Podcasts about tyrus books

Hey Collaborist! On this week's episode we help you understand how to know you are ready to query an agent or publisher. You've written a novel. Great! You want the whole world to read it. Also great! Now that you've typed "the end" you should start working on your query letter, right? Well, not exactly. You need to remember that your query letter isn't the only one going out in the world and that other people are looking for representation, too. It's competitive, but there's a lot about it that is entirely within your control. ABOUT THE HOSTS: Jason Buchholz’s acclaimed debut novel, A Paper Son, published by Tyrus Books in 2016, explores themes of migration, borderlands, heritage, and the sometimes hidden stories that bind us all together. He has ghostwritten books and book proposals for a variety of authors and as an editor he has fostered the development of dozens of manuscripts, both in fiction and nonfiction. He has also worked as a journalist and a travel writer. A current nonfiction project has him hiking and kayaking deep into the quiet landscapes of the many wilderness areas of Northern California, where he lives. When he’s not writing or reading he spends his time playing and traveling with his son and daughter. Jason graduated from UC Berkeley and holds an MFA from the University of San Francisco. Ben LeRoy has long been fascinated by the power of words and story to connect and expand the world. He was the founder and publisher of the critically acclaimed publishing companies Bleak House Books (2000-2009) and Tyrus Books (2009-2017) until the latter was sold to Simon & Schuster. During his time in publishing, Ben was a frequent speaker at conferences and routinely interviewed for pieces about the industry. In 2014, after the suicide death of a friend, Ben did volunteer work in all 50 states as part of the Be Local Everywhere project. RESOURCES & LINKS: Need an Editor, Ghostwriter, or Coach? Hire a Collaborist! – https://collaborist.org/services/ Looking for a Writers’ Group? - https://collaborist.org/writers-groups/ Interested in a book mentioned during the podcast? - https://bookshop.org/shop/collaborist More about Jason Buchholz - http://www.jasonbuchholz.com/ More about Ben LeRoy – http://www.thebenleroy.com Collaborist on Twitter – http://www.twitter.com/Collaborist1 Collaborist on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thecollaborist Collaborist on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/collaborist

On this episode of Collaborcast we answer a frequently asked question, "How long should a book be?" And though we both agree that a story should be as many words as it needs to be, the business side of publishing has more specific numbers as far as word count. We go over the numbers. We give examples of books that went way over and a few that snuck in well under. Ben also talks about his side project -- What Did I Just Paint? -- a YouTube project about my nightly learning process with paints and canvases. And we want to hear from those of you who are doing NaNoWriMo! How's it going? ABOUT THE HOSTS: Jason Buchholz’s acclaimed debut novel, A Paper Son, published by Tyrus Books in 2016, explores themes of migration, borderlands, heritage, and the sometimes hidden stories that bind us all together. He has ghostwritten books and book proposals for a variety of authors and as an editor he has fostered the development of dozens of manuscripts, both in fiction and nonfiction. He has also worked as a journalist and a travel writer. A current nonfiction project has him hiking and kayaking deep into the quiet landscapes of the many wilderness areas of Northern California, where he lives. When he’s not writing or reading he spends his time playing and traveling with his son and daughter. Jason graduated from UC Berkeley and holds an MFA from the University of San Francisco. Ben LeRoy has long been fascinated by the power of words and story to connect and expand the world. He was the founder and publisher of the critically acclaimed publishing companies Bleak House Books (2000-2009) and Tyrus Books (2009-2017) until the latter was sold to Simon & Schuster. During his time in publishing, Ben was a frequent speaker at conferences and routinely interviewed for pieces about the industry. In 2014, after the suicide death of a friend, Ben did volunteer work in all 50 states as part of the Be Local Everywhere project. RESOURCES & LINKS: Need an Editor, Ghostwriter, or Coach? Hire a Collaborist! – https://collaborist.org/services/ Looking for a Writers’ Group? - https://collaborist.org/writers-groups/ Interested in a book mentioned during the podcast? - https://bookshop.org/shop/collaborist More about Jason Buchholz - http://www.jasonbuchholz.com/ More about Ben LeRoy – http://www.thebenleroy.com Collaborist on Twitter – http://www.twitter.com/Collaborist1 Collaborist on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thecollaborist Collaborist on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/collaborist

