Thursday, January 10, 2013

January 10, 2013: Branding in Middle Grade


DanyelleLeafty And it's 9pm EST. Welcome to #mglitchat! We'll be discussing middle grade branding tonight. -7:00 PM Jan 10th, 2013


AnshaKotyk @DanyelleLeafty Very excited to see what everyone has experienced #mglitchat -7:01 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ilanawaters @DanyelleLeafty I just think of all those poor, scarred middle-graders. *sob* So sad! #mglitchat -7:01 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty PS: no middle graders were hurt during this process. :p @ilanawaters #mglitchat -7:01 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone What we chattin' about tonight? #mglitchat -7:02 PM Jan 10th, 2013

Bec_AS @ilanawaters Love your humor. Wait- that was humor, right? #MGLitChat -7:02 PM Jan 10th, 2013

AnshaKotyk @matt_janacone branding. not the cattle kind #mglitchat -7:02 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @matt_janacone branding in middle grade. :) #mglitchat -7:02 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis Hi everyone! This topic makes me think of what my "brand" was in middle school. (Esprit) #mglitchat -7:02 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @KDuBayGillis What was your brand in middle school? #mglitchat -7:02 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty So far as branding goes, how do you know you're holding a middle grade book--or *whispers* if you're not? #mglitchat -7:02 PM Jan 10th, 2013

theakpal @ilanawaters Well, if they didn't act like animals, it wouldn't be necessary to treat them that way #mglitchat -7:02 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis Which is less violent than branding of middle grade writers @DanyelleLeafty #mglitchat -7:03 PM Jan 10th, 2013

AnshaKotyk @KDuBayGillis mine was *mommy made* sigh... #mglitchat -7:03 PM Jan 10th, 2013

Bec_AS Middle schoolers are VERY brand conscience, so it makes sense... #MGLitChat -7:03 PM Jan 10th, 2013

RosanneParry #mglitchat So perhaps we should start w/ a definition of branding in this context. -7:03 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone @DanyelleLeafty ah! How about the Carl Hiaasen brand? #mglitchat -7:03 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ilanawaters LOL! RT @DanyelleLeafty: PS: no middle graders were hurt during this process. :p @ilanawaters #mglitchat -7:03 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis @rachelnseigel Of MG books...I was all Narnia. #mglitchat -7:03 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @KDuBayGillis Very true! O:) #mglitchat -7:03 PM Jan 10th, 2013

PBWorkshop @ilanawaters Be careful what you suggest- there's tats, piercing, now branding? What ever happened to bobby sox and ponytails? #mglitchat -7:03 PM Jan 10th, 2013

AnshaKotyk @DanyelleLeafty I did some research on MG covers by visiting B&N and you could tell just from that which were MG which were YA #mglitchat -7:03 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone How about the Carl Hiaasen brand? #mglitchat -7:03 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @matt_janacone Tell us about it. :) #mglitchat -7:04 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ilanawaters @Bec_AS Of course! *begrudgingly lowers branding iron* #mglitchat. Actually, I probably shouldn't joke about kids getting hurt. Not funny. -7:04 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @matt_janacone His books do have a certain uniformity . #mglitchat -7:04 PM Jan 10th, 2013

PippaBayliss @ilanawaters It's ok. It's we authors that get branded. No child is hurt in the process. We writers are the only casualties #mglitchat -7:04 PM Jan 10th, 2013

kellybarnhill #mglitchat The notion of branding in mg lit fills me with dread. It's one of those things that I feel like I should understand, but don't. -7:04 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @AnshaKotyk I agree. Even if they were in the same section, there are some marked differences. #longlivebranding #mglitchat -7:04 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel #Mglitchat we have a CDN author who has a brand similar to Nora Roberts- his initials/logo are on all of his original books. -7:04 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer @AnshaKotyk That's true--not so many intense people staring out from the cover in MG as in YA #mglitchat -7:05 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ilanawaters @PBWorkshop *Sigh* I guess they've gone the way of the Edsel* #mglitchat -7:05 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone Well, Hiaasen can certainly sell a mg novel just by his name alone. #mglitchat -7:05 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @KDuBayGillis Oh- I c. Book brand. Bit tired 2nite & slow. #mglitchat -7:05 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @ClaireCaterer @AnshaKotyk Nor are there quite so many dark colors or pretty dresses in MG. #mglitchat -7:05 PM Jan 10th, 2013

lisabrowndraws What do you guys mean by "branding"? #mglitchat -7:06 PM Jan 10th, 2013

raeannparker @AnshaKotyk Was there a common theme that stood out to you on the MG book covers? #mglitchat -7:06 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone Hiaasen has an excellent track record with books. #mglitchat -7:06 PM Jan 10th, 2013

AnshaKotyk @DanyelleLeafty and most are illustrated. with 2 kids on the cover... most often #mglitchat -7:06 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer @DanyelleLeafty MG covers seem more action- and plot-driven, too. #mglitchat -7:06 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ilanawaters @PippaBayliss Phew! #mglitchat Okay, I will brand myself...FOR THE CHILDREN!! -7:06 PM Jan 10th, 2013

Bec_AS @AnshaKotyk Right! YA covers just look angsty! #MGLitChat -7:06 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @raeannparker When I think of "brand" I think immediately of Wimpy Kid. Not sure why- but brain took me there. #mglitchat -7:06 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone @DanyelleLeafty His covers are brands, too. Same style, design, color scheme. #mglitchat -7:07 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @Bec_AS Windswept hair and girls in dresses! ;-) #MGLitChat -7:07 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @ClaireCaterer Yes, definitely. The characters are always doing something. I hadn't noticed this before, but excellent point! #mglitchat -7:07 PM Jan 10th, 2013

AnshaKotyk @Bec_AS YA= angst MG=mystery? visually i mean #MGLitChat -7:07 PM Jan 10th, 2013

PippaBayliss yeah, branding is giving our readers what they expect and want from us - as long they like our first book. #mglitchat -7:07 PM Jan 10th, 2013

