Reflecting on the Urban Industry's Growth (or lack thereof)...

Reflecting back on almost 10 years of being in the urban lit industry and I am still amazed that it has not evolved to the potential it could be. We all know the reasons...

I still remember when I decided I was going to go this route and I reached out to EVERY person that wrote an urban lit book that I had read. I did not ask anyone to hold my hand - I just introduced my goals and asked if there was any one (1) piece of advice or suggestion that could help me find my own way and guess what, (when I say EVERY- I mean EVERY single author I'd ever read- back in the day of paperbacks) only two authors responded with a genuine words of advice. (Shout out Al-Saadiq Banks and K'wan!) Every one else blew me off (which was probably one of my first and the best lessons). Since then, I have worked with almost every one of those authors, or their publishers and only read their books when I'M paid to now. Please don't judge me but I am one of those die-hard urban lit fans. I WILL pay $14.99 for my favorite author's ebook - however - I will NOT pay .99 cents for a book from someone I know brings negativity or destruction to an industry I feed my kids with, or that they disrespect by their representation and influence on a craft I love. 

I guess this blog is a venting session- I just hope it is not interpreted as yet another negative reflection of the urban genre, and instead enlightens. This is to make the point that no matter how successful this book or that book is/was, until we collectively support and positively encourage others in the industry to uphold a certain standard and lead by example, it will always be in a category of its own (urban fiction) as opposed to fiction. I feel like enlightening isn't derogatory remarks regarding the partakers of this bullshit- I feel like enlightening others is not to condone or participate. You can't be part of the solution by being a part of the problem so this is not a personal attack on one person, crew, clique, bromance, etc. This is just a PSA to remind us that we are ALL in the same click/crew/squad. The Urban Literary Industry movement.

IN MY OPINION, urban fiction doesn't describe the genre anymore - it indicates that the author will have a high probability of being messy, uninformed and uneducated in the business. And it will be the 'genre's' fault, according to the offender (not their own fault). There is no accountability for personal conduct, choices or actions. I would love to see this genre be recognized, same as mainstream when someone displays exceptional talent, but who wants to invite  the crab-ants to the picnic? 

So what if you're 'from the hood'? Does that mean you conduct your business a certain way and it is excusable or okay? Do you think that lends more credibility to your work? (It doesn't). Your work speaks for it self and you speak for your personal character. Those who have respectable character, can be themselves, and still inspire, encourage and uplift while keeping it 'gutter'. Real ALWAYS recognize real - fake mo-fos can not fathom that. Yet, any real-mo-fo is NEVER gonna tell you how real they are or how real it can get. IMO (always have to put that) it indicates you're def a fraud. Another real person is going to already have that understanding and right then and there, they recognize how real they are not. When did you ever hear the hitman brag about his next hit or the kingpin talk about the next drop? However- you do see the dumb ass with the 26-inch-rims and the music banging, talking about he's gonna go make a hit - and then Tuesday afternoon- you hear about them doors coming in and now he's working with the feds. This is the perception you're giving the real mo-fos when you're participating in this fuckery that is bringing down the moral of the entire industry. Basically, it indicates shit ain't as real as you'd like to portray, you look like a clown who likes to talk and needs some attention, and your creating your own demise and bringing a small part of the industry with you. So, if you're character is questionable, STFU and just keep writing good books and let that speak for you. You being locked up before don't mean shit to the industry, nothing for your book sales. As a matter of fact, probably a large part of the successful authors have been locked up before - no secret - however, it's not the foundation for their success, it's a detail of their struggle. Not to be bragged on and used for credibility. If anything, it's an indication of their new-found humbleness, and their intelligence which has created their ability to move on. Choosing to write about their struggles and strife as opposed to repeating the cycle and writing the next book from home while smoking on a B and sipping on something with their loved ones around them as opposed to from the cell they wrote the last banger at. Capitalizing legally off of their forced participation in the game, until they found a better way. That indicates intelligence and evolution. If I was charged with facilitating an international drug organization (let's be clear- charged- not convicted) does that mean I am fit to run a publishing company or an editing service for urban fiction? I wasn't that competent or else I would have never been arrested, real shit. So it should have no bearing on how I run my business so why would that be mentioned constantly? But, would my professionalism, application of my street knowledge to further my financial position, and my conduct as it directly relates to business indicate my level of ability? Should people automatically assume since I had this trumped up fed charge and could run the financial operations of a cartel mean I can run an urban lit business or would my conduct directly related to industry issues determine my competency and standing? If anything, I'd think bragging, mentioning, implying I had some illegal shit and could possibly, if I wanted to, turn that water back on would make me look silly- phony as hell, because we all know who talks about it, is not usually really about it - so CONSTANT tough-gangsta-shit talking that has nothing to do with inspiring or encouraging book sales is ridiculous <-- for lack of better word. 

