Writing and Working with an Editor
Dr. Ricardo Fainsilber, a self-publishing author, used the editing services of Val Cervarich of Writing Help KC during his self-publishing process. Dr. Fainsilber graciously offered to answer questions about publishing his book, Grow Into Investing Wisdom: A Psychosocial Guide To building Wealth Through Personal Development. Enjoy Dr. Fainsilber’s rich insights (pun intended)!
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I think I have a curious mind, which has led me to study many fields and develop a multidisciplinary perspective on things. I have studied several fields both academically and more informally, but always reaching advanced degrees. I have also lived in different countries, learned from different cultures and through all that, developed a particular take on the world. I have been very fortunate, and I feel I’ve come to a point where I would like to share more of my insights on the things I am interested about.
Who are some of your favorite authors?
Some of the latest authors I have enjoyed reading books from are: Michio Kaku, Robert Schiller, Daniel Kahneman, Jack Schwager, Whitney Tilson, and Malcolm Gladwell. And even though they are classics and maybe more academic, I’ve recently read some works by Erik Erikson and Freud. But I also spend a lot of time reading diverse financial analysts every day.
What inspired you to write your book?
I think that in order to become a successful investor, a person needs to acquire technical knowledge. That may seem easy because there are countless schools, courses via many channels, books, and other resources that can teach someone about investing. However, there is an important aspect that has not been attended to enough—the psychological and emotional development required to support the intellectual development. That’s the core of what allows someone to become a sound investor.
How long did you work on this project?
The whole process from idea to self-published book took me exactly one year.
Describe your writing strategy or habit. Did you participate in writing sprints, weekly meetings, outlining, etc.?
When I was in the writing process, I tried to write something every day. Even on days when inspiration was just not there, I would be happy if was able to put something down on paper. In general, I dedicated a couple hours to the book 5 times a week. I started with the general outline, then did chapter outlines as I started each chapter. I had a writing coach I met with about once a month, and finally, I had great help for editing.
What is one piece of advice you would give to other authors?
Never lose sight of your original idea. If it is important to you, it is valuable for someone else.
How did you feel when sending your work to an editor?
I was a bit concerned with how much work it would involve after the first review. I had experience writing academic papers where the requirements and corrections can feel endless.
How did you feel when receiving the editor’s feedback?
I was happily surprised with the helping spirit I saw in Val’s editing comments. Of course, I was expecting the editor to rip my writing to pieces.
What is one piece of advice you would give to individuals who hire an editor?
There are many highly qualified editors out there, but don’t hire someone because they look good on paper. Talk, or even better, write to a few people and work with whomever makes you feel comfortable. Compatibility and ease of communication with your editor are key to a successful relationship.
What was something surprising about the publishing process?
It’s such a big thing when you think about publishing, but when the manuscript is ready you just click and in an instant your book is out there! Amazing!
Were you part of a writing community or group? If so, how did that influence your project?
I did join a Facebook group of writers, but I’m terrible with social media! I didn’t engage much. In hindsight, I could have benefited more from that resource.
How are you planning to share your new book with the world (book launch, local bookstore, lectures, etc.)?
I’ve been sharing it with friends and family first. Next, I will be doing some presentations for some professional groups where I have affiliations. After that, I’m planning on contacting some podcasts that are aligned with my topic where I might be able to get an interview and find some marketing tools for authors.
What’s one piece of advice you hope your readers take away from your book?
While this book is dedicated to helping people become successful investors, I hope readers learn that earning money is important, but it is only one aspect of life. There are other matters in a person’s life that are far more important and will provide the real wealth a person can collect.
Where can we find your book(s)?
My book is available on Amazon in Kindle and paperback editions. It is also available in Barnes & Noble and many other bookstores.
What were the last two books that you read or movies/TV shows that you enjoyed?
The book I’m currently reading is The God Equation by Michio Kaku. The last couple of TV series I watched were The Mandalorian and Lupin.
If you’re inspired by Dr. Fainsilber’s author journey, please reach out to Val for details on collaborating to make your self-publishing dreams come true!