Bec_AS @ClaireCaterer And maybe more often illustrated and not photographs. #MGLitChat -7:07 PM Jan 10th, 2013

raeannparker @rachelnseigel I love the Wimpy Kid books. Read the latest one today. Yes, great branding on the covers. #mglitchat -7:08 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @ilanawaters @PippaBayliss So long as it's for the children. :p #mglitchat -7:08 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer @rachelnseigel I'd say Wimpy K. is a brand--instantly recognizable, consistent. You know when you're looking at a WK book. #mglitchat -7:08 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone The bad thing about branding is that a book can be crap, but author will still sell. #mglitchat -7:08 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty RT @PippaBayliss: yeah, branding is giving our readers what they expect and want from us - as long they like our first book. #mglitchat -7:08 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @raeannparker They r lots of fun. #mglitchat -7:08 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis So is there branding in terms of look/feel of books and branding in terms of genre in MG? #mglitchat -7:08 PM Jan 10th, 2013

Bec_AS @AnshaKotyk YA=Brooding MG=hero's antics maybe #MGLitChat -7:08 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @ClaireCaterer exactly. Or Dork Diaries, and the like. #mglitchat -7:08 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @PippaBayliss Excellent point as to what branding is for! #mglitchat -7:09 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer @Bec_AS Agree--even the illustrated YA looks more photographic. #mglitchat -7:09 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel #Mglitchat I think a great brand example is "Candy Apple" from Scholastic or "Aladdin Mix" from Simon & Schuster. -7:09 PM Jan 10th, 2013

LaurelSnyder But we aren't talking about branding as part of the writing process, are we? #mglitchat -7:09 PM Jan 10th, 2013

PippaBayliss @matt_janacone ... but only once. Readers won't buy cwap twice from the same author ;) #mglitchat -7:09 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone Plus, all Hiaasen's mystery novels are set in S. Fl. #mglitchat -7:09 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer @rachelnseigel That really helps kids find the books, I think. MGers love a good, long series. #mglitchat -7:09 PM Jan 10th, 2013

hughesedits4u RT @matt_janacone: The bad thing about branding is that a book can be crap, but author will still sell. #mglitchat -7:09 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel #mglitchat I get asked all of the time for those girly books with the apple. -7:09 PM Jan 10th, 2013

theakpal 39 Clues is branded well, also. #mglitchat -7:09 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @KDuBayGillis In my unprofessional opinion, I believe so. :) #mglitchat -7:09 PM Jan 10th, 2013

AnshaKotyk @LaurelSnyder We could. When you have a brand you want to follow it when writing. setting teh proper expectation for your reader #mglitchat -7:09 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KateMessner I have to confess - I can't stand the idea of branding. I want to write lots of different kinds of good books. #mglitchat -7:10 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis I'm seeing that some feel that "branding" is almost setting an expectation for an author in terms of style? #mglitchat -7:10 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone @PippaBayliss Not if the crap continues just to make $$$! #mglitchat -7:10 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @ClaireCaterer I agree! Even YA readers now seem to crave the series. #mglitchat -7:10 PM Jan 10th, 2013

kurtisscaletta So branding is when you burn the imprint logo into your flesh, right? Or did I do it wrong? #mglitchat -7:10 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer @theakpal I was thinking of that too. Also, Goosebumps (older series). #mglitchat -7:10 PM Jan 10th, 2013

mcal29 RT @matt_janacone: The bad thing about branding is that a book can be crap, but author will still sell. #mglitchat -7:10 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer Oooh, what about American Girl?! Talk about branding! Books, dolls, stores! Oh my. #mglitchat -7:11 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis Series are "brandable" but I don't think it's good (or fair) to brand an MG author. #mglitchat -7:11 PM Jan 10th, 2013

Bec_AS Does it have to be a series to be branded?? Can an author create a personal brand for stand-alones? #MGLitChat -7:11 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @kurtisscaletta *grin* I wouldn't go so far as to say you did it wrong . . . #mglitchat -7:11 PM Jan 10th, 2013

PippaBayliss @matt_janacone that's my point. It's not enough. Kids won't 'buy' into the branding if they're disappointed. Pub's might tho. #mglitchat -7:11 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone Some celebities think they can write books and get away with it b/c their brand name. #mglitchat -7:11 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis @KateMessner You were going to be my example of an author who delves into a lot of styles/genres, etc. I aspire to do this. #mglitchat -7:11 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @KateMessner That's fair. I see a brand not as of an individual author, necessarily, but more a marketing tool of recognition. #mglitchat -7:11 PM Jan 10th, 2013

brianwyzlic RT @KateMessner: I have to confess - I can't stand the idea of branding. I want to write lots of different kinds of good books. #mglitchat -7:11 PM Jan 10th, 2013

kurtisscaletta RT @KateMessner: I have to confess - I can't stand the idea of branding. I want to write lots of different kinds of good books. #mglitchat -7:12 PM Jan 10th, 2013

Bec_AS @KDuBayGillis I disagree- if you like what an author writes, it stands to reason you would like other books. #MGLitChat -7:12 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @rachelnseigel @KateMessner Yes. This, I think, captures the essence of branding and why it matters (marketing-wise). #mglitchat -7:12 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer @Bec_AS I would think so. Maybe Louis Sachar--kind of a humor brand, with Marvin Redpost & Sideways School. #mglitchat -7:12 PM Jan 10th, 2013

kurtisscaletta I agree with @KateMessner. I've varied my books and avoided falling into a niche. #mglitchat -7:12 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone You have to wonder what some authors are doing it for...love to write...or money! #mglitchat -7:13 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @Bec_AS @KDuBayGillis I think it depends. For me, that's true of some authors, but not of others. #mglitchat -7:13 PM Jan 10th, 2013

urban_hunters Starved of blog content? Problem solved. Check this out. http://t.co/ZQnvB5zp #RT #fantasy #bookreview #mglitchat -7:13 PM Jan 10th, 2013

urvibpatel RT @KateMessner: I have to confess - I can't stand the idea of branding. I want to write lots of different kinds of good books. #mglitchat -7:13 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer I think Rick Riordan also is a brand with more than 1 series. #mglitchat -7:13 PM Jan 10th, 2013

kurtisscaletta When it came time to write my second book I intentionally avoided sports. Wife said... (see next tweet) #mglitchat -7:13 PM Jan 10th, 2013

