Author JB Thomas at his book launch for 'Heart Full of Storm' Last week, I attended the launch of Heart Full of Storm , a new MM Paranormal Romance by JB Thomas. It should have felt like just another book launch—but for me, it was something much more personal. JB has published four novels with me: Rose Red , Tarot Moon , 1999 , and The Longest Night . So when he told me his next book would be self-published, I’ll be honest—I felt it. My first reaction was pure emotion. A little shock. A little sadness. A very definite mother bear  moment. When you’ve worked closely with an author, supported them through edits, doubts, rewrites, and wins, it’s natural to feel protective of that relationship. But growth has a way of shifting perspective. Standing at JB’s launch, watching him speak confidently about his work, his process, and his journey, I realised something important: this wasn’t a departure—it was a milestone. As an independent publisher, I love publishing authors. I love building books, shaping stories, and helping them reach readers. But publishing has never been the only part of what I do - I mentor. Jeremy & I celebrating the launch of '1999' in 2024. Many of the authors I work with start out shy, introverted, and unsure of their own voice. They second-guess themselves. They struggle to take up space. Over time, something remarkable happens. Their writing sharpens. Their confidence grows. They begin to trust their instincts and understand their worth as creators. When an author reaches the point where they can confidently engage their own editor, hire a graphic designer, and take control of their publishing path—that isn’t a rejection of what we built together. It’s proof that the work mattered. Self-publishing requires courage. It requires belief—not just in a book, but in oneself. Watching an author step into that space tells me they no longer feel they need permission to be a writer. That’s powerful. JB Thomas is a wonderful example of this transformation. His growth as a writer and as a professional has been a joy to witness, and Heart Full of Storm  stands as a testament to the skills, confidence, and independence he’s earned. So yes, while I will always love publishing authors, I take just as much pride—if not more—in seeing them outgrow the need for me. Because when an author spreads their wings and flies solo, it doesn’t mean I’ve lost something. It means I’ve done my job. And that, to me, is the greatest success of all. A great picture of some of my amazing authors in 2025. So proud of each and every one of them and so honoured to work alongside them. Pictured: Alan English, Rob Hubbard, Catherine Duffy (front left), Robyn Ross, Alison Fitzsimmons, Chantal Munro (front), Nicola Baker, Carol Nutley (front), JB Thomas, Mary Pearson & me. #IndependentPublisher #AuthorMentorship #AuthorJourney #PublishingLife #WritingCommunity #SelfPublishingSuccess #IndieAuthorLife #AuthorEmpowerment #CreativeGrowth #WomenInPublishing #SmallPressPride #PublishingWithPurpose #SupportingAuthors #BookLaunch #IndiePublishing #WritingConfidence

Women in Publishing Summit Masterclass - 15.01.2026 with Aimee Ravichandran (Abundantly Social)   “ Your book isn’t invisible, your strategy is .” Aimee Ravichandran   If this sounds like you, you’re not alone: · I post everywhere, but nothing sticks · My launch fizzled out fast · I don’t know what actually worked   How the market has changed: · Organic reach has declined. The ‘Kumbaya’ era is over – we can’t just rely on family, friends and organic sales to increase visibility. In 2026, it’s a Pay-to-Play market. · Retailers drive the market. · The market is Algorithm-driven. Algorithms change frequently so it’s important to have a strategy in place and understand your market/reader.   The ‘Kumbaya’ era – ‘ Build it and they will come. ’ · A quality book alone doesn’t create visibility · Hope is not a marketing strategy · Discoverability must be intentional   What is discoverability? · The right reader, finds the right book, at the right time.   What is metadata? · Provides data about data. For example, metadata is the detailed information about your book, including the title, author, keywords, and blurb.   What is SEO? · Stands for Search Engine Optimisation. So, SEO is a digital marketing strategy that increases your books visibility in search engines such as Google, Amazon, etc.   Where discoverability actually lives (in order of global popularity): · Amazon · Apple books · Kobo · Barnes & Noble · Retail search and recommendation systems like Goodreads, etc.   The algorithm advantage (what an algorithm-driven strategy will enable): · Clear metadata · Relevant keywords · Consistent traffic · Strong conversion rates   The Pay-to-Play advantage (hand-in-hand with the algorithm advantage): · The algorithm and Pay-to-Play advantage work hand in hand. So, if you run an ad and get a high number of click-through rates but you’re not converting clicks to sales, then the problem lies in your algorithms. So, it’ll be either your cover, your keywords or your description that’s letting you down. Adjust these and monitor your outcomes, continuing to tweak until you find what works for your reader. Tip: Start small with Pay-to-Play. Start with a $20 budget, not a $500 budget. Increase your budget as you learn what works best for increased sales conversions.   Why you (authors) might still struggle: · Guessing your algorithms instead of researching – beta readers are great for research. But if you don’t have access to these, you can ask ChatGPT or Gemini who your reader is and what type of copy would attract them best – video, graphic ad, etc. ·  Running ads without foundations ·  Promoting without tracking results   The new ROI (Return on Investment) of author time: ·  Low ROI Activities – endless posting on socials, one-off promotions – no one wants to feel like they’re being sold to. You need to offer them a solution to a problem, an escape from reality, entertainment, the chance to follow a new author, etc. What’s your edge on others in your genre? Don’t just talk about your book all the time, you need to remember that sometimes, readers want to know more about you, not your book. Make them fall in love with you, not necessarily your book. This is relationship building. If you’re going to do promotions, do them regularly, like a month-long campaign. For example, run a FB campaign about book 1 in a series… ‘I’m writing the latest instalment in the ‘XYZ’ series, get book 1 now and get caught up in the fandom before the latest instalment drops! Run this campaign while running a paid FB ad on the new instalment in the ‘XYZ’ series. This is how you create longevity. Combine one-off promotions with month-long campaigns.   · High ROI Activities – optimised listings, retail-focused ads, long-term systems – make sure your descriptions include as many of your keywords as possible. Furthermore, for retail-focused ads, you need to hook them, and leave them hanging. So, make them want to click and buy. Make your cover/blurb unforgettable.   It may take a month or two to conquer the Pay-to-Play scene and start seeing the value in paid promotions. Here are the shifts you’ll see once you do: · Guessing to strategy · Clarity replaces confusion · Burnout/overwhelm to successful systems · Visibility becomes predictable – it will become easier to know what your readers want to see and read, what gets the best engagement and conversion per click. · Fading launches/promotions to longevity · Marketing feels manageable and less overwhelming    “Your book deserves readers – make sure they can find it!” Aimee Ravichandran (Abundantly Social)   The Discoverability Master Plan: Action Guide   Part 1: The 5-Minute "Invisible" Test Before changing your strategy, you need to see what the retailers see. Open an Incognito/Private window in your browser (to clear your personal search history). Go to Amazon  (or your primary retailer). Search for your book’s core genre/niche (e.g., "Time travel romance for adults" or "Beginner guide to sourdough"). The Reality Check: If your book isn't on the first two pages of results, your current metadata isn't working for the algorithm.   Part 2: Your Discoverability Checklist Use this checklist to move your book from "invisible" to "bestseller" by focusing on intentional strategy. Phase 1: Foundation & Algorithm Audit Your Metadata:  Ensure your title, subtitle, and series information are clear and provide the strong signals retailer algorithms need to index your book correctly. Research "Long-Tail" Keywords: Find specific phrases (3-5 words) that describe your niche. Avoid broad keywords like "Fiction" or "Thriller." Optimize Your Blurb:  Ensure your book description uses the keywords you researched and ends with a strong Call to Action (CTA). Phase 2: Time & ROI Management Conduct a Time Audit: List all your current marketing activities. Identify one "Low ROI" task (e.g., posting daily on a platform with no sales) and stop doing it this week. Focus on High-Impact Tasks: Reallocate that saved time to "High ROI" activities like optimizing your retail listings or setting up targeted ads. Establish Tracking: Create a simple spreadsheet to track your daily sales against your promotional efforts. If you don't track it, you can't improve it.   Part 3: Resource Guide (Where to Get Help) High-impact tools and platforms to help you master the "Algorithm Advantage." Resource Type Recommended Tool / Platform Best For... Keyword Research Publisher Rocket / ChatGPT / Gemini Identifying high-traffic, low-competition Amazon keywords. Retailer Education KDP University Understanding the fundamental rules of the Amazon algorithm. Platform Specifics Draft2Digital / Kobo Blog Learning how metadata works for Apple Books, Kobo, and B&N. Professional Audit Bowerbird Publishing / Reedsy Hiring a vetted professional to fix your metadata and blurb for you. Copywriting Help Bowerbird Publishing Getting help with your book description to improve conversion.   Next Step:  Pick one  item from the checklist above and complete it within the next 24 hours. Small, intentional shifts create massive long-term results.

One of the biggest questions for authors is: How much is my book actually worth?   Setting the right price is part art, part business. Price it too high, and you risk scaring off readers. Too low, and you undercut your work and may never recoup your investment. Here’s how to approach pricing in the Australian market — with both industry insight and practical advice for authors just starting out. 1. Understand Your Costs Before you even think about your retail price, you need to know how much it costs you to produce the book. In Australia, for authors who publish through an independent publisher, costs typically include: Editing Cover design and interior formatting ISBNs and barcodes Printing Distribution Marketing Knowing these costs gives you your floor price  — the minimum you need to charge to break even (or ideally, make a profit). 2. Know the Market To set a price that feels right both to you and your audience, look at what similar books in Australia are selling for. Here are some insights: According to recent reporting, a $36.99 paperback has been used as a benchmark price in Australia. Books+Publishing+1 Booksellers often apply a 45-55% discount  to their purchase from the publisher, meaning that publishers and self-publishers need to be realistic about how much they’ll actually  receive per sale. Books+Publishing+1 3. Decide Your Distribution Strategy Where you plan to sell your book has a huge impact on what price makes sense: Direct sales / your own website : You might be able to keep a higher margin, because you bypass major retailer discounts. But you’ll also need to factor in shipping and handling, especially in Australia, which can increase costs. Retail (bookstores) : If you want your book stocked in physical bookstores, you need to account for the standard trade discount. As mentioned earlier, discounts of 45-55% are common. Print-on-Demand (POD) : A popular choice for self-publishers. This dramatically reduces your upfront risk because you don’t have to print thousands of copies. Short-run or bulk printing : If you're printing a batch to supply to bookstores, your per-unit cost may be much lower, but you’ll also carry inventory risk and up-front investment. Understand how your distribution choices affect cost and then build in your margin on top. 4. Factor in Margins, Royalties & Profit When pricing, think about: Your break-even bottom line : This is based on your costs (publishing + printing). Your desired margin : How much do you want to make per copy, after all costs? Realistic royalty : In traditional publishing in Australia, authors often get less than 10% of the Recommended Retail Price (RRP). Books+Publishing+1 Discounts and returns : If you're working with bookstores, remember that a large portion of the retail price goes to the bookseller. According to data, average bookseller discounts are around 45-55% for trade titles. genesis.imgix.net +1 5. Be Aware of Rising Publishing Costs in Australia It’s not just you: the cost of making books in Australia has gone up. According to Books + Publishing , pulp and converted paper costs have risen by 51%, and printing costs by 34% over 15 years. Books+Publishing Wages for publishing professionals have also increased, while the average retail price of books hasn’t kept up proportionally. ANU Research What this means: your production costs might be higher than you think, so pricing conservatively low could mean undercutting your sustainability as an author-publisher. 6. Think About Perceived Value Price isn't only about covering costs — it's also a signal of quality. A higher price can communicate that your book is professional, polished, and valuable . But you must back that up: if you're charging top-dollar, make sure your editing, cover, and formatting are strong. Consider your audience and the format : If your readers are more price-sensitive (e.g. young adult, or non-fiction for casual readers), you may lean toward lower pricing. For a premium or specialised niche (art books, business, niche nonfiction), you might justify a higher RRP. 7. Be Strategic with Multiple Formats Offering different formats lets you reach more readers and set different price points. eBook : eBooks in Australia often price between AU$2.99–$8.99 , depending on genre, length, and platform. a-whim-away.com.au Paperback : As discussed, perhaps AU$18–38  depending on size, page count, and cost. Hardcover or premium editions : If you produce a premium version, you can set a higher RRP — but make sure your print costs and perceived value support it. 8. Use Professional Publishing Advice If you're working with a professional publisher, printer, or self-publishing service, lean on their experience. Bowerbird Publishing, for example, provides transparent cost structures and help you understand what pricing makes sense for your print run, format, and goals. Our insight can help you model scenarios: “If I print 200 copies, what should my RRP be vs printing 50 copies?” Also, be prepared to test and iterate . Market response sometimes surprises you. If you're selling via your website, at fairs, or at events, you may be able to adjust your price, run bundles, or offer promotions aligned with your goals — whether that’s reach or revenue. 9. Use Resources & Learn from Experts — Including 6 Steps to Self-Publishing Finally, remember you don’t have to figure it all out alone. There are resources, guides, and books designed to help you navigate pricing, production, and more. One excellent resource is my book, 6 Steps to Self-Publishing with Crystal Leonardi , available from my website at www.crystalleonardi.com/bookshop . In it, I walk you through not just pricing, but the entire self-publishing journey — from editing to launch — with practical, real-world advice tailored for Australian authors. 10. Price with Confidence - and Kindness Pricing your book is a balancing act. You want to: cover your costs, make a fair profit, appeal to your audience, and remain competitive in the Australian market. But it’s not just a financial decision — it’s about valuing your work. If you set a fair price that reflects your investment of time, talent, and money, readers will see that value. And as you grow, refine your approach: adjust based on sales, feedback, and what other authors in your niche are doing. Above all, be kind to yourself through this process. Self-publishing is as much a journey of learning and growth as it is about business. With thoughtful pricing, professional help, and a clear strategy, you can put your book in the best position to succeed.

Before you start Chapter One, or even write your first word, pause and think like a publisher. Publishing isn’t just about writing a good book. It’s about knowing exactly  where your book fits, who it’s for, and how to make it stand out. That’s called positioning , and it can make the difference between a book that gets noticed and one that gets lost in the crowd. Why Positioning Comes First: Traditional publishers don’t rely on luck. Before they even agree to publishing a manuscript, they decide: Who the audience is What genre it belongs to Which books it will sit alongside The right price point Every choice - from the cover to the trim size - sends a signal to readers. As an indie or self-published author, you take on all these roles yourself. Positioning helps you step into the publisher’s mindset and make sure your book is discoverable, appealing, and aligned with reader expectations. What Positioning Really Means: Positioning is your book’s identity. Ask yourself: Who is this book for? What shelf does it belong on? Which other books are its peers? How should it look, feel, and be priced to meet reader expectations? When you answer these questions before writing, you gain clarity, and writing becomes easier because you know who  you’re writing for and why . The Four Key Questions for Self-published Authors: 1. Why are you writing this book? Your “why” shapes everything, from format to marketing. Sharing your personal story? Maybe a hardcover memoir fits best. Teaching business strategies? A crisp, affordable paperback might work better. Building your author platform? Your purpose will guide design, pricing, and promotion choices. 2. What other books are like yours? Do some research. Study 5-10 comparable titles in your genre. Look at: Titles and subtitles Cover designs Price points and formats Keywords and categories This isn’t about copying. It’s about understanding the market so your book fits the patterns readers recognise, and can be discovered easily. 3. Who exactly is your reader? Stop thinking in broad terms like ‘women aged 25–65.’ Instead, picture one person. Ask: What problem are they trying to solve? Where do they look for books; TikTok, bookstores, online searches? What kind of story or information excites them? The clearer you are about your reader, the easier it is to write a book that speaks directly to them. 4. How will you deliver on your promise? Everything about your book, format, design, price, should support the experience your reader expects. A romance paperback should feel different from a business workbook or a children’s picture book. A $35 workbook needs to be durable and functional. An illustrated children’s book needs vibrant colours and a sturdy format. Every detail reinforces that your book belongs in its genre and is worth the reader’s attention. Why Positioning Protects Your Investment: Publishing a book takes time, money, and energy. Without positioning, your beautiful manuscript may go unnoticed. With positioning, every decision works harder. It ensures your book reaches the right audience, builds momentum, and delivers on the promise you make to readers. A Simple Exercise to Get Started: Write this sentence and pin it somewhere visible: “My book is perfect for [specific reader] who loves [theme or topic], and it belongs on the [genre/category] shelf alongside [comparable titles].” If you can complete it, you’re ready to write with focus and intention. If not, use it as a guide to refine your positioning before you begin.   Positioning is strategic. When you think like a publisher, you give your book the best chance to succeed. You gain clarity, purpose, and confidence, and suddenly, the writing process feels less like a gamble and more like a plan.

There’s more to beautiful book design than a striking cover or clean layout - it begins with type. Fonts are not just decorative choices; they influence how your story is read, perceived, and remembered. In publishing, typesetting, or typography, is a language of its own, one that communicates mood, tone, and professionalism long before a single word is spoken aloud. Whether you’re an indie author formatting your own book, or working with a graphic designer, understanding font selection can make the difference between a polished, readable masterpiece and something that feels… off.   Why Fonts Matter Every piece of text we encounter - from novels and newspapers to websites and menus - has been shaped by deliberate typesetting choices. In publishing, those choices serve two purposes: Readability:  Ensuring the reader can comfortably engage with long passages of text. Tone:  Supporting the message and emotional intent of the book. Let’s explore both…   1. Readability: Guiding the Eye, Not Distracting It Readability describes how easily the eye moves across a page without fatigue. It depends on the font’s design - the space between letters, the weight of strokes, and the shape of each character. Serif vs. Sans Serif Serif fonts (like Times New Roman  or Garamond ) include small decorative lines at the ends of strokes. These serifs gently guide the reader’s eye from one letter to the next, helping the text flow naturally - a crucial quality for novels, memoirs, and nonfiction books meant to be read for hours at a time. Sans-serif fonts (like Helvetica  or Arial ), on the other hand, lack these flourishes. They appear cleaner and more modern but can feel tiring in long passages. That’s why they’re better reserved for headings, chapter titles, or digital display text. Tip:  Serif fonts make your book easier to read; sans-serif fonts make it easier to navigate.   2. Being ‘On Message’: Matching Typesetting to Tone Just as every story has a voice, every book has a visual personality. The right font reinforces the feeling you want to evoke. Ask yourself: What do I want readers to feel when they open my book? What emotional or stylistic cues will help express that? A historical novel may call for something classic and refined; a contemporary business guide might need something crisp and confident. Typefaces can be warm and human ( Caslon ), intellectual ( Garamond ), or elegant and modern ( Minion ). When typesetting aligns with content, reading feels effortless and immersive. When it doesn’t, something feels ‘off,’ even if the reader can’t quite say why.   Fonts That Work Best for Book Body Text The most trusted book fonts have stood the test of centuries - literally. Many modern typefaces are inspired by those developed in the early days of printing. Here are a few enduring favourites among professional book & graphic designers: Caslon:  Designed in the 1700s by William Caslon, this warm, inviting font has an organic flow and timeless charm. It was used in the Declaration of Independence  and remains a publishing staple. Garamond:  A classic 16th-century font known for its graceful curves and exceptional readability - ideal for fiction and literary works. Jenson:  Originating from Venice in the 1470s, Jenson feels both traditional and refined. It’s particularly well-suited for literary or historical texts. Minion:  A modern classic developed by Adobe, Minion balances clarity and tradition, making it versatile for both print and digital formats. Palatino:  Originally designed for headings, Palatino’s open letterforms and readability have made it popular for both body text and display. Each of these fonts offers a different voice - but all share one thing: they are comfortable to read and project professionalism.   Fonts for Headings, Titles, and Extras Your headings and chapter titles give you a little more creative freedom. Here, you can experiment with sans-serif fonts for contrast or bold serif variations for emphasis. Guidelines: Choose a bold serif or sans-serif font that complements your main typeface. Avoid overused or novelty fonts (like Comic Sans  or Papyrus ). Ensure titles are strong, legible, and stylistically consistent. Keep sidebars, tables, and figure captions in a clean sans-serif for clarity. Remember, design cohesion builds reader trust. When fonts across your book feel unified, readers perceive your work as professionally produced.   Trusting Your Publisher’s “House Style” Established publishing houses - like Bowerbird Publishing  - often have their own house fonts  and typesetting standards  that have been refined through years of experience. These choices are not arbitrary; they are tried, tested, and trusted  to deliver beautiful, professional books that read effortlessly and align with the publisher’s visual identity. If you’re working with a publisher, it’s wise to trust their recommendations during the design process. They’ve carefully chosen these fonts for their readability, production efficiency, and compatibility across formats. That said, the print proof stage is the perfect time to review your book’s typesetting in context. Don’t be afraid to voice your opinion or ask questions about the font selection - but also be conscious that a publisher’s house style is part of their brand consistency and reader experience. Respecting that expertise ensures your book meets professional publishing standards.   A Professional Rule of Thumb: Less Is More Limit yourself to two font families - one serif for body text, and one sans-serif for headings or captions. Within each, you can use italics and bold for emphasis, but sparingly. Overuse of fonts, weights, and styles signals amateur design. In professional publishing: Bold  is for headings. Italics  are for emphasis, titles, or foreign words. Underline  almost never appears. Simplicity is your friend; consistency builds credibility.   Choosing Fonts Wisely (for Indie Authors Doing It Themselves) If you’re formatting your own book, start by creating a few sample pages using different fonts to see which best matches your tone and enhances readability. Keep your font palette simple: one primary serif font (with bold and italic versions) and one sans-serif for headings. Using too many fonts—or too many variations—can instantly make a book look unprofessional. When sourcing fonts, avoid random ‘free’ downloads. Not only can they contain viruses or licensing issues, but most free fonts are web fonts - optimised for screens, not print. For professional publishing, it’s worth purchasing legitimate, high-quality font families from reputable sites like MyFonts.com .   Should You Buy Fonts or Use What You Have? While many word processors come with familiar fonts like Times New Roman , Calibri , and Cambria , these aren’t always ideal for professional print books. Publishing software like Adobe InDesign handles fonts differently — you’ll need to own each version (regular, bold, italic) as separate files. If you’re hiring a professional book designer, they’ll already have licensed fonts. If you’re DIY-ing your typesetting, invest in legitimate font families to ensure your book prints cleanly and legally.   The Final Word: Design That Honours Your Words Typography is an invisible art. When done well, it disappears - leaving only the story in full focus. The best fonts for books support your words, honour your message, and create a seamless reading experience. Whether you’re trusting your publisher’s house style or creating your own, remember: simplicity, consistency, and readability always win.