In a busy, busy world, how can you make sure to keep tending to your purpose? Jason and Ben discuss how to ease back into the real world after spending mindful time away on your creative project. What lessons can be learned from dedicating days or weeks to hyper focusing on one act? How do we continue to carry those lessons with us once we return to the routine of the 9-5 and the distractions of our regular life? ABOUT THE HOSTS: Jason Buchholz’s acclaimed debut novel, A Paper Son, published by Tyrus Books in 2016, explores themes of migration, borderlands, heritage, and the sometimes hidden stories that bind us all together. He has ghostwritten books and book proposals for a variety of authors and as an editor he has fostered the development of dozens of manuscripts, both in fiction and nonfiction. He has also worked as a journalist and a travel writer. A current nonfiction project has him hiking and kayaking deep into the quiet landscapes of the many wilderness areas of Northern California, where he lives. When he’s not writing or reading he spends his time playing and traveling with his son and daughter. Jason graduated from UC Berkeley and holds an MFA from the University of San Francisco. Ben LeRoy has long been fascinated by the power of words and story to connect and expand the world. He was the founder and publisher of the critically acclaimed publishing companies Bleak House Books (2000-2009) and Tyrus Books (2009-2017) until the latter was sold to Simon & Schuster. During his time in publishing, Ben was a frequent speaker at conferences and routinely interviewed for pieces about the industry. In 2014, after the suicide death of a friend, Ben did volunteer work in all 50 states as part of the Be Local Everywhere project. RESOURCES & LINKS: Need an Editor, Ghostwriter, or Coach? Hire a Collaborist! – https://collaborist.org/services/ Looking for a Writers’ Group? - https://collaborist.org/writers-groups/ Interested in a book mentioned during the podcast? - https://bookshop.org/shop/collaborist More about Jason Buchholz - http://www.jasonbuchholz.com/ More about Ben LeRoy – http://www.thebenleroy.com Collaborist on Twitter – http://www.twitter.com/Collaborist1 Collaborist on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thecollaborist Collaborist on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/collaborist

Jason and Ben sit down on the beach to talk about creative time management, especially as it relates to protecting your time as a writer, storyteller, artist--human. The world is full of potential distractions, but you are under no obligation to be consumed by them. It's okay to prioritize your writing. It's okay to prioritize you. You're the one who has to make sense of your life and your purpose and so much of that begins with protecting your time. ABOUT THE HOSTS: Jason Buchholz’s acclaimed debut novel, A Paper Son, published by Tyrus Books in 2016, explores themes of migration, borderlands, heritage, and the sometimes hidden stories that bind us all together. He has ghostwritten books and book proposals for a variety of authors and as an editor he has fostered the development of dozens of manuscripts, both in fiction and nonfiction. He has also worked as a journalist and a travel writer. A current nonfiction project has him hiking and kayaking deep into the quiet landscapes of the many wilderness areas of Northern California, where he lives. When he’s not writing or reading he spends his time playing and traveling with his son and daughter. Jason graduated from UC Berkeley and holds an MFA from the University of San Francisco. Ben LeRoy has long been fascinated by the power of words and story to connect and expand the world. He was the founder and publisher of the critically acclaimed publishing companies Bleak House Books (2000-2009) and Tyrus Books (2009-2017) until the latter was sold to Simon & Schuster. During his time in publishing, Ben was a frequent speaker at conferences and routinely interviewed for pieces about the industry. In 2014, after the suicide death of a friend, Ben did volunteer work in all 50 states as part of the Be Local Everywhere project. RESOURCES & LINKS: Need an Editor, Ghostwriter, or Coach? Hire a Collaborist! – https://collaborist.org/services/ Looking for a Writers’ Group? - https://collaborist.org/writers-groups/ Interested in a book mentioned during the podcast? - https://bookshop.org/shop/collaborist More about Jason Buchholz - http://www.jasonbuchholz.com/ More about Ben LeRoy – http://www.thebenleroy.com Collaborist on Twitter – http://www.twitter.com/Collaborist1 Collaborist on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thecollaborist Collaborist on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/collaborist

Jason and Ben talk about the benefits and expectations of a writing retreat and how it differs from a writing conference. Are you looking for alone time and no distractions so that you can write ten thousand words? Are you looking to meet other writers working in your genre? Hoping to learn from your favorite authors and esteemed experts in the business of writing and publishing? Well, Collaborist, we've got an episode for you! ABOUT THE HOSTS: Jason Buchholz’s acclaimed debut novel, A Paper Son, published by Tyrus Books in 2016, explores themes of migration, borderlands, heritage, and the sometimes hidden stories that bind us all together. He has ghostwritten books and book proposals for a variety of authors and as an editor he has fostered the development of dozens of manuscripts, both in fiction and nonfiction. He has also worked as a journalist and a travel writer. A current nonfiction project has him hiking and kayaking deep into the quiet landscapes of the many wilderness areas of Northern California, where he lives. When he’s not writing or reading he spends his time playing and traveling with his son and daughter. Jason graduated from UC Berkeley and holds an MFA from the University of San Francisco. Ben LeRoy has long been fascinated by the power of words and story to connect and expand the world. He was the founder and publisher of the critically acclaimed publishing companies Bleak House Books (2000-2009) and Tyrus Books (2009-2017) until the latter was sold to Simon & Schuster. During his time in publishing, Ben was a frequent speaker at conferences and routinely interviewed for pieces about the industry. In 2014, after the suicide death of a friend, Ben did volunteer work in all 50 states as part of the Be Local Everywhere project. RESOURCES & LINKS: Need an Editor, Ghostwriter, or Coach? Hire a Collaborist! – https://collaborist.org/services/ Looking for a Writers’ Group? - https://collaborist.org/writers-groups/ Interested in a book mentioned during the podcast? - https://bookshop.org/shop/collaborist More about Jason Buchholz - http://www.jasonbuchholz.com/ More about Ben LeRoy – http://www.thebenleroy.com Collaborist on Twitter – http://www.twitter.com/Collaborist1 Collaborist on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thecollaborist Collaborist on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/collaborist Collaborist on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...