When I started this Editor Carla Dean was the only other editor I was aware of specializing in urban fiction independantly(and guess what? She is the only one I know that has been doing urban lit longer than me - not saying others aren't out there, just using my personal experience). I became familiar with her shortly after starting. I have never had a personal conversation with her, obviously we both provide the same service, and guess what else... I respect her. I don't know the woman, have never met her, never had a personal conversation, or really any conversation for that matter - however- I respect her. I respect her grind, I respect her longevity, and I respect her experience. I don't have any connection, dealings, interactions or anything else with this woman. However, she is a pioneer for editors specializing in urban fiction, so she gets my total respect. I don't have a personal opinion, nor do I want one. I respect her as a peer. 

See how that works? ^^^^^ I promise you, showing respect also feels good!

I have seen SO MANY editors come and go, they sometimes last a month or two, a few a year or two... but they don't last for whatever reason- I'm so busy with my self, I could care less what brought upon their demise, nor do I care to know where they're at or what they're doing now. Not my concern - but if it wasn't for lack of skills, I would assume the next logical reason for the short career is somehow related to respect - getting involved in author beef - unprofessionalism, etc. You get my point? It applies to the industry as an entire entity. Publishers, authors, editors, graphic designers, etc.

It's really easy. Worry about your own conduct, effort, longevity, etc. There is plenty out here for everyone to eat authors. Respect your lane and worry about your shit. That should be the common goal. Not bringing anyone else down. You bringing someone else down means your taking a few steps below them to pull them. Common sense.

Trust and believe, I fully get, If you're not with me, your against me. I actually agree with that statement wholeheartedly and I don't fuck with any one who fucks with the enemy on a personal level. However, this is business, and our business is urban lit. I also believe, if I fuck with you- I fuck with you and if I don't - I don't and I don't care who does fuck with you or who likes my personal decision regarding it. I've always been like that. However, I fuck with urban fiction.

I have read a book or two (because their personal character stopped me from reading any more) books from talented writers, really, really, really good books. However, anyone who disrespects this craft, brings it down, limits credibility, I can't support, nor will I something that potentially indirectly holds my success back because I'm a part of this industry. There are a lot of talented writers, but trust they are not the only ones who can weave a torrid-gangster-street lit tale together for a reader. I'll take the time to search the unknown talent out and support their movement, before I'd support anyone participating in the melee and destructive attitudes that define the majority of public opinion regarding urban lit. And another personal opinion here- the BEST story tellers, do not participate, and actually only comment enough to pretty much say, "Some of these 'writers' are bitches too..."

So- now let me wrap this up in a positive way. Newbie authors/writers - I ASSURE you- controversy does not sell. You will have to give that shit away (either free or for .99 cents if you're lucky), and come for me if you want to because I said it, but you'd be killing the brave messenger, not the message. I ASSURE you newbies- all that messy does not SELL a book. Okay- you got your name out there, but it's not in reference to your talent, skills or ability as a writer. It is not because you wrote a great book. It's because you're messy as hell and that shit is amusing to a certain point (right before it becomes disgusting). GOOD BOOKS sell. Interacting positively with readers sells. Professionalism no matter where you're from or what you're on sells! 

So- if you're a writer and you don't 'give a fuck' who likes you? Then quit selling that shit and make it free. At least then, we have no expectations from you and we don't suffer because of the black eye your funky ass attitude and holier than thou speeches reflect on us all. A reader's gonna read - even if they read Hoodrat Publishing's book, they'll read yours too if that ish is good so no reason to worry about Hoodbooger's ish. Let's all work on making sure we are ALL doing what's best. This is a billion dollar industry, however we'll only be making some change around here until we come together. Not for the good or benefit of this guy or that guy, but for the industry as a whole. How does checking, commenting or even acknowledging their royalties help me increase mine? (Maybe someone can enlighten me). 

