Unfortunately all good things have to come to an end. Xlibris is back with the final part of three-part interview with Xlibris author of the Cha Cha series, Lisa Stephens.
What was your favorite part of your self-publishing experience?
Firstly, my book(s) may have never been published if I had not opted to go down the self-publishing path – they would probably be sitting on a traditional publisher’s desk somewhere just gathering dust! Other than actually seeing my books published, my favourite part of the self-publishing process was being able to “oversee” my vision from beginning to end. Whilst I appreciated the input of others along the way, at the end of the day if something did not feel right to me I had the ability to change it. Alternatively, if a suggestion felt like a ‘good fit” I could embrace it without having to clear it with anyone else. I maintained total creative integrity throughout.
What advice would you give to an aspiring author?
That if you have always wanted to write a book just do it! Don’t look at the obstacles as insurmountable, but rather as a challenge to be overcome and try to view criticism as constructive feedback to assist you in producing a better product. Finally, write about something that you feel passionate about!
Are you working on a sequel to your book or another subject matter?
Cha Cha & The Picnic Basket and Cha Cha and the Great Cricket Match are the first two books in an eight-book series about Cha Cha, a lovable Lab, and his adventures with Harry and James. Throughout the series young readers will also meet Cha Cha’s four-legged friends including Daisy (Cha Cha’s Labrador sister), Clover (a Cocker Spaniel) and Nese (a Ragdoll Cat).
Are there any other events, marketing or promotions planned for your book?
Cha Cha & The Picnic Basket and Cha Cha and the Great Cricket Match will be officially launched within Australia at Guide Dogs Queensland on June 7, 2013. In the meantime, there are a number of readings at pre-schools and book clubs planned within Australia (see attached photos). At all public events children are invited to meet Cha Cha after the book readings, and Cha Cha will soon also be accessible on various media sites including his own website (chachaandfriends.com), facebook and twitter. Children all over the world will be able to follow Cha Cha and his latest adventures as they happen!
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