Not long ago, getting your book stocked in a bookstore was close to impossible. Fortunately, those days are behind us. The rise of professional indie authors - and the high production standards now achievable through modern small publishing houses – like Bowerbird Publishing - has completely changed the landscape. Today, many independent bookstores welcome new titles, provided they meet industry expectations. But earning a spot on shelves isn’t just about having a great book - it’s about understanding how bookstores operate, what they need from authors, and how to build relationships that benefit everyone involved. Here’s how to approach the process like a professional.   1. Know Your Market - and Theirs Every author should begin by understanding the bookstore’s audience. Booksellers are business owners, and their primary focus, beyond their love of books, is ensuring each title they stock will sell. Before you pitch, do your homework. Visit the store in person, buy books there, and get a sense of what sells. Follow their social media accounts, attend events, and look at how they promote authors. This not only helps you tailor your pitch, but also builds rapport - something booksellers genuinely appreciate. When you meet with a bookseller, speak their language. Highlight who your readers are, where your book fits on the shelf, and why it will appeal to their customers. Show that you’ve done your research and that your book complements their store’s existing range.   2. Support Local, Independent Bookshops Your local independent bookstore can be your greatest ally. These stores are community-driven, they nurture emerging voices, host local events, and build deep connections between readers and authors. Before asking them to support you, make sure you’re supporting them. Buy books there, attend their readings, launches, or workshops. Tag them in your posts when you share their content or recommend books they sell. These small acts of support build real relationships. Once you’ve established rapport, you can explore opportunities that go far beyond simple sales - like author-in-residence programs, book signings, readings, or themed events. Many independent booksellers are passionate about spotlighting local talent, especially when the author reciprocates that enthusiasm. In short, treat your local bookshop as a creative partner, not just a retail outlet. These collaborations can elevate your author profile and create long-term opportunities you won’t find online.   3. Understand the Store’s Demographic Not every bookstore will be the right fit for your book, and that’s okay. A niche travel bookstore may not stock your fantasy series, just as a children’s shop won’t sell your business memoir. Spend time studying their shelves. Observe which genres are featured, the tone of their branding, and the preferences of their clientele. Then position your book accordingly. A bookseller must be confident that their customers will buy your book before they take it on. Make it easy for them to say yes.   4. Offer Standard Trade Terms If you want your book to be seriously considered, it must meet industry-standard retail terms. That means setting a 55% wholesale/trade discount and making your title returnable. Returns are a long-standing part of the book trade. They protect booksellers by allowing them to send unsold copies back for credit. Without that assurance, most stores won’t take the risk. If you’re using a print-on-demand service, ensure your distributor offers these options. Platforms like IngramSpark allow authors and publishers to set professional terms, while also giving bookstores confidence that they can easily order and return your titles if needed.   5. Present a Quality Product Bookstores are flooded with submissions, so your book needs to look and feel professional. That means: A professionally designed cover that fits genre standards Clean, consistent interior layout and typesetting Standard trim size and spine width Professional ISBN and pricing barcode Your book doesn’t need to mimic every other title on the shelf, but it must meet reader expectations for its genre. If a store doesn’t know where your book fits, literally or figuratively, the bookseller is far less likely to take a chance.   6. Price Your Book Realistically Pricing sends an instant message about your book’s perceived value. If it’s too low, it may seem amateur; too high, and it risks turning readers away. Research similar titles in your genre and format, then price accordingly. Your goal is to fit comfortably within your category while still reflecting your quality and production costs. A fair, competitive price gives both booksellers and readers confidence in your work.   7. Make Ordering Effortless Booksellers value convenience. The easier it is for them to order your book, the more likely they are to do it. Having your title distributed through your publisher or platforms like Ingram is ideal - most bookstores already use these networks daily. Avoid forcing stores to purchase directly from you or through Amazon. Many booksellers won’t stock Amazon titles because it directly supports their biggest competitor. A professional distributor ensures your book fits neatly into their existing workflow.   8. Be Ready to Promote Your Own Book Bookstores stock books - they don’t market them. That part is your job. Show the store that you’re invested in your own success. Share your marketing plan - social media campaigns, local publicity, or launch events - and explain how these efforts will drive readers to their  store. Booksellers are far more likely to take on a title if they know the author will help create demand. You can also encourage friends and fans to request your book at targeted stores. If a bookseller notices customer interest before you even make your pitch, it dramatically increases your chances of being stocked.   9. Think Like a Partner, Not Just an Author Ultimately, selling your book to bookstores comes down to partnership. You’re not just asking them to stock a product, you’re inviting them to join your publishing journey. Bookstores, like restaurants, need steady turnover to survive. Every title that takes up shelf space must earn its keep. Your job isn’t just to get your book onto the shelf, it’s to help it move off  the shelf and into readers’ hands. By understanding how the book trade operates and aligning your approach with professional publishing standards, you position yourself, and your book, for genuine long-term success. For more information or guidance on how the bookstore's stock their shelves, contact leonardi.crystal@gmail.com

Happy library go-ers Helen, Veronica, Mary & Crystal Why Authors Should Support Their Local Library For generations, libraries have been the quiet champions of Australian literature - connecting readers with stories, preserving culture, and giving authors a platform to be discovered. For writers, especially indie or emerging authors, your local library is far more than a building full of books. It’s a gateway to visibility, credibility, and long-term literary relationships. Here’s why building a connection with your local library should be part of every author’s publishing strategy, and how to make the most of it.   1. How Lending Rights Support Authors Many authors are surprised to learn that when libraries lend their books, they can actually earn income through lending rights programs. In Australia, there are two key schemes: Public Lending Right (PLR) — compensates authors, illustrators, and publishers when their books are held in public libraries. Educational Lending Right (ELR) — compensates authors, illustrators, and publishers when their books are held in school, TAFE, or university libraries. These programs are administered by the Office for the Arts and provide annual payments based on how many library collections hold your work. Once your title is registered and catalogued in the system, it can generate income for years. For more information or to register your book, visit the Public Lending Right website: arts.gov.au/funding-and-support/public-lending-right . Even if your book isn’t yet held widely, having it catalogued in your local library is the first step toward inclusion in the national lending rights database, and a professional milestone in its own right.   2. How Libraries Catalogue Books Libraries across Australia use a professional cataloguing system that ensures every book can be easily located and shared across their network. When your book is officially catalogued, it’s listed in: Libraries Australia, a national bibliographic database managed by the National Library of Australia (NLA) The library’s local catalogue, which feeds into regional and state systems In some cases, WorldCat, the international library database If you publish through a professional press like Bowerbird Publishing, this is handled on your behalf ensuring your book enters the official Australian library network and can be easily discovered by librarians nationwide. To make this possible, your book must have: A valid ISBN A CIP (Cataloguing in Publication) record, issued by the National Library of Australia before printing Complete metadata (author name, publisher, publication date, format, and genre)   3. The Role of the National edeposit (NED) System The National edeposit (NED) system is another vital part of Australia’s literary infrastructure. It allows authors and publishers to deposit digital copies (eBooks and audiobooks) into a secure, central system that connects directly with the National Library of Australia and participating state and territory libraries. By law, every book published in Australia must be deposited with the National Library - and NED makes that process simple and entirely online. When you upload your digital files to ned.gov.au , your work is automatically: Preserved for the long term in the national collection Linked to library catalogues across Australia, making it discoverable by readers and librarians Accessible for viewing or borrowing, depending on the access conditions you set. For independent authors, this means your eBook can reach readers nationwide through library networks - without any extra cost. Depositing your title with NED also supports your eligibility for lending right payments once libraries begin circulating it.   4. How Libraries Purchase Books Libraries buy books differently than retail stores. Most use professional suppliers such as James Bennett, Peter Pal Publishing, or Wheelers Books. These suppliers order through distribution channels like Ingram or Lightning Source, so it’s important your book is available through these systems. However, for local authors, librarians often prefer direct engagement. If your book aligns with their community interests - whether it’s local history, fiction, children’s literature, or memoir - they may be open to purchasing a copy directly, especially if it’s professionally produced and relevant to their readership.   5. Offer Complimentary Copies (Strategically) Donating a complimentary copy to your local library can be a smart investment. It introduces your work to new readers, builds credibility, and helps establish your title within the public catalogue system. When offering a complimentary copy: Present it professionally packaged, with a one-page info sheet about the author, the book, and its ISBN/distributor details. Include a note explaining that you’re gifting the copy to the library for local readers. Politely follow up after three to six months to ask whether there’s been interest or requests for additional copies. If your book proves popular or generates borrowing demand, libraries often purchase additional copies through their regular suppliers, turning that first donation into long-term circulation.   6. Build Lasting Relationships Connecting with librarians isn’t just about book placement - it’s about building rapport. Librarians are passionate literary advocates who love supporting authors, especially local ones. By introducing yourself early, you stay on their radar when opportunities arise. Libraries regularly host: “Author in the Library” sessions Workshops and book talks Community writing festivals Themed events and reading challenges These programs are often planned six to twelve months in advance, so reaching out early gives you the best chance of being included. You might start small - with a Q&A, a book signing, or a talk about your writing process - but these experiences can lead to repeat invitations, media exposure, and a growing local readership.   7. Libraries as Literary Partners Supporting your local library isn’t just good karma - it’s smart strategy. It positions you as a community-minded author who values literacy and connection. It keeps your book discoverable, helps you access lending right payments, and strengthens your professional presence within the literary ecosystem. So next time you pass your local library, stop in. Ask to meet the acquisitions librarian. Gift a copy of your book. Deposit your eBook in NED. You’ll be investing in more than a building, you’ll be investing in relationships that nurture both your career and your community.   At Bowerbird Publishing, we believe that libraries are at the heart of storytelling. We help authors ensure their books are professionally catalogued, distributed, and connected to Australia’s library network - so stories continue to inspire for generations.

We’re told not to judge a book by its cover, but readers absolutely do! Your cover is your first (and often only) chance to make an impression, and in a world overflowing with books, visual storytelling  is more important than ever. A well-designed cover does three things: Signals genre:  A thriller, romance, and memoir each have distinct design cues - colour palettes, fonts, and imagery that tell readers instantly what kind of story they’re picking up. Reflects tone:  Typesetting, spacing, and imagery can suggest whether your book is darkly psychological, warmly nostalgic, or sharply humorous. Captures professionalism: Readers can spot an amateur cover instantly. A professionally designed cover builds trust - it says, “This book is worth your time and money.” Good cover designers don’t just make things look pretty; they understand marketing psychology . The right combination of title placement, typesetting, and imagery can turn browsers into buyers. If your book isn’t selling despite positive feedback, take another look at your cover. It may be beautiful, but if it doesn’t match the expectations of your target audience, it’s working against you.   A great cover doesn’t just sell a book - it conveys your vision and establishes your credibility as an author. Investing in professional design is one of the smartest decisions you can make. A strong cover is an investment that works as your silent 24/7 salesperson.   At Bowerbird Publishing, we take care of this for you.  Our experienced designers understand the balance between artistry and market appeal. When you publish with Bowerbird, your cover is thoughtfully designed to attract your audience and honour your story. For more information email Leonardi.crystal@gmail.com

Copyright can feel like a legal labyrinth, but it’s really about respect - for your work and for the work of others. As an author, understanding what you can and can’t use protects your integrity and your book’s professional standing. In Australia, copyright is automatic - you own the rights to your work the moment it’s written. But when you include someone else’s  words or images, you need to tread carefully. Here’s what to watch for: Quotes:  Short quotes are often fine under ‘fair dealing’ if used for review or commentary - but longer excerpts, poetry, or song lyrics usually require written permission. Lyrics:  Even one line from a song is protected. Always get permission from the publisher. Images:  Never use images from the internet unless they’re licensed for commercial use or you’ve secured rights. To protect your own work, always register ISBNs in your name, keep dated drafts, and use watermarks or copyright notices when sharing manuscripts. If in doubt, ask for permission, or paraphrase. Copyright compliance shows professionalism and helps avoid expensive headaches down the line. For more information, contact Leonardi.crystal@gmail.com or connect with one of several trusted organisations and resources in Australia: 1. Australian Copyright Council (ACC) Website:   www.copyright.org .auThe ACC is the primary and most trusted source  for copyright information in Australia. It provides: Free and paid information sheets on specific topics (e.g. using quotes, images, and music). Detailed guides for authors, publishers, and artists. Legal advice (for members) and educational seminars. Highly recommended as your first stop for any copyright question. 2. Smart Copying – The Official Guide to Copyright for Australian Schools and TAFE ·         Website:   www.smartcopying.edu .auA government-supported resource that explains copyright for educational contexts — useful if you do author talks in schools or provide teaching materials. 3. Australian Publishers Association (APA) ·         Website:  www.publishers.asn.auOffers guidance on copyright, licensing, and rights management from a publisher’s perspective.Also covers issues like moral rights, contracts, and permissions for printed and digital works. 4. Screenrights (for audio-visual and educational licensing) ·         Website:  www.screenrights.orgA non-profit that manages rights for film, television, and some educational works — particularly relevant if your book is adapted or used in classrooms. 5. Arts Law Centre of Australia ·         Website:   www.artslaw.com .auProvides legal information, contract reviews, and resources  for creators, including authors.They’re particularly helpful for understanding rights in publishing agreements or managing co-authored works. 6. Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) ·         Website:   www.alia.org .auOffers insight into how libraries handle copyright through lending rights and electronic cataloguing systems — valuable context for authors looking to connect with libraries. At Bowerbird Publishing, we take care of this for you. When you publish with Bowerbird, copyright compliance, permissions, and rights management are part of the publishing process - giving you peace of mind and protecting your work for years to come.

Happy authors, Sandy Davies, Regina Petra Meyer, Crystal Leonardi, Debra Gavranich, Megan Formanek Book reviews are the lifeblood of an author’s credibility. They influence buying decisions, boost visibility, and help readers connect emotionally with your story. But not all reviews are created equal. Start by seeking authentic, diverse feedback  from trusted sources: Advance Review Copies (ARCs): Send digital or print copies to reviewers, book bloggers, and influencers before release day. Media outlets:  Local newspapers, community radio, and online magazines often welcome reviews of books by regional authors. Reader networks: Encourage your readers to post honest reviews on Goodreads, Booktopia, and Amazon. Here are some credible Australian book-review platforms and reviewers you might consider reaching out to: Australian Book Review (ABR) — A major national literary journal that publishes in-depth reviews and essays, with wide distribution and recognition. Hawkesbury City Council+1 Aussie Reviews — An independent site run by author Sally Murphy; reviews a broad range of Australian books (children’s, adult, non-fiction) and accepts review requests. aussiereviews.com Reading Matters — Blog by Australian reviewer Kim Forrester focussing on contemporary and other Australian fiction, with a long-established archive. Books+Publishing+1 BookBloggersAustralia — A curated directory of Australian book blogs and reviewers you can explore by genre and reach.   When reviews start coming in: Share the highlights. Quote them in marketing material and on your website. Don’t fear criticism. Even mixed reviews show engagement and can lend credibility. Respond gracefully - or not at all. Never argue publicly with reviewers; let your professionalism speak for itself. The goal isn’t to collect five-star praise, it’s to build visibility, trust, and conversation. Every thoughtful review helps your book find the readers it was meant for. For more information on how Bowerbird Publishing can help you get more professional reviews of your publication, contact Leonardi.crystal@gmail.com

Is it just me, or does time seem to be slipping through our fingers even quicker these days? Yet, many authors are finding themselves writing bestsellers without quitting their day jobs! I like to call them ‘side hustle authors’ (respectfully, of course) because they are rewriting the rules of success, balancing full-time careers, family lives, and writing, while managing to create stories that captivate readers and sometimes even climb best-seller lists. But how are they doing it?   Once upon a time, being an author meant committing to writing full-time. You had to choose between making a living and writing. But today, side hustle authors are proving that this doesn’t have to be the case. Thanks to self-publishing, hybrid publishing options, and the advancements to the digital world, aspiring authors can now publish their work on their own terms. While traditional publishing used to require authors to sacrifice everything, including their IP, earnings & soul, for a book deal, the modern side hustle author can write at their own pace and on their own schedule, without compromising their careers. They are the true embodiment of the ‘work smarter, not harder’ mindset.   So, how do side hustle authors balance day jobs, personal responsibilities, and the often-demanding process of book writing? Many are full-time professionals who work long hours at their ‘day jobs,’ but they make sure they carve out time in the evenings, weekends, or during lunch breaks to write. This approach requires impeccable time management. For instance, many side hustle authors utilise practices like writing sprints, dedicated writing time (even if it's just 30 minutes a day), or productivity apps that help them stay on track with their writing goals. They might prioritise deep work over distractions, turning their spare time into a creative oasis.   And, it’s also about how hustle authors are rethinking success in the writing world… It’s no longer just about signing a book deal or getting an advance from one of the big-5 publishers. These authors are redefining success in ways that feel more personal, achievable, and aligned with their own creative journeys. For many side hustlers, success is about consistency  and building an audience . Instead of chasing trends or focusing on overnight fame, these writers focus on producing quality content over time, knowing that slow and steady wins the race. Building a loyal fan base, receiving positive reviews, and seeing their book make an impact in readers' lives is a win in itself. Furthermore, side hustle authors often have a unique advantage when it comes to marketing. With their established careers and professional networks, they can leverage social media, email lists, and collaborations with other professionals to market their books in creative ways. Their day jobs give them access to opportunities for cross-promotion that full-time authors might miss.   Let’s now explore how many side hustle authors still manage to create bestsellers. What's their secret? One key factor is their focus on writing what they love . The pressure to write a book that “sells” is less daunting when you're not relying on it for your primary income. This freedom allows authors to stay true to their unique voice and take creative risks. Additionally, side hustle authors often seek self-publishing options, which allows them to bypass traditional publishing gatekeepers and restrictions. They can publish on their own schedule – no strict deadlines from a traditional publisher. No manipulation of their work to suit a publisher’s opinion of what’s ‘marketable’ – they retain full creative freedom of their work. And, there’s no long waiting periods – ones that plague authors working with a traditional publisher. Many side hustle authors are also masters of niche genres, which means their books often resonate deeply with specific audiences. Writing for a targeted, passionate group of readers can be incredibly rewarding and profitable.   So, the question is, can anyone become a side hustle author? Yes, but it requires dedication. The rise of self-publishing and the flexibility of online platforms means that anyone with a story can become a published author. However, it takes discipline, time management, and a lot of hard work. Writing a book isn’t an easy task, and balancing that with work commitments and personal life makes it even more challenging. But for those who are willing to put in the effort, the rewards are clear. Side hustle authors are proving that writing doesn’t require a leap of faith into full-time writing, it just takes a little bit of time, a lot of passion, and a willingness to juggle multiple roles.   From an independent publisher’s perspective… The side hustle author movement is redefining what it means to be a successful writer. With a full-time career and a busy personal life, they’re showing the world that it's possible to chase your creative dreams without sacrificing everything (including your sanity). And in many cases, this flexibility is exactly what leads them to success—whether that means reaching best-seller lists, building an engaged audience, or simply finding joy in the writing process. I started out as a side hustle author and I’m so glad I did! My time was divided between family life and home duties so it took allocating at least 1 hour a day to my writing. It wasn’t always achievable but the conscious effort to give my hobby time, paid off. If you're someone with a day job and a dream of writing a book, remember that success is about writing with purpose, finding balance, and enjoying the ride! To further explore self-publishing, book a consultation with me! Check out the services I offer at www.crystalleonardi.com/publishing . Alternatively, it's all been written down for you in my book, '6 Steps to Self-publishing with Crystal Leonardi. You will find it in my online bookshop: www.crystalleonardi.com/bookshop

Input versus Outcome: Why People-Pleasing is Costing You More Than You Think As a business owner, creative, and ambitious leader, I’m wired to care. I care about results, reputation, and relationships. However, often that means I fall into the exhausting trap of doing everything for everyone. But here’s the reality: not all effort is equal. And not all outcomes are worth the input.   Many of us unconsciously default into people-pleasing mode. We say “yes” when we want to say “no.” We take on clients that drain us. We overdeliver to meet unspoken expectations. Why? Because we’ve been conditioned to believe that the value of our work is measured by how happy others are with us, rather than the actual impact or alignment of what we're doing. It feels safer to be pleasing than to risk letting someone down. But this mindset creates a dangerous imbalance between input  (your time, energy, and resources) and outcome (actual results, value, or return). Ask Yourself: Is the outcome of this task proportionate to what I’m putting in? Am I doing this because it aligns with my goals and lights me up? Or because I want someone’s approval/praise? Will this effort actually propel my business or will it ware me down? If the answer isn’t clear, you’re likely operating from obligation rather than intention.   Rebalancing: Equal Input and Outcome The solution isn’t to do less, it’s to do less of what doesn’t matter. Here’s how to start: 1. Create Your Internal Metrics Stop measuring success by other people’s reactions. Instead, define what success looks like for you . For example: Did this task bring you closer to a goal? Did it leave you feeling satisfied or depleted? Did it create long-term value? When you focus on internal outcomes, your work becomes more purposeful and less reactive. 2. Set Boundaries That Protect Your Energy Every “yes” is a “no” to something else. Be intentional. If the return on investment of your effort is low, whether financially, emotionally, or energetically, it’s not worth doing. Politely decline, redirect, or renegotiate expectations. 3. Use the Input/Outcome Equation Think of tasks like this: Input (Time + Energy + Money)  vs. Outcome (Impact + Value + Alignment) Before committing, pause and ask: Is this worth it? If it’s a lopsided equation, it’s a no, or at least a “not now.”   For Business Owners: Stay in Your Lane If you're running a business, you’ve probably felt the pressure to keep up - more offers, more content, more visibility, more “yes.” But growth doesn’t happen from scattered hustle. It comes from staying in your lane, refining focus, and consistently delivering value where it counts. Tips for staying grounded: Build around your strengths , not trends. Outsource or eliminate tasks that drain rather than grow your business. Trust that simplicity scales. Complication doesn’t equal success. Remember: You can’t be everything to everyone.  And you don’t need to be.   So, choose intention over obligation. When you start measuring your tasks by their true  outcomes and not by how happy they make others, you’ll find yourself working with more purpose, more ease, and more alignment. You’ll stop running in circles and start moving forward. You don’t need to do more  to be valuable. You just need to make sure your input is building the outcome  you actually want.   Special thanks to my mentor Chantal Munro ( www.chantalfairy.com ) for your guidance and Lauren Margaritis – The Perimenopause Coach ( Facebook ) for our conversation this week that reminded me to remain focused on what lights my fire, rather than what I think I should be doing. And I can't forget Nicola Baker ( moyamoyaaustralia.org.au ) who shares the struggle with me. Pictured here with me on our way home from Melbourne recently.