Jason and Ben talk about the benefits and expectations of a writing retreat and how it differs from a writing conference. Are you looking for alone time and no distractions so that you can write ten thousand words? Are you looking to meet other writers working in your genre? Hoping to learn from your favorite authors and esteemed experts in the business of writing and publishing? Well, Collaborist, we've got an episode for you! ABOUT THE HOSTS: Jason Buchholz’s acclaimed debut novel, A Paper Son, published by Tyrus Books in 2016, explores themes of migration, borderlands, heritage, and the sometimes hidden stories that bind us all together. He has ghostwritten books and book proposals for a variety of authors and as an editor he has fostered the development of dozens of manuscripts, both in fiction and nonfiction. He has also worked as a journalist and a travel writer. A current nonfiction project has him hiking and kayaking deep into the quiet landscapes of the many wilderness areas of Northern California, where he lives. When he’s not writing or reading he spends his time playing and traveling with his son and daughter. Jason graduated from UC Berkeley and holds an MFA from the University of San Francisco. Ben LeRoy has long been fascinated by the power of words and story to connect and expand the world. He was the founder and publisher of the critically acclaimed publishing companies Bleak House Books (2000-2009) and Tyrus Books (2009-2017) until the latter was sold to Simon & Schuster. During his time in publishing, Ben was a frequent speaker at conferences and routinely interviewed for pieces about the industry. In 2014, after the suicide death of a friend, Ben did volunteer work in all 50 states as part of the Be Local Everywhere project. RESOURCES & LINKS: Need an Editor, Ghostwriter, or Coach? Hire a Collaborist! – https://collaborist.org/services/ Looking for a Writers’ Group? - https://collaborist.org/writers-groups/ Interested in a book mentioned during the podcast? - https://bookshop.org/shop/collaborist More about Jason Buchholz - http://www.jasonbuchholz.com/ More about Ben LeRoy – http://www.thebenleroy.com Collaborist on Twitter – http://www.twitter.com/Collaborist1 Collaborist on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thecollaborist Collaborist on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/collaborist Collaborist on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...

Jason and Ben discuss writing routines that work and why it's important to question the wisdom of anybody telling you they have a formula for success. A lot of writing advice comes off as aggressive and needlessly rigid, pretending that it's practical in a mythical cutthroat literary world. You don't need to hustle and grind. You don't need to write 5,000 words a day. You don't need to produce a novel every few months. For most writers it isn't realistic and the effects of unrealistic expectations can ruin a book before an author even gets started. Let's discuss, Collaborist! Also, because of goings on in the publishing world this week, we have a refresher conversation about the precarious nature of micro presses (no matter how well intentioned!), red flags to notice, questions to ask. You've got a few decades, write like it. Support Collaborist on Patreon! http://www.patreon.com/collaborist Want to work with Collaborist on your novel? http://www.collaborist.org/services Follow Collaborist on Social Media: Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/thecollaborist Twitter - https://twitter.com/Collaborist1 TikTok - https://tiktok.com/@collaborist AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE As a regular part of our discussions on Collaborcast we discuss books that have inspired us and contribute to a larger point we’re trying to make about storytelling, craft, insights into the human condition, or any number of other things. When we remember, we may include links to those books in the episode notes. If you are interested in purchasing those books and do so by clicking on the link to the Collaborist storefront on Bookshop, we will receive an affiliate commission from Bookshop. We have selected Bookshop because of their commitment to keeping independent bookstores competitive in the online bookselling space. We encourage you to consider Bookshop when buying books online whether or not you choose to do so through Collaborist or your favorite independent bookstore. If you opt to get your books from somewhere other than our link – bookstores, libraries, estate sales, wherever—we’re totally okay with that, too. Books are valuable and wonderful and we encourage you to find the treasure wherever it works best for you, Collaborist. https://bookshop.org/shop/collaborist ABOUT THE HOSTS Jason Buchholz has fostered the development of dozens of manuscripts, both in fiction and nonfiction. He has also worked as a journalist and a travel writer. Jason graduated from UC Berkeley and holds an MFA from the University of San Francisco. He is the author of the novel, A Paper Son (Simon & Schuster). Ben LeRoy was the founder and publisher of the critically acclaimed publishing companies Bleak House Books and Tyrus Books until the latter was sold to Simon & Schuster. He is currently at work on a novel that is far too long and too complicated for its own good. Theme song by Self Help - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vtbDS...

