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Urban Authors Should Consider An African American Publishing Company

By Karen Campbell


Most authors, whether aspiring or veteran, want to tell their story from a place of authenticity. Their words may be a recollection of the things they have experienced or a fantastic idea they feel will resonate with a certain audience. Normally when reaching a market that includes an urban demographic, an African American publishing company with a strong media connection is ideal.

There are many advantages to going with a smaller publisher is the amount of attention that the writer may receive. Those who are emerging may not have an agent on their side to act on their behalf. There are also agencies that encourage their clients to take any deal so they can get paid.

Attention to words can say a lot because often many of the mainstream publishers may want to dilute certain aspects. Those who are part of a minority group, especially women, will often agree that censorship can kill authenticity. Most writers with a unique voice want to preserve as much of this as possible so that they can separate themselves from others in a similar genre.

There are also stories that have many unique factors that are not always openly discussed in groups. These may have to do with body acceptance, class, sexuality, or subjects that are considered taboo. Although some of the mainstream publishers are opening up to diversity, usually they are looking at the entire package before deciding to give the green light.

Those who write nonfiction books for marketing purposes should find the individualized attention refreshing. As with most marketing tools, the release is always time sensitive and using the right execution ensures that everyone will get paid. When both parties are in agreeance about a product and its marketing strategy, it can be the beginning of a prosperous relationship.

This theory applies to both fiction and nonfiction media. Another reason why it helps to go with a small company that is well rounded are the mediums offered. Audiobooks are growing in popularity and while some self publishing firms may offer this option, the author may have to put in most of the work in addition to upfront payment.

Urban publishers also ideal places for stories that embrace spirituality, even if it has nothing to do with religion. While the self help writing genre is one that has experienced a surge in the past couple of decades, readers want to hear positive messages from people they feel they can relate to. Although there may be some valuable lessons to be found with mainstream authors, hearing from someone rebounded after being falsely accused of a crime is sure to resonate with some readers.

Most publishers who want to retain a good reputation will make a fair deal to new and veteran authors. The best rule of thumb for the writer is for them to do their own research about each companies. Things that should be looked into are how often they have new releases, their current roster of authors, and whether they have utilized shady accounting practices. While this may not be easy, the effort will certainly pay off in the long run.




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