Preview
  • The Business of Being a Writer

  • By: Jane Friedman
  • Narrated by: Tavia Gilbert
  • Length: 11 hrs and 33 mins
  • 4.6 out of 5 stars (34 ratings)

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The Business of Being a Writer

By: Jane Friedman
Narrated by: Tavia Gilbert
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Publisher's summary

Writers talk about their work in many ways: as an art, as a calling, as a lifestyle. Too often missing from these conversations is the fact that writing is also a business. The reality is, those who want to make a full- or part-time job out of writing are going to have a more positive and productive career if they understand the basic business principles underlying the industry.

The Business of Being a Writer offers the business education writers need but so rarely receive. It is meant for early-career writers looking to develop a realistic set of expectations about making money from their work or for working writers who want a better understanding of the industry. Writers will gain a comprehensive picture of how the publishing world works - from queries and agents to blogging and advertising - and will learn how they can best position themselves for success over the long term.

Jane Friedman has more than 20 years of experience in the publishing industry, with an emphasis on digital media strategy for authors and publishers. She is encouraging without sugarcoating, blending years of research with practical advice that will help writers market themselves and maximize their writing-related income. It will leave them empowered, confident, and ready to turn their craft into a career.

©2018 Jane Friedman (P)2019 Tantor
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What listeners say about The Business of Being a Writer

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  • Overall
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    3 out of 5 stars

Good information

I think this covers a ton of information and is a good background for overall writing. It felt like a Niagara Falls of information

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Very helpful

Very well written, and the reader did a wonderful job.

In regards to the content, it was incredibly thorough. Honestly, I’m going to need to listen to this multiple times because there is so much valuable information. I bought the book here on Audible, then bought a second copy in paperback, so I could easily look things up for reference. I recommend having a fresh notebook to dedicate to this book.

I will be showing this book to my writing group, and I don’t regret buying two copies.

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EXTREMELY HELPFUL!!

With years of experience in the industry, Jane Friedman provides intelligent information and insight on all aspects of the publishing process. She expands the information on her website and in her blog making this book a must read for new or aspiring authors. The narrator, Tavia Gilbert, gave an impeccable performance.
Excellence in audio format.

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More Thorough Than I Could Have Imagined

After listening to the first few chapters of this book, I ordered the paperback as well. This is an invaluable resource for all things writers need to know about working as a writer! I will be going through it again, making notes. A must-have for all serious writers.

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Unbelievably complete

Jane left no stone unturned in this one. I’m amazed at how much one person can know about the business of being a writer. I was disappointed to discover that Jane didn’t read this book herself. I understand she is one busy woman and I’m sure reading such a book would take considerable time. It may only make a difference to those of us who have heard Jane speak. The narrator did just fine; it just wasn’t Jane. A must read for anyone in the world of writing.

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Must Have Resource for Writers

Friedman, who has focused on author education and trend reporting for years, leaves no stone unturned as she gives you sound advice based on decades of experience. Just as important as learning the craft of writing, is learning how to successfully manage a writing business. Friedman dissects the publishing industry for you. She shares everything from generating leads to working with publishers to grants and contests and everything in between. If it has to do with the business of writing, then you will find it in The Business of Being a Writer. Three helpful appendices provide additional information and resources.

Narrated by Tavia Gilbert, The Business of Being a Writer should be a go to resource for writers everywhere.

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Informative and useful

A great book about the various ways to make a living as a writer and how to network with other likeminded professionals to build a following. It also provides great tips about how to design an author platform that will help you stand out.

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Comprehensive, but not clear recommendation on a successful path.

This book covered every aspect of being and authorpreneur. It was written like a choose your own adventure without a clear recommendation on how to be successful.

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