Self publishing a book means reviewing proofs—but if this baby can do it, so can you. Courtesy photo

PLT NEWS RELEASE

Have you ever dreamed of publishing your own book—whether it’s a children’s story, memoir, coloring book, or novel—but didn’t know where to begin? Join local authors and creatives for “Self-Published Side Hustles (Mom Edition)” at the Pajarito Literary Festival on Saturday, May 10, at 11:15 a.m. in Fuller Lodge.

The session features Whitney Spivey, Brenda Fleming, and Leslie Bucklin—three Los Alamos-based women who have successfully self-published books while balancing full-time jobs, parenting, pets, and plenty more. They’ll share how they turned their creative ideas into tangible products and what they learned along the way.

Spivey is the author of Goodnight, Los Alamos (designed and illustrated by Fleming) and A Los Alamos Alphabet (designed and photographed by Bucklin). Fleming also authored Short Front Legs and Animals of Northern New Mexico. All four books were self-published and have found success locally and beyond.

The trio will discuss the ins and outs of self-publishing—from the logistics and costs to marketing and sales strategies.

“Creating a successful self-published book takes discipline, attention to detail, a bit of up-front capital, and some basic marketing skills,” Spivey says. “But it’s not as difficult as most people think—and the results can be just as professional as anything from a traditional publisher.”

Adds Fleming, “So come on out to the Pajarito Literary Festival. We promise you’ll learn something—and who knows? Maybe you’ll be presenting your own book by next year!”

Tickets to the Pajarito Literary Festival start at $25. Learn more here.