We all have a table. Not a physical one necessarily, but a metaphorical table — a sacred space where we gather the people who shape our lives, influence our energy, and contribute to our journey. The seats at this table are precious, limited, and powerful. So the question is: Who's sitting at your table? Recently, I had the privilege of attending the AusMumpreneur Conference and Awards in Melbourne. It was an inspiring few days surrounded by an incredible community of women - leaders, dreamers, doers — from every corner of Australia. Women from all walks of life, all industries, and all stories came together not in competition but in celebration of one another. The energy in the room was electric. It was supportive, genuine, uplifting - the kind that fills your cup and reminds you why community matters. I returned home feeling like I could do anything, and more importantly, that I had a tribe who believed that too. It's a rare and beautiful thing to be surrounded by people who cheer for you loudly, even when it’s not their turn to shine. That experience got me thinking: Who do we allow to sit at our table? Because the truth is, not everyone deserves a seat. Some people bring light, joy, and encouragement. They inspire us to be more, to stretch beyond our limits, and to chase our goals with courage. These are the ones who remind us of our worth, even on the hard days. These are the people who should have a permanent place at your table. But then there are others. The energy-drainers. The ones who doubt, diminish, or distract. The ones who only show up when it serves them, or who quietly erode your confidence with passive remarks and conditional support. Maybe they were once essential to your life and helped you grow in the past, but now, their seat is costing you too much. It's not about blame or bitterness. It's about alignment and growth. Sometimes, we outgrow people. Sometimes, we evolve, and the company we keep needs to evolve too. So today, I want to ask you: ✨ Who has a seat at your table? ✨ Who fills your cup, lifts you up, and celebrates your wins? ✨ And just as importantly — who are you keeping a spot for out of habit, guilt, or fear? Your table should be a space of strength, not stress. A space of inspiration, not insecurity. And you get to choose - with love, with intention - who gets to stay, and who it’s time to kindly show the door. As I reflect on Melbourne and the powerhouse women I met, I’m reminded that our lives are shaped by the people we invite in. Choose wisely. Surround yourself with those who light you up, not dim your shine. Because life is too short to be explaining your worth to the wrong people. Here’s to full cups, loud cheerleaders, and tables filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support. So tell me — who’s sitting at your table? And who needs  to give up their seat? Photo credit: Liz Morris Photography #bowerbird_publishing #WhosSittingAtYourTable #ProtectYourPeace #EnergyMatters #ChooseYourCircle #SurroundYourselfWithGreatness #GrowthMindset #PositiveVibesOnly #LevelUpYourLife #KnowYourWorth #UpliftAndEmpower

Wherever you are in the publishing process, there are smart steps you can take today that will make things smoother tomorrow and give your book the best possible chance at success. Start weaving these practices into your regular routine now, and your future self will thank you!   Before you publish (while you’re still writing): Attend book events. Pay attention to what you like and don’t like, so when it’s your turn, you’ll already have a vision for your book event. Create an organised digital filing system along with file naming rules. Down the line, you may be looking for something, and you’ll be grateful you know where to find it. Backup everything - locally and on an external hard drive. End each week of work with a backup. When doing research, take photos and videos of setting locations and items of inspiration for future social media posts and blogs. Again, ensure you have a filing system with file naming rules on your computer. From the moment you start a manuscript, keep a list of your marketing ideas - affiliate groups, article and blog post topics, media outlets that would be a good fit, bookstores to contact, etc. Keep a file of everything you delete from your manuscript in case you decide to add something back in later. Or, readers love deleted scenes! Maybe you could use some of the deleted content on social media or in a blog after publication. Ignore the media trends in the industry - write the book you want to write. Go into a bubble and write from your heart, without wondering how good it is or who’s going to read it. Worry about all that once the first draft is finished. Your unique voice is what readers will connect with most. If you write nonfiction, you already keep a bibliography of your sources, but fiction writers should do this, too. You may need to refer back to something during revisions. Read as much as possible in your genre. Keep a list of comparable titles and authors to approach about providing an endorsement or review of your book. Note what you liked about their book so you can personalise your email to them, as well as why a review from this author would help your book. Get to know your local book retailers. Attend their events and buy from their stores. Collect bonus content to add to book or website once you are published, including a glossary, book club discussion questions, author Q&A, character family tree, recipes of dishes mentioned in the story, playlists, a deep dive into a unique aspect of your story’s setting or culture, maps, and so much more. Don’t rush. Do multiple rounds of edits. Have friends, family or beta readers give you feedback. Edit again. And then again. Don’t submit until the manuscript is the absolute best you can make it. Connect with industry agents, editors, publishers and authors on social media. This will keep you in the loop with trends and build your support network. Take a class on anything you need to become a better writer, entrepreneur, social media content creator, salesperson, speaker… any of the many hats an author must wear.   When you are in the publishing process: Ensure you have the following updated and easily accessible at all times: back cover blurb, cover images, buy links for your book in each format and on all platforms (shortened), your ISBN number(s), all review quotes you receive, author bio, author photo, links to your social media, link to your website, etc. Read your finished book, or have a trusted friend read it, and flag quotes that would be good to highlight in social media posts and on your website. Contact the people on your Promotions list. Tell them about your book, its publication date, back cover blurb, cover image, your bio, and why you think they and/or their followers would be interested in your book. Share your availability for interviews or events and how to contact you. Offer to send them an Advance Reader Copy. If you have a publisher, you will find all of this information on a Press Release document. Create a calendar for the months leading up to publication for social media posts (including what, exactly, you will post). Create and post to your website all the bonus content that you collected during the writing stage to add value to your readers’ experience. As reviews come in, add them to your website.   Once published: Let go of all expectations you have for your book. It is now out of your control. Continue to promote it but move forward with your next project. If talking about your book makes you nervous, remember that you are at the event  in service  to the audience. Be: entertaining (make them laugh), educational (teach them something they didn’t already know), or inspiring (share something that makes them leave with ideas and dreams swirling around in their minds). Accomplish at least one on that list and you’ll be great! Revisit all action items from ‘Before you publish’ above. Update your website with every link you receive: coverage/reviews of the book, interviews, articles. After every event, send a personalised thank-you note to the organiser. A thank you/appreciation post is also recommended for social media.   No matter how many of these strategies you implement—some or all—each one brings you closer to a more organised and confident publishing journey. Your future self as a successful author will be glad you started now. For more tips like this, check out 6 Steps to Self-publishing on my website www.crystalleonardi.com/bookshop With thanks to Kelli Estes for the inspiration behind this article. Favors to Do for Your Future Author Self - Writer's Digest

Speaking at a luncheon hosted by Cairns Business Women's Club about how resilience has shaped my business journey. Writing a book is a huge achievement, but what comes next is just as important. Whether you're an author, entrepreneur, or both, understanding how to leverage your book can turn it from a hobby or one-off passion project into a powerful business resource. Here are some key tips on how to maximise the impact of your book: 1.    Create Once, Sell Forever One of the greatest advantages of writing a book is its longevity. Unlike services or products that expire, a well-written book can generate value for years, particularly in non-fiction or business genres. This is the essence of leverage - you put in the work once, and it can continue to deliver income, impact, and opportunities long after publication. 2.    Play to Your Strengths Focus on what you do best. Are you a natural storyteller? A confident public speaker? Do you have an engaged social media following? Lean into those strengths. For everything else - editing, design, marketing, and distribution - either take the time to upskill or outsource to professionals. Don’t let inexperience prevent your book from reaching its full potential. Professionalism matters, especially if your book is intended to promote a brand, career, business or set foundations for the sale of future publications. All too often, self-published authors let ego get in the way of producing the best possible book. They resist seeking help or investing in quality, and the result is a book that looks unmistakably self-published—unpolished layout, off-brand covers, and content that doesn’t meet industry standards. If you want your book to be taken seriously, treat it like a serious product. 3.    Promotion on Any Budget You don’t need a huge budget to promote your book. Leverage platforms like: Podcasts (either start your own or be a guest) Social media (organic posts, reels, and stories) Amazon advertising or other targeted ads (scale up or down as needed) The key is consistency. Keep showing up and telling people about your book. 4.    Turning Your Book into a Business Books that solve problems or educate readers are especially powerful. These books position you as a thought leader, and can naturally lead to: Coaching or mentoring Online courses or memberships Public speaking gigs Sales of future books or related products Delivering a workshop on Self-publishing at the Cairns City Library. When readers connect with your message, they’ll often want more from you. That’s where the real business opportunity lies.   Book Funnels: Your Secret Weapon I like to explain this using two types of book funnels: 1. The Book Business Funnel This funnel starts with visibility through media, marketing, or content. A percentage of those who see your book will buy it. From those buyers, you can capture email addresses (using lead magnets or special offers). Once they're on your list, you can nurture them through email campaigns that promote your services, products, or next books. It’s all about building long-term relationships and recurring income. 2. The Author-Only Funnel This is for authors focused solely on book sales. You can run paid ads (like Facebook or Amazon campaigns) to sell your book, and collect buyer emails through an opt-in offer. You then use that email list to promote future releases, pre-orders, or special editions, helping build a loyal reader base over time.   In Summary, leveraging your book means thinking beyond the bookshelf. Whether you’re selling one title or building a whole business around it, your book is a tool - a bridge between your message and your audience. When you learn to use it strategically, the possibilities are limitless. For some inspiring stories about authors who’ve successfully leveraged their books, check out these authors: Debra Gavranich (The Girl Who Left) was published traditionally in Australia. One book, a powerful message, and successfully retaining interest, following and sales. Facebook Tony Park (Far Horizon + 22 others) was published traditionally in Australia and then transitioned into self-publishing. Many books, successfully leveraged into other business ventures and writing services. All Novels written by Tony Park International Author

With a budding author at the 2024 Cairns Tropical Writer's Festival.   I recently tuned into a fantastic episode of the Inspirational Indie Author Interview  featuring Tony Park - an Australian thriller writer whose career is as captivating as the stories he pens. Hosted by long-time journalist and editor Howard Lovy, the conversation shed light on what it truly means to take charge of your author journey - and why treating your writing like a business is key. Tony’s journey started traditionally. His first book was published in 2004 through a mainstream Australian publisher. While the experience was positive, he described it as somewhat emotionless - Transactional rather than transformational. And like many authors navigating traditional publishing, the royalties left much to be desired. But Tony’s real turning point came when he decided to buy back the rights to his titles in South Africa, where he had built his strongest readership. From there, he took the reins and dove headfirst into the world of self-publishing. And that’s where the magic happened. Tony spoke candidly about the difference in mindset that separates hobby writers from those who aim to build a sustainable career. “Follow your authorship dream,” he says, “but if you want to make a living out of writing, you need to treat it like a business.” That hit home for me. I remember when I realised that writing just one book wouldn’t cut it. I needed to think bigger, and that’s when the idea of starting my own publishing company was born. For Tony, that same business-minded approach led him to ghostwriting as a way to fund his writing career. For others, it might be coaching, editing, or building an author brand. The point is: If you're serious about writing, you must uncover your inner entrepreneur. Another powerful takeaway… The contrast between traditional publishing and the self-published, or indie author community. I liken it to shopping at a supermarket like Coles or Woolworths versus a local grocer. Sure, indie publishing might cost a bit more up front (no advances or funded book tours) - but you get better quality, personal connection, and lasting value. You’re part of a community, not just a catalogue. What I appreciated most about Tony’s story was his honesty and flexibility. He’s willing to try, reflect, adapt, and try again. And that’s exactly what this industry demands. Publishing is constantly evolving, and authors need to stay nimble. The key is knowing your goal: Is writing a passion project, or do you want to turn it into a professional pursuit? Tony’s story is a timely reminder that success doesn’t come from doing things the ‘right’ way - but from doing them your way, with intention, resilience, and community at the heart. Both Tony and I are members of The Alliance of Independent Authors (ALLi). ALLi is a global membership association empowering writers to create great books, reach more readers, and build successful publishing businesses. To find out more or become a member, go here:   Home - The Alliance Independent Authors Author, Tony Park To listen to the recording of Tony’s interview with Howard, go here:   Inspirational Indie Author Interview: Tony Park For more information about Tony Park and his books, go here:   Tony Park author of Fiction and Non-Fiction books of Africa Just a sample of Tony Park's incredible catalogue of published titles.

As a publisher, I’ve congratulated countless authors, eyes sparkling with the satisfaction of a completed manuscript, only to watch their faces fall when I mention the next step: “Now we need to write your synopsis.” You can almost hear their panic. The synopsis, often less than 500 words, somehow becomes the most daunting part of the process for many writers. One author at a recent book launch put it best: “I wrote 50,000 words and then I had to summarise it, make a reader want to buy it and cover every topic in it. How is this the hardest part of writing a book!?”   Different to a blurb and taglines (I’ll briefly discuss these later), a synopsis isn’t just a summary—it’s a book’s first impression. Here's why I think authors struggle to write their synopses... Authors live inside their stories. They’ve spent months (or years) building complex characters, crafting layered plots, and perfecting the rhythm of their writing. Now they’re being asked to flatten all that brilliance into a single, short, summary? But from a publishing perspective, the synopsis is crucial. It’s what editors pass around when considering its merit, it helps a publisher market and position the book in the industry, and it’s what booksellers and libraries use to decide if it fits on their shelves.   Here are my tips for making writing a synopsis easier: 1.    A synopsis has a purpose, so, it should: Outline the main plot from beginning to end (yes, spoilers included). Introduce the protagonist and their goals. Highlight major turning points. Show the resolution.   2.    To help build your synopsis, here are some questions you should ask yourself: Who is the main character? What do they want? What stands in their way? What major events change their path? How is the conflict resolved?   3. Keep it simple: Beginning: Introduce the main character and setup. Middle: Present the core conflict and major obstacles. End: Describe how the story is resolved.   The synopsis doesn’t have to be a torment, afterall, once completed, it becomes a useful tool—both for authors and the publisher.   Blurb, Synopsis, Tagline: What’s the Difference? Blurb: The blurb is the short, enticing summary you find on the back cover. Its job is to hook  readers without giving away too much. It teases, hints, and builds intrigue. Think of it as your book’s elevator pitch for readers. Example: Anna thought she knew everything about her sleepy seaside town—until a stranger’s arrival unearths secrets that could shatter everything she believes.   Synopsis: The synopsis gives a clear, spoiler-filled summary of the book’s entire plot, including the ending. It's what publishers, editors, and advertising agents use to understand the full scope of the story.   Tagline: The tagline is a short, catchy phrase—often just one line—used in marketing. It's designed to be memorable and emotionally engaging. Think of it as a headline or hook for a poster or social media ad. Example: Some secrets are meant to stay buried.   Writing a synopsis may feel like wrestling your story into a straitjacket, but it’s an essential step in presenting your book to the world. With a clear purpose, a simple structure, and the right mindset, the process becomes far less intimidating—and far more rewarding. And remember: while the blurb draws in readers and the tagline grabs attention, it’s the synopsis that lays the foundation for your book’s journey from manuscript to market. Embrace it as part of your craft—and part of your success. For more publishing tips & tricks with industry expertise, check out my '6 Steps to Self-publishing' resource here: 6 Steps to Self-publishing with Crystal Leonardi | Bowerbird Publishing

In today's digital landscape, video content has become an indispensable tool for authors aiming to enhance their visibility and connect with a broader audience. As a publisher and mentor to emerging and self-published authors, I cannot stress the importance of integrating video into your marketing strategy. Drawing inspiration from Paula Rizzo's insights in her article "Media-Savvy Author: How to Use Video to Sell More Books," here are my recommendations to help you effectively utilise video content to boost your book sales: 1. Develop a Clear Video Strategy Begin by identifying your target audience and determining the key messages you want to convey. Whether it's sharing the inspiration behind your book, offering a glimpse into your writing process, or discussing themes and characters, having a clear plan will ensure your videos resonate with viewers. 2. Create Engaging and Authentic Content Authenticity fosters a genuine connection with your audience. Consider producing a variety of content, such as: Behind-the-scenes Footage : Showcase your writing environment or the research process. Live Q&A Sessions : Engage with readers in real-time, answering their questions and discussing your work. Book Trailers : Craft short, captivating previews that entice potential readers. 3. Leverage Social Media Platforms Utilise platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube to share your videos. Each platform has its unique audience; for instance, TikTok's #BookTok community has been instrumental in boosting book sales and introducing titles to younger readers. Engaging with these communities can amplify your reach. Check out my YouTube channel here: Bowerbird Publishing - YouTube 4. Collaborate with Fellow Authors & Influencers Partnering with influencers or other authors can expand your audience base. Collaborations can be joint live sessions, interviews, or guest appearances on each other's channels. Such partnerships can introduce your work to new readers and build credibility. 5. Invest in Quality Production While authenticity is key, ensuring good audio and visual quality reflects professionalism. This doesn't mean a significant financial investment; even with limited resources, focusing on clear audio, adequate lighting, and a steady camera can improve the viewer's experience. Don't be afraid to try cheap options from Kmart or Big W before investing in quality equipment. I started with spending around $50 on lighting, a tripod, and a microphone from Kmart, then purchased better quality items from reputable brands for the items I used the most, which added quality to my productions. 6. Encourage Audience Interaction Prompt your viewers to engage by asking questions, encouraging comments, and fostering discussions about your book's themes. This interaction not only builds a community but also increases the visibility of your content through shares and recommendations. Incorporating video into your marketing efforts can significantly impact your book's success. By thoughtfully planning your content, engaging authentically with your audience, and leveraging the power of social media, you can create a dynamic platform that resonates with readers and drives sales. 7. Keep It Short Attention spans are shrinking, and viewers are constantly bombarded with content. You risk losing your audience if your video doesn’t grab attention within the first few seconds. Keep your footage short, sharp, and to the point—get straight into the message without unnecessary buildup. Many authors create valuable content, but if it starts too slowly or feels generic, viewers will scroll right past it. To avoid this, open with a hook that immediately draws interest, deliver your key message efficiently, and end with a thought-provoking statement that lingers in the viewer’s mind. Think of your video as the blurb of your book—it should be compelling and concise and leave the audience wanting more. For further insights, refer to Paula Rizzo's article, "Media-Savvy Author: How to Use Video to Sell More Books."

When it comes to writing, there are no hard and fast rules—every ‘rule’ proposed by writers has been broken at some point. However, there are timeless principles that can serve as valuable guides to crafting compelling stories. For me, the most important principle in writing is this... ...captivate immediately ! If you aim to hook a publisher (or any reader) in the first 30 pages, you must grab their attention and keep it. The key lies in following three essential steps that ensure your opening pages are irresistible. Recently, I completed a course hosted by Barbara Kyle on this topic. I wanted to share my top 3 takeaways. Credit to Barbara for sharing her knowledge and expertise. You can check out her website here: https://www.barbarakyle.com   Step 1: Create a Clear, Inciting Incident The first step to captivating your audience is introducing a clear, inciting incident. This event tips the main character’s life off balance and sets the story in motion. It doesn’t have to happen in the very first sentence, but it should occur as close to the start as possible. The goal is to start with something that matters deeply to the protagonist, giving readers an immediate emotional hook. Do:  Start with an event that directly impacts the main character’s life and forces them into action. This is the ‘point of no return’ that makes your readers invested in what happens next. Don’t:  Start with a lengthy backstory. Readers don’t need to know everything about your character’s past before they care about their present. Instead, weave the backstory in gradually, revealing only what’s necessary as the plot unfolds.   Example: ‘ The Wizard of Oz’ by L Frank Baum In ‘ The Wizard of Oz’ , the inciting incident is the tornado that whisks Dorothy away to the magical land of Oz. But the story doesn’t open with the tornado. Instead, it begins by describing her life on a bleak, flat prairie with her Aunt Em, Uncle Henry and her beloved dog, Toto. The emotional connection created by Dorothy’s relatability makes the stakes of the tornado—and her subsequent journey—more meaningful to the audience. Example: ‘ Gone Girl’  by Gillian Flynn Another excellent example is Gillian Flynn’s ‘ Gone Girl’ . The story begins with Nick, the husband, waking up to find that his wife, Amy, is missing. This is an inciting incident, and it happens almost immediately. What makes it so powerful is the way Flynn crafts tension and mystery from the very beginning. We are thrown into Nick’s perspective, and the first-person narration reveals his thoughts as he grapples with his thoughts and confusion. The opening chapter doesn’t just tell us what’s happening; it layers the scene with suspicion, unease, and a tinge of foreboding. How? Because Nick’s thoughts about Amy are unsettling. He describes her head—the shape of her skull, her brilliance, and her manipulative tendencies. This creates a sense that something isn’t quite right. The reader is hooked, not just by the mystery of Amy’s disappearance but by the complexity of the relationship and the undercurrent of tension between the characters. Furthermore, the author doesn’t rush the scene. Instead, she builds intrigue by weaving in small details that hint at larger truths. This careful pacing draws readers in, making them eager to turn the page and uncover what’s really going on.   By introducing a clear, emotionally charged inciting incident early in your story, you’ll hook your audience and keep them invested. The key is to start with something that disrupts the status quo and makes readers want to know more. Stay tuned for the next two steps in crafting irresistible opening pages; Part 2 will be released next week!

Thanks for returning to my blog for Part 3! To re-cap: When it comes to writing, there are no hard and fast rules—every ‘rule’ proposed by writers has been broken at some point. However, there are timeless principles that can serve as valuable guides to crafting compelling stories. For me, the most essential principle in writing is this: captivate immediately . If you aim to hook a publisher (or any reader) in the first 30 pages, you must grab their attention and keep it. The key lies in following three essential steps that ensure your opening pages are irresistible. Recently, I completed a course hosted by Barbara Kyle on this very topic. I wanted to share my top 3 takeaways. Credit to Barbara for sharing her knowledge and expertise. You can check out her website here: https://www.barbarakyle.com   Effective Use of Dialogue Dialogue creates magic in a book and breathes life into the story. Dramatic Functions of Dialogue: Moves the story forward: Dialogue can explain, accuse, or distract, but it should always include some level of tension. Tension keeps readers engaged and eager to know what happens next. Develops relationships: Well-written dialogue reveals the unique personalities of characters. Eliminate generic or robotic tones—each character should have a distinctive voice. Use idioms and quirks to add depth. Here’s an example of generic/robotic tone: Lisa: "Hello, James. How are you doing today?" James: "I am fine, Lisa. Thank you for asking. How are you?" Lisa: "I am also fine. It is nice to see you." James: "It is nice to see you, too. I hope you have a good day." Now, here’s an example of tone with personality: Lisa: "James! Long time no see—what’s new in your world?" James: "Lisa! Same old, same old. But hey, I finally fixed that coffee machine you made fun of." Lisa: [laughing]  "You mean the antique museum piece you call a coffee machine? I’ll believe it when I see it brewing something drinkable." James: "Ouch. I’d invite you over to prove you wrong, but I don’t think my ego could handle your commentary." Enhances rhythm and atmosphere: Body language is a living part of dialogue. For instance, instead of saying, "She was nervous," write, "The woman fidgeted with her wedding ring." Similarly, "The girl covered her mouth to hide a smile" conveys more emotion and adds rhythm to the scene. These subtle details can replace or enhance dialogue, making conversations more dynamic and believable. By implementing these three steps: establishing a clear inciting incident, creating a character readers care about, and mastering effective dialogue, you can craft an opening that hooks readers and publishers alike. Remember, captivating storytelling is all about connection and engagement! If you loved this series of blogs, let me know! You can comment directly here or send me an email to leonardi.crystal@gmail.com . I have mentoring programs and consultation services and offer manuscript appraisals, too, so if you think I can help improve your writing, get in touch!

