Women's Networking Group Offers Insight Into Book Publishing Process

The following was submitted by B.I.G., women’s networking group in Summit/New Providence:

Are you writing a book, or have a great idea for the next great American novel or a simply fantastic how-to primer based on your timely, spot-on experiences? What does it take to channel the idea for a book from your mind, to your computer to an actual printed copy or e-book?

Come to the Thursday meeting of the Summit/New Providence chapter of B.I.G., with a panel of esteemed writers who will share their book publishing expertise, including how they began, the choice of self-publishing vs. finding a publisher, financial considerations, why they almost gave up the dream at times. The meeting will be held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Twin Maples, 214 Springfield Avenue in Summit.

Meet authors Sharon Gilbert, who recently published a book on career coaching for college graduates; Regina Radomski, whose book chronicles the experience of adopting older, foreign-born children; Jean Criss, who has a series of books detailing her medical and legal journey through breast cancer, and Special Guest Author Estelle Sobel, who has written an award-winning book on skin care and writes a regular blog on motherhood. She has ghost-written a book for a children’s author, and has been published in over 100 publications. 

Come to the meeting armed with questions as to how to get your own book published.  Each month, B.I.G. offers its members creative and educational program ideas that help them run their business better.  B.I.G meetings provide women with support, education and networking opportunities to discover personal and professional fulfillment.  

Melanie Wilson, leader of the local group, says that that each B.I.G. meeting is different, based largely on the makeup of the women in the room.  

“The most valuable part of B.I.G. is the support and networking aspect, and the willingness that these women have in sharing their experiences with each other to help further their career paths,” she said. 

“The stay-at-home mom who is just exploring a new business venture and the entrepreneur who has a successful business that has been around for a long time both are equal participants in the B.I.G. experience. Women connect and share resources and ideas; it is quite empowering,” she continued.