Courage, Goals, and Smelling the Flowers!

On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Promotions, Book Reviews, Books

I’m not good at this. It’s a bit uncomfortable. However, it’s a vital part of an Indie Author package. So, the moment has come to do a promotional post for my book, Cora’s Quest. I don’t have the backing of a publisher (not yet), so every little ounce of promotion makes a difference. Are you still with me? I hope so! And just so you know, I don’t publish books for money. My expenses outweigh any profits. 😳

Photo by Photo By: Kaboompics.com on Pexels.com

I publish books as my legacy for my family, but there’s another reason. ..Sharing my writing regardless of the genre gives you a glimpse into my heart and soul, while hoping that my experiences will touch you in some way.

“Courage is the most important of the virtues, because without it, no other virtue can be practiced consistently,”
~ Maya Angelou 

We all have goals that we list in a journal or on our computers, and as we complete those goals, we check that box off which gives us a great feeling of accomplishment. So, publishing Cora’s story that has sat patiently on the back burner for years feels incredible! Currently, I’m working on another children’s story that I plan to submit to an agent or small kid-lit press mid year. Cheers to 2025 goals and meeting them! 👏🏼

Photo by Bich Tran on Pexels.com

Now, one tidbit of valuable information I learned at the San Francisco Writers Conference is that even if an author has an agent and a conventional publisher, the author is still expected to promote that amazing, best seller book! Thus, authors need to step out of their comfort zones to promote their own work!

“If you’re not getting outside of your comfort zone, then you’re not growing.”

“Life begins outside of our comfort zone.”

I’m writing this from the heart…if you have little ones, if you know someone who has young children ages 2-5, or if you’re a grandparent with grandkids in this age range, I hope you’ll consider inviting Cora into your family. Or if you’re an adult and the weight of the world is bogging you down and you need an uplifting quick read, Cora would love to spend time with you. 🥰

Click on image to purchase your copy!

I’m also thankful for the awesome 5-star reviews Cora has received on Amazon and Goodreads!! 🙏 I’m sharing a couple from D. L. Finn and Pete Springer to hopefully entice you. Please click on their names to visit their wonderful blogs and learn more about their books. Additional reviews can be found on my page, or on Amazon and Goodreads.

D.L. Finn
5.0 out of 5 stars You’ll want to read this to your younger children!
Reviewed in the United States on December 4, 2024
Verified Purchase

Cora’s Quest is a sweet story about a deer’s family outing. Cora is enjoying the forest until things change quickly, and now she needs to find her courage. A fantastic story to read to your little ones or for young readers to enjoy. The illustrations are beautiful and full of color, and the story is woven into a lesson that will resonate with children and their families. Here is an engaging passage: “An owl hoots/from its lofty perch./ The wind howls,/swirling around Cora./Grunts and growls/in the distance/steal her courage!/ They act like thieves!” I can easily recommend this story for young readers and those who read to them.

Pete Springer
5.0 out of 5 stars An Important Lesson for Children
Reviewed in the United States on December 16, 2024
Verified Purchase

Cora is a curious fawn who loves to explore but sometimes is easily distracted by things in nature. When she get separated from her parents, Cora is first overcome with fright. One’s imagination can play tricks and at first it’s hard for her to act. Even though Cora is lost, she remembers the lessons her parents taught her that size doesn’t determine anyone’s courage. It is the ability to keep a calm head and to be brave which allows the the fawn to find her parents.

Poet Lauren Scott has written a wonderful picture book with an excellent lesson reminding children to think clearly in a crisis and not to become prisoners of fear. Scott’s nephew, Chris Mendez, adds to Cora’s story with his delightful illustrations. There is an inspiring note in the illustrator’s notes about how he has used art therapy to help himself and others to overcome issues with anxiety.

Click on image to purchase your copy!

If you’re captivated by now and would like to purchase a copy, simply click on either the front or back cover image that will gently carry you over to Amazon. For another option, the B&N link is https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/coras-quest-lauren-scott/1146540878?ean=9798218408756.
I highly recommend the paperback so that your little ones can experience the full magic. 💖

And lastly, if you love Cora’s Quest, please consider sharing a review on Amazon and/or Goodreads. You’ve heard it before, “Book reviews are like hugs to authors.” And who doesn’t like a hug? 🤗

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR STOPPING BY,
AND FOR SIMPLY SPENDING YOUR PRECIOUS TIME
WITH ME AT BAYDREAMERWRITES, 💜
AND I WISH YOU A HAPPY MONTH OF MARCH! 🌻

© Lauren Scott, BaydreamerWrites.com – All rights reserved.
This blog content cannot be used to train AI.

A younger Copper reminds us to stop and smell the flowers!