Thanks for returning to my blog for Part 2! To re-cap: When it comes to writing, there are no hard and fast rules—every ‘rule’ proposed by writers has been broken at some point. However, there are timeless principles that can serve as valuable guides to crafting compelling stories. For me, the most essential principle in writing is this: captivate immediately . If you aim to hook a publisher (or any reader) in the first 30 pages, you must grab their attention and keep it. The key lies in following three essential steps that ensure your opening pages are irresistible. Recently, I completed a course hosted by Barbara Kyle on this very topic. I wanted to share my top 3 takeaways. Credit to Barbara for sharing her knowledge and expertise. You can check out her website here: https://www.barbarakyle.com Make the Reader Care The second step is crafting a protagonist who evokes an emotional response in the reader. The goal is to create empathy, which doesn’t necessarily mean sympathy. Empathy allows readers to feel and remember, helping them connect with the character more deeply. Empathy, Not Sympathy:  When readers empathise with a character, they see the world through the character’s eyes and understand their struggles—even if they don’t necessarily approve of their actions. This identification will help the reader engage and remember the story beyond the pages.   Example: Don Corleone in ‘ The Godfather’  by Mario Puzo Don Corleone is not a ‘nice’ character. He’s a mafia boss who bribes, murders, and cheats. Yet readers empathise with him because he’s also a devoted and loving father, and a family man whose values are admirable. Additionally, he only resorts to violence when forced or provoked, a motive readers can understand. Finally, while the story includes the dirty work of the mafia, Don often delegates these actions to others, distancing him from the violence in the reader’s mind. These traits make him a compelling character we can empathise with, even if we don’t condone his actions. Example: Scarlett O’Hara in ‘ Gone with the Wind’ by Margaret Mitchell Scarlett O’Hara is another character who evokes empathy without necessarily earning sympathy. She is vain, selfish, and scheming. However, her passion, forcefulness, and determination make her likable. Her parents and the other characters’ love for her reflect these qualities, and readers admire her willpower. Scarlett’s flaws make her relatable, while her strengths make her admirable—a perfect balance for a character readers can empathise with.   How to Create Instant Empathy If you want to quickly establish an emotional connection between your protagonist and your audience, consider adding these qualities: Good at their job: Show the character excelling at something, making them admirable or aspirational. Sense of humour:  A witty or self-deprecating character often feels more relatable and human. Victim of undeserved misfortune: Characters who face challenges like being orphaned, ostracised, or underestimated often earn immediate empathy. Everyday flaws:  Humanising traits like clumsiness, self-doubt, or imperfection make characters more relatable. Help someone else: Demonstrating kindness or selflessness instantly makes a character more likable. By focusing on empathy over sympathy and weaving in these relatable traits, you can create a protagonist who truly resonates with readers. Stay tuned for the next two steps in crafting irresistible opening pages; Part 3 will be released next week!

Starting a writing journey can feel incredibly exciting. You’re brimming with ideas and enthusiasm, ready to dive into your creative process. But soon, reality sets in. Life demands your attention, and suddenly, the time and energy you had planned to dedicate to writing seem to slip away. While writing can be a magical and fulfilling experience, it also requires a practical approach. Many aspiring writers believe they can squeeze writing into their busy lives, hoping to find the time to write while managing work, family, and other obligations. While having a vision for your work is essential, writing—like any other meaningful pursuit—requires investing time, money, and energy. As both a writer and a publisher, I’ve seen many new writers start enthusiastically, only to realise that a writing career, or hobby for that matter, can be very demanding. The key is to assess how you're currently spending your time, money, and energy so that you can direct those resources where they’ll truly support your writing goals. Here are three practical steps to help you focus your resources and make your writing dreams a reality: 1. Identify where you're losing T I M E We all know how easy it is to get lost in social media, TV, or the internet. While these activities can be enjoyable, they can also drain precious hours that could be spent writing. The goal isn’t to eliminate fun but to be more intentional with how you use your time. Take a step back, evaluate your hours, and ask yourself whether those activities are helping you move closer to your writing goals or becoming a hindrance. 2. Identify where you're losing M O N E Y Take a close look at your spending habits over the last month. Are you satisfied with how your money is being spent, or are there areas where you could make adjustments? Small changes, like cutting back on impulse purchases or subscriptions you’re not using, could free up funds that can be reinvested into your writing—think writing courses, books, or professional services that will support your writing goals. 3. Identify where you're losing E N E R G Y Are there activities or people that drain your energy without offering much in return? Consider which interactions or obligations leave you feeling exhausted or uninspired. For example, regular exercise can be a game-changer in boosting energy, helping you sleep better and fuelling your creativity. I have to be honest, I don’t make much time for actual exercise these days, but I do little things like walking to the local shops, rather than driving, parking a reasonable distance from a store entrance, rather than right out front. I also love to potter in the garden as often as possible – gardening is such an easy way to stay fit and healthy! A small investment in your physical health can have a big payoff in renewed energy for your writing. By consciously redirecting your resources—time, money, and energy—toward your writing, you can create a more focused and effective writing lifestyle. If you're seeking guidance in reaching your writing goals, I invite you to consider joining my mentorship program or using my manuscript appraisal service. With personalised support and expert feedback, you'll be better equipped to navigate the challenges of the writing process and turn your creative vision into a reality. Enquire via the publishing tab on www.crystalleonardi.com or email me directly at Leonardi.crystal@gmail.com

From vision to reality - how I came to meet Sarah Ferguson. When opportunity meets vision, magic unfolds. Just a month ago, I created an ambitious vision board in my office, capturing my wildest dreams—personal and professional. It wasn’t about mundane goals like buying a new car or planning a holiday; it was about dreams as grand as meeting Sarah Ferguson, attending the Women Changing the World Summit in London and Paris, and witnessing the Northern Lights from Antarctica. Photo caption: Sarah is holding her copy of Boy of Steel, which I gifted her along with the 'Explaining to Kids' series of children's books. Admittedly, these dreams seemed distant. Yet, I displayed them as a daily reminder to stay motivated and manifest whatever my heart desired. And manifest they did. Although a trip to London felt daunting, especially with my roles as a wife and mother of four, I held onto hope. Then, two weeks ago, a Sunday afternoon scroll through social media changed everything—Fergie was coming to Perth! I assumed tickets would be sold out, but I contacted my friend and fellow publisher Karen Weaver, who lives in Perth, to ask if she knew much about Sarah's Australian plans. To my surprise, Karen responded, saying she was the event organiser for the event in Perth on 1st November! Without hesitation and after a flurry of messages and rapid flight and accommodation arrangements, I secured the opportunity to meet Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York on home soil. Reality set in with the classic, " What will I wear? " Fast forward 10 days, and I found myself at Joondalup Resort in Perth, surrounded by 700 elegantly dressed women, waiting for Sarah Ferguson to be interviewed by acclaimed author Tess Woods. I managed a seat in the second row, just behind Karen. Sarah's hour-long talk was captivating and filled with humour, honesty, and warmth. When it was time to meet her, I felt profoundly grateful to Karen for this once-in-a-lifetime chance. It is extraordinary to think that Sarah now holds my books, possibly sharing them with children and families in need. This moment was particularly poignant as Sarah had already encountered Bowerbird Publishing this year through various opportunities—a testament to the incredible and serendipitous connections that have shaped my journey. Meeting Sarah Ferguson was more than a personal milestone; it affirmed that... the sky truly is the limit . Success isn’t defined by how we measure up against others but by pursuing our passions and contributing to the world. Even Fergie, a successful author and duchess, exemplifies this by continually pushing her boundaries. She openly shared her ambition of adapting her novel The Intriguing Woman  into a mini-series and winning an Emmy, then an Oscar. I was surprised—she is already a New York Times #1 best-selling author, a duchess, and a champion of literature. Yet, she still dreams big. This inspired me to embrace my own aspirations unapologetically. Success is subjective. To outsiders, my meeting with Fergie might signify ‘success,' but true success, for me, is loving what I do each day and helping writers share their stories. It’s about the journey, not an endless chase for recognition. Sarah shared lessons on living fully and nurturing self-love. Her wit, warmth, and candid nature charmed the audience, as did her dedication to helping children navigate life's challenges through fiction writing. Her work has my deepest respect and admiration. Sarah’s bond with Australia is strong. Her sister has lived in Perth for 50 years, and she mentioned connections to the parents of her grandchildren’s nanny and her publisher, Karen. She’s collaborated with Australian authors and illustrators, cementing her literary ties here. Her memories of Princess Diana and Queen Elizabeth were touching. Sarah spoke fondly of their unwavering support, recounting light-hearted anecdotes, like how the Queen would offer treats to her corgis during meals—gestures Sarah has continued, bringing daily comfort and a sense of connection to the Queen. Reflecting on her life, Sarah described her wedding to Prince Andrew as her happiest day and proudly claimed she had married the best-looking royal. Before her marriage, she worked for a London publishing house, showcasing her literary talents long before her 80 published books. This full-circle moment resonated deeply with my career path and reminded me to always acknowledge how far we have come. Photo caption: Enjoying the electric atmosphere with #joanne_colely_art and #thefarahmak At 65, Sarah exudes pride and resilience. A breast cancer survivor with a double mastectomy, she humorously refers to her reconstructed breasts as 'Derrick' and 'Eric.' She spoke proudly of her daughters’ health journeys—Beatrice's battle with severe dyslexia and Eugenie’s with scoliosis—and their choice to display their scars as symbols of strength. One insight that stayed with me was her advice to treat ourselves as we would our six-year-old selves, offering the kindness and reassurance often needed in moments of doubt. Meeting Sarah Ferguson reinforced my role as a storytelling advocate. She belongs to a community of like-minded individuals, including Karen Weaver, Justine Martin, Peace Mitchell, and Katy Garner, who all champion creativity and community. Together, we inspire and support each other, standing out by embracing our unique paths. I'd like to take this opportunity to thanks Karen Weaver for her unwavering love and support. She is my idol. You can find out more here: Karen P Weaver Here are some more photos from the event and my time in the stunning Perth...

Being a writer is more than just putting words on a page. Success often comes from cultivating daily habits that foster creativity, productivity, and resilience. Here are five habits that can help any writer enhance their craft. 1. Write Consistently Consistency is critical to building a sustainable writing practice. Aim to write daily, even if only for a 30-minutes. This regular commitment helps develop momentum and strengthens your writing ‘muscles’ over time. A few sentences on busy days can keep the habit alive and reduce the intimidation of facing a blank page. Smart Strategy : Keep multiple writing projects in progress to avoid writer's block. If you feel stuck on one project, switch to another. 2. Establish a Routine Finding a rhythm in your day is invaluable for productivity. Experiment with different routines, like writing in the morning or late at night, to see what works best for you. A stable routine helps create mental readiness, making it easier to dive into writing when it’s time. Incorporate breaks for meals, a stretch, and fresh air to sustain energy and prevent burnout. Smart Strategy:  Once you find a productive routine, stick to it. Consistency trains your brain to be ready for creative work. 3. Read Widely Reading across genres and styles expands your perspective, introduces new ideas, and sharpens your writing skills. Diversify your reading list to include books, essays, and articles outside your usual preferences. Great writers often get inspiration from various sources, and broad reading can provide unexpected insights into different writing techniques and themes. Smart Strategy:  Join an in-person or online book club to get recommendations and discuss new perspectives that challenge your usual approach. 4. Capture Ideas as They Come Ideas often come sporadically, so keeping a record of them is essential. Whether it’s a notebook, phone app, or voice recording, have a method to capture ideas as they come. The world around you is rich with inspiration, so document snippets of dialogue, images, and observations that might later spark a story or enrich a character. Smart Strategy:  Keep a notebook beside your bed for nighttime inspiration and to record dreams—they can often be a source of unique material. 5. Set Clear Goals Determine what you want to achieve with your writing in the short and long term. Whether it’s finishing a novel, publishing a blog post, or simply writing a few words each week, setting achievable goals can motivate and track your progress. Prioritise quality over quantity—writing well-crafted words will often take you further than sheer word count. Smart Strategy:  Reward yourself for meeting milestones. Celebrate small wins to keep your motivation high and maintain a positive outlook on your writing journey. If you loved this article, check out my book '6 Steps to Self-publishing' for more fantastic tips and mentoring sessions. Perfect for the writer or aspiring published author. You will find a copy here : www.crystalleonardi.com/bookshop

Origins – where did you begin? Three years ago, in the quiet moments of a bustling household, where the hums of the washing machine and dishwasher punctuated the mundane rhythm of motherhood, I found myself at a crossroads that would forever alter my existence. I was in my 10th year as a stay-at-home mum, nurturing my four children through their developmental years, while also nurturing a dream that seemed almost impossible to achieve. My journey from those early days to becoming the owner of a thriving, award-winning business is a testament to the idea that... it doesn’t matter where you start— what truly matters is your willingness to pursue your dreams and redefine success on your terms. The photograph accompanying this blog — a snapshot of me hunched over a small tablet in our kitchen, surrounded by the remnants of daily life (I love how I had positioned the coffee machine right next to me haha!) — captures the essence of those formative days. It was a time when the ambition of running my own business seemed unattainably distant, and my workspace was defined by the constraints of family life and a modest kitchen bench. I had a vision, but it was wrapped in the humble reality of a makeshift office and a place of dreaming. Back then, my goal was straightforward - I wanted to create a business that supported authors and funded my writing career. This was not just a professional aspiration but a deeply personal goal. I had always believed in the power of words and the impact they could have on the world. However, transforming this belief into a tangible reality was a challenge I approached with equal amounts of determination and inexperience. The early days were marked by learning curves that were steep, unrelenting and sometimes expensive. Juggling the responsibilities of motherhood with the demands of building a business from scratch required a level of perseverance I had not previously known. Each day was a balancing act, where school hours became my window for entrepreneurial pursuits and late nights turned into sessions of research and strategy. My tablet was my constant companion, a portal to a world of opportunities. I devoured online courses, scoured forums for advice, and connected with mentors who had walked the walk before me. The process was not glamorous ; it involved long hours of trial and error, grappling with concepts I had never encountered before and celebrating small victories that felt monumental in the grand scheme of things. Despite the hurdles, there was an undeniable thrill in the process of creation. Every new piece of knowledge, every successful connection made, and every small business milestone achieved felt like a step closer to realizing my dream. I was driven by a profound belief that if I could just get through the challenges, there would be success and reward waiting for me in years to come. Three years later, the transformation from that kitchen-bench startup to a flourishing business has been nothing short of extraordinary. The business I envisioned, one that started as a small endeavour to support authors and fund my writing, has evolved into an award-winning business. It’s a testament to the power of determination and timing. Looking back, it’s clear that success is not a linear journey. It’s easy to become charmed by the glamorous aspects of entrepreneurship, the shiny awards, and the public recognition. Yet, the true essence of my success lies in my commitment and willingness to push through the early stages of struggle and uncertainty. Success, as I’ve learned, is not defined by a single measure but by the ability to overcome obstacles and continually pursue your dreams, regardless of the scale. The evolution of my business has been accompanied by a series of milestones that reflect the growth and development not only of the company but also of myself. Each achievement, from the first book published to my latest accolade, is a reminder of the journey’s significance. These accomplishments are not just personal triumphs; they symbolize the realization of a dream that was once a distant hope, nurtured in the quieter moments of a bustling, chaotic, noisy household. Each setback and each win have contributed to the shape of Bowerbird Publishing and my role as its leader. In sharing my story, I hope to inspire others who may find themselves at the beginning of their journeys, whether they are stay-at-home parents, aspiring entrepreneurs, or anyone with a dream that feels totally out of reach. No matter where you start or how daunting the journey may seem, remember that your dreams are worth pursuing. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories, and keep moving forward with the knowledge that success is not a destination but a continuous journey of growth. Your origins may be humble, but your potential for greatness is limitless. For more information about how I can help you see past the daunting origins of your business, contact me at leonardi.crystal@gmail.com . My services include mentoring and coaching and it is always my honour to help others achieve their goals.

Winning silver in the Professional Service Business of the Year category at the Ausmumpreneur Awards is a moment of immense pride and deep reflection. Standing beside the other extraordinary women who were finalists was both humbling and inspiring. These women, each with their unique journeys and remarkable achievements, represent the pinnacle of being a business leader. To be counted among them and considered worthy of such recognition is an honour I hold close to my heart. I have poured my heart and soul into my work for years, striving to turn my creative passion into a profession . As an author at heart, the journey has been filled with challenges, moments of doubt, and countless hours of dedication. Writing has always been my first love, a craft that allows me to express my thoughts, ideas, and emotions in ways nothing can. But transforming that passion into a sustainable business has been a dream that has taken, to be honest, a lifetime to cultivate. This award, particularly in a professional category, feels like a validation of that journey. It is a recognition of my work and the perseverance and commitment it has taken to reach this point. Winning as a publisher in a category where the competition included highly respected recruitment, marketing and PR businesses like Superior Recruitment, the bronze recipient, and Three Peas Marketing, the gold winner, adds another layer of meaning to this achievement. These businesses are powerhouses in their own right, led by women who have significantly contributed to their industries. Standing among them and being acknowledged this way is incredibly gratifying . It reminds me that my work is not only valuable but also impactful and resonates with others in the professional community. This award also signifies a milestone in my professional journey . It is a moment to pause and reflect on how far I have come and the goals I have yet to achieve. It encourages me to continue pushing forward, strive for excellence in all I do, and remain true to the creative passion that has guided me from the beginning. Being recognized in this way reinforces the belief that I am on the right path, that my work matters, and that the dedication I have invested is seen and appreciated by others. In conclusion, winning silver at the Ausmumpreneur Awards is more than just an accolade; it is a testament to the hard work, passion, and resilience that have shaped my journey. It is a moment of pride, yes, but also one of deep gratitude—for the opportunities I have been given, for the incredible women who have inspired me, and for the recognition that reminds me why I began this journey in the first place. To become a part of the Ausmums community, head to their website to view the upcoming opportunities to connect: AusMumpreneur | Australia's Number 1 Community for Mums in Business To view more photos from my incredible time in Melbourne at the 2024 Ausmumpreneur National Conference and Awards, head to my media gallery: Events | Bowerbird Publishing ( crystalleonardi.com )

When an author’s book event doesn’t draw a big crowd, it can be disappointing and confidence-shaking. Despite careful planning, which includes leveraging social media, collaborating with other authors, local promotion, and creative venue selection, the secret recipe to a successful book event remains elusive. At the recent BookUp Conference, I was both perplexed and comforted to learn that even top marketing managers in the Australian book industry are no closer to solving the mystery of sporadic and inexplicable low attendance at book events across our vast country. Image (above): Author, Alan Isherwood at a recent event with a disappointing showing. Image (above): Alan Isherwood at one of the more 'successful' book events. Big smile, ready to sign his book, Isherwood's Australia. The consolation I take from this is that the success of a book event doesn’t necessarily reflect the popularity or merit of the author. Sometimes, people just don’t show up.   As a publisher, I strive to coach my authors to not only believe in the value of their work but to stand up and proudly promote it. The harsh reality of this industry is that if you don’t believe in your work or aren’t willing to promote it, no one else will. Even those authors who can afford a publishing agent and have a full schedule of book events nationwide aren’t guaranteed a crowd. And even if they do draw a large audience, that doesn’t always translate to strong sales. It's a numbers game. As any performer knows, some events are hits, while others miss the mark. My point is that while you have the energy and drive, you must keep showing up and seizing every opportunity, even if it’s just for an audience of one or your reliable circle of family and friends. Image (left & below): Happier times; Alan Isherwood launching Isherwood's Australia at Cairns Tropical Writers Festival earlier in 2024. I’ve attended book events of all kinds. The ones I think will draw a huge crowd sometimes don’t, while others that seem like long shots surprise me with strong turnouts. Here are some strategies authors can use to overcome the disappointment of a poorly attended event and move forward positively:   Focus on the aspects of the event that went well. Maybe the attendees who did come were highly engaged, provided valuable feedback and bought a book! If you only had 3 in attendance but all 3 bought a book, that’s 100% success rate! I don’t know about you but I’d rather that than 1 sale out of a room of 50… Remind yourself why you became an author and what you love about writing and sharing your work. This can help reignite your motivation and enthusiasm. Use the opportunity to build deeper connections with the attendees who did show up. Smaller events can allow for more meaningful interactions and perhaps even friendships. You never know people’s motivation for attending your book event… Acknowledge and celebrate the small successes. Every step forward is progress. Even if that means building a relationship with the venue manager. Perhaps it could lead to future events at a different time/day/venue where the venue manager has had more success. For those who do show up, don’t be embarrassed to ask for their feedback. Be sure to ask them how they heard about the event and if they could suggest more ways to promote it and draw a bigger audience. This can provide insights into what worked and what can be improved for future events. With feedback from the venue manager, attendees and your own analysis, you will be able to analyse why the attendance was low. Was it the timing, location, marketing, or something else? Use this information to make adjustments for future events. Start planning your next event with the lessons learned straight away. Don’t feel disheartened, even the worlds biggest entertainers experience fears of low attendance and overall audience satisfaction.   Images (above): Alan Isherwood at some of his hugely successful book events with great attendance. Every book event, regardless of attendance, is an opportunity to learn and grow. By focusing on what went right, staying true to your passion for writing, and using constructive feedback to refine your approach, you can build momentum in your author journey. Even when things don’t go as planned, resilience and a positive mindset will keep you moving forward. The key is to keep showing up, embrace the process, and celebrate progress—no matter how small. After all, success isn’t always measured by the size of the crowd but by the connections you make and the impact your work has on those who are present. For a comprehensive look at publishing and self-publishing your work, check out '6 Steps to Self-Publishing' through my online bookshop www.crystalleonardi.com/bookshop   #AuthorLife #BookEvents #PublishingJourney #WritingCommunity #BookPromotion #AuthorAdvice #ResilientAuthors #IndieAuthor #WritersOfInstagram #CreativeProcess

As a publisher, these are some of the questions I get asked most… What are publishers looking for? How is ‘the slush pile’ assessed? Why does it take so long to hear back from a publisher? Here is my do’s, & don’ts of submitting your manuscript and what us publishers call ‘the slush pile.’ What’s the process of submission? Before you submit your manuscript to a publisher you must do everything you can to ensure that your work is at a publishable standard. See my previous blog on Manuscript Readiness – How do I know when my manuscript is ready to be submitted? You get only one chance to make an impression, so you want to make sure your work is at a high standard. Once you’re ready, the next step is to do your research to find the right publisher for your work. No matter how wonderful your manuscript is, if you are submitting to publishers who do not publish your genre, it will be rejected. This information is typically outlined in the publisher’s submission guidelines, but you can also look at the list of books they are currently publishing for guidance. In Australia, most publishers accept unsolicited manuscripts, either all year around, or at particular times of the year. This means you can submit your work directly to the publisher without the need for a literary agent, unlike markets such as the US and UK. Each publisher has their own guidelines for submission, and it pays to follow those guidelines closely. While it may not seem meaningful to you whether your manuscript has double-spacing or not, following these guidelines carefully demonstrates you’re someone who is capable and considerate enough to read and follow instructions – i.e. you’re someone they might want to work with. What is a slush pile and how is it assessed? When you make a submission to a publisher, your work lands in what is called ‘the slush pile,’ which is essentially just a stack of unread manuscripts. Editors and publishers will do what’s called ‘the sifting process’ to separate the manuscripts that deserve more attention and those that don’t. Often, manuscripts are flagged or shortlisted based on the quality and/or appeal of their synopsis, bio and a quick read of the text. If the publisher is drawn in by a clear, succinct pitch and an enticing hook, then the manuscript will be considered more carefully. How do you stand out in the slush pile? Some publishers receive thousands of unsolicited manuscripts per year. As a publisher, my best advice is to make sure your manuscript and pitch are in the best shape they can be before submitting them. Your first chapter, in particular, should be as polished as it can be. This is not only the publisher’s first impression but will also be the reader’s first impression when it comes time for them to read it! I’m always looking for a book that knows what it is. Who’s your audience? What’s the genre? Where would this book sit on a shelf? A manuscript will stand out if it has a great first chapter where the reader is straight into the story. I’m always looking out for originality and a strong, clear voice. What are some of the most common mistakes publishers see? The biggest mistake I find is authors not thinking about the market for their book or showing that they haven’t researched the publisher they’re submitting to. You need to show that you’ve considered where your book would sit in a bookshop. What successful books is it similar to? How do you think it might be marketed? And always read the submission guidelines: if the publisher only wants three chapters, don’t send the whole novel, and if they don’t publish poetry, don’t send them poetry. Don’t make it easy for publishers to ignore your submission. As a publisher, I want to give unrepresented authors a chance to get published, but slush piles are huge, and it takes time to read and sift through all the manuscripts, so a non-conforming submission makes for an easy “no”. Submit exactly the material that is requested, particularly the word count, look carefully at the areas of interest to the publisher, and polish those words. Spelling and grammatical errors stand out for all the wrong reasons! Submission Checklist Make sure your manuscript is at a publishable standard. Understand the genre you are writing in. Do your research to find the right publisher for your work. Follow the submission guidelines closely. This article was inspired by Behind the book: submitting to a publisher - Australian Society of Authors (asauthors.org.au) Follow me on social media to stay up to date with my blog. The next one will feature tips on how to stand out in the Prepare your manuscript for submission. (6) Facebook @Bowerbird Publishing – Crystal Leonardi Crystal Leonardi (@bowerbird_publishing) • Instagram photos and videos #bowerbird_publishing Crystal Leonardi is an award-winning author and publisher. Her titles include Boy of Steel: Little Sebastian's Big Miracle (2021), 6 Steps to Self-publishing with Crystal Leonardi (2022), My Brother Sebastian: Explaining Cancer to Kids (2022), My Friend Alice: Explaining Disability to Kids (2023) and My Mate Jed: Explaining Stroke to Kids (2024). You can buy her books here.