Newbies- Google is your friend. Google technical articles regarding your craft. Google numbers, statistics, policies and procedures to get your craft right. If you do, they'll be no need for observing the fuckery to try to 'learn' something. Facebook beef can't teach you shit other than to use your time more wisely. If you're learning the game from Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram - whatever - you're already fucked. Learn the industry- and there will be no need for warnings. You really want to know the industry, you really want to know what to be aware of, how things work? Educate yourself via educational resources. Then, no need to be 'warned' you've already informed your self so no way you'll fall for some bullshit and if you do- shame on you because you haven't done your research thouroughly. And if you were bamboozled and want to warn others, share the detailed facts, leave your personal opinions and issues out of it, and do better next time. Subliminal attacks are just childish. Just take time, energy and credibility from your movement. You gave your factual account of your negative experience so other's don't fall victim to the same scenario and then you keep it moving by following up with some real tips and advice. Which printers have inexpensive books and good quality? Which editors have been helpful and professional? What is the process you use to publish? Why aren't these things the subjects of our 'advice'?  Which size book do you like and why? Who are some good graphic designers? 

Lastly, when someone does share some personal insight on the game, take heed, chew it up, spit out the fat and keep it moving. Eliciting and encouraging the nonsense will not produce any cents let a lone dollars. 

Respect, humility and professionalism is universal. It's not only mainstream who understand this. It's the people who give it that get it. There are some vet authors who I personally think are a joke, however, they have earned their respect through their work so I give them total respect - what else can you do? Doesn't mean I'd do any business with them. Doesn't mean any one they support is someone I'd want to do business with. But I respect them as my peer. 

I wish the 48 Laws of Power were a requirement for authors before they could publish. Let me help you with a few important ones that should start you off on pretty much, the exact track you should be on.

Law 1 Never outshine the master. - for you special ones, I'll elaborate - it doesn't mean you can't exceed way past your favorite vets author's success! Stop being so simple minded. It means, even if you can-do-will exceed someone else's success- humble yourself. They've put their time in. Respect that just as you'll want the ones coming behind you to respect your struggle. Then guess what - everything respectfully falls in line.

Law 4. Always say less than necessary. 

Law 9. Win through actions, never an argument.

Law 10. Avoid the unhappy and unlucky.

Law 19. Know who you're dealing with and do not offend the wrong person.

Law 34. Be royal in your fashion. Act like royalty to be treated like royalty.  I was going to elaborate on how each of these can be applied to this like I did on Law 1, but I assume if you're reading this, you're a big boy/girl and can figure it out. However, I'm not judging if you can't! Email/inbox me and I'll be happy to elaborate. 

Actually- almost all of them I can apply somewhere in this blog, however, I don't want this to be about the 48 Laws of Power. I'm just saying, if you don't want to get the message because it's coming from me - pick it up from Robert Greene and let's get our shit together.

Let's start educating ourselves, respecting each other for the sake of the craft and not our personal opinions of conduct, and uniting to boost urban lit as a movement, not as the armpit of literary works. I sincerely hope this rant <-- another 'lack of a better word' moment* will positively encourage.  

And K'wan - no copyright infringement intended but this has to be followed by a portion of your hashtag... #WritersWakeUp!

Dear Novice Author

Dear Novice Author,

When you pay an editing service to edit your manuscript, it is probably best to allow them to do their job. Why would you pay a professional editor, and then not heed the edits to your work, because, you like it better like this, or so-and-so said, I should write it like this, and totally ignore your editor?

If you are not a pioneer in the urban industry, exercising your creative control is probably not in your best interest. (Actually, I've never seen the urban pioneers making up new rules. I do see them doing their best to be as professional as the other genres.) It actually defeats the purpose of you hiring a professional service. If you want to make up your own rules or not abide by literary industry standards or Style Guide rules for fictional writing, here is what you should do. Go huddle with cousin Pookie and 'em, or the 99-cent-I'm-an-editor-but-my-own-work-is-unedited-editor, and share your great new method of how words, sentence structure and stories should be relayed, and have them complete your edits for you, much quicker, and for a much smaller fee.