Jason and Ben discuss writing routines that work and why it's important to question the wisdom of anybody telling you they have a formula for success. A lot of writing advice comes off as aggressive and needlessly rigid, pretending that it's practical in a mythical cutthroat literary world. You don't need to hustle and grind. You don't need to write 5,000 words a day. You don't need to produce a novel every few months. For most writers it isn't realistic and the effects of unrealistic expectations can ruin a book before an author even gets started. Let's discuss, Collaborist! Also, because of goings on in the publishing world this week, we have a refresher conversation about the precarious nature of micro presses (no matter how well intentioned!), red flags to notice, questions to ask. You've got a few decades, write like it. Support Collaborist on Patreon! http://www.patreon.com/collaborist Want to work with Collaborist on your novel? http://www.collaborist.org/services Follow Collaborist on Social Media: Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/thecollaborist Twitter - https://twitter.com/Collaborist1 TikTok - https://tiktok.com/@collaborist AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE As a regular part of our discussions on Collaborcast we discuss books that have inspired us and contribute to a larger point we’re trying to make about storytelling, craft, insights into the human condition, or any number of other things. When we remember, we may include links to those books in the episode notes. If you are interested in purchasing those books and do so by clicking on the link to the Collaborist storefront on Bookshop, we will receive an affiliate commission from Bookshop. We have selected Bookshop because of their commitment to keeping independent bookstores competitive in the online bookselling space. We encourage you to consider Bookshop when buying books online whether or not you choose to do so through Collaborist or your favorite independent bookstore. If you opt to get your books from somewhere other than our link – bookstores, libraries, estate sales, wherever—we’re totally okay with that, too. Books are valuable and wonderful and we encourage you to find the treasure wherever it works best for you, Collaborist. https://bookshop.org/shop/collaborist ABOUT THE HOSTS Jason Buchholz has fostered the development of dozens of manuscripts, both in fiction and nonfiction. He has also worked as a journalist and a travel writer. Jason graduated from UC Berkeley and holds an MFA from the University of San Francisco. He is the author of the novel, A Paper Son (Simon & Schuster). Ben LeRoy was the founder and publisher of the critically acclaimed publishing companies Bleak House Books and Tyrus Books until the latter was sold to Simon & Schuster. He is currently at work on a novel that is far too long and too complicated for its own good. Theme song by Self Help - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vtbDS...

Jason and Ben wrap up their How to Write a Novel series with some thoughts about the end of a book and the process of writing. ABOUT THE HOSTS: Jason Buchholz’s acclaimed debut novel, A Paper Son, published by Tyrus Books in 2016, explores themes of migration, borderlands, heritage, and the sometimes hidden stories that bind us all together. He has ghostwritten books and book proposals for a variety of authors and as an editor he has fostered the development of dozens of manuscripts, both in fiction and nonfiction. He has also worked as a journalist and a travel writer. A current nonfiction project has him hiking and kayaking deep into the quiet landscapes of the many wilderness areas of Northern California, where he lives. When he’s not writing or reading he spends his time playing and traveling with his son and daughter. Jason graduated from UC Berkeley and holds an MFA from the University of San Francisco. Ben LeRoy has long been fascinated by the power of words and story to connect and expand the world. He was the founder and publisher of the critically acclaimed publishing companies Bleak House Books (2000-2009) and Tyrus Books (2009-2017) until the latter was sold to Simon & Schuster. During his time in publishing, Ben was a frequent speaker at conferences and routinely interviewed for pieces about the industry. In 2014, after the suicide death of a friend, Ben did volunteer work in all 50 states as part of the Be Local Everywhere project. RESOURCES & LINKS: Need an Editor, Ghostwriter, or Coach? Hire a Collaborist! – https://collaborist.org/services/ Looking for a Writers’ Group? - https://collaborist.org/writers-groups/ Interested in a book mentioned during the podcast? - https://bookshop.org/shop/collaborist More about Jason Buchholz -

Should you chase trends when writing a novel? Is there a way to take advantage of the zeitgeist atop the bestseller list? Is there a formula for striking it rich with your writing? Is it more important to write a book according to what's popular now? Or to write the book that's burning in your heart? Do you have to choose? Can you do both? Let's discuss, Collaborist! Also, because of goings on in the publishing world this week, we have a refresher conversation about the precarious nature of micro presses (no matter how well intentioned!), red flags to notice, questions to ask. You've got a few decades, write like it. Support Collaborist on Patreon! http://www.patreon.com/collaborist Want to work with Collaborist on your novel? http://www.collaborist.org/services Follow Collaborist on Social Media: Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/thecollaborist Twitter - https://twitter.com/Collaborist1 TikTok - https://tiktok.com/@collaborist AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE As a regular part of our discussions on Collaborcast we discuss books that have inspired us and contribute to a larger point we’re trying to make about storytelling, craft, insights into the human condition, or any number of other things. When we remember, we may include links to those books in the episode notes. If you are interested in purchasing those books and do so by clicking on the link to the Collaborist storefront on Bookshop, we will receive an affiliate commission from Bookshop. We have selected Bookshop because of their commitment to keeping independent bookstores competitive in the online bookselling space. We encourage you to consider Bookshop when buying books online whether or not you choose to do so through Collaborist or your favorite independent bookstore. If you opt to get your books from somewhere other than our link – bookstores, libraries, estate sales, wherever—we’re totally okay with that, too. Books are valuable and wonderful and we encourage you to find the treasure wherever it works best for you, Collaborist. https://bookshop.org/shop/collaborist ABOUT THE HOSTS Jason Buchholz has fostered the development of dozens of manuscripts, both in fiction and nonfiction. He has also worked as a journalist and a travel writer. Jason graduated from UC Berkeley and holds an MFA from the University of San Francisco. He is the author of the novel, A Paper Son (Simon & Schuster). Ben LeRoy was the founder and publisher of the critically acclaimed publishing companies Bleak House Books and Tyrus Books until the latter was sold to Simon & Schuster. He is currently at work on a novel that is far too long and too complicated for its own good. Theme song by Self Help - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vtbDS... 00:00 Introduction 02:39 Updates from Collaborist 05:06 Should You Chase Writing Trends