How do I know when my manuscript is ready to be submitted? When you write a book, it is officially called a manuscript until it’s published. However, one of the tricky things about writing is knowing when a manuscript is actually finished and ready to be submitted to an agent or publisher. Some writers spend months, even years, tweaking their work and others finish one draft and declare it finished. I follow a three-step process to help me get my manuscripts to a completed stage. Editing: After I finish writing, and before I let anyone else read it, I edit it twice. The first edit is done on screen and looks specifically for spelling and grammatical errors. This is also a good time to focus on tense shifts as this is something that is easily messed up during the writing stage. During the second round of editing, I focus on the content. I make sure that the characters come across as authentic and well rounded, and that the plot is interesting and doesn’t have any gaping holes. At this stage, I don’t make any significant changes but rather make notes in the margins so that I can get feedback from my test readers first. Test Readers: The next step is to arrange a small group of test readers. Try and choose at least five people whose opinions you trust and give them an electronic or printed copy of your manuscript (whichever the individual prefers). Do not expect feedback from all five, but handing out your manuscript to so many people will guarantee that you get at least some feedback. If you want any feedback on specific elements of the manuscript, attach a list of questions for the reader to keep in mind. This will help them focus on giving you the feedback that you need. Make sure that when your test readers give you feedback you appreciate the compliments as well as the criticism. Read over all the feedback carefully and then let it sink in for a while, considering all suggestions. It’s important that you allow yourself at least 7-14 days for new ideas to be considered. Making drastic changes in haste usually leads to unexpected challenges with other parts of the manuscript down the track. Edit Again: The next step is editing the book based on the feedback you’ve received. You don’t have to take every suggestion on, but make sure to address any of the legitimate concerns the test readers may have flagged. After this edit and one final proofread for any minor errors, your manuscript should be ready to be submitted to agents or publishers. After being so thorough during the revision process you can be confident that your work is worthy of consideration. It doesn’t mean that you won’t be offered suggestions for revision, but it does allow your manuscript to be read and enjoyed easily. Follow me on social media to stay up to date with my blog. The next one will feature tips on how to stand out in the Slush Pile. (6) Facebook @Bowerbird Publishing – Crystal Leonardi Crystal Leonardi (@bowerbird_publishing) • Instagram photos and videos #bowerbird_publishing Crystal Leonardi is an award-winning author and publisher. Her titles include Boy of Steel: Little Sebastian's Big Miracle (2021), 6 Steps to Self-publishing with Crystal Leonardi (2022), My Brother Sebastian: Explaining Cancer to Kids (2022), My Friend Alice: Explaining Disability to Kids (2023) and My Mate Jed: Explaining Stroke to Kids (2024). You can buy her books here.

As a self-published author and publisher for almost 4 years now, one of the most common questions I receive from writers goes something like this: “My manuscript has been through several edits, and I’ve submitted it to countless publishers. I’ve either received a firm ‘no’ or no response at all. Should I continue to work on it, or should I leave it as it is and just accept that it’s not worth publishing? Does the lack of response from publishers mean it’s not good enough? What do I do now?” There is not one easy answer to these questions, but there are options that most writers have available to them. Many think that self-publishing as the only option, and while it certainly is one, it is not the only one. Here are my suggestions and a way forward from rejection or lack of interest for your manuscript… Self-publish I’ve worked with many writers who’ve decided to self-publishing independently and some have been successful in doing so and really enjoyed the freedom and sense of control that comes with self-publishing. Others, however, have not had such a great experience. Like all authorship journeys, the secret to successful self-publishing is how willing you are to self-promote once the book is published. My best advice for self-published authors is to create a marketing plan with a six-month lead time to the sale of the book, so you really can put thought and effort into promoting it. For those who decide to self-publish, I highly recommend this terrific talk by Nev March » Free Talk: Fun and Effective Book Promotion for Authors (authorspublish.com) Nev March is the award-winning author of 3 books published by Macmillan. Her first book, Murder in Old Bombay, won the Minotaur Books/Mystery Writers of America First Crime Novel. Although published through a traditional publisher, a lot of her advice is still very helpful, and it can make the scope of marketing clearer. Bonus tip: Make sure you have an excellent cover and get proof copies in advance to verify that the printer is doing a good job. Write Another Book I understand that this option is a little daunting, but the fact is most authors don’t get the first book they write published, or they don’t get it published first. There are many many successful authors who had their first manuscripts widely rejected. On writing their second however, they were able to either find an agent to represent it or got a publishing deal. Writing another book can be a very positive experience as writers often take all that they learned writing and editing their first book into writing the second. So right from the start they have a much better first draft. Ever wondered why the second book or movie is often the best in a series? Bonus tip: Change your genre if you feel overwhelmed by the task of writing a second book. Turn your hand at poetry or short stories for smaller writing projects and be sure to invest your time in workshops or writer’s groups to further develop your knowledge and skills as a writer. Give the Project Space to Breathe Often it can be tempting to just force another edit, even when you don’t think the manuscript needs it. In my experience, editing too soon after writing or after receiving critique, is generally counterproductive. Writers in this situation tend to focus on surface level edits, making hasty decisions, which can lead to basic errors being missed. My advice is to give yourself time and create a plan for your next edit. Involve a beta reader or trusted friend who can conduct a proofread and provide constructive feedback so that you are focusing on what really needs attention. Bonus tip: I always recommend writers to take between 2-4 weeks away from their manuscript once they have finished writing. That way, before they commence their final edit, they are looking at the manuscript with fresh and objective eyes, rather than from a fatigued and frustrated position. And remember… No matter which option you chose, it’s important to remember that most people who set out to write a novel never complete it, so you have already achieved a lot more than most! (6) Facebook @Bowerbird Publishing – Crystal Leonardi Crystal Leonardi (@bowerbird_publishing) • Instagram photos and videos #bowerbird_publishing Crystal Leonardi is an award-winning author and publisher. Her titles include Boy of Steel: Little Sebastian's Big Miracle (2021), 6 Steps to Self-publishing with Crystal Leonardi (2022), My Brother Sebastian: Explaining Cancer to Kids (2022), My Friend Alice: Explaining Disability to Kids (2023) and My Mate Jed: Explaining Stroke to Kids (2024). You can buy her books here.

LOCAL WOMAN WINS BRONZE FOR GLOBAL AWARDS, WOMEN CHANGING THE WORLD. Crystal Leonardi of Bowerbird Publishing has been named Woman in Literature Award winner of the 2024 Women Changing the World Awards. The Women Changing the World Awards presented by Oprah Winfrey’s all-time favourite guest, Dr. Tererai Trent, celebrate and recognize women achieving outstanding success in areas such as sustainability, humanitarian work, leadership, advocacy, tech, product development, education, health and innovation. The awards are designed to recognize the growing number of women who are leading the way in making the world a better place for us all and inspire other women to answer the call to take action. Dr. Trent explains, “These exceptional women are here to awaken hearts, give permission to recapture dreams and inspire the women of the world to come together to forge a brighter path for all. The rising of women is the awakening of everybody.” Crystal said she was excited to win bronze in her category in the 2024 Women Changing the World Awards. Crystal says: “Although my heart was beating fast in anticipation for the announcement, to hear my name called as a winner was absolutely overwhelming. Receiving this recognition internationally, is the most unexpected honour.” Dr. Trent’s vision for these awards is to empower women everywhere to reclaim their sacred dreams and call-in women across the globe to unite and pave the way towards a better future for all. It can be challenging to create change in the world and Crystal gives this advice for others thinking about following their calling to make a difference. “In a world where women can be anything, I encourage you to be open. Open to sharing your story, whether it be tragic or triumphant, because human connection can be the catalyst for someone else’s healing journey. By sharing our stories, we are stronger and build resilience among a global sisterhood.” Crystal is proud of her achievements, in the last 12 months she has been awarded a Telly Award for her work in book trailer production, published and launched over a dozen debut authors from Australia and New Zealand, and is sponsoring the Young Entrepreneur finalists in the 2024 Cairns Business Women’s Club awards. Crystal attributes this success to having an incredible support system at home and having enough tenacity to back myself fearlessly. She is committed to continuing to make an impact through her work and her vision for the future is to continue publishing outstanding authors and return to presenting educational and motivational workshops in 2025, after a break in 2024. The complete list of winners can be found at: https://wcwawards.com/winners For more information on the Women Changing the World Awards visit: https://wcwawards.com/ or contact Crystal directly on 0412779889, Leonardi.crystal@gmail.com, www.crystalleonardi.com.

BOWERBIRD PUBLISHING’S BOOK TRAILER SERIES NAMED BEST SOCIAL VIDEO IN MEDIA & ENTERTAINMENT IN THE 45th ANNUAL TELLY AWARDS Julatten, Queensland, Australia - 22nd May 2024 - Bowerbird Publishing announced today its Book Trailer Series has been named Best Social Video in Media & Entertainment in the record breaking 45th Annual Telly Awards. The Telly Awards honours excellence in video and television across all screens and is judged by leaders from video platforms, television, streaming networks, and production companies. This year’s winners include Adobe, Calvin Klein, ESPN, LinkedIn, Mother Jones, MTV Entertainment Studios, NASA, the LA Clippers (NBA), PlayStation Studios, Sawhorse Productions, TelevisaUnivison and more. Crystal Leonardi is the CEO and Founder of Bowerbird Publishing, a publishing house established in 2021 in tropical north Queensland, Australia. In 2024, Bowerbird Publishing has expanded its professional services to include book trailers production, graphic design and screenwriting. “The calibre of the work this season truly has reflected the theme of going beyond the frame. Our industry is experimenting with new technologies like never before, crafting truly compelling stories to draw attention to some of the world’s most pressing issues,” shares Telly Awards Managing Director Amanda Needham. “The Telly Awards is uniquely positioned to meet the industry where it’s actually making work, be that on television or TikTok.” As a relatively new service I am offering to clients, receiving recognition on this level for my book trailer production skills is quite extraordinary. I began creating MP4 clips as an entertaining, captivating and engaging way of promoting Bowerbird Publishing titles, during their pre-launch phase. The feedback I received from authors, media and publishing agents, gave me the confidence to enter some of my best work; book trailers for titles, Isherwood’s Australia, TickleTouch, Rose Red, and Weighed Down, by authors Alan Isherwood, Chantal Munro, Jeremy Thomas, and Mary Pearson respectively. I feel extremely proud to have debuted these titled on an international stage in this way. Committed to pushing the boundaries of creativity forward, this year’s new categories included topics within Generative AI, Brand Collaboration, Use of Data Visualization, Thought Leadership and Accessibility. These categories centred on cutting-edge technologies and storytelling formats that are actively evolving within the video and television industry. This was a record-breaking year with nearly 13,000 entries from across the globe and top video and television content producers. Winners were chosen by The Telly Awards Judging Council which includes Nathalie Van Sasse Van Ysselt, VP of Design and Creative Services, MSG Sphere Studios; Barry Christie, Global Creative Lead, Meta Creative Shop; Farihah Zaman, Director, member of Brown Girl Doc Mafia; Aiden Darné, VP, Global Studio Lead Shutterstock; Malinda Wink, Executive Director Minderoo Pictures. The full list of the 45th Annual Telly Awards winners can be found at www.tellyawards.com/winners. Find The Telly Awards Online: Website: www.TellyAwards.com Facebook: /TellyAwards Twitter: @TellyAwards Instagram: @TellyAwards YouTube: /TellyAwards About The Telly Awards The Telly Awards is the premier award honouring video and television across all screens. Established in 1979, The Telly Awards receives over 13,000 entries from all 50 states and 5 continents. Entrants are judged by The Telly Awards Judging Council—an industry body of over 200 leading experts including advertising agencies, production companies, and major television networks, reflective of the multiscreen industry The Telly Awards celebrates. Partners of The Telly Awards include the Gotham Institute, NAB, Stash, NYWIFT, LAPPG, Production Hub, Green the Bid, Video Consortium, and Series Fest. New Partners include FWD- Doc, AI Film Festival, Reel Abilities Film Festival, and Film Fatales. More information can be found at the Telly Awards Press Centre: https://tlly.co/press Please contact Crystal Leonardi, Bowerbird Publishing for inquiries: Leonardi.crystal@gmail.com or call 0412 779 889. To view the winning book trailers, head to the Publishing tab on Crystal's website, or check out her social media accounts.

Presented by Crystal Leonardi at Cairns Tropical Writer's Festival Sunday, 10th March 2024 – 1:30 – 3:30 PM Cairns City Library 1.    What is Blogging? ·       Collection of facts, thoughts, and opinions. ·       Written or filmed piece of information that lives online. ·       Put simply – it’s a marketing TOOL Blogging can be found on social media platforms, websites or print media. As an individual, blogs can be an online alternative to keeping a diary or journal. It allows individuals to share their creativity, ideas and experiences with a wider audience. And with the ever-evolving world of technology, blogging is now taking shape on endless platforms. Think Taryn Brumfitt, the 2023 Australian of the Year and presenter at last year’s CTWF. Her blog went viral in 2013 when she posted a simple ‘before & after’ photo on Facebook, showing how her body had changed since having children. Her innocent sharing of her thoughts and societal challenges spoke to such a broad audience that she won the hearts of over 200 million people in over 190 countries. Like everything, however, content marketing has evolved, and the outburst of digital technologies has changed the face of traditional advertising. Furthermore, the World Wide Web has revolutionized how businesses and individuals think about advertising. Today, big and small businesses are adapting inbound marketing strategies, such as blogging, to create value for their customer base. As an individual, blogging can be beneficial for several reasons: ·       It provides a platform for self-expression, ·       It can help establish and enhance your brand, ·       If you are an expert in a certain field, a blog is an excellent medium to share your knowledge with others, ·       It helps you connect with like-minded individuals, ·       Blogging can help improve your writing skills, ·       And it provides a creative outlet. As the owner of a regional business, an author and active blogger, I’m here to share how an active blog has helped to not only grow my business and keep me connected and relevant, but also enhanced my writing and provided me with a creative outlet. My business, Bowerbird Publishing, is located in Julatten, a small farming town with around 1,000 people. I began as a self-published author and have grown my business substantially by including publishing and public speaking services to clients throughout Australia. My business operates out of my home office on the farm and consists of one employee – me. Blogging became an integral part of my marketing strategy in 2021 when my budget was tight, and my business plan was simple – to grow my online audience. Let’s dive in head first by further exploring the benefits of blogging and why you should have a blog if you don’t already. You’ll learn how to blog well or maximize your already established blog, taking it to the next level. 2.    How to Blog Well 2.a.    Make sure it’s easy to find. Your blogging platform should be interactive, have distinct headlines, and be clear and concise. My blog can be found on my business website, where it is included on the home screen menu and on other pages with links. 2.b.    Make it interesting. Use high-quality images to catch readers’ attention and entice them to read your content. Including images of yourself and/or your product is a great way to break up text sections; a picture is worth a thousand words! Or, include helpful checklists, how-to topics, ideas, or recipes, for example, to increase reader satisfaction through a something-for-nothing experience. Educating before selling is a great tactic for attracting new visitors to your blog and achieving reader loyalty. 2.c.    It’s all in the design. Great content deserves great design. Consider your line and character spacing so readers can easily read your content. Include widgets and place links to relevant hashtags to make the reader’s experience informative and user-friendly. 2.d.    Make it phone-friendly. Avoid big chunks of text, and consider that your target audience will probably be people on the move. When creating your blog post, break up long text sections to improve appearance and readability. 2.e.    Get creative. How you highlight your blog’s essential information will help readers get the most out of it. Use bold text, quotes, questions, and callouts to highlight essential information within your blog. In my blog, I have found that certain styles, images, and layouts attract more readers. My blog predominately includes content about work/home balance, writing, publishing and book reviews. Regardless of the topic, I have found that images of me or my children in everyday situations have attracted the most readers. Audiences want to feel connected to you when they read your blog, and the easiest way to help them do this is by creating an honest portrayal. Connection coupled with trust will be your key to attracting a loyal audience. I also follow a particular style, which includes catchy and sometimes ominous headlines coupled with an image. My formatting includes short and sharp information in concise paragraphs, with critical points highlighted in bold and/or italics to ensure maximum impact and avoid a missed opportunity to make an impression on the reader. 3. How to Take Blogging to the Next Level A good entrepreneur will take an opportunity and make the most of it. Have this mindset when thinking about your blog, ensuring that your impact is unsurpassable if you manage to engage a reader. Blogging has the potential to reduce your overall marketing spend whilst generating more leads than any other form of advertising – why not maximize it? You can take your blog to the next level in three ways. 3.a.    Equipment While good equipment is essential, the content is the most crucial element. Compelling and valuable content can resonate with your readers even with basic tools. However, investing in quality equipment can enhance your blog's overall impact and reach. Professionalism: High-quality equipment contributes to the overall professionalism of your blog. Whether it's the visuals in your blog posts or the audio and video quality in multimedia content, a polished presentation can leave a positive impression on your reader. Visual Appeal: A blog with visually appealing content is more likely to capture and retain the attention of readers. Good equipment, such as a high-resolution camera, reliable word applications, and lighting, can help you create exceptional content for your blog posts. Versatility: Furthermore, good equipment provides you with more options and flexibility in creating diverse content. Whether you're experimenting with different types of media, such as video tutorials, infographics, or interactive elements, having the right tools allows for versatility in your content strategy. 3.b.    Feedback. So far, I’ve shared how to inform your readers using a blog, but have you ever thought about the positive impact your reader’s feedback could have on your blog? Your blog is already easily accessible to potential customers, so why not give readers a platform to leave comments and feedback on your content, product or service? This encourages engagement and builds reader confidence through real-life affiliate product and service experiences. For example, my blog covers 3 content themes – experiences, knowledge, and creativity. I share my experiences in day-to-day life as a mum. This makes me relatable to a particular audience and my vulnerabilities open the door for a trustworthy and honest platform for others to share their experiences in motherhood. It may also lead to new social media followers or book lovers. I share my knowledge as an author and publisher. This creates an educational twist on my blogging, providing my audience free advice based on my professional expertise. I hope they will seek my professional skills through one of my many paid services on my website. This also creates a space for current and past clients to leave feedback and referrals, generating more new clients. Using a blog in this way has become very popular with ‘food bloggers on social media. They share footage of themselves eating or cooking a meal. In their blog, they then discuss ingredients and do’s & don’t when eating or cooking the meal. Some will then go on to promote a particular cookbook or chef. You can appreciate what an invaluable marketing tool this would be for a food blogger who has just released their cookbook… I use my blog as a creative outlet. I am not just a book author; I also enjoy writing poetry and lyrics. Having a blog allows me to publish these types of work in a safe and creative way while engaging with readers. It may also entice readers to purchase one of my books and inspire others to tell their stories through this medium. Think about blogs associated with predominantly online businesses like Trip Advisor and Airbnb. They conclude their blogs with a comment section where users can leave their opinions, feedback, and suggestions about their stay. This is a great way to take advantage of feedback, engage with customers, and improve their business. We can all agree that the feedback found on Trip Advisor and Airbnb has played a huge part in helping people decide where to travel and stay. It’s a basic tool with immeasurable value. 3.c.    Your SEO SEO stands for Search Engine Optimization. Again, put your entrepreneur hat on and think about another opportunity to get the most value from a platform you’re already using. Adopting your SEO correctly should be one of your critical marketing strategies, as it will drive traffic to your website. As a blogger, adopting your SEO correctly will ensure new readers are driven to your blogging platform and previous readers are reminded to return to your blog. To summarize, your SEO has two purposes: to make your blog visible on search engines (such as Google) and more visible than your competition. There are two ways you can optimize these purposes. When adding search engine keywords to your website settings, ensure they’re not too general. In my world as an author and publisher, the keywords I use are Crystal Leonardi (my name), Bowerbird Publishing (my business), Childhood Cancer Support (theme), Oncology books (specialty area), and Resilience & Keynote Speaker (specialty area), rather than the obvious; Author, Publisher, Speaker, Julatten, Books. My keywords are specific and unique to my business. Think like a customer and add algorithms you think someone would enter into Google if they couldn’t remember your business name. Once you have your keywords set, ensure you use them as often as possible in your blog because your business will rank higher on a search results page, such as Google, due to their relevance to your algorithms. For example, to conclude each of my blogs, I add information about where customers can buy my books with a link to my website bookstore. It’s simple, but it makes all the difference. Where to find your SEO or Meta Data – website and social media. Summary: Blogging is affordable to individuals, big corporations, and small businesses alike. It can be utilized as a creative and adaptive marketing option. In business, it can generate leads and facilitate repeat business just as effectively as traditional advertising. Building trust and confidence in your brand, passion or purpose helps readers develop a deeper connection with you. A blog is customized to you and can be made to suit your personality and/or your business brand. Your SEO's help will build your following and help your blog stand out. Blogging done well will create transparency and highlight a purpose readers love investing in. The secret to blogging is providing your readers with entertaining, informative and trustworthy content, creating connection through mutual interests or passion. To book me as a keynote speaker or educator, email leonardi.crystal@gmail.com.

