Just read books in your genre, and you’ll “get it.” Right?

Sometimes it’s not so easy - but I’m here with my secret sauce tips to make doing genre research a simple and (and even fun) process.

I cover methods for selecting books for research, analyzing genre elements such as tropes, character arcs, and world-building, and the crucial phrase I always ask myself when figuring out what makes a book genre really work.

Prefer to read? Click the transcript button on the Substack page - you can read straight through or use the transcript to skip around on the video.

Author Culture is a reader-supported podcast that I do to help scifi and fantasy authors just like you. Consider becoming a free or paid subscriber (paid subscribers get bonus current event episodes, live chat, and can request topics).

In this conversation, I explore the shifting landscape of world building in science fiction and fantasy, including a comparison of simpler world building in romantasy with the enduring appeal of complex world building in other subgenres. I also offer some marketing thoughts on the increasing reader divide between complex and simple world building. Plus, how author preferences can shift between one or the other.

Prefer to read? Click the transcript button on the Substack page - you can read straight through or use the transcript to skip around on the video.

Author Culture is a reader-supported podcast & publication - I do this to help you! Consider becoming a free or paid subscriber (paid subscribers get bonus episodes, live chat, and request topics).

In this conversation, I break down my 6 key factors when evaluating which book events I sign up for every year.Bonus: I also dig into how to do book events when managing limited energy levels (and a budget).This episode includes:-Why high foot traffic does not guarantee sales-Evaluating the theme and guests of the event for potential connections-What to consider when looking at event costs-Recovery time for long book events

Plus, why new authors might want to hold off on big ticket events.

Whether you’re a newbie or a veteran, this episode has some fresh ideas for you.

Prefer to read? Click the transcript button on the Substack page - you can read straight through or use the transcript to skip around on the video.Just FYI - I’m offering a special price deal for paid subscribers through the end of February. Paid subscribers get 1-2 additional episodes per month focused on current events or Q&A, plus the ability to request episodes and submit questions for Q&A.Click here to get 15% off a paid subscription - forever!

In this conversation, I discuss the recent changes in Amazon's Kindle ebook policies, addressing the concerns raised by readers and authors alike. I emphasize the importance of understanding the nature of digital ownership and licensing, the cultural implications of these changes, and offer practical advice for both readers and authors navigating this evolving landscape. The conversation aims to clarify misconceptions and equip listeners with the knowledge to make informed decisions about this new shift from Kindle. Source Materials:Original Video from CriminOlly

Article from The Verge

Article from Tech Radar

Can You Own An Ebook? - NYU Journal of Intellectual Property and Entertainment Law

Research Copyright Law for Yourself

Want More Current Events Posts? I’m offering a special price deal for paid subscribers through the end of February. Click here to get 15% off a paid subscription - forever!

In this episode, Janeen Ippolito reflects on the challenges and expectations that come with the New Year, particularly for authors. She discusses the importance of evaluating one's progress and setting realistic goals, emphasizing the need for a personalized creative calendar that aligns with individual rhythms. Janeen also shares her strategies for streamlining content creation and managing social media presence, encouraging listeners to let go of unnecessary pressures and focus on what truly matters in their author journey.

takeaways

• The New Year can bring mixed feelings of accomplishment and disappointment.
• It's important to evaluate what truly matters in your author life.
• Creating a personalized creative calendar can alleviate pressure.
• Sometimes doing less can lead to greater productivity.
• Self-reflection is key to understanding your goals and ambitions.
• Letting go of certain expectations can be liberating.
• Consistency in content creation is more important than perfection.
• Social media presence should align with your personal goals.
• Don't be afraid to try new things, even if they didn't work before.
• Focus on what matters to you and your creative journey.

In this conversation, Janeen Ippolito discusses the critical role of theme and message in storytelling. She emphasizes that understanding and effectively communicating these elements can significantly enhance a book's connection with readers. The discussion covers the definitions of theme and message, their importance in narrative structure, and practical tips for authors to identify and convey these concepts in their writing. Janeen also highlights the value of beta readers in the editing process and the impact of reader expectations on theme and message communication.

In this conversation, Janeen Ippolito shares her personal journey through the challenges of writing, emphasizing the importance of humility, faith, and patience. She discusses the struggles of completing her latest book, the lessons learned in waiting for inspiration, and the significance of trusting God throughout the creative process. Janeen encourages writers to embrace both the joys and difficulties of storytelling, reminding them that their worth is not tied to their work but to their faith.

In this episode, Janeen Ippolito discusses the intricate relationship between world building and genre in science fiction and fantasy writing. She emphasizes the importance of understanding genre definitions, cultural influences, and reader expectations. The conversation provides practical tips for authors on how to navigate the complexities of genre research and effectively connect with their target audience.

• World building is essential for defining genre in speculative fiction.
• Genres are influenced by cultural factors, including economic needs and reader expectations.
• Readers of sci-fi and fantasy particularly seek immersive world building.
• Understanding genre requires reading widely within the genre and its subgenres.
• Successful authors can provide insights into genre-specific tropes and expectations.
• Engaging with reader communities can reveal what audiences expect from a genre.
• Trial and error is a natural part of the genre research process.
• Authors can influence genre evolution through innovative storytelling.
• Crossover effects from other media can shape genre trends.
• The choice of genre and its elements ultimately lies with the author.