Book Description:
Real Stories about Real People to Entertain, Inspire and Challenge You.
Get inspired to step out of your box and into a world full of potential. From the corporate world, to the arts, to working with the disenfranchised – the message is clear. There is no such thing as a normal way to live your life and no one right solution to any problem. Selected from amongst over 100 interviews, the stories shared here open a window on the journeys of seven women and three men who have charted their own path, including Ruthie Davis – top U.S. luxury shoe designer and the winner of the 2014 AAFA Footwear Designer of the Year award – and Geir Ness whose perfume is a staple in Nordstrom, Disney World and on Disney Cruise Lines. Enjoy a glimpse behind the scenes into the unique ways these individuals chose to deal with life's challenges and how they define success in their careers.
Marilyn R. Wilson is a freelance writer and editor with a passion for interviewing. It all began in 2006 when the she answered a Craigslist ad from a NY magazine asking for story submissions. Two were accepted. The first live interview was life changing and Wilson has never looked back. With over 150 interviews now behind her, the love of interviewing is still as strong as ever. Whether through a random encounter on the New York subway or via a “one-on-one” interview with an internationally recognized artist, the goal is the same—to share the unique journeys of inspiring individuals.
In 2007, this goal led the author to co-launch a successful, innovative magazine focused on professionals working in the fashion industry, paired with photography and illustrations by local artists. Now on staff at Raine Magazine (NY/Miami/LA), as well as freelancing for other publications, Wilson has taken her passion to a new audience with the release of her first book.
Connect with Marilyn: Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
Interview with Marilyn R. Wilson:
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
This is actually a little hard to answer. For myself – I believe a writer is someone who writes. Period. However, in today's society we don't seem to value anyone as a professional unless they earn a regular paycheck. For me, the magic moment came when I looked at my first published magazine article. Whether I publish on a blog or sell articles – I am a writer. It's in my blood.
Do you have a specific style?
To the best of my ability, I try to write in a voice that is the same as what you would hear if I was sharing with you in person over a cup of coffee. I also try to offer a style that is easy to read. I want the experience to be relaxing and enjoyable, the words to flow easily.
How did you come up with the title?
I was very fortunate to take a writer's workshop with Influence Publishing founder, Julie Salisbury, where I laid out my book. It all came together for me but the title. Life Outside the Box is one she suggested and I immediately knew it was the right one.
What helped you get past writer's block?
I really struggled with serious writer's block several times during the time it took to finish my first book. There were two things that helped. The weather was beautiful during the final 5 months so I started bike riding the minute I felt the stress climb. An hour riding hard and I came home more relaxed. The second was a lovely woman from my publisher who started emailing me every Sunday to ask what I had accomplished the last week and what my goals were for the upcoming week. Just knowing that email was coming helped get me writing.
What avenue did you take to publish your book and why?
Traditional publishing is not an easy door to open as a first time writer and you often have to sell all rights to the manuscript. Self-publishing is a great avenue for some, but a lot of responsibility and it's important to research costs for editing and proofing and cover art ahead of time as well as understand circulation limitations. I chose to work with a hybrid publisher that had a set contract fee to control costs as well as U.S. and Canadian distributors so that I can access all markets.
If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in Life Outside the Box?
Yes. Overall, the book has turned out just the way I envisioned it, but I realized near the end I wish I had included at least one photo of each of the ten individuals. I think that a small visual for the reader would have been the icing on the cake.
Is there anything you hope readers will take away from Life Outside the Box?
Interviewing has changed me in so many ways. Each time I hear another unique story, there is always a message for me. In the end, the most important is probably to be inspired to live the life that is calling you. Let go of your reservations and open that door to embrace your passion.
Where to buy the book:
Influence Publishing Website
Amazon
Barnes & Nobles
Indigo Chapters
Giveaway:
Prizes: Win one of two print books of Life Outside the Box (open to USA & Canada) and win one of two Amazon $25.00 gift cards (open internationally)
Ends July 4.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
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I love bike riding too! I agree its a great way to destress, forget about things, and just "be"
ReplyDeleteI'd like to win the book to see how other people choose to deal with problems. Sometimes, it helps to see other people's techniques - even if you choose not to emulate them.
ReplyDeleteI think i live in a very organised world, and seems like i rarely have time for myself even on weekends. I hope this book would inspire me better and i could enjoy myself more. Thankyou😊
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