Hey, Collaborist! Have you ever been told that you need to "show, don't tell" in your novel? Did you then run to the internet (overflowing with writing advice) to find out what exactly people were talking about and why they suggested that you "show don't tell?" Even after reading a variety of how to blog posts from people you don't know, were you still just as confused as ever? Well, have we got an episode for you! Jason and Ben discuss the adage Show Don't Tell, what the difference is between scene and summary, and why you don't want somebody on your shoulder ruining a movie for you. Support Collaborcast on Patreon! http://www.patreon.com/collaborcast Want to work with Collaborist on your novel? http://www.collaborist.org/services Follow Collaborist on Social Media: Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/thecollaborist Twitter - https://twitter.com/Collaborist1 AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE As a regular part of our discussions on Collaborcast we discuss books that have inspired us and contribute to a larger point we’re trying to make about storytelling, craft, insights into the human condition, or any number of other things. When we remember, we may include links to those books in the episode notes. If you are interested in purchasing those books and do so by clicking on the link to the Collaborist storefront on Bookshop, we will receive an affiliate commission from Bookshop. We have selected Bookshop because of their commitment to keeping independent bookstores competitive in the online bookselling space. We encourage you to consider Bookshop when buying books online whether or not you choose to do so through Collaborist or your favorite independent bookstore. If you opt to get your books from somewhere other than our link – bookstores, libraries, estate sales, wherever—we’re totally okay with that, too. Books are valuable and wonderful and we encourage you to find the treasure wherever it works best for you, Collaborist. https://bookshop.org/shop/collaborist ABOUT THE HOSTS Jason Buchholz has fostered the development of dozens of manuscripts, both in fiction and nonfiction. He has also worked as a journalist and a travel writer. Jason graduated from UC Berkeley and holds an MFA from the University of San Francisco. He is the author of the novel, A Paper Son (Simon & Schuster). Ben LeRoy was the founder and publisher of the critically acclaimed publishing companies Bleak House Books and Tyrus Books until the latter was sold to Simon & Schuster. He is currently at work on a novel that is far too long and too complicated for its own good. Theme song by Self Help - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vtbDS_UewGA&ab_channel=SelfHelp

Jason and Ben discuss the importance of setting, how it does and does not act as another character, the importance of writing with authority about a place, and how setting is not only about the physical location but also the time and context. As always, thanks to Self Help for the intro and outro music! About the hosts: Jason Buchholz has fostered the development of dozens of manuscripts, both in fiction and nonfiction. He has also worked as a journalist and a travel writer. Jason graduated from UC Berkeley and holds an MFA from the University of San Francisco. He is the author of the novel, A Paper Son (Simon & Schuster). Ben LeRoy has long been fascinated by the power of words and story to connect and expand the world. He was the founder and publisher of the critically acclaimed publishing companies Bleak House Books (2000-2009) and Tyrus Books (2009-2017) until the latter was sold to Simon & Schuster. During his time in publishing, Ben was a frequent speaker at conferences and routinely interviewed for pieces about the industry. He is currently at work on a novel that is far too long and too complicated for its own good. Affiliate Disclosure: As a regular part of our discussions on Collaborcast we discuss books that have inspired us and contribute to a larger point we’re trying to make about storytelling, craft, insights into the human condition, or any number of other things. When we remember, we may include links to those books in the episode notes. If you are interested in purchasing those books and do so by clicking on the link to the Collaborist storefront on Bookshop, we will receive an affiliate commission from Bookshop. We have selected Bookshop because of their commitment to keeping independent bookstores competitive in the online bookselling space. We encourage you to consider Bookshop when buying books online whether or not you choose to do so through Collaborist or your favorite independent bookstore. If you opt to get your books from somewhere other than our link – bookstores, libraries, estate sales, wherever—we’re totally okay with that, too. Books are valuable and wonderful and we encourage you to find the treasure wherever it works best for you, Collaborist.

Jason and Ben discuss the critical balance between pace, plot, and tension. We discuss the difference between what happens in a book and what a book is about. We talk about the Karate Kid, Mad Max, thrillers, genre expectations, and how to make sure you're paying attention to your intentions and reader expectations. Also! We're now on Patreon. If you'd like to support ongoing Collaborist initiatives and feast on a buffet of cool writing, mentoring, and community benefits, visit us at www.patreon.com/collaborist. If you're looking for more information about our Free Query Letter Review happening August 1-7th, you can find it on your website at www.collaborist.org. Books discussed in this episode include: Dune Franny & Zooey Catcher in the Rye In the Skin of a Lion About the Hosts: Jason Buchholz has fostered the development of dozens of manuscripts, both in fiction and nonfiction. He has also worked as a journalist and a travel writer. Jason graduated from UC Berkeley and holds an MFA from the University of San Francisco. He is the author of the novel, A Paper Son (Simon & Schuster). Ben LeRoy has long been fascinated by the power of words and story to connect and expand the world. He was the founder and publisher of the critically acclaimed publishing companies Bleak House Books (2000-2009) and Tyrus Books (2009-2017) until the latter was sold to Simon & Schuster. During his time in publishing, Ben was a frequent speaker at conferences and routinely interviewed for pieces about the industry. He is currently at work on a novel that is far too long and too complicated for its own good. Affiliate Disclosure: As a regular part of our discussions on Collaborcast we discuss books that have inspired us and contribute to a larger point we’re trying to make about storytelling, craft, insights into the human condition, or any number of other things. When we remember, we may include links to those books in the episode notes. If you are interested in purchasing those books and do so by clicking on the link to the Collaborist storefront on Bookshop, we will receive an affiliate commission from Bookshop. We have selected Bookshop because of their commitment to keeping independent bookstores competitive in the online bookselling space. We encourage you to consider Bookshop when buying books online whether or not you choose to do so through Collaborist or your favorite independent bookstore. If you opt to get your books from somewhere other than our link – bookstores, libraries, estate sales, wherever—we’re totally okay with that, too. Books are valuable and wonderful and we encourage you to find the treasure wherever it works best for you, Collaborist.

