Derek Haines

The process of publishing has changed very little. Discoverability is what has changed. Thirty-five years ago, readers discovered books and articles through bookstores, libraries, magazines, newspapers, and word of mouth. Twenty-five years ago, websites, blogs, and search engines transformed how people found information online. Today, search engines, AI assistants, social media, and online recommendations all…

For twenty-five years, or even longer, publishing online has been the most popular way for writers to connect with readers. I belong in the “even longer“ group, and publishing my writing online has become a way of life for me. Today, however, writers face new headwinds from AI-generated answers, unpredictable social platforms, and diminishing organic…

Many authors choose a pen name to protect their privacy, build a more memorable author identity, or separate different areas of their writing career. But there are many other practical reasons for adopting a different author name. A pen name can be easier to spell, remember, and market than a real name. This can be…