Ask a trendsetter in the industry, someone who has been successful in book sales and is a career author, do they ignore their editors advice. Go ahead, ask them. I have worked with authors in the urban industry such as K'wan, Al-Saadiq Banks, Vickie Stringer and many others who have award winning, best selling books and they listened to my suggestions, once the rule or the reasoning behind it was explained, and applied it to their work. Why wouldn't you do the same? Are you more knowing than established professionals in the industry? If so, share your secret with all of us so we can all raise the bar.

It always baffles me how some novice authors know better than the editors they pay, but when the book is criticized for the blatant errors, poor structure, and many other issues - the author, the editor, and ALL of the urban industry is judged. It is a guarantee, for sure, the author is not going to shout that creative control theory when them book clubs and critics get to slammin' their arses for poor editing. They will however, whisper to anyone who listen, "Well I paid so-and-so to edit it." They will forget all about the unacknowledged/refused changes the editor suggested they make.

Another important thing the author must do is have your work proofread! Just because your manuscript has went through the editing process, you MUST have it proofread after typeset and before going to print. 

The bottom line is, if you want to be respected as a professional in the literary industry, you must adhere to professional standards. I am disgusted by the lack of professionalism in the process of self publishing in the urban genre, as well as the lack of accountability. I see everyone being blamed for the lack of respect of urban fiction, other than the unprofessional author who is continuously behaving and putting forth unprofessional work. I suggest if you want the respect, YOU behave professionally in regard to critique, go through the proper process in order to self publish, and accept accountability and learn from mistakes as opposed to defending them. 

Need Some Editing Before Editing?

<<<< ------ Need a copy? Amazon has them available now for just $2.99!

In Need of Editing before Editing! 

AUTHORS- WTH???

Just sharing a brief excerpt of an email to me from one of our 21st Street fabulous editors...

"There are a LOT of problems with this manuscript. I am almost done fixing up the grammar and such, but stylistically, with the plot errors and the way the story is laid out, it's going to need some major overhauling on the author's end.... " 

and 

"There was literally almost no sentence punctuation throughout the whole manuscript, few paragraph distinctions made, no quotation marks anywhere to indicate dialogue, and no chapter headings at all...."

and

"....there are major issues that need to be addressed before this goes to print. I don't want to make any of major changes myself because I don't know what the author intends (especially as far as chapter headings and such) and I don't want to put my voice in this author's story...."

This is not the first time I have got an email such as this, nor will it be the last. For the first time recently, I had to TURN DOWN a PAYING customer because the manuscript was so poor- we would have had to re-write almost every single sentence and that is not what we do. 

The editors we have are TERRIFIC- however, it is up to you as authors to research and learn how to write a book if you are serious (and paying for editing indicates to me that this is something you are taking seriously.) 

Research via reading, the library, the internet if FREE. Utilize these free outlets and at least try to develop your writing. We are an EDITING SERVICE, not miracle workers. Research what an editors ACTUAL job description is. Our editors go ABOVE and beyond their job description for 7 out of 10 scripts without complaining (and I GREATLY appreciate them and their dedication and hard work.) 

We will do are very best to polish and assist you in putting out a great story. The better you give us to work with, the better the end result can be. We can also refer you to some great developmental editors if need be. When it gets to the point that there aren't even periods or question marks at the end of a sentence- that's a little ridiculous. If you're in need of an editing service, please check out our site for more information. www.21StreetUrbanEditing.com. I am also always available for questions via email at Niccole@21StreetUrbanEditing.com. 

Come on writers. Respect your chosen craft.

Book Trailer for Betrayal. The sequel to 21st Street's best seller, Loyalty and the Bed You Lie In by Author TR Nairn

Have you got your copies?

"Betrayal" by Author TR Nairn. 

The Sequel to Loyalty and the Bed You Lie In also by Author TR Nairn

Free Shipping at www.21StreetUrbanEditing.com but available for purchase where ever books are sold. Make sure to get "Loyalty and the Bed You Lie In", as well!

Diamond, Rae and Meko started out as three with an unbeatable female empire, but once jealously reared its ugly head the trio quickly became two. Diamond's love and loyalty to her husband landed her in jail behind his battle.

T.O., Diamonds husband, has heat on him from every direction and it's time for him to step things up and find a way to get to his enemy first without getting his self killed before he's able to put all the pieces together.