Interested in writing a novel, but you don't know what to write about? Ever wonder where ideas for stories come from? Jason and Ben break down the magic of questions that begin, "What if...?" ABOUT THE HOSTS: Jason Buchholz’s acclaimed debut novel, A Paper Son, published by Tyrus Books in 2016, explores themes of migration, borderlands, heritage, and the sometimes hidden stories that bind us all together. He has ghostwritten books and book proposals for a variety of authors and as an editor he has fostered the development of dozens of manuscripts, both in fiction and nonfiction. He has also worked as a journalist and a travel writer. A current nonfiction project has him hiking and kayaking deep into the quiet landscapes of the many wilderness areas of Northern California, where he lives. When he’s not writing or reading he spends his time playing and traveling with his son and daughter. Jason graduated from UC Berkeley and holds an MFA from the University of San Francisco. Ben LeRoy has long been fascinated by the power of words and story to connect and expand the world. He was the founder and publisher of the critically acclaimed publishing companies Bleak House Books (2000-2009) and Tyrus Books (2009-2017) until the latter was sold to Simon & Schuster. During his time in publishing, Ben was a frequent speaker at conferences and routinely interviewed for pieces about the industry. In 2014, after the suicide death of a friend, Ben did volunteer work in all 50 states as part of the Be Local Everywhere project.

Thinking about querying an agent or an editor this summer? Or, have you done it in the past and wondered why things seem to take forever between Memorial Day and Labor Day? Well, here's a brief explanation of why (at least based on tradition and the old conventional wisdom) to help temper your expectations. ABOUT THE HOSTS: Jason Buchholz’s acclaimed debut novel, A Paper Son, published by Tyrus Books in 2016, explores themes of migration, borderlands, heritage, and the sometimes hidden stories that bind us all together. He has ghostwritten books and book proposals for a variety of authors and as an editor he has fostered the development of dozens of manuscripts, both in fiction and nonfiction. He has also worked as a journalist and a travel writer. A current nonfiction project has him hiking and kayaking deep into the quiet landscapes of the many wilderness areas of Northern California, where he lives. When he’s not writing or reading he spends his time playing and traveling with his son and daughter. Jason graduated from UC Berkeley and holds an MFA from the University of San Francisco. Ben LeRoy has long been fascinated by the power of words and story to connect and expand the world. He was the founder and publisher of the critically acclaimed publishing companies Bleak House Books (2000-2009) and Tyrus Books (2009-2017) until the latter was sold to Simon & Schuster. During his time in publishing, Ben was a frequent speaker at conferences and routinely interviewed for pieces about the industry. In 2014, after the suicide death of a friend, Ben did volunteer work in all 50 states as part of the Be Local Everywhere project. RESOURCES & LINKS: Need an Editor, Ghostwriter, or Coach? Hire a Collaborist! – https://collaborist.org/services/ Looking for a Writers’ Group? - https://collaborist.org/writers-groups/ Interested in a book mentioned during the podcast? - https://bookshop.org/shop/collaborist

Overwhelmed by confusing terms and the number of publishers in the world? No idea how to separate the good from the bad, the well-intentioned from the grifters? On this episode of Collaborcast, Ben and Jason break down what to look for and the questions to ask when considering a publisher. We provide a list of things YOU can do to make sure that your goals are in line with the capabilities of a publisher. This conversation will help you avoid disappointment and feel informed about how publishing works and the role you can play in your own journey. This conversation is informed by Ben's experience as the founder and publisher of two independent publishing houses (Bleak House Books 2000-2009 and Tyrus Books 2009-2017) that were later purchased by larger publishing companies. Seventeen+ years of living in that space, interacting with authors, agents, retailers, reviewers, and the other people who make the publishing industry move the way it does. If you have questions you'd like answered on a future episode of Collaborcast, please send them to info@collaborist.org and we'll do our best to work them into a future episode of the podcast. Thank you, as always, to Self Help, for the bumper music. #publishing #publishers #independentpublisher #indieauthor #smallpress

