Interview with Apryl Skies

Posted by wouldsandshoulds on Jun 15, 2011 in Blog, Self-Publishing Success | 3 comments

This week we are joined by Apryl Skies. Her book, Skye the Troll and Other Fairy Tales for Children, was based on a clay animation cartoon series she created and produced called Polyphony: Be You and Accept Me Too. It won the 2010 Golden Pixie Award.

 

W&S: Why did you decide to self-publish?

It was honestly the best choice for me. I take an artistic approach to all that I do so I like the idea of having a creative liberty when compiling my work, as well as being able to grab the reins when it comes to marketing books. Knowing your audience is key, as is establishing an organic fan-base.

 

W&S: How hard is it to market and sell poetry?

Marketing anything in this stage of the economy isn’t easy, but selling poetry isn’t impossible either. People/readers do appreciate poetry but you have to find your niche and work hard at making your online presence. It is important to allow readers to understand and appreciate your voice and cause.

 

W&S: What have your sales been like?

I have done fairly well with my books, in large credit to having them available in my store on Ventura Blvd. in Sherman Oaks. Having hard copies available in a retail location is a benefit many poets don’t have and where I have sold most of my copies.

 

W&S: You publish under the name “Edgar and Lenore.” What’s the story behind that name?

As a nod to the great Edgar Allan Poe, my main website is www.EdgarAllanPoet.com. Edgar & Lenore’s Publishing House is a reflection of that as my publishing house has a strong focus on poetry. It is a reflection of my odd sense of humor as well, no doubt.

 

W&S: What’s been your favourite part of the publishing experience?

Oh good question. Certainly working with the authors and writers has been quite rewarding. I really enjoy writing about writers, to be honest. I love getting to know how each writer operates their muse and tapping into that to help them design a book which reflects that. Manifesting the vision of the writer
with their book is very important. It is also the beauty of self-publishing.

 

W&S: What’s been your least favourite part?

I have enjoyed every aspect of the publishing process because when I wasn’t having fun, I have learned the valuable facets of the industry. I resonate most in the artistic & design process, arrangement & in editing. I have a hungry creative eye so anything that allows me to express that I tend to excel at.

 

W&S: What’s next for you?

Oh. Well I recently launched a women’s art and literature website www.CalliopesCloset.com with author Alicia Winski, with whom I am publishing an anthology entitled In The Company of Women – Poetic Musings of Wit & Wisdom, slated for availability in early 2012, however we may be looking at a late October release the way things are going…we have had an overwhelming response. In addition, The Panty Drawer, also an anthology, is set for release in early 2012. My next collection of poetry, Elements & Angels is in the works as are more children’s titles in the near future. I have recorded my spoken word and will have new voice tracks and videos available on my site in the next few months. Follow me on twitter for updates.

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