In the intricate dance of life, I often feel like I’m living two seemingly disparate worlds – one revolving around my cherished family and the other fuelled by the passion and demands of my beloved business. The pendulum swings ceaselessly, navigating the unpredictable terrain of life’s ups and downs. Mastering the art of balance (most of the time), I allocate time to both worlds while ensuring there’s a precious reserve carved out for self-care. Yet, despite managing life’s intricacies relatively well, I’ve found myself unwittingly ticking items off a bucket list that I never imagined creating. Unfortunately, life has a way of surprising us, and my bucket list isn’t filled with the dream destinations and thrilling adventures you might expect. Instead, it catalogues unsavoury and challenging achievements, each marked by resilience, strength, and an unyielding spirit to survive. Strangely, the list mostly belongs to my son Sebby as we navigate through the unexpected twists and turns of his cancer diagnosis and subsequent disabilities. Our list, etched with experiences that no one envies, includes moments like getting fitted for a wheelchair, enduring brain surgery, facing a cancer diagnosis, navigating disability, coping with vision impairment, surviving a stroke, undergoing MRI and CT scans, mending broken bones, enduring chemotherapy treatments, ambulance rides, royal flying doctor flights, grappling with a diabetes diagnosis, confronting anaphylaxis attacks, drug allergies, calling hospital a temporary home, PTSD, and depression. The list, unfortunately, continues to grow. I’m only in my early 40s, and my children are still very young, so I’ve never felt an urgency to create a list of dream destinations or adventures. Little did I know that life had other plans, unfolding a script that required courage beyond measure. As I navigate through the unexpected chapters of our journey with Sebby, the essence of resilience becomes abundantly clear. It’s the unyielding strength to face each challenge head-on, to find hope in the face of adversity, and to redefine what it means to live truly. The pendulum of life may swing unpredictably, but the unwavering love within allows us not only to weather each storm but to emerge stronger, wiser, and more compassionate on the other side. My mind and spirit have weathered the unthinkable, and each time we face a new blow, I am momentarily triggered to believe that this will be the time we don’t survive. Undoubtedly, I’m not superhuman; the human in me is what makes me an ever-evolving work-in-progress. It’s moments when we are challenged that our true intentions are revealed and learning can take place. I have learnt that growth is certain, but gratitude in the toughest times makes us resilient. Books by Crystal Leonardi can be found on her website, www.crystalleonardi.com. Follow her journey @Bowerbird Publishing - Crystal Leonardi and #Bowerbird_Publishing

Picture this. You enter a café for your morning cup of coffee. There’s a queue, and you are patient enough, but your stomach grumbles in disagreement. You finally reach the counter and begin to recite your order, “Hi, I would like to have a cappuccino and a…” “…a croissant du beurre with extra butter melting on the top?” You go speechless for a moment, but your heart swells at the realization. Does someone at the café know what I want? You nod to the staff beaming at you and take out your card to pay. “It’s on the house. Please take a seat, and you’ll get your order there.” Still scouting for the right question, you glance around and find an empty table. You walk over and slip into the seat. A minute later, a hand pushes a tray of coffee and a croissant with butter melting on the top in front of you. “There you go,” the waitress says, “I also sprinkled some cinnamon on your coffee. Just the way you like it.” She turns away, but you call out, “Ummm… excuse me? How do you know what I want?” She turns around and grins, “Oh, me and that guy on the counter,” she points to him, “we have read your book four times. Big fans! We saw a Reel where you were making breakfast. You know, we have had your coffee with cinnamon and a croissant with melting butter thrice since then.” You beam back at her and realize it is time to thank the friend who shot your video and uploaded it on Instagram. Every author wishes to be read and loved. When you put your heart out there, it deserves to be seen. While reaching an audience is easy, securing their undivided attention is a brain-scratcher. That’s why authors need social media. It helps you connect to your audience and gives them a glimpse into the wizard behind the words. Videos grab the audience’s attention on social media like none other. Short-form video is the most viewed content on the internet, and Reels rule the roost with over 2.35 billion active users per month. They are short videos of at most ninety seconds that help you quickly reach the maximum number of people on Instagram. You can shoot one by swiping left on the Instagram app or upload one directly. Reels depict micro-fiction. Here’s an example. Lost in thoughts, you just got a firm grip on the climax when your dog barges in, drenched in what you hope is only mud, takes a leap of faith at you, and crash lands on your laptop. Your kid captures that precious jump on his phone. It’s hilarious and worth going on your profile. But you wonder what it conveys to your audience? It reveals three crucial truths about you. First, you are a dog person, probably like one-third of your readers. Second, you are as human as those who dive into your stories. And third, you have to deal with the same filth as them, yet you create a world they love being transported to. The result is a palpable connection between the person behind the book and the readers viewing the video. Interestingly enough, Instagram accounts with a lower number of followers enjoy as good a connection with their audience. Moreover, if your audience includes millennials and Generation Z, you cannot ignore Reels because they spend up to three hours a day swiping up on Instagram. And if your audience has left their 30s and 40s behind, it is time you let them know who they have been reading all this while. Wondering what goes on Instagram Reels? Here are the top 12 ways you can use this brilliant tool to connect with your readers. All the examples here are still images, but if you click on the source links under the images, you can see the full original reels. Here are my ideas for social media engagement… 1. Introduce a book you have been working on. Let your readers know what you have been up to between releases. It stirs the water and gets the audience queuing up before the book launch. 2. Reveal your version of the character. Let your readers fall in love with the protagonist of your story. Share a character image created using graphics or fan art to keep readers engaged after they finish reading your book. 3. Leak quirky anecdotes from your life. Keep the audience hooked by sharing personal stories. So, if you secretly take line dancing lessons, how about letting your readers in? It helps your audience get to know you personally. 4. Announce book giveaways, discounts, book readings, and other events. Reels are a great way to announce a giveaway, upcoming discounts, or any book-reading events you are planning. 5. Tell the readers where they can buy the book. Chances are most of your audience will be active on Instagram. Let them know where to look for your book: your website/Amazon/bookshops. 6. Post your achievements. For instance, you could announce winning an award and give your readers another reason to pick up your next book. 7. Announce your live sessions. Announce a book reading or a Live session on Instagram. To hook your audience, you can shoot a creative invite using Reels or upload once using Canva. 8. Share writing tips. Share your ideas and your story of becoming a writer through a short video on Reels. You could also offer some hacks to overcome writer’s block and inspire budding novelists among your followers. 9. Unveil your ebook or audiobook. Do you have your ebook or audiobook ready? Share a preview through Reels and nudge your readers to tune in for the complete story. You can share some anecdotes about the voices behind the characters. It helps your listeners connect at a deeper level. 10. Unbox the first copy of your book. The look, the feel, and the aroma. Share your true expressions with the ones who matter as much as your characters: your readers. Shoot a video as you unbox the first copies of your publication and let the readers in on the excitement. 11. Share your book reviews. Tell your readers what they have been missing. Sharing your successful book reviews reveals your true mettle as an author. 12. Or just to keep the audience engaged. Use Reels to stay connected to your audience, especially the millennials and Generation Z, at a deeper level. Authors can be ‘easy to recollect’ when they often appear on Instagram. Plan activities around your book and post them as Reels to gauge your audience’s reaction. Besides flooding Instagram, Reels get shared a lot on WhatsApp, too. They come in handy whether your aim is marketing, sharing something special with the readers, or announcing a sequel. You need Reels to bridge the gap between you and the ones who make you an author.

This recollection of our experience through Cyclone Jasper was written on 20th December 2023, 9 days after landfall. Cyclone Jasper formed off the Queensland coast in the Coral Sea early in December 2023. Its unusual path leading up to landfall made for a very slow-moving and unprecedented cyclone; typically, cyclones travel south as they near the coastline. However, Jasper tracked north, eventually making landfall between Port Douglas and Wujal Wujal. As the crow flies, Port Douglas is approximately 10km NE from our Julatten home. An extensive mountain range divides the coast and the rainforest of the Mowbray Valley, perfectly protecting us from storms that form in the Coral Sea. The last notable weather event for us here in Julatten was cyclone Larry in 2006, which cut access to Black Mountain Road, where we live. Cyclone Larry made landfall in Innisfail, some 200+km from Julatten. I am sharing some highs and lows from our experience through cyclone Jasper as our remote, off-grid lifestyle has made for a unique nine days of survival. Our home was built in 2016 on the Leonardi family farm, where we now live and work comfortably, with minimal negative environmental impact. Our home and sheds are powered by the sun (converted and stored in batteries), with diesel generator backup when needed. This meant we always had power in isolation, but no mobile phone reception and internet. This is the first cyclone three of my four children have experienced (Antonia was a baby in 2011 when cyclone Yasi hit the region) and the most severe I have experienced since cyclone Rona in my teens (1998) when I lived in Cairns. I hope you enjoy reading about our experience through cyclone Jasper. Killing Time Our days consisted of a somewhat routine existence, including the children all complaining that it was ‘STILL raining!’ every morning when they woke. This continued for five days, when thankfully, they finally got used to it. Around day 5, we all began to sleep until daylight, our body clocks aware that there was no rush to get the day started, as there was nowhere to go. This was a massive shift for us as the days began early on the farm, and so did the work. There is very rarely a day spare to sleep in. On a regular day, the children are on the school bus by 7 am and work for me starts at around 4 am, squeezing in those precious couple of hours in the office before the children wake. Thankfully, the novelty of playing in the rain never wore off, with all four children and Sam enjoying outside time with the dogs every afternoon from 5 pm. This was the time I spent creating something for dinner, searching for ingredients at the back of the pantry and digging into the depths of our many deep freezers for hidden and long-forgotten treasures. At around 9 am each day, we would venture down to Sam’s grandad’s house, located on the farm, about 300 metres from our house. This became our daily outing and a much-needed source of socialisation. Fortunately, as a medical priority customer, Sam’s grandad had a Telstra landline phone that was still operating despite losing power, mobile reception and internet. This allowed Sam and I to call his dad and my Mum to check in and let them know we were all okay. This was such a godsend for us, as we felt disconnected and displaced without regular contact with the outside world via social media, email and mobile telephones. The children took some time adjusting to the sudden change in their ‘smart’ lifestyle. Almost everything they did for the first 24 hours without phone and internet ended in ‘Why isn’t this working?’ with Sam and I impatiently responding, ‘because there’s no internet!’ It meant no online gaming, YouTube, Spotify, or Netflix. Their existence was challenging and confusing for the first time in their lives. It is a wake-up call to all of us at how much we rely on the World Wide Web and all its benefits. Professionally, I struggled immensely for the first few days due to looming deadlines before Christmas and the realisation that I could do nothing about it. My business heavily relies on being ‘mobile’ and working from home. I pride myself on having an incredibly minimal carbon footprint in my personal and work life. However, most of my working relationships are conducted online and rely heavily on software and online programs. A little perspective was realised in these moments. It wasn’t until the whole of far north Queensland went on flood watch on Saturday, 16th December, that I began to relax about my work commitments and missed deadlines. The guilt of not being available to my clients, especially those not located in Queensland, subsided. The fate of my business was now in the hands of the formidable Mother Nature. I still wished I could have sent clients a message to let them know I was okay and hoped to be back online soon, but it wasn’t meant to be. (As I type this, I remain offline and unable to contact my clients. Today is day nine since losing contact with the outside world). Back to our daily routine… Sam’s grandad and his wife, Joyce, rely on power from Ergon, so they were without for nine days and counting. They used our old petrol generator, which meant they didn’t lose any of their food in the fridge and freezer. Being 90 years old, ‘Old Sam’ or ‘Nonno,’ as we affectionately call him, lived a minimalist life and usually enjoyed trips to Woolworths for essentials during the week. With cyclone Jasper slowly moving towards Port Douglas, there was very little concern for its impact on us up here in the hills behind Port Douglas. ‘Old Sam’ said he had never recalled any real threat to Julatten due to a cyclone in the almost 50 years since settling here. He had a little bit of petrol in a 20L Gerry can, as well as a few day’s supply of food sure Jasper wouldn’t isolate us for more than a day or two due to flooding. How wrong he was. I remember once Jasper had crossed, we were all feeling much relief but also in awe of its ferocity. In disbelief, we later heard it had crossed the coast as a Category 1 cyclone, making landfall around 7 pm on Tuesday, 12th December. By day 2, we were genuinely beginning to think that Jasper had only hit Julatten as news reports didn’t accurately record its impact in our little corner of the world. Reports by Cairns locals on the ABC news were of Jasper being a ‘fizzer’ and nothing more than a bad storm. This was a surreal feeling. We were physically cut off from the outside world and wondered if anyone else feared what Jasper would bring for the rest of the week. We couldn’t believe the casual ‘she’ll be right’ attitude and disregard of those severely affected by the ‘storm’ in those early days since Jasper hit our region. Image 1: TV coverage of extensive flooding, our only link to the outside world. From Tuesday 12th December, no one in our house slept for two nights. The thunderous cyclone battered our roof, and its sheer velocity kept us all awake all day and night. The TV volume was on 100 (at 25, I’m usually yelling at the kids to turn it down), and we still couldn’t hear a word. I will never forget the winds and power of Jasper. From Tuesday morning until the following Monday (18th December), we experienced heavy rainfall, gale-force winds, and extreme flooding. In some 24-hour periods, more than 800mm of rain was recorded in Julatten. The 7-day rainfall record was exceeded, with Black Mountain Road recording a total of 1939mm from Tuesday 12th to Tuesday 19th December. Image 2 (top left): One of our full dams on day 4. Image 3 (top right): The gully we cross to leave the farm. We estimate that it was around 3 metres in depth; the most we have seen is at about 2 metres. Image 4 (left): Our inundated dams and waterways on the farm. It was almost a relief when, on Sunday morning (17th December), the rest of the far north had caught up to us weather-wise. Suddenly, the effects of Jasper were being felt throughout the region and not just in our small town of approximately 1,000 people, tucked behind the hills of Port Douglas. The news reports were suddenly dominated by flood warnings, catastrophic damage and a real threat that the worst of the lousy weather awaited us. What followed for us was genuine concern for the welfare of our loved ones in close-by Mossman and Cairns. The threat of flooding was upon them with no end in sight. Thankfully, our loved ones were spared, with no homes inundated with water. The worst of it was the uncertainty, but also the loss of power for several days, no drinking water, and no internet or telecommunications. During our nine days so far, we have filled our days with puzzles, board games, endless movies playing in the background, cleaning out long-neglected wardrobes, drawers and cupboards, tidying, cooking, and watching the many, many dance, theatre, and singing productions put on by the children. The odd library, shop and art class have also made a comeback with the kids demanding ‘real money’ to loan my own book, buy-back my own makeup, or go to my own children’s art gallery. I guess I should admire their entrepreneurship. All in all, I have to admit that I have actually enjoyed the forced family time that Jasper has brought to us. This, by far, has been something I have been most grateful for. With life getting so busy and the children growing up so fast, it has been nice to slow down and return to essential family time without interruptions. However, there is no doubt that cabin fever is a real thing. A lot of time was also spent trying to dry clothes! I set up several undercover lines, but the wind pushed the rain into our substantial patio. There was no protection from the wind for anything! With a concern of creating a perfect breeding ground for mould, I didn’t want to hang any wet clothing inside the house; all windows and doors were shut for a good five days, so bringing in damp clothing would not work. By day 4, several baskets of clothes started to smell, so I began hand washing all the damp clothing and hanging them out in the rain! I figured that at least if they were on the line in the soaking rain, they would dry eventually once the sun came out. Until early on Sunday, 17th December, I was still planning on catching my scheduled flight out of Cairns on Monday afternoon, so washing and drying clothes was a priority. With the kids outside, playing in the rain several times a day – this was their only ‘outside time’ during the nine days of isolation; we eventually made a new rule of underwear only during outside play to reduce the amount of wet and muddy clothing. This helped a lot. Sam and I were constantly getting wet whilst out in the paddocks checking on livestock and fencing, so we both ran out of clean and dry underwear pretty quickly! I must mention, primarily for my memory, that the rain was so intense that even our raincoats didn’t stop the rain from soaking us through to the bone. I imagine this experience was similar to a boatie caught in a storm on the open ocean – there was no escape from the deluge! Food & Water Our water is supplied by healthy amounts of rain in our region for most of the year, being replenished by pumped water from the headwaters of the Mowbray Falls, which run through our property, as well as a bore when needed. Water was never an issue for us on the farm during our time in isolation. Although we have off-grid solar power and no connection to the ‘grid’, we do run a gas oven and cooktop, so we are never unable to cook a hot meal or boil water. There wasn’t a night when we didn’t have a lovely home-cooked, healthy, nourishing meal, thanks to our lifestyle here on the farm. By day 3 or 4, however, we had gotten through the fresh fruit and vegetables and almost all of our packaged frozen vegetables as well. My frozen containers of ‘soup mix’ became our new staple as they consisted of chopped carrot, celery, onion, and spinach – the perfect base not only for soups but also for curries, casseroles, fried rice and rissoles, once minced. Life on the farm means we always have our beef, chicken, fish, seasonal prawns, venison, duck, pork, and sausages, all stockpiled in the deep freezers. There was no shortage of food during our time in isolation. However, we missed fresh eggs, cheese, tomato sauce, fresh garlic, and ice cream once they were all consumed. Although we all grew to love powdered milk, I longed for some fresh cow’s milk for my favourite cold treat, a homemade iced coffee. Once the cheese and tomato sauce ran out, I must say, the children were less impressed by my efforts in the kitchen – everything tastes better with cheese and tomato sauce when you’re a kid! I’m grateful for our large, abundant kitchen which housed many many herbs and spices, honey from our beehives, preserved foods, soup mixes and jars of homemade jams and chutneys, and a healthy supply of ingredients required to make our own bread. Many years ago, I acquired some old bakers’ tins – 3 joined together specifically for baking high-top loaves. So, keeping up with the bread supplies was easy and a very enjoyable task every second day. The Thermomix took the hard work out of kneading the dough, and the gas oven and bakers’ tins made easy work of our bread production. It was also lovely to be able to take fresh bread to ‘Old Sam’ and Joyce every couple of days. Many savoury focaccias and sweet breads were also created to offer a little variety in our breakfast and lunch meals. With no internet, I did miss the convenience of looking up new ways to reinvent staples like mince. Happily, I referred to my many favourite cookbooks and all-time favourite family recipes instead. It took a little mindfulness to browse a recipe book instead of spending approximately 30 seconds online to find what I didn’t know I wanted. Snacking - I don’t generally keep a lot of chips, sweet biscuits or packaged foods in our house, but with four children and off the back of school finishing, I did have a light supply of these foods in the pantry at the beginning of our time in isolation. All hell broke loose when the last packet of biscuits, chips and Icey poles were consumed, with the children all going into melt-down about the fact that there was ‘no food left in the house!’ I’m grateful for this experience as by day 3; we were all over our salty snack and sugar cravings that we didn’t realise existed and were looking for fresh food and water to quench the odd hunger pain between meals. My coffee stash never looked so good at the start of Jasper, so I was A-OK (I had stocked up in time for the beginning of the school holidays, ensuring I was equipped to work from home with four kids for six weeks!) Image 5: We celebrated Sam’s birthday on Thursday 14th December. As you can see, we made him a fruit bread stack for his cake as our attempt to bake a cake without eggs didn’t work. Pets & Livestock Sadly, the cruel reality of a natural disaster often doesn’t hit anyone harder than farmers. On our farm, we fatten beef cattle and are enjoying the newest additions; cows and calves – for many years, we’ve primarily farmed steers. Fortunately, just weeks before Jasper’s arrival, we sent many of our calves to my father-in-law’s farm in Mareeba to be weened off from their mothers and returned within 2-4 weeks. This left only the older, already-weened calves and their mothers on the farm, as well as our bull and a few young bulls. Still, the farm held around 120 head of cattle at the time of Jasper’s arrival. On day 5, Saturday 16th December, at 6 pm, Sam noticed our cattle on Black Mountain Road, outside our fencing, on the other side of the flood waters. We quickly grabbed the wire, plyers, headlamps and a few tools and jumped in the buggy. The children had eaten dinner and were told to stay home with Antonia, our eldest, left in charge. What then transpired was the most frightening experience of my time on the farm. Within minutes, it was dark; we were wet and searching for somewhere to cross floodwater to get to the cattle. We settled on a narrow crossing of about 2 metres in width, up from what we call our ‘fertiliser crossing.’ Sam flung the tools and wire onto the bank on the other side and crossed the fast-flowing water. He called out to me to join him as it was only waist-deep. By the time I was knee-deep, I was sure I wouldn’t be able to make it across due to the current, so I relied on Sam to pull me through the fast-moving water. From there, reaching the cattle up on the road was a steep climb. Sam, being far fitter and accustomed to this type of activity, left me in his dust as I struggled to keep up. By the time I made it up the hill, Sam had positioned himself so that the cattle would quickly push back into the paddock with my presence behind them. We then walked the fence line to determine how the mob got out. It was now pitch black, with only the light of our headlamps to guide us along the fence line; I continued to struggle to trek through thick grass, pouring rain and crazy winds to keep up with Sam. On a stretch of about 250m, we found several large trees that had been uprooted and completely smashed our 3-strand barbed wire fencing. We, mostly Sam, while I held tools and offered support, did our best to fix what we could, which often included using large tree trunks as new strainer posts and makeshift star pickets. All in all, this took about an hour and a half, many trips, falls and cuts to hands, one taipan, thousands of panicked green ants and several occasions where I thought my life was about to end by way of being crushed by a fallen tree. I confess in these moments, I heard myself thinking, ‘I’m not cut out for this farm life.’ My suburban upbringing was never far from the surface. Image 6: Broken tree on fence. The cows were in, and the fence was ‘fixed’, so the trek back to the buggy began. Once again, I trailed Sam, but thankfully, he stopped to let me catch up a few times. These times were also used to plan our return to the creek crossing, where the inevitable conversations around what I’m to do if something happens to him started. I’m not sure how many more times I have to hear these instructions. Again, I think, ‘I’m not cut out for this.’ The water had risen, and the current was roaring, so Sam went first while I was sworn to get to safety and not worry about him if he was swept away. Yeah, okay. He made it across unscathed, thank goodness, but I felt apprehensive and terrified about crossing the water. Within a step or two, my feet were lifted from beneath me, the current too strong for my 90kg body weight. Sam grabbed my arm and pulled me across. I’m sure I wouldn’t have made either crossing without him there. I hope that that was the first and last time I ever had to cross a flooded waterway. Once we reached the buggy and my ass hit the seat, I just wanted to burst into tears. The reality of how quickly life could have changed in that moment was all too real. Sadly, this is the reality for many farmers, who risk their lives much worse than we did for their livelihood – their livestock. It’s easy to think, ‘bugger that’, but from where Sam sits as the primary earner in our household and the manager of his family farm, those cattle on the road are worth thousands of dollars of irreplaceable income. It’s reckless not to ensure they are safe, and it’s naive to expect any farmer wouldn’t do anything to protect their investment. I have such a deep respect for people on the land, but honestly, in times like this, I wonder what I’m doing here. Unlike Sam, the farm doesn’t run through my blood; it hasn’t always been there, and it hasn’t always been my future. Don’t get me wrong, I love our life and our lifestyle, but it sure gets tested in times like these. Damn you, Jasper, damn you. We are unsure if we have lost any cattle at this early stage, as we still cannot access much of the farm due to flooding. Two of our pigs, one of our dogs and strangely, some of the region’s native birdlife have mysteriously died due to the effects of Jasper. The harsh reality of life and death is something our children have become accustomed to, especially with so much loss in only one week. Among the losses, however, are many survivors, including our many working dogs and much-loved pets: Roger, Duchess and TJ. Farming Our established citrus trees, including mandarin, lemon, pomelo, limes, blood orange, and late Valencia oranges, all held their young fruit. Our crop of pineapples also held on tight to their stalks and are surprisingly still looking okay to harvest in time for Christmas. Our 7-year-old Jaboticaba tree blessed us with its first two fruits the week before Jasper hit. Unfortunately, they didn’t survive the storm, but Sam ate the ripe fruit he found under the tree and said they were plump, juicy and delicious! We now look very much forward to next year’s Jaboticaba crop. Our young lychee trees also survived albeit a little wind-swept and needing staking once the wind dies down completely. Image 7: Jaboticaba fruit. My much-loved flower gardens had been freshly mulched and fertilised at the end of Autumn, so I literally worried about all my hard work being blown away. Again, surprisingly, all mulch stayed put, and I’m happy to report that no plants have been lost to being water-logged or ripped from the ground. The biggest surprise has been my gerbera plantation that usually hates having ‘wet feet’ – I usually only water them twice a week – they are all in full flower and looking extremely happy and healthy in today’s bursts of sunshine. My hydrangea and rose plants also weathered the cyclone relatively unscathed but will enjoy good pruning this week sometime. Images 8,9,10: These are photos taken of our other farm in Julatten, which is located close to the school. We could not monitor the flooding during Cyclone Jasper, but thankfully, the 150 acres don’t have any livestock on it at the moment. The property boundary lines run along Brown, Eulluma Creek and McLeans Bridge Roads. Waste Management My very first challenge during isolation was what to do with all our rubbish! Within 24 hours, I already had two large bags full of household rubbish with nowhere to put them (our weekly bin service had ceased). Thankfully, all of our food waste is fed to our pigs, so there wasn’t too much of a smell from the accumulating rubbish bags. A family of 6 creates a lot of waste! Added to the usual rubbish were extra bits and pieces we were throwing out due to cleanouts of school bags, bedrooms, linen cupboards and the kitchen pantry. Usually, we fill our wheelie bin each week and burn any remaining waste. However, with the constant wind and downpours, burning was no longer an option. We ended up filling the back of a Ute with rubbish, which remains out of the weather and awaits burning. Our bin service, which Mareeba Shire Council runs, will not resume until it is safe on the roads – which is almost certainly likely to be several days, if not weeks, away. Image 11 (top left): Black Mountain Road once open. Image 12 & 13: A washout on Black Mountain Road, adjacent to one of our boundary fences. Shelter Concern for structural damage during a cyclone is always present. We live on a hill with basically no vegetation close enough to our house to cause damage, so our main concern during a storm or cyclone is debris and wind damage to fencing and trees. Thankfully, we had no damage to any structures on the farm, with a misshaped pool fence, the only evidence of Jaspers’s presence. Travel Plans Cancelled In hindsight, are travel and holiday plans being cancelled compared to the impact of cyclone Jasper really that big of a deal? NO. They did, however, take up much of our energy, worrying about whether they would eventuate in the early days of our isolation. In the first week of the holidays (last week), we looked forward to a few nights away in Cairns due to Antonia and Alyssa’s involvement in the Bodies in Motion end-of-year production, ‘Legendary.’ The event coincided with Sam’s birthday (14th December), so we looked forward to days by the pool and nights at the theatre. Sadly, it wasn’t meant to be with CPAC confirming the postponement of the production until February 2024 due to the impending bad weather. When this decision was made on Monday 11th December, it seemed somewhat over-cautious but respected. As it turned out, it was absolutely the right decision. On Monday, 18th December, Sebby and I were due to fly to Brisbane for his scheduled 12-weekly MRI and Oncology review at Qld Children’s Hospital. On Sunday, 17th December, Cairns Airport was shut down for the second time since Jasper’s arrival, so it became evident that the trip would not occur. Once again, feeling like control of the situation was out of my hands; I surrendered to the reality of yet another planned trip being cancelled. I called the Cairns Oncology Unit early on Monday morning to let them know of our situation and to please let the relevant specialists, doctors, medical imaging and patient travel know that we wouldn’t be coming. These appointments have now been rescheduled for 31st January 2024. Overall, I feel grateful that we are now safe and on the other side of Cyclone Jasper. My heart goes out to those whose homes and businesses were inundated with water, and I hope power and drinking water are restored quickly. I hope my recollection of the experience has provided a little insight into life on the farm during a natural disaster. We now look forward to indulging in the freedom of leaving the farm once the flood waters reside and the damaged roads are repaired, we hope one day soon. I asked the kids some questions about their time in isolation during Cyclone Jasper… Antonia (13 years old) What have you missed most since Cyclone Jasper arrived? Going shopping and seeing my friends. What’s been the best thing about being stuck on the farm for so long? Sleeping in and family time. What has been the worst thing about Cyclone Jasper? Flooding and no internet. General Comments: I’ve liked cleaning my room and we’ve seen Nonno and Joyce a lot. Josephine (10 years old) What have you missed most since Cyclone Jasper arrived? My friends, going out and socialising. What’s been the best thing about being stuck on the farm for so long? Nothing. What has been the worst thing about Cyclone Jasper? No internet and staying home. General Comments: This has been the worst week in my entire life because my siblings are annoying, and I haven’t had any food I like except bread. I also got a sore tummy from eating too much bread. Alyssa (7 years old) What have you missed most since Cyclone Jasper arrived? Seeing my friends, and going shopping. What’s been the best thing about being stuck on the farm for so long? Winning boardgames. What has been the worst thing about Cyclone Jasper? We ran out of ice cream and had no internet. General comments: I’ve missed junk food, and my sisters and brother are annoying. Sebby (5 years old) What have you missed most since Cyclone Jasper arrived? I’ve missed my friends Jasmine, Mackenzie and Tate. I’ve also missed bananas, avocados and Icey Poles. What’s been the best thing about being stuck on the farm for so long? Playing in the rain with Daddy. What has been the worst thing about Cyclone Jasper? Nothing. Image 14,15,16: Images of a helicopter hovering over our farm on day 8 when the weather cleared enough for the airways to open once again. This was a very exciting time as it was the first contact with ‘the outside world’ since Jasper’s arrival. The kids are still eagerly awaiting their debut on the national news each night.