PippaBayliss @KDuBayGillis Yeah, but do authors get a choice if they want to pursue a career? Once readers love an MC/idea they want the same #mglitchat -7:14 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone I think greed can make some authors rush through a book, only to put out pre-mature or bad books. #mglitchat -7:14 PM Jan 10th, 2013

kurtisscaletta "You don't want to be writing a LaCrosse book in five years and wonder, what in the hell am I doing." #mglitchat #truestory -7:14 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KateMessner @kurtisscaletta I'm interested in too many things to write JUST mysteries...or just girls' sports stories...or...JUST anything. #mglitchat -7:14 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ilanawaters Word! RT @matt_janacone: The bad thing about branding is that a book can be crap, but author will still sell. #mglitchat -7:14 PM Jan 10th, 2013

kellybarnhill @KDuBayGillis Yet they do. I have listened to people talk about my brand. I still have no idea what they're talking about. #mglitchat. -7:14 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis @Bec_AS I can think of some examples for me personally where this doesn't necessarily hold, but it is a type of book preference. #mglitchat -7:15 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ilanawaters @KateMessner I agree! It's hard if you want to stretch yourself as an author. #mglitchat -7:15 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @scout101 You were the one who started the "Citizen Kid" brand at Kids Can. Were you there long enough to c it make a difference? #Mglitchat -7:15 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @kurtisscaletta Smart wife. O:) #mglitchat -7:15 PM Jan 10th, 2013

AnshaKotyk @kellybarnhill @KDuBayGillis I think we use 'brand' as a form of selection. Sometimes it's by book, sometimes by author #mglitchat -7:16 PM Jan 10th, 2013

PippaBayliss Does style get labelled 'brand'? maybe that's it! #mglitchat -7:16 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis @PippaBayliss I think @KateMessner might say write a good story and it won't matter. (Right, Kate?) #mglitchat -7:16 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone Hiaasen write to a nice beat/pace. #mglitchat -7:16 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer @kurtisscaletta Too funny! #mglitchat -7:16 PM Jan 10th, 2013

kurtisscaletta @kellybarnhill @KDuBayGillis Doesn't have to be a series, but you establish a visual and narrative standard. #mglitchat -7:16 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @PippaBayliss A brand tends to group books of a similar style together- ie- Harlequin is synonymous with romance novels. #mglitchat -7:16 PM Jan 10th, 2013

literaticat RT @KateMessner: I have to confess - I can't stand the idea of branding. I want to write lots of different kinds of good books. #mglitchat -7:16 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @PippaBayliss I think that's definitely part of it. #mglitchat -7:16 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone Ideas for books come naturally. I don't think you shuld try to manufacture them to turn out bad books. #mglitchat -7:17 PM Jan 10th, 2013

katrinalantznov RT @KateMessner: I have to confess - I can't stand the idea of branding. I want to write lots of different kinds of good books. #mglitchat -7:17 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis @kellybarnhill Wow, really? You might have a "style" but to me that's different. JACK and VIOLET don't scream brand to me. #mglitchat -7:17 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KateMessner @KDuBayGillis I hope if you're true to yourself in your writing & you write the best book you can, that's the best "brand" going. #mglitchat -7:17 PM Jan 10th, 2013

LaurelSnyder @KateMessner I feel the same, Kate. I know, in theory, my books should be more alike. But I write the book that feels ready. #mglitchat -7:17 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KateMilford @KateMessner Agreed. I definitely want to be able to write varied tales. And hi, all! #mglitchat -7:18 PM Jan 10th, 2013

kellybarnhill A brand can be a particular aesthetic too, or intellectual vigor. There are authors I read because their brand is Being Awesome. #mglitchat -7:18 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ilanawaters @PippaBayliss I like the word "style" much better than "brand." Makes you feel more like a human being. #mglitchat -7:18 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer @literaticat We're all echoing @KateMessner (me too!). But are eds OK with that? Everyone talks about building your brand. #mglitchat -7:18 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis @kurtisscaletta @kellybarnhill But there's a link there and that's what makes it a brand. By choice. #mglitchat -7:19 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @KateMilford Hi Kate! But if you were asked to contribute a book for a popular brand- apart from your regular stuff, would u? #mglitchat -7:19 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @KateMilford ie- if u were asked to do a 39 Clues book. #mglitchat -7:19 PM Jan 10th, 2013

literaticat @ClaireCaterer @KateMessner well... :-) I happen to think your "brand" can be "really good books." #mglitchat -7:19 PM Jan 10th, 2013

LaurelSnyder @ClaireCaterer But there are things that can be done to unify your books, visually... or the timing of releases... #mglitchat -7:19 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone @KateMessner Yes, branding doesn't work for prolific writers. I think it's good to be prolific. #mglitchat -7:20 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty I think the main function for branding isn't to hedge authors in, but to help readers find books they will most likely enjoy. #mglitchat -7:20 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis @kellybarnhill Being Awesome is the brand we should all strive for no matter what! #mglitchat -7:20 PM Jan 10th, 2013

PippaBayliss Ok, so how many of you have had your editors/publishers want more of 'the same'? Or your readers? #mglitchat -7:20 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KateMessner @LaurelSnyder But WHY should they be alike? I'm reading ANY WHICH WALL w/my kid now. SO different from BREADBOX & we love that. #mglitchat -7:20 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KateMilford @ClaireCaterer I choose to think they're talking about building a loyal readership rather than confining yourself to 1 style/path #mglitchat -7:20 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer RT @literaticat: @ClaireCaterer @KateMessner well... :-) I happen to think your "brand" can be "really good books." #mglitchat -7:20 PM Jan 10th, 2013

theakpal @LaurelSnyder @ClaireCaterer Yes, this is more of how branding works in my opinion. #mglitchat -7:20 PM Jan 10th, 2013

LaurelSnyder I also think an author can have multiple brands. Like I often write Jewish picture books. But my novels are different from that #mglitchat -7:20 PM Jan 10th, 2013

kurtisscaletta @KDuBayGillis @kellybarnhill I probably do have a brand. Books have similar styles & themes. All in first person. Tall tales. #mglitchat -7:20 PM Jan 10th, 2013

kellybarnhill For example, I can read all of Francis Hardinge's books and they will be unique and wonderful - but I will still know it's her. #mglitchat -7:20 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone @KateMessner Carl Hiaasen is prolific in terms of the different ages he writes mystery novels for. #mglitchat -7:20 PM Jan 10th, 2013

