If you're an author, they will try and scam you.
In the world of publishing, there are certain milestones we all expect: finishing that first draft, getting your first request for a full manuscript, and eventually seeing your book on a shelf. But according to our latest episode of Writers with Wrinkles, there’s a new, slightly more annoying badge of honor: The Scam Email.
If your inbox is currently being haunted by "Silent Book Clubs" or "Hollywood Scouts" looking for a fee, don't panic. It actually means you’re finally on the radar!
The "Silent Book Club" Bot
Beth recently shared her experience with an email from a "Silent Book Club" in Seattle. On the surface, it looked great—they loved her book Secret of the Storm and wanted to feature it. But as she dug deeper, the red flags started waving:
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The organizer’s name was "borrowed" from a real person in Rhode Island.
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The bot claimed a Middle Grade book was "perfect" for an adult book club.
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The Kicker: They asked for $70 for "snacks and drinks."
The Rule of Thumb: Real opportunities move money toward the author. If they are asking you to pay for "exposure" or "snacks," hit delete.
Surviving the Threads "Stock Exchange"
We also recapped our very first Threads Kidlit Chat. If you’ve never hosted a live social media event, imagine being on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange during a market crash—that’s what the notifications felt like!
Despite the chaos (and the multitasking struggle), it was an incredible way to connect with the community. To make sure we don't overlap with our friends over on Blue Sky, we’ve officially moved our chat to the first Wednesday of every month at 6:00 PM PST. Whether you join us live or chime in three days later, the conversation is always open.
Why Secondary Characters Are Secretly the Best
Finally, we teased our upcoming deep dive into Secondary Characters. Have you ever noticed that the sidekicks often steal the show? (We’re looking at you, Joe from Secret of the Storm and Teddy from Ollie Oxley and the Ghost).
Secondary characters don't have to do the "heavy lifting" of the protagonist, which means they get to be quirkier, funnier, and sometimes even more memorable. We’re even thinking of starting the Writers with Wrinkles Year-End Awards to celebrate the best supporting cast members in Kidlit.
How to Stay Safe in the "Scam-o-Rama"
Before you reply to that "exciting" offer in your inbox, remember Lisa’s 48-Hour Rule:
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Step away: Don't let the "limited time offer" pressure get to you.
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Research: Check
Writer Beware -
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Author
Beth McMullen is the author of the Mrs. Smith’s Spy School for Girls series , the Lola Benko, Treasure Hunter series, and The Secret of the Storm series (Aladdin/S&S).
She is also the author of the Spy Mom series (Hyperion).
Beth lives in Northern California with her husband, kids, and very grumpy cats. She's obsessed with podcasts and might give up writing in order to have more time to listen. Could happen.