This poem came to me this morning as I reflected on a special book I started reading last night. 'FEARLESS' by Jelena Dokic is offering me an opportunity for self-reflection and a reminder that life is what we make it. I cannot wait to review this book once completed, another stellar publication by one of my true inspirations and hero to many, Jelena Dokic. Reflections by Crystal Leonardi When you look in the mirror, what do you see? A reflection of you or who others want you to be? It can be hard to see past the wrinkles, age spots and fatigue, But if our mindset could shift, beauty, wisdom, and life is what we’d see. Society encourages us to be perpetually critical of ourselves, Rarely allowing positive thoughts, leaving self-love on the shelves. The freedom to change our appearance weighs greatly on our self-worth, Social media the new benchmark we rate from as young as birth. In a world where AI is becoming the norm, it’s sad we feel the need to aesthetically reform. To live with inadequacy and never feel satisfied, placing ourselves on a platform, a very slippery slide. To feel love for ourselves like we do for others, Could be life's greatest achievement, a lesson from our mothers. I have to admit, I still catch myself often, Feeling doubtful of my worth, my confidence prepared to soften. Because of one person’s opinion of who I should be, Forgetting who I am and the direction I want my life to see. Listening to negative feedback, doubters and critics has made me realise, That self-loathing behaviour could be the perfect recipe for our demise. So the question we need to ask ourselves, Is who do we want to see? A reflection of ourselves, Or who others want us to be? The many faces of 'me.' The good, the bored, and the sad. Life isn't always roses. Enjoy life for what it is, which is not perfect. Celebrate the little wins and learn from the adversity that inevitably comes. We are what we manifest, and life is what we make it. Crystal Leonardi, Bowerbird Publishing Click here to view my publications www.crystalleonardi.com/bookshop

2023 AusMumpreneur Wrap-up: This year, I was fortunate to attend the AusMumpreneur conference and awards ceremony at Dockside, Sydney. The 3-day conference commenced on Tuesday 22nd, finishing with the awards ceremony on Thursday night, 24th. Although I didn’t make it to Sydney until halfway through day 2 (due to family commitments back home), I gained so much valuable knowledge and insights into some of Australia’s most successful entrepreneurs. Here are some of the stand-out tips I took away from the conference… “Motion creates emotion.” Tiffany Hall, The Business Black Belt “Bounce forward, not back.” Tiffany Hall, The Business Black Belt “Turn ‘it’s impossible’ to ‘I can learn how’.” Leonie Dawson, How I’ve Sold $10M in 10hrs a week. Leonie Dawson (2nd from left) pictured with me, Hannah Boon, Sandy Davies and Nicola Baker. “Why the fuck not me?” “If something’s not serving you, let it go.” “Delegate what doesn’t make you money so that you can make money.” “Celebrate the little wins.” “Your vibe will attract your tribe.” My FNQ represent crew: (me), Nicola Baker, Sandy Davies, Christine Foudoulis, and Hannah Boon. With over 2,500 entries into the 2023 AusMumpreneur awards, it was an absolute honour to be named as a finalist. My category, Author of the Year, boasted 11 finalists. In being named a finalist for the 2nd year in a row, I have learnt that connection is everything. Whether I took home the trophy or not didn’t change the opportunity these awards presented me; a chance to meet and mingle with my peers and industry heavy-weights. Being there in person this year gave me the opportunity to put faces to names, and social media profiles and further develop relationships. For this, I feel very fulfilled. As an owner of a business situated a reaaaaallllllly long way from the city and many of my fellow finalists, it felt incredible to be seen and heard. The 2023 AusMumpreneur Awards have once again reminded me that I am valued and worthy of recognition. For those of you who are interested, I feel it’s important for me to share my acceptance speech. It was written with hope but also doubt, feeling overwhelmed by the awesomeness of my fellow finalists. I didn’t take home a win this year, but my gratitude and teachings remain the same… Pictured: (me) and Amy Aqualini. Amy and I finally met in person after chatting online for some time. I can't wait to see how our crossed paths will help us both personally and professionally. Only 3 years ago, my life revolved around my critically ill son. It’s an absolutely incredible honour to stand here as an advocate for survival and a mother who has overcome the worst kind of trauma – the very real threat of losing a child. In 2021, I wrote a book about my son, called ‘Boy of Steel’ and my life changed forever. It won me awards and recognition and brought me great joy to know that it was helping other families like mine. From the realisation that my story and survival had the power to help others, I began searching for my passion and purpose. As a self-published author, I quickly realised that many talented writers weren’t sharing their stories simply because they hadn’t been able to secure a book deal. That their feelings of rejection and disappointment were overshadowing their will to find the courage to keep their publishing dreams alive. My company, Bowerbird Publishing, was born in 2021 to provide solutions to this problem. I took my skill set and abilities, both professional and personal, to help writers tell their stories. In a dog-eat-dog world, I give writers the confidence to celebrate their achievements. Today, I remain a mum and fierce advocate for my family and business. As a mum of a brain cancer warrior, I understand the immense struggle of other cancer families, surviving or not. As an author and publisher, I use my knowledge and experience to empower others to share their story. Our lives are created to be shared and inspired. Through writing and publishing stories, I find peace and hope for the future. I’d like to thank Ausmumpreneur founders Peace Mitchell and Katy Garner for this incredible opportunity. To the awards sponsors and judges, thank you for believing in me and listening to my story. To my family and mentors, thank you for loving me and cheering me on, every step of the way. I hope my journey through authorship and then publishing helps you to believe that you too, can do anything you set your mind to. I face challenges daily, but I rise by lifting others up (thanks Peace & Katy for the tagline ;). To read more about my story, check out my other blogs. To read my books, head to my online bookshop www.crystalleonardi.com/bookshop Boy of Steel, Little Sebastian’s Big Miracle My Brother Sebastian, Explaining Cancer to Kids 6 Steps to Self-publishing with Crystal Leonardi You can also follow me on social media; Facebook: Bowerbird Publishing – Crystal Leonardi Instagram: Bowerbird Publishing

Recently, I had the opportunity to get to know a well-known Australian entertainer who has previously published through one of Australia's big five publishing companies. During our chat about her experience with Australian publishers, I learnt a few things that I found quite alarming. It’s got to do with book publicity and marketing agreements. On receiving a book deal with one of the big five, authors are sometimes required to sign agreements regarding the ownership of their book, their promotional obligations and income expectations. I must mention here that I am sharing this information based on one author's recent experience. I’m not implying that this situation is typical or true of all publishers in Australia, and have heard very good things about others. This author I met was presenting her new book to a robust and very enthusiastic following of around 150 readers. I was lucky enough to spend time with her, after the crowds had subsided. On meeting her, the first thing I asked was, “Can I buy a signed copy of your new book, please?” To my surprise, her answer was, “No.” Why, you might ask? Here’s the clencher… her publisher didn’t think she was popular enough for a publicity tour (book signings, launch, appearances). You can imagine my surprise to learn then that because of this; she was not authorised to sell her books at any events she organised herself. The books remained the property of the publisher until they were willing to promote the book. I have to admit, I have heard this before. Authors are left in the lurch, trying to host their own book launches with no or very little stock to sell due to their contractual obligations to their publisher. Crazy, right?! I was genuinely flabbergasted to learn that even an author with substantial celebrity status was whacked with this clause in Australia. What hope do we mere mortals have when even a well-known entertainer can’t get a publicity tour? The image to the left is of the attendees at this particular book event, looks pretty 'popular' to me! This has prompted me to share what Bowerbird Publishing offers to its authors. All the perks of a traditional publisher – logo placement on books, professional marketing assistance, promotion of you, the author and your book through local and national media, my website and social media platforms. Professional editor, graphic designer, and publisher, all in-house. Bowerbird Publishing DOES NOT retain any legal ownership of your book. Bowerbird Publishing DOES NOT earn any money from your book earnings. Continued support and advice on how to make the most out of your publication. As a publisher, my motivation is to help other authors share their stories. I started out as a self-published author, so I not only understand the business of publishing but also relate to writers on a personal level. There is nothing wrong with wanting that dream book deal from one of the big five publishers in Australia. I, too, shared that dream once. My message to you today is to look beyond the prestigious façade that comes with the big five and really think about what you want for yourself and how much you are willing to sacrifice for the sake of the publishers ‘label.’ Royalties can be minimal when bound to a big five publisher; they can also expect you to work harder for your earnings. With Bowerbird Publishing, you set your price and earn 100% of the royalties on books you sell. If you’ve signed with one of the big five in Australia, tell us your story. I’d love to know what motivates authors to return, even when minimal earnings or contracts favour the publisher. This is my cautionary tale, to continue to educate writers on the many perks and disadvantages of the different publishing options in Australia. My book, ‘6 Steps to Self-publishing with Crystal Leonardi’ gives authors the insight they need to make the right publishing choice for them. Purchase your copy through my online book shop… www.crystalleonardi.com/bookshop

Whether your success is measured by winning awards, reaching your goals, or simply getting through each day, take the time to celebrate your achievements. As life continues, we must embrace the good and the bad equally to maintain a grounded existence. I am always open to new opportunities and thrive on self-improvement and the confidence it gives me in my business. As a solo entrepreneur, I am my own publicist, content creator, and events manager, so this fast-paced world will leave you in the dust if you don’t continue to upskill. In the last few months, I have put myself out there by nominating for several national awards. Consequently, I had to up the ante on confidence and backing myself. Easier said than done, however. How do we go from knowing we can do it to articulating that we can do it when out of our comfort zone and in front of our peers or, even worse, judges? These are some of the questions I pondered when it was announced that I was a finalist in all three categories that I was nominated for. My thought process was a little like this – "shit, now I have to prove I’m worthy." '"How will I articulate my successes without stumbling through nervously, jumbling up my words and sounding like a goofball?" Imposter syndrome chimed in right on queue, nudging me into a corner of self-doubt and disbelief that I’m worthy of winning. Fast forward a few weeks, and I realised that making the most of the opportunities was my best shot at success, even if that meant I didn’t win. I had to prepare myself with a winning attitude and gain skills from those who already knew the formula for success. Queue Ausmumpreneur powerhouse Jordana Edwards from The Breastfeeding Tea Co. and her valuable insight into what makes a great interview, and I felt so confident and well prepared for my finalist interviews that whether I win or not, I know I’ve given it my best shot and put my best foot forward. So, now I’d like to share the key points I learnt from Jordana and a few other inspiring publicity coaches. Anyone can be an expert. If you are an author, you are an expert on your book. Decide what you are an expert in, ensuring you have experience in the topic to represent yourself and what you do confidently. With success often comes the imposter syndrome, where we lack self-belief. Knowing your area of expertise and focusing on how it can serve others will allow you to commit to your purpose. Persistence pays off. This is my favourite topic of conversation right now. We can become so self-absorbed that we end up talking ourselves out of success. Remember, every person you share your message with is probably hearing it for the first time. It’s ok to feel like a broken record! Don’t feel embarrassed about tooting your own horn and leave self-doubt at the door. To make someone else believe you are successful, you must also believe it. Do journalists a favour by persistently updating them on your achievements. They rely on their community to provide them with content, and if your pitch is the right fit, it will receive attention. Milk your publicity, and keep using it to remind your audience of your worth. A great story of success has a very long shelf life in the world of PR. Know how and when. So, you’ve put yourself out there, and now you’re waiting for the phone to start ringing… what happens if all you hear are crickets? Follow up! Often, emails are missed or lost in full inboxes. Journalists care about their readers and viewers, so take that into consideration when pitching your story. They don’t necessarily care about you and your business, but it will be considered if it speaks to their audience. Find your angle and go with it. Keep it simple and carefully select your supporting graphics, depending on the media platform. Sometimes stock photography isn’t always the best choice, and a more natural or outside-the-box approach is preferred. Know your media platform and cater your pitch to them. With all that being said, self-promotion is not everyone’s cup of tea. It’s something most of us have to work on. I love the advice about being the expert. When focused on what I know, it all comes very naturally. Don’t overthink things or get bogged down in thoughts of self-doubt. Be your biggest supporter; when you believe in yourself, others will too. To purchase my books, head to my online bookshop... www.crystalleonardi.com/bookshop. Check out the Bowerbird Publishing tab on my website for mentoring and publishing services. For more information about Jordana Edwards and The Breastfeeding Tea Co. go to ABOUT US — The Breastfeeding Tea Co. For more information about Ausmumpreneur, go to AusMumpreneur | Australia's Number 1 Community for Mums in Business

We are officially on the countdown to the end of treatment; only six weeks to go, making the 23rd of May a day of celebration. My heart really only settled on this realization today, a whole week and a half after Sebby’s last MRI and oncology review in Brisbane. For a welcome change, we had a good scan, good results, and a high-5 from the team in Brisbane - awesome, yes? Or no? My mind said yes, but my heart said no. A predicament that's become all too common for me. Conflicting emotions, regardless of the news, wash over me as I try to understand it. I'm sure many oncology families and individuals go through this, reminded of their immortality and the fragility of life, a nudge back to some of the darkest moments already endured. I know I’m not alone because others share their struggles through FB support groups. In my way of helping others, I share my experiences through my blog. Here’s an entry from my journal last week, illustrating how lost and confused I feel every 12 weeks, when Sebby’s fate is reviewed. Why do I struggle to process good news? When shit hits the fan, I feel in control, calm, level-headed, and shielded from the blues. Focused on finding a solution, there's no room for emotional confusion or alarm. So why, then, do I feel numb to positive results? A search for peace, unachievable for this tortured soul. I should be popping the bubbly, anticipating the inevitable dizzy assault that my body can't handle, but desperate to forget our fate. The anxiety leading up to our quarterly oncology review is the same every time. The week before is full of sleepless nights, restless days, and a lack of focus. I just don't get it. I should feel relieved and exhilarated about dodging a bullet this time. But no. Nothing. I feel nothing. Almost like I'm in disbelief; I don't feel like celebrating in case the turn of good fortune is short-lived. I’ve almost become conditioned to expect the worst to happen still, building up to disappointment in hope that it’ll shield me from the power of the blow, even though today's results suggest we're almost out of those woods. Struggling to feel happiness like it never existed. I guess this is all part of the grief. The harsh reality is that this shitty situation is the best we can hope for. Despite promising results this time, we're still dealing with a monster every day who is trying persistently to take our child. It's a battle we can't win, and the trouble is, we don't know how long the fight will last. We have the strength two never give up, but what toll will that take? It's not just grey hairs and weight gain; it’s heartbreak and soul destruction, breaking away tiny fractions with each new day. Here's the thing – today, I feel great (even great enough to share a pathetic attempt at photoshopping my head onto a rollercoaster, haha). After time to process the emotions and realize once again that all we can do is take life one day at a time, I feel relieved that we can now look forward to ending treatment this time around on a high. Sebby couldn’t ‘ring the bell’ after his 1st chemotherapy treatment as it was cut short due to anaphylaxis (technically, he didn’t complete treatment). However, our little superstar has almost completed 68 rounds of chemo, and we all look forward to seeing him finish on a high. For those of you who have or are fighting cancer, I take my hat off to you. It’s hard, it’s brutal, and it is just so emotionally exhausting. I know I don’t have cancer, but I sometimes feel like I do. Just like I said in ‘Boy of Steel,’ when someone in the family has cancer, so do we. Keep fighting warriors, you are my inspiration xo Boy of Steel, Little Sebastian's Big Miracle is filled with journal entries just like this. Some uplifting and some devastating. To order your copy, head to my website bookshop www.crystalleonardi.com/bookshop