What if you had a husband and wife who each suspected the other of murder? That simple plot idea into Drowning With Others, the second novel from the writing team of Linda Hull and Keir Graff, officially launching on October 1. Drowning with Others is focused on the lives of prep school sweethearts Ian and Andi Copeland, now all grown up with successful businesses, a beautiful house in St. Louis, and a daughter who is following in their footsteps by attending prestigious Glenlake Academy. Linda Joffe Hull Linda writes in different genres with a focus on the hidden dangers of suburban life. Her debut novel, The Big Bang, was published by Tyrus Books in 2013. She is also the author of romantic comedies Frog Kisses and Over the Moon and the Mrs. Frugalicious Mystery Series, which includes Eternally 21, Black Thursday, and Sweetheart Deal. Keir Graff is the author of three middle-grade novels, including the The Phantom Tower, a fantasy/adventure that was named one of the Best Children’s Books of 2018 by the Chicago Tribune. His previous book, The Matchstick Castle, was an official Illinois Reads 2018 selection. Keir was also co-editor of the crime-fiction anthology Montana Noir, one of Parade‘s “Books We Love.” Linda's website Keir's website

I continue my journey to paint a holistic picture of the publishing industry. I was lucky enough to have Ben LeRoy on, who started both Bleak House and Tyrus Books, and has had a comprehensive experience/career within the publishing world. In this podcast, we cover a really fascinating history of Ben starting and selling his two small presses to bigger publishing companies, the strange relief of moving from your companies, the actual value of a publishing company, humanity's desire to be taken care of, agents, publicists, how some books resonate and others don't, bookstores, problematic authors, the “bummer talk” (hey, you're excited about getting a book deal, but I have some bad news…), do you have a marketable book?, a debate over book pricing, giving books away for free, and finding your inner worth. Get some editing services from Ben here Find Ben on Twitter here

Synopsis: Ben Leroy, founder of Bleak House Publishing and Tyrus Books, discusses the trials and tribulations of starting a small publisher in the midst of a recession, the difficulty of publishing 12 books a year out of hundreds of submissions, the print vs. digital divide, and the ever increasing incidents of mob outrage on social media. Links to all books discussed in this episode (where possible) will go to Short Stories Community Book Hub in Madison, NJ. Support your local independent bookseller today! This episode of COVERED is sponsored by: Nacht Sound Engineering: Streamline the process of delivering high-quality shows to your audience and focus on what you love. Feedpress: Blog and podcast analytics starting at $4 a month, podcast hosting starting at just $8 a month. Use promo code COVERED to get 10% off your first year. Duration: 65:04 Present: Harry C. Marks, Ben LeRoy Episode Links Episode S3E4: Ben LeRoy of Tyrus Books (mp3) Contact your hosts for show feedback Show your support and donate to our podcast The Guest Tyrus Books Tyrus Books Twitter Ben LeRoy Twitter A Series of Special Guests podcast Books Discussed Untouchable by Scott O’Connor) Victoria Huston Miscellaneous Adam Silvera tweetstorm on small publishers “Bleak House Publishers Leave to Launch New Venture” | SarahWeinman.com Follow your host and the show on Twitter @HCMarks @COVERED_fm @HologramRadio for more podcasts to listen to! Subscribe to Covered! Get Covered on iTunes, or via RSS. Help us get to AWP 2017! Donate now to help Harry attend AWP 2017 so he can join his fellow podcasters for a panel on literary podcasting and record special COVERED audio for an upcoming episode! Support the show! Become a patron! Please take a moment to rate our show in iTunes, even if it’s just a star rating. It really does make a difference in helping us reach a wider audience. Download: Episode S3E4: Ben LeRoy of Tyrus Books

Jim Ruland is the guest. His new novel, Forest of Fortune, is available now from Tyrus Books. It is the official August selection of The TNB Book Club. The Los Angeles Times calls it "[A] masterpiece of desperation, delusion and misdeeds.... Ruland...brilliantly taps the fundamental irony of casinos.... A satisfying read." And Jerry Stahl says "...[Forest of Fortune] captures the soul and voice of hard-luck, hard-living Americans in a way that conjures up earlier masters like Raymond Carver and Richard Ford. Jim Ruland has an uncanny ability to get inside his characters...." Monologue topics:  National Geographic, Going Deep, David Rees, Otherppl Premium, dive bars, disillusionment, fetishizing filth.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our first out of town guest! Eric and I got to hang out with the infamous Jim Ruland while he was in town for Book Expo America. Jim has been running his reading series Vermin on the Mount for ten years in Los Angeles and San Diego. He co-wrote the book "Giving the Finger" with Scott Campbell Jr., of Deadliest Catch fame, and also has a novel--"Forest of Fortune"--forthcoming from Tyrus Books. Jim was a rad guest and we talked about a ton of stuff. Enjoy. 