LaurelSnyder @DanyelleLeafty Put crassly, the purpose of branding is to sell books. But yes, the other side of that is to help readers. #mglitchat -7:21 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @LaurelSnyder Yes. Branding is definitely on the business side of writing/publishing. #mglitchat -7:21 PM Jan 10th, 2013

kurtisscaletta I think of brand as where the spines all look good in a row. #mglitchat -7:21 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @DanyelleLeafty @LaurelSnyder Yes- its' definitely a marketing decision. #mglitchat -7:21 PM Jan 10th, 2013

LaurelSnyder @KateMessner Thank you! I guess I just mean that it would make the selling simpler. I agree with you. #mglitchat -7:22 PM Jan 10th, 2013

PippaBayliss Agreed - whether we like it or not! RT @DanyelleLeafty Put crassly, the purpose of branding is to sell books. #mglitchat -7:22 PM Jan 10th, 2013

theakpal Branding in the business world is associated with TM and SM and the like. #mglitchat -7:22 PM Jan 10th, 2013

aecverost From a publicist's perspective, the author brand and voice can be the brand, vs the books. #mglitchat -7:22 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KateMilford @rachelnseigel Trying to figure out how to answer that. I can't say it has any appeal, off the top of my head. #mglitchat -7:22 PM Jan 10th, 2013

PippaBayliss Smile! RT @kurtisscaletta: I think of brand as where the spines all look good in a row. #mglitchat -7:22 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @kurtisscaletta That works too. For a brand to work, it has to be uniformly linked. #mglitchat -7:22 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone I think James Patterson is a 'branded' author with his mg novels, right? #mglitchat -7:22 PM Jan 10th, 2013

BarbaraSheridan RT @KateMessner: I have to confess - I can't stand the idea of branding. I want to write lots of different kinds of good books. #mglitchat -7:22 PM Jan 10th, 2013

kurtisscaletta That's enough for me tonight. Have to go write. #mglitchat -7:22 PM Jan 10th, 2013

kellybarnhill @KateMessner @LaurelSnyder They don't.I think it's more like how you can pick a Renoir from a lineup. Not sameness, unity. #mglitchat -7:22 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @kurtisscaletta Happy writing! #mglitchat -7:23 PM Jan 10th, 2013

LaurelSnyder Plenty of authors had a hit after a string of less successful books. What if someone tried to "brand" in this way after book 1? #mglitchat -7:23 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty RT @aecverost: From a publicist's perspective, the author brand and voice can be the brand, vs the books. #mglitchat -7:23 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @KateMilford Fair enough! #mglitchat -7:23 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer @aecverost Love THAT idea. #mglitchat -7:23 PM Jan 10th, 2013

kellybarnhill @KateMessner Did I just compare @LaurelSnyder to Renoir? YES I TOTALLY DID! <3 #mglitchat -7:23 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KateMilford @rachelnseigel primarily bc that would mean setting aside one of MY projects, which would be enough to deter me. #mglitchat -7:23 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel #Mglitchat James Patterson has successfully branded himself I think. -7:23 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @aecverost Very true. There are some authors who are automatic buys for me because of their voice. #mglitchat -7:23 PM Jan 10th, 2013

LaurelSnyder @rachelnseigel Ya think? ;) #mglitchat -7:23 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KateMilford @LaurelSnyder I've also heard stories of famous authors who had a string of successful bks in 1 world who then encountered (1/2) #mglitchat -7:24 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @KateMilford U r lucky that u r prolific and have many projects, and some weight. For an author starting out, it could appeal. #mglitchat -7:24 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KateMilford @laurelsnyder (2/2) resistance from readers when they tried to start something new. Another potential downside/trap of branding. #mglitchat -7:24 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer @DanyelleLeafty @aecverost You buy them because you trust the voice. You know you're in safe literary hands, no? #mglitchat -7:24 PM Jan 10th, 2013

AnshaKotyk @DanyelleLeafty sorry tech difficulties, sigh. aka auto update NEEDS to be turned off! #mglitchat -7:24 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ilanawaters RT @KDuBayGillis: @kellybarnhill Being Awesome is the brand we should all strive for no matter what! #mglitchat -7:24 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @robinmellom Me too. :) #mglitchat -7:24 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @LaurelSnyder LOL. True. Not really any doubt there. He's done it very well too. #mglitchat -7:24 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @AnshaKotyk No worries. :) #gremlincookies #mglitchat -7:25 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer @KateMilford Seems like that's when the old pseudonym turns up. #mglitchat -7:25 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KateMilford @rachelnseigel Not sure I have any weight other than what I carry around my middle :). But I do have lots of stuff I want to do. #mglitchat -7:25 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone I think the term 'brand' can be distracting to a writer. #mglitchat -7:25 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @KateMilford @laurelsnyder I think this is why some authors opt for pen names. Different names for different brands. #mglitchat -7:25 PM Jan 10th, 2013

kimberlypurcell RT @KateMessner: I have to confess - I can't stand the idea of branding. I want to write lots of different kinds of good books. #mglitchat -7:25 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KateMilford @rachelnseigel But on the other hand, I would never judge anyone else for choosing a different path. #mglitchat -7:26 PM Jan 10th, 2013

_jloreen RT @KateMessner: I have to confess - I can't stand the idea of branding. I want to write lots of different kinds of good books. #mglitchat -7:26 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @KateMilford LOL! #mglitchat -7:26 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @ClaireCaterer Not so much for safety, but because those voices speak to me best, I think. :) #mglitchat -7:26 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @KateMilford I c your point- getting stuck in that "brand" is like type-casting in a way. #mglitchat -7:26 PM Jan 10th, 2013

theakpal @DanyelleLeafty I think I read recently that pen-names are dying out. In the world of the interwebz, it doesn't hold any weight. #mglitchat -7:26 PM Jan 10th, 2013

