Beyond the Book: Marketing for Authors

Empowering Caribbean voices through publishing education

Aspiring authors and independent publishers are being presented with an unmissable opportunity this year: the Writer’s Series 2025. Hosted by Marsha Gomes-Mckie, publishing powerhouse and Regional Advisor for the Society of Children Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) Caribbean South, this three-part seminar series is more than a collection of workshops, it’s a roadmap to publishing success.

Held at the 1st Floor Seminar Room, NALIS in Port of Spain from 9:00 AM to 12:00 noon, each Saturday session builds upon the last to provide participants with critical insight into the publishing landscape, especially tailored for Caribbean voices. Here’s why every writer, editor, small publisher, or creative entrepreneur should attend all three sessions:

#1. July 26 – Marketing and Advertising for the Small Publisher

Why attend:
Many writers believe the hard part is finishing the manuscript, but publishing is a business, and marketing is where success often begins or ends. This session is dedicated to the unique needs of small publishers, who must promote books with limited budgets but big dreams.

What you’ll gain:

Practical strategies for reaching your audience, both locally and globally
A Caribbean-focused approach to advertising with limited resources
Ways to see your writing as a business

Why it matters:
Without visibility, even the most powerful stories remain unread. Attending this session ensures you learn how to get your books into readers’ hands.

#2. August 2 – Developing a Digital Marketing Plan

Why attend:
In today’s digital-first world, online presence isn’t optional, it’s essential. This session dives deep into how authors and small publishers can create a professional, sustainable digital marketing strategy without spending all your time on social media.

What you’ll gain:

A blueprint for setting up your digital ecosystem (website, email, social media)
Techniques to create compelling content that builds your author brand
Tips for growing your mailing list and increasing book sales via online platforms
How to measure success through analytics and adapt strategies accordingly

Why it matters:
A strong digital footprint opens international doors. Whether you’re targeting diaspora readers, schools, or niche folklore lovers, this session ensures you’re searchable, sellable, and seen.

#3. August 9 – A Guide to Avoiding Scams in Publishing

Why attend:
The publishing industry is filled with hopeful creators, and unfortunately, predators looking to exploit them. This crucial final session reveals the red flags to avoid and how to protect your work, your money, and your dreams as it just takes one scam to deplete your funds and your business.

What you’ll gain:

Real-world examples of common scams targeting Caribbean writers
A checklist of what to look for in reputable editors, agents, and printers
Legal and contractual basics every author should know

Why it matters:
Knowledge is power, and in publishing, it’s also protection. Too many writers fall prey to vanity presses and false promises. This session arms you with the tools to make informed, empowered choices.

Open Session

This session will end at 10:30 am after which we will spend the next hour and a half, taking about any issue that you need help with.

Beyond the Book: The Bigger Picture

The Writer’s Series 2025 isn’t just about marketing or avoiding pitfalls, it’s about building a sustainable, empowered literary career rooted in Caribbean identity and global vision. Whether you’re a debut writer trying to get your first book out or a small publisher looking to scale, this series speaks directly to the challenges and triumphs of publishing from the Caribbean.

Final Thoughts: Invest in Your Literary Future

The Writer’s Series 2025 is free, but its value is immeasurable. With expert-led guidance, practical resources, and a community of like-minded creatives, this is not just another set of seminars, it’s a launchpad.

Don’t just attend one session. Make the commitment to attend all three. Your stories—and your readers—deserve it.

To register, email: mgomesmckie@gmail.com
Venue: 1st Floor Seminar Room, NALIS, Port of Spain
Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon
Cost: FREE

Hosted by: Marsha Gomes-Mckie
Founder, Caribbean Books Foundation
Regional Advisor, SCBWI Caribbean South

Aajumbee Publishing House is based in Trinidad, in the Caribbean. Aajumbee publishes a range of genres from Children, Youth Adult, Fantasy Romance and Non-Fiction.

Distribution: Amazon’s Print on demand services provides booksellers with a competitive price, you can enjoy economies of scale in shipping and set your own prices.

Some of the Titles are available in Trinidad at