Rae is left behind by Diamond to fulfill the needs of their empire. With her own drama unfolding, her back is against the wall and she needs help. Will her choice of help pose a threat to them? Will Diamond be freed from the belly of the beast? Will T.O. find out everything he needs to know before it's too late?

Get ready for another ride of suspense, surprises, in this murderous tale and learn the true meaning of the weak and the strong, as you read the sequel to the best seller, “Loyalty and the Bed You Lie In” by Author TR Nairn appropriately entitled “Betrayal”.

21st Street Urban Editing & Publishing: Self-Publishing Package

21st Street Urban Editing & Publishing: Self-Publishing Package: Want assistance Self-Publishing your book? All you have to do is provide us with the manuscript... Allow us to take it from he re . We ...

Self-Publishing Package

Want assistance Self-Publishing your book? All you have to do is provide us with the manuscript...


Allow us to take it from here. We will apply for your ISBN Number, Priced Barcode, LCCN Number, Professional Editing, Typesetting, Book Cover, (Front Cover, Back Cover and Spine).  


We will also provide you with 100 copies of your final product and all of the completed files so you can continue to do print runs for the low price of $1799.00. Individually, the cost for all of this averages around $2700.00...


Payment arrangements are available as well as excellent references. 


Contact us. info@21StreetUrbanEditing.com 

Professional Editing Tips for Self-Publishers

I know you don't want to hear this but it needs to be said (again)...
You should have your book edited by more than one editor! I've said this in the past and upset some people who think because they gave Joe Editor $300.00 their book is now perfect. Here are some real facts...
*Publishing a book (correctly) is expensive and a large part of that expense is EDITING. Even more so for first time authors or if you have no formal training in writing properly. Your work is going to need much more extensive editing.
*Proper editing TAKES TIME. Coming with a deadline of 3 weeks or a short, strict timeline is foolish. It's not because the editor is lazy or not working on your work. This is a timely, tedious process when done properly.
*Learn the difference in editing and proofreading. Did you know that Random House's proofreaders catch an average of 200 errors and if they don't catch at least 150 errors when proofreading an average length manuscript, it is sent to another proofreader to be gone over again. This is AFTER being edited by 2 of their on staff editors.
*Do some research instead of waiting for your FB friend to tell you about it.
*One person can not successfully edit and proofread your book. You need an editing team (of at least 2 people but preferably more).
*You get what you pay for. If you pay $600.00 for typestting, book cover, editing and business cards or whatever else is thrown in there, that is going to be the quality of your work. Don't then complain about the outcome, that's what you paid for.
*If you pay Joe Editor to edit your book, then go to print, don't blame Joe Editor. It is your responsibility, as an author/self-publisher to go through the proper steps to put out a proper product. Now- if you've had at least 2 edits and a proofread and your book is still filled with errors - then you should sue the hell out of those 3 people but if you're not doing what you need to do as a professional by following all of the steps, then take the blame your self.
Obviously, as a service provider and not a client, I am on the editor's side today but I also follow these rules. Our editors don't work for us for free. As publishers, we have to pay them to edit our books we publish as well. It sucks to own an editing service and have to pay for editing, however, I know that to put out a professional book, I must pay 2 (or more) of our editors to get it right as well as proofread it myself when it is done... If I, as the owner of an editing service have to pay for edits, why wouldn't you? Or, you can keep blaming the editor for your un-professionalism in following through the proper steps to self-publish and continue putting our sub-par (Not measuring up to traditional standards of performance, value, or production) work.
THAT BEING SAID, our editors are the bomb :) I appreciate you all, Jason Rashon Scott, Jill Alicea, Shannon Fields, Aquila Butler, Jason and Windy Goodloe. Check us out and let us help you complete this project professionally.
Friend us on FB http://www.facebook.com/twentyfirststreet.urbanediting or follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/21streeturban
You can also visit our website at www.21StreetUrbanEditing.com

Self Publishing & Professionalism… The two CAN co-exist!

Everyone is saying it. “The market is over saturated with NON-professional self-publishing authors and it gives us all a bad name.” 

Whether that is true or not is for debate but I’d like to share some things I think can help the novice author.