SympleSymon My internet's finally finished messing about - what's the #mglitchat topic? -7:26 PM Jan 10th, 2013

authorTinaScott RT @PippaBayliss: yeah, branding is giving our readers what they expect and want from us - as long they like our first book. #mglitchat -7:26 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KateMilford @DanyelleLeafty @claireCaterer Except that requires building a new readership. Plus, what if you WANT it under the same name? #mglitchat -7:26 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @theakpal Speaking of pen names, would u say Lemony Snicket is a brand? #mglitchat -7:27 PM Jan 10th, 2013

AnshaKotyk @SympleSymon branding :) #mglitchat -7:27 PM Jan 10th, 2013

kellybarnhill @matt_janacone A million times yes. Branding is the business of editors and publicists. It is not our concern, really. #mglitchat -7:27 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis I think Judy Blume is an example of an author with a brand...and as a result of that brand, I was NEVER allowed to read her bks. #mglitchat -7:27 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @SympleSymon Hi! We're talking about branding in MG. #mglitchat -7:27 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone With branding the name on a book cover seems to be more important than the book title. #mglitchat -7:27 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @KateMilford @claireCaterer I agree, building new readership would be a pain. Worth it though if genres diverge drastically. #mglitchat -7:27 PM Jan 10th, 2013

Bec_AS @theakpal Plus, a lot reveal them online, so there doesn't seem to be a point. #MGLitChat -7:27 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis I'll give you my parents' address so you can all send them tsk tsk mail for censoring my reading as a kid! LOL. #mglitchat -7:27 PM Jan 10th, 2013

Bec_AS @rachelnseigel Yes! #MGLitChat -7:28 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer @KateMilford Well, right! I think pen names aren't always to fool anyone, just to differentiate the "brands." Bit of a bummer. #mglitchat -7:28 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone @kellybarnhill And it shouldn't be. #mglitchat -7:28 PM Jan 10th, 2013

jordanstratford I disagree that brand isn't our problem. An author's persona is a connection to readers. That's social, what we're doing here #mglitchat -7:28 PM Jan 10th, 2013

kellybarnhill @KateMilford @DanyelleLeafty @ClaireCaterer Unless you want your readerships distinct - kids vs. grownups, or whatever. #mglitchat -7:28 PM Jan 10th, 2013

SympleSymon Ah, branding! Well, that can be good if you stick to 1 genre (Darren Shan for horror, Terry Pratchett for comic fantasy)...#mglitchat -7:28 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KateMilford @DanyelleLeafty @clairecaterer Sure, but the examples I mean were definitely same genre. Just diff story. #mglitchat -7:29 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @theakpal I think maintaining secret identities is dead & gone, but still useful to keep brands separate. #mglitchat -7:29 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone @kellybarnhill Unless you're self-publishing. #mglitchat -7:29 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @KateMilford @clairecaterer Ah. Yes, pen names would be useless in that case. #mglitchat -7:29 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ilanawaters @matt_janacone You are bringing up some seriously good insights in this #Mglitchat. -7:30 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KateMilford @kellybarnhill @danyelleleafty @clairecaterer The context in which I'd use a pen name. But not just for diff MG or YA worlds. #mglitchat -7:30 PM Jan 10th, 2013

theakpal @DanyelleLeafty To me, the series separates the brands. #mglitchat -7:30 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @DanyelleLeafty @theakpal I was just going to say- some writers use pen-names to explore a different kind of genre/writing. #mglitchat -7:30 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ilanawaters @KDuBayGillis *hovers fingers over keyboard* I'm waiting....#mglitchat -7:30 PM Jan 10th, 2013

SympleSymon But titles can also be branded: Harry Potter, Skulduggery Pleasant, Artemis Fowl. That way, the authors can move on (slightly). #mglitchat -7:30 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer @kellybarnhill @KateMilford @DanyelleLeafty Then you've got Lauren Oliver, YA, MG, different styles ... hasn't hurt her any. #mglitchat -7:31 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @theakpal Age and radically different genres are the usual reasons for pen names. :) #mglitchat -7:31 PM Jan 10th, 2013

jordanstratford #mglitchat I say be your brand, write whatever you want, turn people on to your other projects. Horror movies to toddler books. -7:31 PM Jan 10th, 2013

kellybarnhill @DanyelleLeafty @theakpal Except for John Twelve Hawks, who has kept his identity under wraps pretty dang well. #mglitchat -7:31 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis @ilanawaters Man, that would so freak them out! LOL! #mglitchat -7:31 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @rachelnseigel @theakpal This for sure. #mglitchat -7:31 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone Harry Potter has created a brand, but alot of authors following aren't putting out bad, try-to-copy books. #mglitchat -7:32 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ilanawaters @KDuBayGillis *evil giggle* #mglitchat -7:32 PM Jan 10th, 2013

urban_hunters Write a story. Post it here. See it on writing blogs. http://t.co/ZQnvB5zp #RT #scifi #fiction #mglitchat -7:32 PM Jan 10th, 2013

kellybarnhill @ClaireCaterer @KateMilford @DanyelleLeafty Sure. But Julianna Baggot keeps her three writing identities separate, and it works. #mglitchat -7:32 PM Jan 10th, 2013

NatalieLorenzi @KateMessner Love that as a librarian. To a kid who loved MARTY MCGUIRE last year, I say, "Great--try EYE OF THE STORM!" & so on. #mglitchat -7:33 PM Jan 10th, 2013

kellybarnhill @ClaireCaterer @KateMilford @DanyelleLeafty The point is that whatever works for the writer is the right call. #mglitchat -7:33 PM Jan 10th, 2013

jordanstratford @KateMessner Look at Gaiman. He's a brand, he writes everything #mglitchat -7:33 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @kellybarnhill @theakpal True. Amends statement to read: for the *average* author . . . #mglitchat (I find being 1 person exhausting enough. -7:33 PM Jan 10th, 2013

SympleSymon Two paragraphs into the #EF rewrite, and I'm already ripping into Twilight. Oh yeah... #PitchWars #mglitchat -7:33 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone Harry Potter has created a brand, but alot of authors who are trying to copy are putting out bad books. #mglitchat -7:33 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @jordanstratford @KateMessner True. He's one that transcends age and genre. #mglitchat -7:33 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer @jordanstratford Was just thinking of Gaiman. Yes, he does whatever he wants, & it's all good! #mglitchat -7:33 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KateMilford @kellybarnhill Agreed. #mglitchat -7:34 PM Jan 10th, 2013