92 thoughts on “Courage, Goals, and Smelling the Flowers!”

  4. There is no point writing and publishing a book and not telling people about it. This is a darling book and you need to shout about it from the roof tops! Shared.

    Reply

    1. Oh my gosh, Darlene, you made my day! Thanks so much for your supportive words and wonderful review. By the way, I’m doing my first book fair in May (for Cora), so if you have any tips, please send them my way. You can email me at baydreamer25@gmail.com. I’m beginning to work on the marketing tools for my table, but I’m also waiting to receive more info. from the event. Thanks again! ❤️

      Reply

  5. It’s funny, but I believe I read somewhere that even Stephen King (does he even HAVE to promote ANYTHING anymore?) has spent up to $250,000.00 on any one book he is promoting… I would imagine that the pressure of a multi-million dollar advance for the next book, is enough to make something s-p-e-n-d BIG. How wonderful that we can still write and publish ourselves and if others enjoy our books, BONUS! (not saying earning millions of dollars for writing and publishing wouldn’t be nice… ) xx

    Reply

    1. Yes, if others enjoy our books that is the bonus, but who wouldn’t turn down millions? 🙂 Thanks for your thoughts, Annette! Stephen King is brilliant. I’ve read his book on writing, but his horror books and movies are too scary for me. 😳 💕

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    1. Thanks, Beth! That’s nice to know. I’ve read that writers shouldn’t write to make money anyway. If that happens organically, great! But I just love it; it’s part of who I am, and based on the feedback I’ve received here and in book reviews, I couldn’t be happier and more grateful. 💞

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  7. So lovely, Lauren and I’d say your approach to the promotion aspect is done with so much heart and thoughtfulness…others who are trying to figure all of it out should pay attention to the care and kindness you bring forward – beyond the beautiful book and your writing talents. Celebrating Cora! 🥰

    Reply

    1. Oh, Vicki, thank you for your amazing words that mean a lot to me. I haven’t done a post for Cora in a while, so I knew it was time. And part of me feels like I want to shy away, and yet, I can’t. What would be the point of publishing books? Why do well-known authors publish books? For the very same reason. Anyway, thank you for your support, your beautiful comment, for your lovely review of Cora’s Quest, and for your friendship. I’m so grateful! 💞🙏🥰

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  8. Self promotion is part of authorship, Lauren, and we all have to do it. 🙂 It was the biggest surprise for me when I was traditionally published – “What? I have to market my books? I can’t just write?!!” Lol. You have a wonderfully light touch, and Cora’s Quest is a delightful read, so promote away! And congrats on having another book in the works. Congrats too on the lovely reviews from Pete and Denise. ❤ ❤

    Reply

    1. Thanks, Diana! Your support and incredible comment means a lot to me. I have to say that when I heard about traditionally published authors still needing to market their books, I was surprised! Naive, I suppose, but now I know just in case I’m lucky in the future. 🙂 Light touch, that’s what I was going for. Who wants to ask others to buy their books? It’s just not fun. But I believe in Cora and her message and my nephew’s beautiful illustrations. So, I have to market…Thanks for your wonderful review too, and the first! I was so thrilled! They’re all amazing! And thanks about my new book. I pitched it at the conf. and the acquiring editor who I met with gave me some valuable feedback and asked to read the manuscript when I’m finished. If that isn’t encouragement, I’m not sure what is! But I did a silent, invisible happy dance when I left the room. 😁 Anyway, I appreciate you! ❤️

      Reply

      1. My decision to give up on traditional publishing was primarily related to marketing. If I had to do all the work why was I giving up revenue as well as control over pricing and promotions? It made no sense at all. And that encouragement is wonderful. I can picture the invisible happy dance. Lol.

  10. I know it’s important to promote as part of the process, and never judge anyone for doing so, just not good at it for myself.) i used to work in advertising before teaching doing PR and promotion for all kinds of entertainment, films plays, etc. It involved a ton of promotion and I know that it was the only way for these Enterprises to be successful as an author I know it would be very hard for meto do this for myself, but I wish I was better at your reasons for writing are wonderful which means no matter what happens you’ll be happy with it.

