Key Take-Aways from Author Nation 2024

We at the Aaxel Author Group are back from Author Nation! We had a great time mingling with authors during the Industry Day (check out some pics below), and attending some enriching workshops.

What were some of the valuable insights we came away with? Read on!

#1 – Community is Everything

Author Nation is an excellent example of the rewards that an author can enjoy through community—a support system, an opportunity to collaborate, and a chance to exchange information and insights. Writing is a largely solitary endeavor, which is what makes community so much more important. Even if you do not want to or cannot attend large scale events like Author Nation, there are other things you can do:

a) Join a writer’s group: This can be either a group that focuses on writing or it can be a critique group. Either way, you will enjoy the camaraderie of such a collective.
b) Attend a writing workshop: many libraries, community centers and even colleges offer writing courses. Sign up! (Oh, and if you think you know everything there is to know about writing, trust us—there is always something new to discover.)

#2 – You Need More than One Book, but Take Your Time

You have probably already heard this, but we’ll say it again: To give yourself a legitimate shot at being a successful author, you need more than one book under your belt. With multiple books, you multiply the opportunities to connect with readers, plus, you can maintain momentum for readers who liked one book by inviting them to purchase your others.

On the other hand, we do not recommend going too quickly. If you churn out too many books, quality will ultimately be compromised. A term that was used a few times at Author Nation was the Artisan Author, meaning someone who prioritizes craft and is dedicated to writing quality work. So, you do not need to publish ten books a year. Less can be more.

#3 – Mailing Lists, Mailing Lists, Mailing Lists

One of the strongest consensuses discussed at the event was the importance of a mailing list. As an author, you do not want to find yourself exclusively dependent on social media platforms to connect with readers. Algorithms can change all the time. An email list is something you own. A list of 95 subscribers is likely worth more than an Instagram account with 2,000 followers.

Author Nation 2024 did a great job of showcasing a range of voices in the publishing space and emphasizing the theme of connection—whether it is connecting with peers through varying collaboration formats or connecting with readers through a clear brand identity that will foster long-term relationships with people who genuinely love your work.

As 2024 draws to a close, it is important to reflect on some of these principles and map out a new writing year ahead!

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