SympleSymon RT @jordanstratford: @KateMessner Look at Gaiman. He's a brand, he writes everything #mglitchat -7:34 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KateMessner @NatalieLorenzi Love to hear this! As readers, kids shouldn't feel branded either. #mglitchat -7:34 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @kellybarnhill @ClaireCaterer @KateMilford This 100%! Writers definitely aren't one-size fits all. #mglitchat -7:34 PM Jan 10th, 2013

aecverost And building an author brand doesn't have to mean being crazy active on social media - there are other ways. #mglitchat -7:34 PM Jan 10th, 2013

NatalieLorenzi RT @KateMessner: @NatalieLorenzi Love to hear this! As readers, kids shouldn't feel branded either. #mglitchat -7:34 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @ClaireCaterer Her voice has remained constant between MG and YA, I believe. But definitely hasn't hurt her, no. #mglitchat -7:34 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone Harry Potter has become a brand, not JK Rowling. #mglitchat Too many brandwagon jumpers there. -7:35 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer @matt_janacone I think of a brand as specific to an author--so HP is a brand, but only for JKR. The others are ripoffs. #mglitchat -7:35 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis RT @KateMessner: @NatalieLorenzi Love to hear this! As readers, kids shouldn't feel branded either. #mglitchat -7:35 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KateMilford @ClaireCaterer @jordanstratford He also lets his readers know to expect unexpected. I think that's one reason it works so well. #mglitchat -7:35 PM Jan 10th, 2013

NatalieLorenzi @aecverost Especially with MG readers who aren't on social media like teens are. #mglitchat -7:35 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer RT @DanyelleLeafty @kellybarnhill @ClaireCaterer @KateMilford This 100%! Writers definitely aren't one-size fits all. #mglitchat -7:35 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis I'm just going to retweet @KateMessner all night. #mglitchat -7:36 PM Jan 10th, 2013

karicottingim RT @KateMessner: I have to confess - I can't stand the idea of branding. I want to write lots of different kinds of good books. #mglitchat -7:36 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer @KDuBayGillis LOL! We all should! #mglitchat -7:36 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis My hope is that if authors "brand" themselves, they do it b/c that's what they want and not b/c of the industry. #mglitchat -7:37 PM Jan 10th, 2013

theakpal @KateMilford @ClaireCaterer @jordanstratford I think the younger generations are more comfortable with things being different #mglitchat -7:37 PM Jan 10th, 2013

Bec_AS On a different note, shouldn't an author work to brand themselves as a writer, much the way a business will brand, not genrebased #MGLitChat -7:37 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone 'Brandwagon" authors are just as bad as some movie seqhels. #mglitchat -7:37 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty Weirdly, even typeface can be a form of branding. I def. connect certain authors w/certain typeface/fonts. #mglitchat -7:38 PM Jan 10th, 2013

PippaBayliss @matt_janacone I'm sorry you haven't read any good books that are part of a series or brand - it's not always the case :) #mglitchat -7:38 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer @DanyelleLeafty I do too, but I thought that was my weird thing. :) #mglitchat -7:38 PM Jan 10th, 2013

NatalieLorenzi RT @literaticat: @ClaireCaterer @KateMessner well... :-) I happen to think your "brand" can be "really good books." #mglitchat -7:38 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KateMilford @theakpal @clairecaterer @jordanstratford I think in many ways it's a question of how you set your readers' expectations. #mglitchat -7:38 PM Jan 10th, 2013

AnshaKotyk @Bec_AS @DanyelleLeafty I feel like branding is a form of recognition regardless of how it's done. You see the name or series... #mglitchat -7:39 PM Jan 10th, 2013

AnshaKotyk and you know what to expect as a reader #mglitchat -7:39 PM Jan 10th, 2013

SympleSymon If you're getting into writing for branding yourself, you're in for a rough time and a serious letdown... #mglitchat -7:39 PM Jan 10th, 2013

PippaBayliss @matt_janacone don't worry! as a book seller, I know kids get over 'Brandwagon' authors & their books quickly if they're not good #mglitchat -7:39 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @ClaireCaterer The more the merrier, er, weirder. :p #mglitchat -7:39 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone @PippaBayliss Oh, I know. :) You're right. #mglitchat -7:39 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KateMilford @theakpal @clairecaterer @jordanstratford Let them know you don't just do 1 kind of story & they won't expect just 1 kind. #mglitchat -7:39 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @AnshaKotyk @Bec_AS I agree. It sets expectations and recognition. Very helpful to me as a reader. #mglitchat -7:40 PM Jan 10th, 2013

SympleSymon If you're writing for the sheer fun of it, then it will doing from your work, setting the foundations for your future... #mglitchat -7:40 PM Jan 10th, 2013

aecverost @NatalieLorenzi exactly! For MG, meeting readers face to face at schools/libraries is so important for sales+audience awareness! #mglitchat -7:41 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @DanyelleLeafty @AnshaKotyk @Bec_AS It does help- especially if you've read something u enjoyed and r looking for more like it. #mglitchat -7:41 PM Jan 10th, 2013

SympleSymon After that it's just being humble, being yourself, and doing what you do best: telling YOUR stories YOUR way. The rest is easy. #mglitchat -7:41 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone @PippaBayliss I guess some publishers wear out their welcome with 'brandwagon' authors/books. #mglitchat -7:41 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @rachelnseigel @AnshaKotyk @Bec_AS This! Am always on the hunt for more books, esp. if they are ones similar to those I like. #mglitchat -7:41 PM Jan 10th, 2013

Bec_AS @rachelnseigel @DanyelleLeafty @AnshaKotyk Or just enjoy that writer's voice, not even same genre. #MGLitChat -7:42 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @SympleSymon Agree. Branding usually follows writing. #mglitchat -7:42 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @Bec_AS @rachelnseigel @AnshaKotyk Yes. Voice is the strongest of all brands to me. #mglitchat -7:43 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ilanawaters @aecverost @NatalieLorenzi But I've heard this sales tactic has mixed results. Thoughts? #mglitchat -7:43 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty So many awesome points being made tonight. My brain is spinning. #mglitchat -7:43 PM Jan 10th, 2013

