BE THE BOOK

BE THE BOOK: The Self-Publishing Route to Self-Discovery by Padmini Viswanathan is a heartfelt and practical guide for anyone looking to self-publish. Based on the author’s personal experiences, this book simplifies the complexities of self-publishing, making it accessible to all writers.

I had the pleasure of meeting Padmini in Chennai about a year ago, during a lunch gathering of writer friends. Her warm and effusive personality left a lasting impression, and in just a few hours, I felt a deep connection with her. Generously, she gifted everyone in the group copies of her books—a gesture that reflects her nurturing spirit.

Now, to the book itself: while it’s a short read, it stands out from other self-publishing guides thanks to Padmini’s engaging writing style, which blends valuable advice with personal anecdotes. Her insights into both the creative and logistical challenges of publishing are deeply intertwined with her life story, making the narrative not just informative, but also touching and authentic.

One particularly moving aspect of the book is Padmini’s relationship with her daughter, Aparna, who plays a pivotal role in her self-publishing journey. Their partnership and perseverance shine through, as they faced and overcame numerous obstacles in the realms of publishing, distribution, and marketing. The strength of their mother-daughter bond adds an inspiring layer to the book, highlighting the power of resilience and teamwork.

A few of the key takeaways from the book include:

1. Write with authenticity; your voice matters.
2. Research is crucial—don’t skip it.
3. Don’t wait for inspiration, or you might end up waiting forever.
4. Develop a disciplined writing habit: same time, same place, every day.
5. Avoid making excuses for not writing—you’re only cheating yourself.
6. Padmini emphasizes, “You must BE THE BOOK for it to be really good. It should be a baring of the soul, not a work of the mind.”

While some of the publishing details in the book may feel slightly outdated, the lessons and insights are timeless. Reading BE THE BOOK feels like sitting down with a dear friend who is candidly sharing her struggles and triumphs, baring her heart in the process. Padmini’s journey is undeniably inspiring, and her wisdom is invaluable for anyone considering the self-publishing path.

If you are an aspiring writer looking to self-publish, BE THE BOOK: The Self-Publishing Route to Self-Discovery is a must-read. Padmini’s honesty and experience will guide you not only in publishing your work but also in discovering more about yourself along the way.

Wordsoepdia Rating: 3.45/5

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