It is important to use social networking for promoting. Whether it elicits even one sale is not as important as the exposure and familiarity you can create regarding your name, brand, title, etc. These are all ways you are going to get that recognition. Of course you want to be yourself; no one wants to be fake or phony. However, there is a time and place for everything and your ‘Author John Doe’ page is not the place for intimidation, disrespect, political or religious views (unless this is what your books are about), etc.  I’m not saying you don’t want your character to shine through. I am saying be mindful that other professionals in your industry may also be viewing these posts. You might say, “I don’t care what anyone thinks of me…” and that may possibly be the way you feel which is fine. But when you are not respected in your industry amongst your peers, it will only hurt you.  All of my blogs are just my opinions unless I state something as a fact and in my opinion; this is just not a good look. I know I personally will not bother reading anyone’s work that has been offensive on social networking and I may be missing out on some great stories but I don’t feel like it is a loss because they are many other great stories out there by people with pleasant positive attitudes who I am honored to support.

Respect those before you. I’ve heard it say several times how this established author or that established author thinks they are all that or they are stuck up and so on and so forth. That may be your opinion and that may actually be the case as well. Here comes my ‘however’… However, you have got to respect their hustle and when you have been in the business and the industry for as long as they have, people may be saying that about you as well. Unfortunately, this is not an easy industry to be successful in and it may harden a few people at times but the hustle, grind and hard work they have put in still deserves respect. You ain’t gotta like ‘em, but you should respect them. (And when you’re in the game as long as they are, see if your attitude isn’t a little different.)

Be leery of who you associate yourself with in the industry.  Don’t make someone show you who they are directly. If they show your neighbor, take heed. Anyone can be anyone they want to be on the internet.  Just because I holler out this or that authors name all the time doesn’t mean that author likes or respects me so don’t be misled by these people who holler every name in the industry on their tweets and FB posts like they are best friends.  Actually ask that person whose name they are hollering about them. You might have a whole different outlook after that. I see it all the time where someone is name-dropping another person’s name just to lend themselves some credibility. Don’t fall for it. Do your research.

Now for my favorite part of the process. Editing, proofreading and typesetting are all soo important to put out a professional product. Of course, I suggest 21^st Street Urban Editing & Publishing (www.21StreetUrbanEditing.com ) *shameless plug* however even if you don’t use us, you have to use someone so here are a few things you need to do when searching out your editor.

The first thing you will want to do is figure out exactly what you are looking for in an editor. Once you do that, you need to contact them and get specific prices and details of the service they are providing. You will also want to check references by not only contacting the references they provide, but also view the work as well. Also ask around, this industry is very small and even people who haven’t directly used the service, may know someone who has. Make sure there is some type of formal training. Just because you can spot a typo in a book, doesn’t make you an editor. It is an extremely difficult, most of the time thankless job that takes a special person to do successfully. Research is very important and should be something you are doing to all of your service providers throughout your publishing endeavor.

You should also ask for a sample edit. I think pretty much any editor will provide you with a short sample edit so that you can get a feel for the process as well as their editing style. You need to know what the process is before it begins so you know what to expect.

Allow your editor time to work your script. If you are giving an editor a short period of time or constantly emailing them to find out how much longer, the work is going to reflect that. It may not necessarily mean they are sloppy or not competent to do the work, but more of them wanting to please the customer so the process may turn out a rushed finished product.  Schedule at least four weeks at a minimum for your books to be in edits but allow up to eight weeks if need be. If you are looking to use a well-established editor, you may not be the only one and she may be booked out for months so schedule ahead of time and don’t rush it for your own sake.

Some manuscripts (especially first time authors) need way more work than others and you need to have that time allotted. DO NOT schedule your book release party before your book is at the printers. Scheduling a release date is great, as long as you have also scheduled that time period for proper edits and typesetting to take place. Nothing is more annoying or a more telling sign of a novice author than someone trying to go to edits three weeks before their scheduled release date. I never like to give an exact release date until I get it the delivery date confirmation from the printer. There is nothing wrong with saying Fall/2011 or Summer/2012. This way, you are not looking like a dumb ass when your date comes and goes and you have no book or worse yet, you have a sloppy, unprofessional book.

I will revisit this again with more suggestions. I look forward to the urban genre getting the respect it deserves and that starts with us.