Bec_AS Writing is a small business for the self-employed, and as any marketing person will tell you, you need to brand yourself. #MGLitChat -7:43 PM Jan 10th, 2013

NatalieLorenzi @aecverost Yes--this! Kids adore connecting with authors, and they really feel like these authors are speaking to them. #mglitchat -7:43 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis RT @DanyelleLeafty: @Bec_AS @rachelnseigel @AnshaKotyk Yes. Voice is the strongest of all brands to me. #mglitchat -7:43 PM Jan 10th, 2013

AnshaKotyk @DanyelleLeafty I'm hoping the tech glitch doesn't mean we lost any of tonights chat... #mglitchat -7:43 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer @DanyelleLeafty Again, Danyelle: We are Brand Awesome. #mglitchat -7:44 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis FWIW, our #mglitchat brand is trending! -7:44 PM Jan 10th, 2013

AnshaKotyk @Bec_AS I'm still learning this! #MGLitChat -7:44 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @AnshaKotyk I've got tweetchat up, just in case. Am going to try something different to see if it will work w/o freezing comps. #mglitchat -7:44 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KateMessner I have to disagree w/ folks saying authors who DO have a distinct brand are somehow writing substandard books. Many are great. #mglitchat -7:44 PM Jan 10th, 2013

AnshaKotyk @AnshaKotyk Awesome!!! #MGLitChat -7:44 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ilanawaters @DanyelleLeafty Me too! I can hardly tweet--I'm just soaking up the information. *adds bubbles* #mglitchat -7:44 PM Jan 10th, 2013

jclillis RT @KateMessner: I have to confess - I can't stand the idea of branding. I want to write lots of different kinds of good books. #mglitchat -7:45 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @Bec_AS @DanyelleLeafty @AnshaKotyk And some authors like Sharon Creech, for example have a very distinct & recognizable voice. #MGLitChat -7:45 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @Bec_AS I agree. Better to brand yourself with intent than to be branded w/something that might not fit as well to you. #mglitchat -7:45 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer @KateMessner Yes, agree. Brand doesn't necessarily = cheap. #mglitchat -7:45 PM Jan 10th, 2013

samschoolering YES @KateMessner: I have to confess - I can't stand the idea of branding. I want to write lots of different kinds of good books. #mglitchat -7:45 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @KDuBayGillis Awesome! #mglitchat -7:45 PM Jan 10th, 2013

NatalieLorenzi @PippaBayliss @matt_janacone I see this in the library. Sequels churned out in rapid succession often fall flat, kids tell me. #mglitchat -7:45 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @ClaireCaterer *grin* So very true. :D #mglitchat -7:45 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis @KateMessner I agree w/this. Just bought Sharon Creech's latest b/c I knew and want her "brand" of storytelling and can't wait! #mglitchat -7:45 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @ilanawaters Me too! I love being surrounded by so many smart people. *soaks it all in* #mglitchat -7:46 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ilanawaters @rachelnseigel @Bec_AS @DanyelleLeafty @AnshaKotyk OMG, I love Sharon Creech! *fan girl squeal* #mglitchat -7:46 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer Yes: RT @DanyelleLeafty Better to brand yourself with intent than to be branded w/something that might not fit as well to you. #mglitchat -7:46 PM Jan 10th, 2013

NatalieLorenzi @ilanawaters @aecverost Sales tactic meaning author visits? #mglitchat -7:46 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone I do think it should be about the author. #mglitchat -7:46 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @ilanawaters @rachelnseigel @Bec_AS @AnshaKotyk Yes! Sharon Creech is made of awesome. #mglitchat -7:46 PM Jan 10th, 2013

Bec_AS True branding usually means high-end, any biz. RT @ClaireCaterer: @KateMessner Yes, agree. Brand doesnt necessarily = cheap. #MGLitChat -7:47 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KateMilford @Bec_AS OTOH, not all writers approach marketing the same way, or choose to focus on self-marketing at all. #mglitchat -7:47 PM Jan 10th, 2013

AnshaKotyk @DanyelleLeafty adding to my book list #mglitchat -7:47 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @ilanawaters @Bec_AS @DanyelleLeafty @AnshaKotyk I adore her books, and she writes beautifully- and recognizable. #mglitchat -7:48 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @KateMessner I agree 100%. #mglitchat -7:48 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ilanawaters @NatalieLorenzi @aecverost Yes. That. :-) #mglitchat -7:48 PM Jan 10th, 2013

NatalieLorenzi @ClaireCaterer @KateMessner Agreed. Kate DiCamillo has a brand--quiet, lovely books w/heart. Every book has that, & it's a gift. #mglitchat -7:48 PM Jan 10th, 2013

RosanneParry @PippaBayliss @KDuBayGillis The author always has a choice. The publisher can't make you write a book you don't want to. #mglitchat -7:48 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @AnshaKotyk Heh. #mglitchat always wreaks havoc on my bank account. >.< #mglitchat -7:49 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis BTW, Sharon Creech's new one is THE GREAT UNEXPECTED #mglitchat -7:49 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer RT @NatalieLorenzi Agreed. Kate DiCamillo has a brand--quiet, lovely books w/heart. Every book has that, & it's a gift. #mglitchat -7:49 PM Jan 10th, 2013

AnshaKotyk @KDuBayGillis I'm off to find it! :) #mglitchat -7:49 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KateMilford @bec_AS Nothing wrong with focusing on letting your writing & voice speak for you rather than worrying abt "brand." #mglitchat -7:50 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone I hight recommend ANY of Carl Hiaasen's mg novels! #mglitchat -7:50 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @KDuBayGillis I have it on my shelf to read in February when I am freed up from required reading. #mglitchat -7:50 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @matt_janacone Hoot is my favourite. #mglitchat -7:50 PM Jan 10th, 2013

JKSPulp #mglitchat I write pulp fiction. It's a niche genre, hard to sell. I'm not doing it to get rich. I do it because I love it. -7:51 PM Jan 10th, 2013