    Reply

    1. From what I’ve seen on the podcasts you’ve guested on, Beth, you’d be great at promoting! You’re a great communicator, let alone, from following your blog for so long. Thanks for sharing that part of you! And thanks again for your kind words. You’re right, no matter what happens, I’ll be happy! 🥰

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  12. Hi Lauren
    As we know, books don’t sell themselves so we, as Indie authors must try our best to market them.
    Not for profit , because, as you say, we make very little.
    But for the time and effort that goes into putting a book together.
    Reviews do matter (they are like gold)
    I never understand why people read a book without reviewing it.
    You have done so well with Cora’s Quest.
    I do wish you continued success my friend.
    Hugs ❤️😊❤️

    Reply

    1. Thanks for your encouraging and supportive words, Maggie. I’m glad you’re on the same page. I also agree with you about reviews, but maybe some people don’t feel comfortable. I don’t know, but I don’t like asking for reviews either, but they do help. I’m thrilled with the response since Cora’s release last December, so thank you for your wonderful wishes! I appreciate them very much. Sending hugs across the pond, dear friend! 💖🤗🌷

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      1. Lauren you have been a huge support to me since joining WordPress, as have so many others.
        That is why I love this community so much.
        I am the same regarding reviews, I would never ask.
        We do what we can and as long as we know we tried, we can’t do more.
        It is my pleasure always my friend.
        Much love to you and many hugs too ❤️💕🙏🤗
        Take good care xoxo

      2. I’m happy to support you, Maggie, and I feel the same way about this community. And as much as I don’t like to ask for reviews, I did in this post.😊 Otherwise, like you said we do what we can do. Lots of love and hugs coming your way. ❤️🌷❤️🌷❤️🌷🤗

      5. Lauren I just popped out to the corner shop brr 🥶
        I am off on holiday in less than 70 days.
        I am so ready thank you too my lovely friend.xoxo
        Much love always ❤️🙏❤️🙏

  13. Oh it’s a beautiful book with a great message and beautiful illustrations. You should be proud to promote it! You’ve promoted it in a fun and professional way. I loved reading it and gave it to my wife’s classroom so she can share it with her kids. I’m with Darlene: shout it from the rooftops!

    Reply

    1. Oh, Wow, Brian, thank you, thank you! You are too kind, but I appreciate your words of support very much. And to give my book to your wife for her to share in her classroom? Wowza! I’m doing a happy dance! I know, Darlene’s comment really touched me. Later today, I’ll get the ladder out and climb my way to the roof to do some Cora shouting!!! So because of your excitement, I have to subtly ask, would you mind sharing a review on Amazon and/or Goodreads? If you don’t feel comfortable, then ignore my request. At any rate, thanks SO much! 🥰🙏

      Reply

      1. I’m just thanking you for being courageous, for being kind, generous, for sharing your poetic voice, for creating a space that welcomes joyful conversations. You inspire me with your ability to focus on positive actions.

      2. Oh my gosh, Rebecca, your words humble me. But thank you for your support! You inspire me! I edited this post a million times, trying to keep it light, and then I wondered if the editing will ever end. 🙂 It finally did enough to click on ‘publish’ but even after 14 years of blogging, that button can still be intimidating. Big hugs! ❤️

  16. Congratulations on stepping out of your comfort zone and publishing Cora’s Quest, Lauren. I loved the story a lot and the book cover immediately drew me in. Hope you sell a lot! You are so right when you say you aren’t writing for money. Sadly, if any of us are, we’re in for disappointment. So the reward has to be, as you say, leaving a legacy and satisfying some deep part of ourselves.

    Reply

    1. Thanks so much, Jan, for your supportive and encouraging words. And I’m so glad you loved the story and the book cover. Chris will be thrilled. 🙂 I’m doing my first book fair in May for Cora’s Quest, so wish me luck! Determining what art is worth is interesting because I paid Chris a substantial fee to illustrate the book because he’s a visual artist. But as an author, selling my books, it’s so different, as they sell for $12 each. Visual art evokes immediate emotions, whereas reading requires time to read the book and deeper engagement. But satisfying some deep part of ourselves, like you wrote, is what it’s all about. Thanks again! 💕

      Reply

    1. Aww, thanks so much, Michele! I’m so glad to hear that about my book, and I’m hoping you’ll consider sharing a review on Amazon and/or Goodreads. I have to ask and I can hope, but no pressure. Have a lovely Sunday, and thanks for your support! 💖🤗

      Reply
  20. petespringer's avatar petespringerauthor

    I think most people understand that promotion is part of the process. Certainly, writers do. I get your reluctance, especially as someone who was raised to be humble, but it’s part of the drill. I forget the percentage (maybe 80%/20%?) but someone told me a rule they follow is to limit their promotions to 20% of their blogging. I have seen some people who do nothing but continuously promote their books. That turns me off a bit, but it is definitely a balance between content and promotion.

    Reply

    1. I’m glad you understand how I feel, Pete. I didn’t know the ratio, but I think I’m okay. 🙂 Overdoing the promotion is not my preference, but I knew a post was due. I share on Instagram too, but that’s it for social media. Finding a balance seems to be the best for most things in life. And thanks again for your wonderful review!