SEASON 2, EPISODE 2This week top-shelf author REED FARREL COLEMAN stopped by DSD HQ to chat with Jay Stringer about the new book and more.INNOCENT MONSTER from Tyrus Books:Seven years have passed since the brutal murder that tore Moe Prager’s family apart and six years since Moe brushed the dust off his PI license. But when his estranged daughter Sarah comes to him with a request he cannot refuse, Moe takes a deep breath and plunges back into the icy, opaque waters of secrets and lies. Sashi Bluntstone, an eleven-year-old art prodigy and daughter of Sarah’s dearest childhood friend, has been abducted. Three weeks into the investigation, the cops have gotten nowhere and the parents have gotten desperate. Desperation, the door through which Moe Prager always enters, swings wide open. Just as in Sashi’s paintings, there’s much more to the case than one can see at a glance. With the help of an ex-football star, Moe stumbles around the fringes of the New York art scene, trying to get a handle on where the art stops and the commerce begins. Much to Moe’s surprise and disgust, he discovers that Sashi is, on the one hand, revered as a cash cow and, on the other, reviled as a fraud and a joke. Suspects abound beyond the usual predators and pedophiles, for it is those closest to Sashi in life that have the most to gain from her death. Cruel ironies lurk around every corner, beneath every painting, and behind every door. Almost nothing is what it seems.Innocent Monster is a book of children and parents, of lives lost and found. It is a variation on the theme of good and evil, each often wearing the other’s disguise. Beware the innocent monster for it need not hide itself and it lives closely among us: sometimes as close as the mirror...Praise for Innocent Monster"Sashi Bluntstone, the 11-year-old Next New Thing on the New York art scene, has been abducted, and Moe Prager—former NYPD cop and former PI—is asked by his estranged daughter, Sarah, to join the search. He expects only tragedy; Sashi has already been missing for three weeks, and he hasn’t been a PI for seven years. Now a well-to-do wine merchant, Moe agrees, primarily to attempt to restore his relationship with Sarah. He quickly learns that nothing increases the value of paintings faster than the death of the painter. Suspects abound: wealthy, self-important collectors; greedy gallery owners; odious rival artists; even the victim's parents. But Moe abides. This sixth Moe Prager novel is pretty much note-perfect. Coleman's take on the art world as a den of iniquity is priceless, as is Moe himself—intelligent, street smart, and tough, especially for a sixtysomething. He’s also sophisticated, despite seeing himself as a “poor schmuck from Brooklyn.” He’s a mensch, and his bone-deep world weariness and mordant sense of humor should enthrall lovers of old-school, tough-talking, loner private eyes (think Loren D. Estleman's Amos Walker)."—Booklist (starred review)"In Shamus-winner Coleman's darkly impressive sixth Moe Prager mystery (after 2008's Empty Ever After), the retired Brooklyn PI takes on a baffling missing person case only because his estranged daughter, Sarah, begs him to help. In the three weeks since art prodigy Sashi Bluntstone, the 11-year-old daughter of Sarah's childhood friend Candy Castleman, disappeared from a walk on the beach near her Long Island home, the police have found no trace of the girl, who "skyrocketed to prominence at age four when her Abstract Expressionist paintings... began selling for tens of thousands of dollars." Prager, who encounters a host of ugly characters, including parents Max and Candy, who aren't telling all they know, and resentful painter Nathan Martyr, becomes increasingly sure that Sashi is dead, but keeps slogging along. His past as a cop, his guilt over his wife's murder, and his current career as a wine merchant make Prager a complex character well suited to handle a complex mystery."—Publishers WeeklyTOUR DATES:Oct. 7, 2010, 7-9 pmMysterious Bookshop, 58 Warren St., NYCLaunch Party for Innocent MonsterOct. 14-17, 2010Bouchercon 2010, San FranciscoOct. 15, Friday, 8.30 am: Romance to Murder panel, moderatorOct. 16, Saturday, 3 pm: Monkey is BackOct. 18, 2010, 6.30 pmMurder by the Book2342 Bissonnet St., Houston, 713-524-8597with S.J. Rozan and Tom FranklinOct. 19, 2010, TBABookPeople603 N. Lamar, Austin TX, 512-472-5050with S.J. RozanOct. 20, 2010, TBAThe Poisoned Pen4014 N Goldwater Blvd., Suite 101, Scottsdale, Arizona, 480-947-2974with S.J. RozanNov. 5, 2010Noir Con 2010Philadelphia9-10 am: Pornography in Noir Fiction: Reed, Jay Gertzman, Christa Faust4.40-5.40 pm: Writers on Noir: Reed, Daniel Woodrell, Vicki Hendricks, Seth Harwood with Cameron AshleyNov. 7, 2010Clinton's Book Shop, 12 East Main St., Clinton, NJ, 908-735-88111-3 pmNov. 13, 2010Murder and Mayhem in MuskegoMuskego Public LibraryS73 W16663 Janesville Rd, Muskego, Wisconsin262-971-2101Nov. 15, 2010Once Upon a Crime Minneapolis, MinnesotaThe Song O' The Podcast is "Riding on the Subway" by Jesse Malin, off the album "Fine Art of Self-Destruction," which be on ye olde itooons.AS ALWAYS:You can get the podcast by1. Right-clicking on the title up there at the top (or, if you have one of those Apple computers, whatever you people do)2. Visiting the iTunes music storeor3. Visiting the Feedburner page.

Seth Harwood’s Junius Ponds came up on tough streets outside Boston way back in the day. In the middle of drugs, gang violence, and the toughest set of tower-projects you ever knew, he seeks to avenge his brother. Learn more in the novel based on this short story, Young Junius. YOUNG JUNIUS the novel, published by Tyrus Books, Fall 2010. Look for more information at sethharwood.com