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Post date: Feb 2, 2017 3:30:20 AM
Mark Shaw interview with David Alan Binder
Mark Shaw bio from his website: Mark is a graduate of Purdue University, the Indiana University School of Law, and San Francisco Theological Seminary. Mark Shaw books include The Reporter Who Knew Too Much, The Poison Patriarch, Melvin Belli: King of the Courtroom, Beneath the Mask of Holiness: Thomas Merton and the Forbidden Love Affair that Set Him Free, Miscarriage of Justice: The Jonathan Pollard Story, Down for the Count, Forever Flying, the autobiography of famed aviator R. A. Bob Hoover, Larry Legend, a biography of NBA superstar Larry Bird and Stations Along the Way: The Spiritual Transformation of Former Hitler Youth Leader Ursula Martens.
Regarding his books, Mark says, “My purpose is to make people stop and think about historical subjects and important issues confronting society today. Spiritual guru Thomas Merton once said, “If a writer is so cautious that he/she never writes anything that cannot be criticized, he/she will never write anything that can be read. If you want to help other people, you have got to make up your mind to write things that some people will condemn.” Amen!”
For additional information about Mark see the end of the interview.
www.thereporterwhoknewtoomuch.com.
www.thedorothykilgallenstory.org
https://www.amazon.com/Reporter-Who-Knew-Too-Much.com.
If you have any interest in the Dorothy Kilgallen story that may have a link to John F. Kennedy and even a possible, link to Marilyn Monroe then read this New York Post story posted Jan. 29, 2017 about Mark Shaw’s book, “The Reporter Who Knew Too Much”
http://nypost.com/2017/01/29/manhattan-das-office-probing-death-of-reporter-with-possible-jfk-ties/
1. Where are you currently living?
San Francisco area
2. What is the most important thing that you have learned in your writing experience, so far?
This is my 25th published book and I learn something new with every book. I enjoy most the research since I am curious fellow and writing the first draft. One important matter is to find primary sources for information when writing non-fiction thus staying away from speculation.
3. What would you say is your most interesting writing, publishing, editing or illustrating quirk?
I am called a prolific writer since I’ve published 25 books in about the same number of years. I write at 5 am until 10 and then my brain is dead. Love the writing process but can’t stand the editing process. No fun for me.
4. Tell us your insights on self-publish or use a publisher?
Traditional publishing where the pub company provides an advance and takes care of all the costs of publishing and promotion is a writer’s best bet. If not possible, then use traditional self-publishing through Create Space or Ingram Spark but stay away from subsidy publishers. They are scams and the kiss of death for any writer who dreams of a publishing career.
a. Who is the name of your publisher and in what city are they?
Post Hill Press/Simon and Schuster – NYC
5. Any insights eBooks vs. print books and alternative vs. conventional publishing?
Hardcover release and a good eBook release plus audio book is the best.
6. Do you have any secret tips for writers on getting a book published?
I not only write my book but have helped hundreds of writers become published through my literary consulting using my book, “How to Become a Published Author: Idea to Publication” featuring my “Ten-Step Method.” It’s been a proven strategy for me and many, many writers.
7. How did you or would you suggest acquire an agent? Any tips for new writers on getting one?
There is a definite strategy but the key is focusing on agents who will be interested in the type of book you are writing. Also the need for a professional written query letter and book proposal according to industry standards. Other tips in my publishing book.
8. Do you have any suggestions or helps for new writers (please be specific and informational as possible)?
Find a traditionally published author and take them to dinner. Or maybe two or three. Pick their brain and learn the ropes.
9. What was one of the most surprising things you learned your creative process with your books, editing, publishing or illustrating?
How there are so many untold stories out there that need to be told.
10. How many books have you written?
25
11. Do you have any tricks or tips to help others become a better writer (please be as specific and information as you possibly can)?
Don’t be like me and wing it but take competent classes to improve your craft.
12. Do you have any suggestions for providing twists in a good story?
Always keep the reader curious about what is coming next? Drama, drama, drama even in non-fiction books.
13. What makes your or any book stand out from the crowd?
Fresh information based on primary sources never published before.
14. What are some ways in which you promote your work?
Social media, social media, social media.
15. What is the one thing you would do differently now (concerning writing or editing or publishing or illustrating) and why?
I would have taken classes to learn the writing process better but I never intended to be a writer.
16. What saying or mantra do you live by?
Always tell the truth.
17. Anything else you would like to say?
My latest book, “The Reporter Who Knew Too Much,” has exploded since its release two months ago. The book also proves the power of the written word as it has launched an investigation of media icon Dorothy Kilgallen’s death fifty plus years after it happened.
More at www.markshawbooks.com.
More at www.thereporterwhoknewtoomuch.com
More at www.thedorothykilgallenstory.org.
More information about Mark Shaw:
MARK SHAW IN THE MEDIA & THE NEWS
Mark Shaw has an extensive background in the entertainment industry as an on-air television personality for ABC’s Good Morning America, CBS’s People, the syndicated World of People, and the Disney Channel's The Scheme of Things.
Mark has also appeared as a legal analyst, correctly predicting the outcomes of the Mike Tyson and O.J. Simpson trials for, among others, ESPN, CNN, and ABC, and was a legal correspondent for the nationally-syndicated program, On Trial.
During the Kobe Bryant rape case, Mark analyzed the legal strategies for ESPN and wrote columns for USA Today:
· The Kobe Bryant case — Legal analyst Mark Shaw
· Trial strategies developing for prosecution, defense — Analysis by Mark Shaw
In April 2016, Mark was also quoted in a Think Progress website story, "The Legacy of the Kobe Bryant Rape Case."
MHE LITERARY CONSULTANT &ENTERTAINMENT ATTORNEY
Author of How to Become a Published Author: Idea to Publication, Mark Shaw’s book on the writing and book publishing process includes his successful 10-Step Easy-to-Follow strategy as well as literary and legal tips to assist those who dream of being published. For twenty years and counting, Mark, who can speak to writers as an accomplished author himself, has provided literary consulting to hundreds of aspiring authors. Since he is also an entertainment attorney practicing in California, he can protect authors during the book process.
Mark also conducts his How to Become a Published Author seminars and workshops for legal and professional groups, literary organizations and around the world at libraries, colleges, universities including the American University in Paris. Bestselling author Christine Montross (Body of Work and Falling Into the Fire) says of Mark: “Whenever I'm asked how best to pitch a book to publishers, I direct aspiring authors to Mark Shaw's book, "How to Become A Published Author." Mark's educated and no-nonsense approach demystifies the field, and was instrumental in helping me land my first book deal.”
To consider Mark as a literary consultant whose expertise with the book publishing process is unmatched, email him at mark@markshawbooks.com.
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