4th March 2025
I've never been able to find a scuba diving logbook that I like. The solution? I designed two paperbacks and two hardbacks myself.
25th March 2024
Have you got a book in you? Which way should you go, traditional or self-publishing? Here’s a comparison between the two methods.
7th November 2022
How did Jacquie Bloese transition to become a successful published author, and what would be her advice for other aspiring writers?
26th April 2022
Atomic Habits by James Clear promises remarkable results from tiny changes. Who could resist finding out more?
29th December 2021
Factfulness is one of the best non-fiction books I've ever read. Once I'd looked at the World Health Chart on the first page I was hooked.
12th December 2021
Will a 100-year life be a blessing or a curse? The authors discuss, with scenarios, the opportunities of making a very long life a gift.
18th August 2021
If you’re interested in books, and book cover design in particular, don’t miss The Beauty of Books (episode four) on BBC iPlayer.
13th May 2021
Surbiton-based publishing professional Suzanne Arnold explains, in a guest blog, the difference between copy-editing and proofreading.
25th February 2021
Teddington photographer Trevor Aston writes about a commission that combined two of his passions: photography and creative writing.
2nd January 2021
Rebel Ideas by Matthew Syed is jam-packed with interesting facts. Whether or not you are a leader, everyone can learn something from it.
6th November 2020
There are plenty of places to download e-books or buy print books online. Where can you shop if you’d like to buy books ethically?
17th August 2020
Author Marilyn Messek proves that a book is the best marketing tool you can have. A good business guide if you're just starting out, but not for old hands.
24th July 2020
The 80/20 principle proves that 80% of results come from 20% of input. The book recommends we should locate and concentrate on the most lucrative parts of our businesses.
19th July 2020
We can’t compete with AI, but if we develop our unique human powers we can work in tandem with it, survive and thrive. Learn how to develop these skills in The Human Edge.
3rd May 2018
Here’s my take on the pros and cons of using an experienced designer or an intern – and a view from a publishing professional who’s seen life from both sides of the fence.
26th October 2017
Supply good pictures to your designer and ensure your marketing materials are up to scratch and your products and services are shown to the best possible advantage.
7th August 2017
Anxious about commissioning a book designer? Find out how to ensure your designer projects the right image and communicates successfully with your readers.
6th April 2017
Publishers and agents would like to see the end of ‘Grip Lit’ – but it's very lucrative for them. It's also still popular. Here are my top 5 choices.
17th March 2017
21st September 2016
Writing your book is the easy bit. Marketing and selling it is a whole new ball game. To get you started here are 5 ways to sell your book.
12th August 2016
The Water Rats is the new home for the Galley Club, the seriously social club for people who work in, or are interested in, the world of publishing.
7th July 2016
Have you decided to quit your job to concentrate on writing? What team do authors need? Here are my suggestions for your dream team members.
28th May 2015
Back in 2013, I wrote a post about a new service for publishing professionals. Little did I know what impact it would have on my career.
23rd July 2014
At last night’s Bookmachine event for people in publishing, Sam Missingham, Head of Events at HarperCollins, spoke about her most recent
8th April 2014
Recently, KIngston University hosted an excellent talk by Mark Coker, founder of Smashwords on ‘How to publish an ebook’. Smash words is a free publishing platform
31st December 2013
When I’m thinking of buying a book, often the design can put me off; a very small typeface, mean leading (line spacing) and stingy margins are
2nd October 2013
Do you work in publishing? Ever had trouble getting work, finding the right contributors for your project, or making strategic alliances? Fret no more. Laura and Gavin