Author Cindy Lynn Sawyer
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Self-Publishing Journey: How Reader Feedback Shaped the Second Edition of My Picture Book

10/3/2024

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On Feb. 21, 2024, I released my first picture book, The Wonder of Under. As a self-publishing author, it has been a whirlwind of learning, and I’m still navigating this exciting path. Self-publishing is a unique experience, filled with both challenges and rewards, but one of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is the power of partnership with my readers. Together, we’ve made The Wonder of Under into more than just a story—it’s become an adventure that inspires exploration and creativity for kids.

​And here's the result ...

Introducing The Second Edition of The Wonder of Under: A STEM Adventure Book for Preschoolers
Thanks to your support, I was thrilled to release a second edition of The Wonder of Under. Titled The Wonder of Under: A STEM Adventure Book for Preschoolers, this new version is packed with even more engaging content. In this edition, I’ve added four additional pages filled with fun STEM activities designed to get kids thinking, creating, and experimenting. You can find it here. 
 
The new activities include:
  • Instructions on how to make a sailboat: Simple steps to create a boat using everyday materials, sparking creativity and hands-on learning.
  • Upcycling ideas: Encouraging kids to repurpose items to build other types of boats, promoting sustainability and innovation.
  • STEM challenges: Activities that allow children to test their boat creations, encouraging problem-solving and scientific thinking.
  • This enhanced edition is now available in hardback, paperback, and Kindle formats, so no matter how your little adventurer prefers to read, The Wonder of Under: A STEM Adventure Book for Preschoolers is ready to inspire them. You can find it on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Apple.
 
The Ups and Downs of Self-Publishing
Of course, self-publishing comes with its challenges. As the author, you’re responsible for everything—from the editing and formatting to publishing and marketing. It can be overwhelming at times, but the rewards are equally significant. One of the biggest advantages is having full control over the timeline. When inspiration struck for a second edition, I didn’t have to wait for approval from a traditional publishing house. I could act immediately on your feedback and create a version of the book that serves kids even better. In a traditional publishing setup, a second edition might never have been approved unless the book was a best-seller—and even then, it could take a year or more to see it on shelves.
 
Partnering with My Readers
While self-publishing offers a lot of independence, perhaps the most rewarding aspect has been the direct connection I’ve been able to build with my readers. Your feedback has been instrumental in shaping The Wonder of Under: A STEM Adventure Book for Preschoolers  into a book with a greater purpose. My mission as a writer is to build better futures for children through story adventures, and with your amazing suggestions, I was able to enhance the story to encourage even more exploration and curiosity for young minds.
 
The true benefit of self-publishing is the immediacy with which I can apply reader feedback. Your suggestions helped me see new possibilities for this little book, making it a story that not only entertains but also teaches. For this, I am truly grateful.
 
Thank You to My Readers (and Giveaway Announcement)
I want to take a moment to sincerely thank my readers. Without your feedback, The Wonder of Under: A STEM Adventure Book for Preschoolers wouldn’t have become the exciting STEM adventure it is today. As a token of my gratitude, I’m offering a chance to win a free hardcopy of The Wonder of Under: A STEM Adventure Book for Preschoolers to inspire more learning adventures for your kiddos. To enter, simply comment about this post below.
 
I’m excited to partner with my readers as I continue this journey and look forward to sharing more story adventures in the future!
Purchase The Wonder of Under, Stem Edition
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    Cindy Lynn Sawyer is an author with a passion for helping to build better futures for kids through STEM and SEL reading adventures.

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Cindy Sawyer   |   574-309-1763   |   [email protected]

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