How to Glow in the Dark $6 / month

How to Glow in the Dark is a Substack focusing on nuanced advice for authors in fiction and nonfiction, exploring editorial relationships, publishing industry insights, communication strategies, and emotional intelligence. It features historical anecdotes from American publishing and practical tips for navigating the complex landscape of book publishing.

Book Publishing Advice Author-Editor Relationships Publishing Industry Insights Communication Strategies Emotional Intelligence in Writing Historical Insights into American Publishing

The hottest Substack posts of How to Glow in the Dark

And their main takeaways

Is nonfiction dead?

259 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
📚 Literature Nonfiction Publishing Writing Books Literary Trends
  1. Nonfiction isn't really dead, but selling it right now is tough. Writers need to come up with smart strategies to find success.
  2. There are rumors in the publishing world about nonfiction's decline, but these might just be worries rather than facts. It's important to dig into the reasons behind such rumors.
  3. The claim that 'nonfiction is dead' has been circulated by someone influential, but it's likely exaggerated. This shows how concerns can shape conversations in the publishing industry.

Have you ugly cried this week? I hope so. (Plus: my thoughts on Taylor Swift's book.)

679 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
📚 Literature Publishing Self-Publishing Authors Books Celebrity
  1. It's okay to feel your emotions deeply; sometimes crying is part of processing those feelings.
  2. Taylor Swift's upcoming self-published book is shaking up the publishing industry by bypassing traditional methods.
  3. This move could encourage traditional publishers to rethink their strategies and invest in diverse authors instead of focusing only on mega-celebrities.

"Something is terribly broken in publishing right now"

979 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
📚 Literature Publishing Writing Authors
  1. The publishing industry is very frustrating for authors and agents, with many feeling lost in the process. It can feel like nothing is ever certain and that impact on mental health is significant.
  2. Finding an agent and getting a traditional book deal is becoming increasingly difficult. Many authors hope for clarity, but it often feels elusive.
  3. There is a call for more kindness and empathy within the industry. Everyone struggles with their own challenges, and a supportive community can make a big difference.

Q & A edition: on volatility in publishing (and candles)

439 implied HN points • 04 Oct 24
📚 Literature Publishing Writing Books Creativity Querying
  1. When querying agents about a new book, it's fine to directly email them if they previously showed interest. Just make sure to update the subject line and include your new manuscript.
  2. Publishing is a partnership, so approach agents with respect and mutual understanding. Both sides need to feel heard and valued for a successful collaboration.
  3. If you get a book deal, don't stress about tight deadlines for sequels. It's more likely that your publisher will not pursue a sequel if your first book doesn't sell well.

15 Random Things That Will Probably Help Your Publishing Career Much More Than an MFA Ever Could (or Writers’ Conferences, or AWP)

839 implied HN points • 30 Jan 24
📚 Literature Publishing Writing Success Career Commercial
  1. Success in book publishing is unique and can't be replicated by following the traditional path
  2. MFAs and writers' conferences have value, but they don't guarantee commercial success as an author
  3. Factors like platform, artistic skill, and personal artistic style are crucial for achieving a big book deal
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What people like me mean when we tell you that sad book you're working on "needs to be more uplifting"

479 implied HN points • 08 Jan 24
📚 Literature Writing Authors Feedback Books Editors
  1. Feedback to make a sad book more uplifting is not about toxic positivity, but finding hope in the story.
  2. Readers of dark books seek recognition, catharsis, and guidance, not denial or toxic positivity.
  3. Editors advising to make a book 'more uplifting' aim for authors to find the hope in their story to satisfy readers' expectations.

What we publishing people can learn from that Cloudflare layoff TikTok brouhaha

359 implied HN points • 20 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Publishing Media Workplace culture Social media Organizational Culture
  1. Lesson from Cloudflare layoff: There are useful lessons for everyone in handling layoffs and difficult conversations professionally.
  2. Lesson from Brittany's experience: Be prepared, question feedback that doesn't make sense, and stand up for yourself in professional settings.
  3. Lesson on organizational culture: Though industries may differ, there can be overlap in challenges like attracting talent and handling social media crises.

This is a time publishers ought to be investing and exploring new territory vs. laying people off and hunkering down. So why are so few of the big companies doing that?

559 implied HN points • 06 Oct 23
💼 Business Publishing Financials Management Earnings Investments
  1. This is a challenging time for publishers to invest and innovate, yet many big companies are not doing so.
  2. Major publishing companies are facing reduced earnings despite increased sales, leading to layoffs and cost-cutting measures.
  3. The industry's response to financial challenges has mainly involved squeezing employees and authors, rather than focusing on long-term growth and support.

It's time for another Ask Me Anything post!

219 implied HN points • 31 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The post is an invitation for an Ask Me Anything session about book publishing and general life questions.
  2. The author sets ground rules for the AMA, emphasizing no book pitching and maintaining respect.
  3. The AMA session is available only for paid subscribers, where the author shares random but interesting facts about vultures.

An Unhinged History of American Publishing, episode 3.3: The Crown Publishing Group, or: Look At That Trash Panda Go 😭

199 implied HN points • 28 Sep 23
📚 Literature Publishing Authors Reading Book Sales
  1. The Great Depression had a significant impact on the American publishing industry.
  2. During tough times, unconventional strategies and adapting to the audience's needs can lead to success.
  3. Observing consumer behavior and offering affordable options helped Crown Publishers thrive post-Depression.

The most common red flags I see in nonfiction book proposals by otherwise qualified authors

359 implied HN points • 20 Mar 23
📚 Literature Nonfiction Authors Emotional Intelligence Writing
  1. The most common red flags in nonfiction book proposals by qualified authors indicate focusing on personal needs over audience.
  2. Fixing editorial problems at a higher level requires deep introspection and addressing emotional barriers.
  3. Recognizing signs like lack of emotional connection in book proposals may signal the need for emotional growth and self-understanding.

An Unhinged History of American Publishing, Episode 3.2: The Knopf/Doubleday Publishing Group, or: Olympus Unbuttoned

179 implied HN points • 18 Sep 23
📚 Literature History Publishing Authors Fiction
  1. Developing characters in writing by giving them a want and a need makes them interesting and integral to the plot.
  2. Personal experiences and real-life inspirations can shape fictional character arcs and storylines.
  3. Having a clear vision and partnership can drive success, but challenges and expectations may not always align as planned.

"My editor [or agent] is taking FOREVER with my edits. They keep making and breaking promises about when they'll be done with their notes. What the f*ck?"

119 implied HN points • 22 Feb 23
📚 Literature Authorship Editing Publishing Tips
  1. Delays in getting edits from editors or agents are frustratingly common in book publishing.
  2. ESBs involve delays in receiving feedback, which can lead to distress for authors.
  3. It's important for all parties to address ESBs by understanding the underlying reasons and collaborating for corrective action.