Let’s face it: representatives of publishing companies aren’t exactly running around, begging everyone who can string together two sentences to sell them a short story or book. So if you have a short story or book, but no publishing company, a fundraising platform may provide the answer.

Elinor Mills recently wrote about an author who’s “working on a book and is appealing to passionate readers like me to help him get it published.” According to Mills, “He is seeking financial backers via a Web site called Kickstarter, which bills itself as a ‘funding platform for artists, designers, filmmakers, musicians, journalists, inventors, explorers.’ (A similar site is called Fundable.)”

This approach seems to be working for the fellow. Mills talked to him about 48 hours into the effort, and at that point he’d raised $2,200. His goal was only to get $3,500 by November 1st, so he’s about 63 percent there with all sorts of time left.

You could always, of course, beg your friends and family members in a more direct manner. Something like Kickstarter will allow folks to really get the word out, though, and will also spare you a lot of awkward interactions.

So until the day that writers are in high demand (don’t hold your breath), there’s an idea that’ll hopefully tide you over.

This entry was posted on Friday, August 28th, 2009 at 4:47 pm and is filed under tools. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

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