Join author, speaker, and chef Brooke Siem as she shares her powerful journey with antidepressant withdrawal in her memoir, "May Cause Side Effects." Brooke discusses the intricate process of writing her memoir, from finding the right literary agent amid pandemics to the unique choice of a first-person present tense that adds authenticity to her story. She sheds light on memoir marketing strategies and the emotional challenges of the publishing journey, providing invaluable insights for aspiring authors ready to transform their narratives into impactful stories.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Publishing Journey
Brooke Seam initially assumed publishing her memoir would be easy, based on her previous experience with "Prohibition Bakery".
However, she faced numerous challenges, including firing her agent, a failed deal, and a four-year delay before finding a new agent and publisher.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Royalty Checks
Ensure publishers issue separate royalty checks for authors and agents.
This protects authors from predatory agents who might misuse funds.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Finding an Agent
Brooke found her agent, Beth, through a writing retreat led by author Laura Munson.
The strong manuscript Brooke developed during the retreat secured her the deal, despite the challenging timing of the pandemic.
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What if your personal story could serve as a beacon of hope for countless others navigating similar struggles? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Brooke Seam, a dynamic author, speaker, and chef, who courageously shares her journey through antidepressant withdrawal in her memoir, "May Cause Side Effects." Brooke's story is not just a personal narrative; it's a resource for patients, caregivers, and medical professionals, demystifying the challenging withdrawal process and offering a firsthand account of resilience and healing.
Brooke Seam takes us through the labyrinthine process of writing her memoir, unveiling the serendipitous yet arduous journey of finding the right literary agent and the unique challenges of publishing during a pandemic. The episode highlights Brooke's fortuitous encounter at a writing retreat that led to securing her agent, Beth, and emphasizes the importance of writing from a healed perspective. Brooke also shares the transformative decision to write in the first-person present tense, a choice that brought authenticity and immediacy to her narrative, making her story not only compelling but deeply relatable to a wide audience.
Navigating the complexities of memoir marketing, Brooke Seam offers invaluable insights into the nuances of launching a nonfiction book. She reveals the strategic elements behind successful book promotions and the often overlooked importance of early marketing efforts. Drawing from her rich professional background as a chef and advocate, Brooke discusses how her culinary career intersects with her advocacy work in mental health, illustrating a unique blend of personal and professional experiences. Closing with advice for aspiring memoir writers, Brooke encourages understanding one's motivations, whether writing for personal fulfillment or a cause-driven purpose, inspiring listeners to pen their truths with clarity and purpose.
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