Interview with Evan Roberts
Published 2016-05-10.
How do you approach cover design?
The cover of a book is one of the most important aspects in the publishing process. My approach to cover design includes creating the back cover sales copy first and working with graphic designers/illustrators to create a front cover that stands out. An outstanding cover speaks to the book's genre. For example, a children's book cover must appeal to children. An outstanding back cover includes an eye catching headline, blurbs from reviews, and a short, benefit-driven synopsis that provides reasons why a prospective buyer should purchase today.
What are your five favorite books, and why?
I love personal development books because of the transformation that has happened in my own life from reading and applying the principles taught in these types of books. Five of my favorites are, The Choice by Og Mandino, Think and Grow Rich: A Black Choice, by Dennis Kimbro and Napoleon Hill, Live Your Dreams by Les Brown, As a Man Thinketh by James Allen, and 10X by Grant Cardone. The Choice is a beautiful success story of a father who makes the decision to go the road less traveled. Think and Grow Rich not only highlights success principles, but it also shares how those principles were applied by some noteworthy individuals. It provides a real road map to success. Les Brown's Live Your Dreams is an inspirational book on pursuing life on your own terms. The power of your thoughts and the importance of thinking about what you really want are central themes in As a Man Thinketh. I love this book because it is a short, powerful read. 10X is a unique book. It has challenged me to think and act much differently than I have ever imagined. It is a phenomenal book for people who want to achieve the extraordinary.
What do you read for pleasure?
For pleasure, I read self-help books, magazines, and stories of achievement.
What is your e-reading device of choice?
Samsung Tablet.
What book marketing techniques have been most effective for you?
The most effective marketing for me has been to identify how I want a product positioned, create benefit driven messages based on this positioning, and utilize online and offline tactics to increase visibility and drive sales.
Describe your desk
Organized chaos, with a hint of too many papers.
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
I grew up on the south-side of Chicago and in the south suburbs. Growing up in Chicago influenced my writing by making me aware of the many challenges that young people and families experience on a daily basis. My writing is inspired by the resolve and tenacity of the people striving to make a living every day and refusing to accept anything less than what they envision for themselves.
When did you first start writing?
The earliest writing that I consider serious writing began in early 2000's.
What's the story behind your latest book?
As an educator, I was just fed up with watching talented teens go through the motions and settle for less. It was unnerving to me because I saw a lot of myself in some of them. The more I've worked with teens, the more I realize that many of them didn't know how success occurs or the problem with going through the motions. I looked at my own life and decided to use part of my story as a blueprint for teen success.
What motivated you to become an indie author?
In my research, I read where countless high profile authors initially received numerous rejections from the major publishing houses. I decided to test the waters in another manner because I have an aversion to waiting for others approval before moving forward on something I want.
How has Smashwords contributed to your success?
Smashwords has been phenomenal! This platform challenged me to learn something new. I don't know everything about ebook publishing, but I know that the Smashwords' style guide is one of the most important documents I've read concerning ebooks. Additionally, Smashwords is another option for people to purchase my book and another place that I can promote on my social media sites and email lists.
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
The greatest joy from writing is being able to express yourself in such a way that it positively impacts another person's life and causes them to grow personally and professionally.
What do your fans mean to you?
My fans mean everything to me! It's a tremendous feeling to know that there are people supporting you and cheering you along this journey. Writing is oftentimes a solitary event, but fans make all of that alone time worth it.
What are you working on next?
I am working on a seven book children's series called Khahari Discovers, which is inspired by my son Gavin.
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