Joanne Drayton, and Paul Diamond, discussed various aspects of publishing, from the experience of running an independent bookstore to the intricacies of self-publishing. Carol Beu shared insights from 27 years of running the Women's Bookshop and emphasized the importance of independent bookstores in providing tailored services to readers.
Anton Blank, a child advocate and publisher, showcased the successful publication of works like "For Someone I Love," highlighting the potential of niche literary journals. Chris Brickell, a sociologist and author, reflected on the craft of bookmaking and the fusion of new and old publishing methods to reach specific audiences, such as the LGBTQ+ community.
Joanne Drayton deliberated on the changing publishing sector in New Zealand, the dwindling presence of traditional publishing firms, and the growing necessity for digital and self-publishing options. Ian Watt illuminated the characteristics desirable to publishers in today's environment: originality, author involvement in marketing, and topics with strong sales potential.
The conversation reported several statistics indicating gender, ethnic, and disability demographics in the publishing industry, coupled with sales figures that demonstrate a developing market for eBooks and independently published works. The importance of effective self-promotion, building a brand, and utilizing professional resources for editing, design, and publicity were emphasized.
Key problems brought to the fore included the drawback of the internet's lack of gatekeepers, leading to an influx of substandard publications. The speakers stressed the critical role of quality control, distribution, marketing, and the use of services like Nielsen BookData to ensure visibility and recognition in the book market.
Lastly, the session highlighted the cultural and personal motivations behind why authors and publishers pursue their craft, underlining the significance of passion in successful writing and publishing endeavors amidst a shifting industry.
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Tags
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Tags (computer generated)
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