Horses

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Comment by Nanette Levin on November 23, 2009 at 9:32pm

Has anyone participated in a MasterMind Group? I'm in the process of creating one for the equine industry - with a special focus on reaching others through written messages focused on true horsemanship, and would love any input others could provide.

Comment by Nanette Levin on November 23, 2009 at 9:28pm

I was talking to a new author today (this will be her first book, although she is a respected freelance contributor to equine trade pubs) and she's been struggling with concept of structuring an approach for tackling an entire book. The standard outline approach (among others) just wasn't comfortable for her. In recent reading, I've seen recomendations to start wtih the title (not something that works for me, but different strokes). That really struck a chord with her.

As we continued the conversation, I suggested an anecdotal approach to get started (this is a hallmark of the series and something missing in much of what is already out there). Turns out, she loves recounting experiences through stories and fancies herself good at it. Now, she's charged and excited to proceed.

Interestingly, another author I am working with is paralized by the thought of creative and engaging content and is now running with a strategy that focuses on instructional and hard facts data (we'll add the anecdotal material much later).

When writing for the equine market especially, it's important to start with what's comfortable and gets you excited. You can always edit a submission after you've gotten on a roll, but don't let yourself get stiffled by trying to comply with editorial norms to start. Put it to paper first in the most free-wheeling way you can, then go back with the specific guidlines in mind. At least you'll start and have something to work with.

Comment by Nanette Levin on November 8, 2009 at 12:57pm

Annette,

Thanks so much for sharing. I appologize for taking a day to get back to you. I've been in the process of switching over computers all week and, well . . .

Yes, I have been fortunate. In fact, I'm still riding for a good chunk of my income, but I'm looking at the next twenty years of my life now. So, I'm having a ball launching a publishing company with an equine series component. The first title is due out in Feb. 2010 (it's done, but we're sitting on it in the hopes some important pre-pub reviews).

Comment by Annette Townsend on November 7, 2009 at 10:06am

Hi, life long horsewoman here too. You're very fortunate to have been able to make a career out of it! I read my way though hundreds of 'horse books' and magazines as a kid, both fiction and non. There is a good market out there, especially if you have something new to say.

Comment by Nanette Levin on November 4, 2009 at 9:28pm

Horses have been a lifelong passion for me (I think I was horse crazy before I could walk. My parents finally managed to find a lesson stable that would take me at age five). I've been fortunate to find ways throughout my adult life to make it a profession as well. Please come join the conversation and share your stories, ideas, triumphs, tragedies and guidance as others strive to avoid learning lessons the hard way. Of course, there's a writing career to be had here too, and if you have questions or ideas in getting into this trade pub market, post away. This is a caring, creative, supportive and engaging community for those who want to learn about true horsemanship and how this knowledge can pertain to other life issues.