NatalieLorenzi @NatalieLorenzi @ilanawaters @aecverost Depends on author--have had authors who connected right away w/kids & others...not. #mglitchat -7:51 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis My take away from tonight's chat: Just write your stories as best you can the way you want and don't sweat the brand. #mglitchat -7:51 PM Jan 10th, 2013

PippaBayliss @RosanneParry Yeah, but they have an eye on the market and the power to publish it. We can decide whether that matters or not. #mglitchat -7:51 PM Jan 10th, 2013

TLT16 RT @KateMessner: @NatalieLorenzi Love to hear this! As readers, kids shouldn't feel branded either. #mglitchat -7:52 PM Jan 10th, 2013

aecverost @ilanawaters @natalielorenzi same day sales can be low at MG school visits but it is a longterm investment in building readership #mglitchat -7:52 PM Jan 10th, 2013

matt_janacone @rachelnseigel I need to finish 'Scat' by Hiaasen. :) #mglitchat -7:52 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ClaireCaterer Must run, everyone. Thanks for a lively & insightful #mglitchat -7:52 PM Jan 10th, 2013

Bec_AS @KateMilford True, but branding can help an author with great writing get the traction they need to be seen by readers. #MGLitChat -7:52 PM Jan 10th, 2013

AnshaKotyk @ClaireCaterer Thanks for being here! #mglitchat -7:52 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @ClaireCaterer Thanks for coming! Have a great evening! #mglitchat -7:52 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KateMilford @KDuBayGillis I am of the same mind. No knocks against those who choose differently, but I'm with you there. #mglitchat -7:52 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ilanawaters @aecverost @natalielorenzi This is good info. (both of you). Thanks! #mglitchat -7:52 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @matt_janacone So many books.... You know the rest. #mglitchat -7:53 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KateMilford @Bec_AS Absolutely. But it can also be a distraction from time spent finishing/revising/etc. #mglitchat -7:54 PM Jan 10th, 2013

AnshaKotyk @rachelnseigel My new years resolution is to set aside more reading time! #mglitchat -7:54 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @AnshaKotyk I think if I set aside any more time, I'd be without a boyfriend or a social life! ;-) #mglitchat -7:55 PM Jan 10th, 2013

AnshaKotyk @rachelnseigel *giggle* #mglitchat -7:55 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis @AnshaKotyk @rachelnseigel I'm doing that by MG read alouds with my 7/5 year olds. Picture books then MG chptrs! Win-win for me. #mglitchat -7:56 PM Jan 10th, 2013

AnshaKotyk @KDuBayGillis Yes. I need to do this too! #mglitchat -7:56 PM Jan 10th, 2013

coachhays64 Your brand can open the reader's door and quality will earn you a chair at their dining room table. #mglitchat -7:56 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @KDuBayGillis @AnshaKotyk Sigh. I miss babysitting where I had a captive audience 2 read to. Don't have kids, or nieces/nephews. #mglitchat -7:56 PM Jan 10th, 2013

AnshaKotyk RT @coachhays64: Your brand can open the reader's door and quality will earn you a chair at their dining room table. #mglitchat -7:57 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty RT @coachhays64: Your brand can open the reader's door and quality will earn you a chair at their dining room table. #mglitchat -7:57 PM Jan 10th, 2013

PippaBayliss Makes sense to me to write similar themed genre books to build readership, as long as inspiration & quality are #1 = branding #mglitchat -7:57 PM Jan 10th, 2013

AnshaKotyk @rachelnseigel Ah, but it's frustrating when they don't want to read what you want to read! #mglitchat -7:57 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis Next week's chat: prologues and epilogues. #mglitchat -7:57 PM Jan 10th, 2013

OrigamiYoda You're right @KateMessner. A "brand" may be just a long multiple book --even multiple series -- story they're trying to tell. #mglitchat -7:57 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ilanawaters @AnshaKotyk @coachhays64 Ooo--I hope there's fetuccini alfredo! #plusdesert :-) #mglitchat -7:58 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @AnshaKotyk True. I need to find some kids to read to who will listen to whatever I want to read. Dog just isn't interested! ;-) #mglitchat -7:58 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ilanawaters @rachelnseigel @KDuBayGillis @AnshaKotyk Storytime was always my FAVORITE time too. #sigh #mglitchat -7:58 PM Jan 10th, 2013

AnshaKotyk @rachelnseigel Yes. my cats ignore me. always #mglitchat -7:59 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @AnshaKotyk Everybody knows cats have no manners. ;-) #mglitchat -7:59 PM Jan 10th, 2013

RosanneParry @KateMessner Agreed. And I think just being famous is not the same as having a body of work in a predictable style and format. #mglitchat -7:59 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis You know why I love #mglitchat? Well, one of the reasons...you never know which authors are going to pop in. Fun! #mglitchat -7:59 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty Before #mglitchat ends, I want to thank all of you. So many awesome points made tonight! -7:59 PM Jan 10th, 2013

rachelnseigel @RosanneParry @KateMessner Absolutely! #mglitchat -7:59 PM Jan 10th, 2013

AnshaKotyk @DanyelleLeafty It was a wonderful chat wasn't it? #mglitchat -8:00 PM Jan 10th, 2013

PippaBayliss Oh no! Prologues & Epilogues? I'm going to have to come back to find out more. Loads of wisdom here at #mglitchat <3 #mglitchat -8:00 PM Jan 10th, 2013

theakpal @KDuBayGillis Shoot, I'm going to miss it...will be at the local writer's jam a group of us do once a month. #mglitchat -8:00 PM Jan 10th, 2013

DanyelleLeafty @AnshaKotyk Definitely! I learned so much, my brain is exploding. Quietly. :p #mglitchat -8:00 PM Jan 10th, 2013

ericberlinct #mglitchat Late to the chat, but I'll toss in that I am not continuing my established series because I don't have an idea for a 4th book. -8:01 PM Jan 10th, 2013

KDuBayGillis Oh, and just a head's up, March is going to be #mglitchat Tips from the Pros month. We might contact some of you to participate. #mglitchat -8:01 PM Jan 10th, 2013


No comments:

Post a Comment