      Reply

  21. Promote away and toot your own horn, Lauren. It is part of the process of getting your book recognized. I love the pic of a younger Copper. I have shared to Bluesky. 🌹

    Reply

      1. You’re welcome, Lauren. Bluesky is a nice place for bloggers. A lot of WordPress folks are there. Bluesky is one of your sharing buttons, thus the reason why I shared it there. Are you on X (Twitter)? 💗

      2. I was never on Twitter, only Facebook and Instagram. But my blog is my ‘baby.’ And I stepped away from FB and can’t figure out how to get an IG share button on my blog. I think I have to upgrade, which I don’t want to do right now. I don’t have the time since I still have a day job. 🙂 But I truly appreciate you sharing, Eugi! ❤️

      3. I don’t spend much time on Twitter, Bluesky, or Instagram, and I am not on Facebook. I follow you and a few others on Instagram but I don’t have any presence. there.

        My blog is on the Premium plan and it looks like I can connect to Instagram if I wanted to. 💗

  23. Lauren, I understand when you say promotion makes you uncomfortable, but no one knows your book and your story like you do. We need to know what makes your book special. You believed enough in it to spend the time and money to write and produce it, so tells us why.

    Know your elevator speech–that minute or two talk on what makes your book special.

    Send out sell sheets to a list of people who might be interested in your book.

    Send a press release to local papers telling them about your book.

    Give out a few free copies to people who will talk it up.

    Reply

    1. Thanks for the tips, Mary! I’ve heard many authors say that they’re uncomfortable with self-promoting, and yet, it’s necessary. Cora’s Quest is my fifth book, so I’m not a novice. But I don’t think the promotion aspect will get easier. I could be wrong though. Creating a post, yes, but asking others to buy our books, and even to share reviews isn’t done without some fraction of hesitation. But the marketing has to be done. I promote on Instagram now and then, but it’s been a while since I did a ‘shameless’ blog post. Anyway, I appreciate your thoughts. 🙏💕

      Reply

  24. Lovely Lauren, your gentle way comes across as you talk about your delightful book. Promote away, my lovely, as you step so gracefully out of your comfort zone. Denise and Pete’s reviews are testimony to Cora’s Quest. Much love and many hugs. Xxx 🩷🌸🩷

    Reply

  25. I’m planning on picking this one up soon, Lauren. It looks like a wonderful story (both words and illustrations). Continued success with this book and all upcoming projects, my friend. 😊

    Reply

  27. Hello Lauren, not always easy to promote ourselves as writers but you do it well! I really enjoy reading you and I’m sure many kids and adults would enjoy your book. Well done for stepping into the light and sharing your thoughts and soul with us. It’s a great gift!

    Take care.

    Reply

  29. Girl, love your excitement, heart and going for “the gold”. You are on it and following your dreams which is to be applauded which you gotta know I love!

    And you know I love Cora because of my awesome review.. lol.. Now, if I can get the others out..

    😉❤️😉

    Reply

      1. Oh my, Lauren… I am still behind in reading, but just saw the title. 😢 My sincere condolences to you and your family. We are caring for our grandson today so I will read your post later. 💔

  31. No worries about answering this, Lauren. I know your energies are elsewhere at this time.

    I’m thinking about the self promotion angle.

    Perhaps you should manipulate your blog into an authors website, with your blog as one one the items in the menu bar. When you publish a post, notifications will take folks directly to the blog page and post, and all posts.

    However, if they go directly to your site, and not a post, the front will be a page with your promos/books. I set up my Art Gowns site in that manner, but I’m not selling gowns per se, so it is much simpler than yours would be.

    artgowns(dot)com

    I used that form of url, as I don’t know if your comments are set up to allow links or not, and I’m sick of ending up in Spam folders.

    Anyway, it does not effect blogging at all, but when people visit your site straight from your url, you have a professional front page.

    Just a thought. Sending love and hugs!

    xoxoxoxo

    Reply

    1. Hi Resa, better late than never, right? Sigh…I remembered seeing your comment and didn’t want it to vanish into outer space without replying. I appreciate your thoughts about an author’s website, and it’s ironic, that I had thought of doing this after the conference. But my tech abilities have reached their limit, so I have no idea as to how to make this change. I’m afraid I would do something and lose all content. When I have the energy, I’ll look into it. And if you have knowledge to share, in your free time (smile), that would be great too, but not expected. I know you’re busy. Anyway, love and hugs and thanks for all the comfort during this sad time in my family’s life. xoxo

      Reply

  32. Iwill really enjoy Cora’s quest! I love kids books, because, I have child alters inside of me, so we love kids stories, and will get our therapist to read this one to us!

    Reply

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