Author Sarai Walker discusses writing subversive fiction like 'The Cherry Robbers' inspired by real events and history. The Two Marks talk about book launches and negotiating with publishers for better deals. Sarai shares insights into her creative process and the themes of her dark Gothic novel set in 1950s Connecticut.
Sarai Walker enjoys creating subversive fiction wrapped in a pretty package.
Bestseller Academy offers support through accountability, craft, and coaching for aspiring writers.
Negotiating deals in the writing industry is crucial for securing better offers and maintaining creative control.
Deep dives
Writing a Bestseller Academy for Aspiring Writers
The podcast discusses the launch of the Bestseller Academy designed to help writers achieve success in the literary world. By studying the advice of over 300 best-selling authors, the creators aim to assist writers in reaching their bestseller dreams through accountability, craft, and coaching. The academy offers a platform for writers to enhance their skills and pursue their writing goals with the support of experienced mentors.
Preparing and Launching a Book, Revealing a Ghost in Unboxing Video
The episode delves into the preparation and launch of the host's new book, 'The Ghost of Ivy Barn.' Details include updating the website, scheduling newsletters, and arranging a book launch at Waterstones. The host shares insights on creating engaging unboxing videos, encouraging audience participation by spotting a ghost within the video. Additionally, practical tips on cake toppers and a behind-the-scenes video add excitement to the book launch.
Exploring Subversive Writing Themes and TV Adaptations
The conversation with guest author Saray Walker highlights her writing journey and the themes of her works. Saray Walker discusses her novel, 'The Cherry Robbers,' a New York Times spring fiction pick, presenting a dark, gothic narrative inspired by historical figures like Sarah Winchester. The episode also delves into her critically acclaimed novel, 'Dietland,' highlighting its feminist perspective and adaptation into an AMC TV series. Saray Walker shares insights on maintaining creative control over TV adaptations and her experience in the collaborative environment of a writer's room.
The Power of Negotiation in the Writing Industry
Negotiating deals in the writing industry is crucial for writers to secure better offers and maintain control over their work. Learning to say no tactfully can lead to improved deals and respect from others in the industry. By standing one's ground and understanding one's worth, writers can navigate negotiations effectively and secure deals that align with their interests, similar to Mo Salah's negotiations in professional football.
Creating Discipline and Setting Boundaries as a Writer
Establishing a writing routine and claiming dedicated writing time despite personal preferences is essential for writer productivity. Writers should prioritize structuring their day to maximize writing efficiency and separate work time from personal commitments. Setting boundaries with family and others, such as designating specific work hours, helps writers focus and maintain productivity, emphasizing the importance of disciplined work habits and territorializing writing space.
Sarai Walker’s debut novel Dietland was smash hit and made into an AMC TV series, and now she returns with The Cherry Robbers, a twisted, dark gothic novel. Sarai tells us how the novel was inspired by real people and history and how she loves writing fiction that is subversive but “wrapped in a pretty package”. And the Two Marks discuss Mr Stay’s book launch and his unboxing videos, and how to haggle the best deal from a publisher. Please note: there’s no video of the Two Marks on Youtube this week due to broadband issues, but there is video with Sarai’s interview.
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