My favourite good business practice is education. I’m forever the student in the room, salivating at new information, different opinions, and enriched perspectives. Madly taking notes, I find common ground in common challenges. Recently, I listened to an inspiring talk performed by Peace Mitchell & Katy Garner, sibling entrepreneurs who’ve taken their little ideas and turned them into big successes. I’d like to share the most valuable lessons I learned from Peace & Katy. 1. Think BIGGER! Some call it the over-achiever syndrome, but I’ve learned to embrace my ambition because it has taught me many lessons. Peace & Katy encouraged us to ‘think bigger’ than our ideas, striving for more than we expect. I have embraced this notion with my writing; not only did I become an author, but I also established my own publishing company. So if your ambition is BIG, but you fall short, then at least you’ve tried and can move on to the next BIG thing. Safety and precaution in business are comfortable, but our dreams will never be achieved without risk. Don't short-change yourself by skimming the surface of your potential. Think BIG to achieve more. 2. Cripled with Fear Following on from the last point, Peace and Katy expressed how they still face fear and uncertainty, even after their successes in all areas of their business. This was so refreshing to hear because, as a relatively new business owner, I sometimes feel anxious about the ‘what-ifs.’ What if no one turns up to my event? What if no one reads my book? What if people don’t believe in me? Peace and Katy’s superstar tip was to see new ventures as merely an experiment. Focusing on a growth mindset, you will begin to see failures as lessons and be able to move on quicker and on to the next BIG idea. 3. Call in your Community “If you don’t ask, the answer will always be no.” Peace Mitchell. I really needed to hear this. Too often, I feel embarrassed to ask for support from my nearest and dearest when they’re the ones who’ll help propel my business the quickest! Also linked to the last point, our fear of rejection often stands in the way of asking for help. When a person asks me for help, I always say yes and feel good about helping someone, especially in their business. So I must remember to approach asking for help with the same positive attitude. I’ve learned from my dear friend Sandy Davies of ‘The Power to Rise Above’ that we must rise by lifting others up. She is passionate about giving a voice to those with a story to share and empowering those storytellers by embracing adversity and lifting others up. Furthermore, Peace and Katy reminded me that my business, especially the Book Angels component, has been born from listening to my intuition and that intuition is worthy of trust. Standing up and saying ‘help me to help others’ will always lead you to people who believe in and want to celebrate business. I hope you find this information as inspiring and powerful as I did. Peace and Katy are incredibly talented and grounded entrepreneurs. I love how they work to empower others to follow their dreams, think BIG, and always stay true to their passion. I feel blessed that, like them, my passion is to help others to succeed. Peace & Katy can be found on IG & FB under AusMumpreneur, or via their website AusMumpreneur | Australia's Number 1 Community for Mums in Business To learn more about Sandy’s incredible book ‘The Power to Rise Above,’ head to her website Shop - HappyPause | Menopause Balm For all of my books, please go to www.crystalleonardi.com, not forgetting to check out the Book Angels tab to keep updated on how you can help supply children in hospital with a copy of ‘My Brother Sebastian.’ Peace & Katy, this image is for you... my notes from the CBWC event where you spoke. Thanks for all the inspiration xo

As you know, I spent two days last week at the Tropical Writers Festival in Cairns. Leading up to the event, I was excited and enthusiastic about the opportunities an event of this nature could create. I had the privilege of meeting and listening to an assortment of influencers, entertainers, filmmakers, publishers, and celebrities, all linked to the literary profession in some way, and all sharing their experiences; lessons learned, and challenges shared. I had several ‘uh-huh’ moments, with the most powerful lessons exposing areas I perhaps didn’t know were lacking. From Cathi Lewis, founder of Wild Dingo Press, I could relate to so many of her publishing ‘dilemmas.’ Like me, Cathi runs a small publishing house and is passionate about what she does. I read every manuscript that is submitted and find merit in each one. However, with 6000 books being published monthly in Australia alone, it’s a tough market to break into; little own stand out in. I, like Cathi, would love to publish more authors, but even the ones that pass the ‘sleep test’* sometimes just aren’t the right fit. From Sandy Davies (author, Femtrepreneur, and founder of Soothing HappyPause Balm), “my successes are a failure unless I reach down and pull others up with me.” I needed to hear this! I am so passionate about helping other writers that I often struggle to treat my business like a business and acknowledge my value as a publisher. I felt validated by Cathi’s reminder that it’s not always about the book for the publisher. It is, however, all about timing, genre, and audience, so it’s common for publishers to turn down an author, even when their work carries merit. So where does this leave the writer? In a world where empowerment can be found through stories shared, I encourage the storytellers to keep submitting their manuscripts. Weather you get a book deal or decide to self-publish, publishing is a lot to do with project management and self-promotion – which is not often what authors are willing to do! From Taryn Brumfitt (current Australian of the Year, author, director, and body image campaigner), “polite persistence wears down resistance.” In other words, never give up! I’m so grateful for the event and for this rural business owner to be able to actually meet people face to face. So many of my professional relationships have thrived virtually for a couple of years. Still, it was so nice to shake a hand and give a hug to those who’ve helped me immensely with Bowerbird Publishing. My ‘6 Steps to Self-publishing’ handbook sold out over the weekend, which is a testament to how many writers it’s helping. My next print run is due to arrive this week, so please continue to order via my website www.crystalleonardi.com so I can notify you when your order arrives! *The sleep test was not something Cathi taught me; it was actually something I already do! Reading manuscripts before sleep is a great way to test whether the work is captivating, engaging, and a ‘page-turner.’ Only the ones that keep me awake at the end of my hectic days get a second look.

There’s no doubt that Jelena Dokic’s rise to stardom came fast, hard, and ferociously. Quite frankly, I wouldn’t expect any less from a fellow woman of Yugoslav descent. She’s always been one to watch for me. I could relate to her steely focus on the tennis court and in life. Her discipline, commitment to excellence, and conflicting emotions towards a powerful and dominating male influence during her young years. I was lucky; I didn’t cop the brunt of an abusive father. My father, of English and Irish descent, was an absolute gentleman to his wife and daughters and always treated me respectfully. However, my Yugoslav heritage from my mother’s side exposed me to fine examples of the stereotypical misogynist, cruel, and hard male figure that was Demir Dokic, Jelena’s father. Yugoslav men could be ferocious and somewhat frightening. They did, however, foster a strength in their victims, or bystanders, as I was, to let them explode, grit their teeth, accept your punishment, and prove your worth to them by doing better next time. And this is where I found Jelena’s memoir Unbreakable totally fascinating. Her acknowledgment of a fear-driven ambition to succeed and acceptance of this journey is simply extraordinary. Spending years at the mercy of her abusive father did, in fact, equip her to become the World Number 1 tennis player in 1998, at the ripe old age of 15. She was a record-breaker and an incredible force to be reconned with. While she rapidly ascended through the world tennis rankings, her mental health and family struggles also peaked. Her off-court troubles took their toll and inevitably ended in her retirement from competitive tennis in 2014. Unbreakable is a heartbreaking recount of an abused, neglected, and tortured little girl with an incredible talent for tennis. The abuse was unrelenting and horrendous. I applaud Jelena’s courage to revisit such a traumatic time and bring awareness to domestic abuse and the secret world of toxic child-parent sporting partnerships. Jelena almost lost everything to her father. Her spirit, her mental health, and her career winnings. What he couldn’t take from her was her talent. After many years of soul-searching and repair, Jelena has re-emerged even more inspirational than before. Although not a player anymore, the tennis court is what she still calls ‘home,’ with roles as an Australian coach, commentator, and writer. Other notable chapters in the book include her volatile national identity, switching between representing Australia and Yugoslavia on the courts, the role of her mother during her years of abuse, and the tumultuous relationships that seemed to follow Jelena, even after her personal and professional ‘separation’ from her father. There are very few times in my life since my son’s diagnosis with brain cancer that I can honestly say another person is worse off than us. Jelena broke these barriers for me and left me feeling grateful for my perfectly respectful upbringing compared to hers. For the kindness I received and that she could only dream of. She is a warrior who continues to fight off bullies in the form of online trolls. She has the strength and resilience to fight back and, in my eyes, is a proud and powerful woman, unwilling to accept any form of abuse. Everyone should read this book. It’s powerful. It’s heartbreaking. It’s life-changing. You will never look at tennis, or Jelena, the same way after reading Unbreakable. Purchase your copy here – Unbreakable : Halloran, Jess, Dokic, Jelena: Amazon.com.au: Books *Disclaimer – my description of the Yugoslav community is derived from my own personal experiences as a child born to a Yugoslav mother. I was witness to, but never a victim of, verbal or physical abuse and loved my Yugoslav Baba & Dida (grandparent) more than life itself. The Yugoslav people are generous, hospitable, and extremely resilient. I am proud to call myself part-Yugoslav and carry on many traditions and customs with my own children. In 1946, the new constitution of the Federal People's Republic of Yugoslavia, modelled after the constitution of the Soviet Union, established six republics, including Serbia, Croatia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Macedonia, and Slovenia.

I don’t know how other self-published authors felt when they saw this headline, but I felt immense relief! In my self-publishing workshops, I talk about this very thing – the hidden conditions that sometimes come with that ‘dream book deal.’ Now, I’m not privy to every publisher’s contract agreements, but I have heard that book deals often catch 1st-time authors by surprise. Let me break it down for you with figures provided by Lewis Pennock for dailymail.com, published 5 January 2023… Penguin Random House paid $20M for a 4-book deal with Harry, including his debut novel ‘Spare.’ It is a 4-book deal, so ‘Spare’ will need to bring in ¼ of the returned income. The ‘Spare’ e-book will retail for $17.99, Penguin gets 70% of that ($12.60), and the remainder will go to the host app store and Harry for his share of the book royalties, leaving a total profit of $8.10 to Penguin per e-book, or the equivalent of 617,284 copies. The ‘Spare’ print book will retail for $36.00, Penguin gets 50% of that ($18.00), and the remainder will go to Harry for his share of the book royalties, leaving a total profit of $12.60 to Penguin per print book, or the equivalent of 396,825 copies. The other important factor to consider with the ‘Spare’ deal is that Penguin may be pocketing some of the ‘profit,’ but they also manufactured the book, market and distribute it, and paid a ghostwriter a reported $1M to write the book, which equates to a significant expense, and not to Harry. Admittedly, in a world where you’re not a celebrity like Harry, publishing houses like Penguin don’t take such big risks. They may agree to publish your book and offer you an advance of, say $30,000, but often it will need to be earnt back within 90 days. For a retail book with a wholesale value of $15.00, that’s 2000 copies in 90 days. 2000 books is a lot for a 1st-time author, let me tell you! The important lesson here is that having a realistic budget for publishing a book is key. If you have the time and resources to earn money back and work with a publishing house, all power to you, I know many published authors whom both enjoy and see value in their relationship with their publisher. I’m not a risk taker and certainly didn’t have a robust budget to lean on when I was ready to publish my first book. So, self-publishing was more suited to me. It allowed me to control the project and work to my set timeframes without outside pressures influencing how and when to do things. It’s a case of making informed decisions at the right time. If you’d like to gain more insight into the world of self-publishing with little insider tidbits like this, email me for my next self-publishing workshop. Leonardi.crystal@gmail.com, or stay updated on upcoming events on my website www.crystalleonardi.com

I feel like I could write about this forever, even though the words struggle to flow onto the page. The exhaustion, overwhelming. During days like this, the wait is the worst. So much anxiety, too many thoughts, unequivocal expectations. The care of my boy taken away, scheduled on the calendar, a notion still unnatural, however somewhat normal to us now. A mother-in-waiting holds a different meaning for an oncology mummy. A mother waiting for news, a mother waiting for relief, a mother needing to take a breath. During days like this, my entire being battles with the fight and the surrender. Too much in love to stop, too tired to continue. Feeling totally drained by the situation but completely motivated by my little one. I wish so hard that this wasn't our reality, living on a knife's edge. Constantly reminded that we are living proof that miracles happen. That something magical keeps our spirits and our boy alive. To read more about me, my struggles, and my successes as a mum and businesswoman, head to my website www.crystalleonardi.com/blog My books, Boy of Steel, My Brother Sebastian, and 6 Steps to Self-publishing can all be found here: www.crystalleonardi.com/my-books

As an 'accidental publisher' and author, I've reflected on some of the things nobody told me about self-publishing. You'll send test readers your manuscript and hold your breath, praying he/she likes it. After you’ve read your book out loud and made hundreds of meticulous corrections, you will receive your edited manuscript back from your editor and notice countless errors. When you read the final version of your book, you will find an error. Opening the box containing your first print run is the most exciting part of the process. You will take photos, record a reenactment of the opening, and ring everyone to tell them your exciting news. Revil in the moment. Self-promotion doesn't come naturally to everyone, but promoting your book is paramount to its success. You will become embarrassed about promoting your book long before its success. Get over it. As the relentless drumbeat of self-promotion proceeds, no matter how many times you post on Instagram and Facebook, you'll wonder if anyone is listening. Trust me, your target audience is. After your book is published, it might be reviewed. This may hurt. Your book may not be reviewed at all. This hurts more. Other writers' books will be much more successful than yours and receive three times the accolades. This doesn't mean your story isn't as important. In your acknowledgment, you will forget to thank someone super important. The key to becoming an Amazon best-seller isn't about book sales; it's about clever marketing. You will gradually meet, like, and befriend other writers. This will make you realize there is a true author community; avid readers often buy in bulk and can enjoy your book and my book. Depression will envelop you when you fail to produce a reasonable income from book sales, but you won’t care after you spot an airline passenger reading your book. Publishing a book will never get old, ever. To work with me and get your book self-published, simply contact me via my website or email leonardi.crystal@gmail.com Special thanks to Writer's Digest for the inspiration behind this post. '15 Things Nobody Told Me About Book Publishing', written by Sally Koslow, published on 13 September 2022.

They don’t call it the ‘silly season’ for nothing, so I find it amusing that we often see people being led by greed and regret at a time of giving and hope. Love and affection are ‘gifted’ via lavish gifts, revealing perhaps the previous years’ lack of connection and communication. Instead of giving the gift of time and love by handing out over-the-top presents, the gifter is temporarily left feeling atoned for their poor choices – a vicious cycle, right? My message for everyone this Christmas is to find a way of giving back and regain perspective. Just like in two books I reviewed recently, Goodbye Busy, Hello Happy, and The Power to Rise Above, acknowledging what brings us joy is paramount to spreading kindness and sharing gratitude. To enrich your soul, I encourage you this ‘silly season’ to feed your heart through the gift of giving. Some free ways to do this, which can involve your children as well, are; Donating your time at a local shopping centre to wrap gifts. Spend some time at a local nursing home or aged-care facility. Even 1 hour can bring joy and hope to someone feeling lonely this Christmas. Head to your local animal shelter and offer to walk dogs or cuddle kittens – this one the kids will love! If you are fortunate enough to be able to offer your time and finances, you may like to; Donate toys or books to a local charity – Kmart has a wishing tree, and the Children’s Hospital Foundation will always accept new gifts for children of all ages. Offer your time to a women’s shelter in your local community. Donations of women’s hygiene products, skincare, and clothing items are often welcome. Head into an oncology ward and leave some puzzle books (word search, crosswords, sodoku), coffee satchels, sweet and savoury treats, books, etc., for those spending time receiving treatment over Christmas. No matter how you choose to give back, the level of the expense will not increase the grandness of your gesture; work within your means and involve the children so that everyone benefits. Individuals, community groups, and charitable organizations all need your help. Do it without recognition or public gratitude, and you’ll feel even more fulfilled and enriched by the experience. Share the love this Christmas, and be open to giving and receiving love. To pay it forward this Christmas with the help of Bowerbird Publishing, check out our 'Book Angel's' options: Donate | My Sitehttps://static.wixstatic.com/media/dfaf2f_99e83d1d064a4da897dbb25e63a33beb~mv2.jpg https://www.crystalleonardi.com/about-3

For something a little festive, I’m reviewing 2 books together; Goodbye Busy, Hello Happy, and The Power to Rise Above. Both books feature the author’s and other women’s stories, all worthy of praise and recognition. Collaborations of this nature have become more and more popular, and rightly so; they represent a powerful coming-together of shared triumph after adversity. Both of these books belong in the self-help category, which is why I was drawn to them. Like memoirs and autobiographies, I enjoy the insight into someone’s life, sharing their battles, struggles, and how they’ve overcome the difficulties in life. I have learned recently that success and true joy often come from a place of learning from experienced hardship. Another unique connection between these two titles is that Peace Mitchell and Katy Garner (Goodbye Busy, Hello Happy) and Sandy Davies (The Power to Rise Above) are all constituents of the Ausmumprenuer family, like me. In my Ausmumprenuer experience, I have learned that perspective is super powerful. Reading through the collection of experiences in these books helped me find perspective again and reminded me that overcoming adversity is something we must continue to work on. No one’s life is a fairy tale, no matter how things look from the outside. The stories were heartbreaking, from domestic violence victims to poverty and bankruptcy, but they left me feeling inspired, connected, and uplifted. Why? Because every single story is about survival. There are so many ways in which life can bring us down. What’s important to remember and what shines through in Goodbye Busy, Hello Happy, and The Power to Rise Above is that the true measure of success is how we respond to adversity. And what perspective gives to us is an open heart and open mind. By reading 1 woman’s story before bed each night, I felt I started the next day with a heightened sense of gratitude for the people and opportunities in my life, as well as feeling equipped to take on the day unhindered by negativity and doubt. Goodbye Busy, Hello Happy focuses on how we see ourselves in the world and what being busy really means. An insight I was keen to learn from! The biggest lesson I took away from this book was that being ‘busy’ isn't necessarily a reflection of how much work we're doing or how much success we have. Busyness can sometimes reflect poor time management, over-extending ourselves, and recognizing the need to engage help in our business. We all come to a point in our business where we realize that being a one-woman show is no longer sustainable and that outsourcing assistance will be the difference between your business becoming stagnant and your business soaring to new heights. It's a daunting consideration that I’ve personally grappled with this year. The Power to Rise Above is another amazing book filled with survival stories. Created by Sandy Davies, an American woman living in the Daintree rainforest, she shares her incredible journey through life’s challenges and how they’ve guided her into small business and success as an author. Sandy's experience of being bullied very intensely in her primary and middle school years has equipped her with the strength of character and courage to share her story and other women’s stories of hardship, followed by survival. Uniquely, The Power to Rise Above is a collaboration of stories from women worldwide, not just in Australia. This special book teaches the reader that no matter which corner of the globe you’re from, challenges can be very similar. The Power to Rise Above amplifies the voices of the women who have been victimized at some point in their lives and how those struggles became their superpower. No, not their crutch, their superpower. I believe that we all have a superpower that is hidden away until a very big jolt of adversity awakens us to a new stratosphere of fearlessness. A willingness to identify our happiness and turn that into business, success, better relationships, a vessel for helping others, or just simply, inner peace. No matter who you are, no one is everyone's cup of tea. A bully will exploit your weaknesses or their perception of your imperfections and make your life a living hell. Dominating personalities exist among us everywhere. I was bullied in primary school because I liked playing sports. How stupid is that!? A particular group of girls didn’t like me because I preferred to wear my Reebok pump high-tops and keep up with the boys on the basketball courts at any opportunity during the day. Not my fault – I was just doing what I love. Overcoming the negative energy and lowered self-esteem because of my bullies took hard work and a very different environment once I entered high school – my sporting obsession was welcomed and celebrated! Finding the power to rise above the negativity made me realize that sport was my ticket to becoming a great leader and team player; it improved my social skills – on and off the court/field, and opened up doors to like-minded people who encouraged and supported me—what a valuable foundation to build when my life landed me in a mentoring and motivational speaker space. Realizing that my bullies’ perception of my weakness was actually my superpower was the most valuable lesson I learned from reading The Power to Rise Above. Some of my dearest friendships were born on a tennis court, dance studio, or soccer field - isn’t that just the most ironic turn of events, considering my younger years on the basketball court were tainted by bullies? I enjoyed both books immensely and feel grateful for the courage of the women who shared their stories. Special thanks to Sandy, Katy, and Peace for bringing together such inspiring women in this way, I have learned so much about myself and the power of perspective. I highly recommend either of these books to anyone wanting to escape a negative headspace or seeking guidance in their business or personal successes. Goodbye Busy, Hello Happy, and The Power to Rise Above would also be extremely valuable to anyone looking to start their own business while seeking a little bit more insight into how to turn something you're passionate about into your superpower. Purchase The Power to Rise Above HERE: Home - The Power To Rise Above | Inspirational Book Purchase Goodbye Busy, Hello Happy HERE: Goodbye Busy, Hello Happy: The magic of breaking up with busy and finding more time for joy : Mitchell, Peace, Garner, Katy: Amazon.com.au: Books And don’t forget about Bowerbirds Publishing’s very own books; Boy of Steel, My Brother Sebastian, and 6 Steps to Self-publishing. Find them all HERE: Books | Crystalleonardi.com | Queensland

I speak to many writers who express their frustration with navigating around constant obstacles that contribute to losing sight of their goals and creative flow. Writing can be challenging, but like any creative outlet, the more we relax, the more productivity and clarity we will find. I know it's easier said than done, so I have designed an activity called 'Reach for the Stars', which can be found in my book, '6 Steps to Self-publishing with Crystal Leonardi.' Setting and revisiting writing goals isn't something we should only do at the beginning and end of a project, in fact, I encourage my writers to re-assess their goals after each of the 6 steps; writing, editing, formatting, publishing, distributing, and marketing. That way, as our project develops, so too do our expectations and vision. 'Reach for the Stars' goes a little something like this... What are your goals and vision for your book? What obstacles are in the way of your goals and vision? What more could you do to reach your goals and vision? Setting ourselves goals (big or small) is the best way to remain on-task. Goals allow us to define our objective, stay motivated and measure our progress. So rather than becoming frustrated, lost, and a little deflated, set your goals and establish a clear vision for more productive, positive writing. For more information about my mentorship program or to order a copy of '6 Steps to Self-publishing with Crystal Leonardi', head to my website www.crystalleonardi.com