By Jim Donovan
March, 2000
In spite of our making almost every mistake possible, Handbook to a Happier Life (ISBN 0-9650534-0-7) is still holding its own among the publishing giants. I could have named our publishing company "Wing & A Prayer Publishing" instead of Bovan Publishing Group, Inc. What I knew about the book business would have fit on the back of a business card.
For instance, Handbook is 96 pages. Experts said it should have been 120 to 150 pages. The first printing had a simple white cover with blue type and no bar code and ISBN number. The interior design left a lot to be desired. Distributors wouldn't touch it. However, I didn't give up. Maybe I didn't have enough sense to quit or perhaps it was just because I knew that once people read the book, they'd like it. Now readers have confirmed that.
Believe in Yourself and Follow Your Heart
Following advice from page 14 of the book, I kept at it. I began a crash course in book marketing, attending seminars, reading books, and networking with other small publishers. My beliefs and efforts paid off. Handbook to a Happier Life has sold over 75,000 copies to date. This is quite an accomplishment, considering that most self-help books barely sell 5,000 copies. It has been translated into Spanish and will soon be available in Korean as well-the rights having been purchased by other publishers.
Perseverance and the Words of Winston Churchill
My message to aspiring authors is... believe in yourself, follow your heart, and live your dreams. And in the words of Sir Winston Churchill, "Never, never, never, never give up!"
You can reach the author, Jim Donovan, directly at 215/794-3826 or contact him by e-mail at . This article is from the PMA Newsletter for March, 2000, and is reprinted with permission of Publishers Marketing Association.
When it comes to self-publishing, the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), also known as PMA (Publishers Marketing Association), has been pivotal in helping authors navigate the often challenging world of book publishing. With success stories like Handbook to a Happier Life, which defied industry norms and gained recognition despite initial setbacks, aspiring authors are reminded that belief in oneself and perseverance can make dreams come true.
IBPA's dedication to supporting independent book publishers and authors alike is what makes it a valuable resource in the publishing industry. Just as Jim Donovan learned the importance of networking and continuous learning, aspiring authors can look to PMA for guidance and support. By sharing knowledge, providing advice, and fostering connections within the publishing community, PMA empowers authors to overcome obstacles and achieve their publishing goals.
So, whether you're an established author or a first-time writer, remember that the journey to becoming a successful author is filled with challenges and opportunities. Through organizations like PMA, independent authors can find the support they need to navigate the intricacies of the publishing world and turn their literary dreams into reality.