MSI Press Blog

Here is an interesting book promotion/marketing ploy from Bob McGee, author of A View through the Fog : "My book loves attention!" Book description: A View through the Fog  is compelling, poignant, and packed with both moving and hilarious anecdotes. All human life (and death) is here. With his own distinct voice, McGee opens the door on the dizzying world of the Golden Gate Bridge-the beauty of both nature and the bridge itself, the camaraderie and friction with colleagues, and the devastating tragedies of suicide jumpers. He brings an entire community to the page with a thought-provoking and richly detailed memoir that will resonate with many readers. The motive for his writing this book is love of his subject. He paints this world he knows in a way that gives readers the feeling they are on the Bridge with him. From review by Kevin Hines: "Read one of the most well written books of the past decade, maybe longer!  Much like the Golden Gate Bridge is an art deco masterp...

Authors often ask: Do awards really matter for my book’s success? The answer is yes — but not all awards carry the same weight. For nonfiction, it’s helpful to think of awards in three categories: major, minor (competitive), and less-competitive. Each plays a different role in ROI (return on investment), both financially and in terms of credibility. 📚 Major Awards (Transformative ROI) These are the prizes that can catapult a nonfiction book into bestseller status and secure long-term influence. They attract mainstream media coverage, bookstore promotion, and institutional adoption. Pulitzer Prize (General Nonfiction, Biography, Memoir, History) National Book Award (Nonfiction) National Book Critics Circle Award (Nonfiction, Biography, Memoir) PEN America Literary Awards (Nonfiction categories) Anisfield-Wolf Book Award (Nonfiction) Los Angeles Times Book Prize (Nonfiction categories) 👉 ROI impact : Immediate financial spike, sustained visibility, and enduring cultural influen...

It is Tuesday. Monday's madness is over, and Wednesday will take us over the hump, so Tuesday it is--for some serious discussion with authors. Tuesday talks mean to address authors in waiting and self-published authors who would like to go a more traditional route or who would at least like to take their steps with a publisher by their side.  Today's post provides advice on planning a successful book event. Here are some of the experiences from successful authors. Start with Clear Objectives Determine what you want to achieve. Is your primary goal selling books, building your audience, or establishing your expertise? Your objectives will shape all other decisions. Know Your Venue Select a location that matches your book and audience. Bookstores provide built-in marketing and experienced staff, while libraries often attract engaged readers. Check for good accessibility, appropriate size, and necessary equipment. Create a Marketing Timeline Begin promotion 4-6 weeks before your e...

  It is Tuesday. Monday's madness is over, and Wednesday will take us over the hump, so Tuesday it is--for some serious discussion with authors. Tuesday talks mean to address authors in waiting and self-published authors who would like to go a more traditional route or who would at least like to take their steps with a publisher by their side.  This week, we share the importance of A+ content in marketing books.  A+ content refers to enhanced marketing content that brands use to create more engaging and informative product listings, primarily on e-commerce platforms like Amazon. It allows sellers to include additional visuals, text, and other interactive elements to better showcase their products. A+ content is highly recommended to be added to author pages and product descriptions on Amazon for better sales. Here are some features of A+ content: Enhanced Product Images:  High-quality images that display the product from various angles and highlight its features. Det...