Fear Factor 3

DAY 28

Word Count: 17,926

Sentence of the Day: Four glistening blobs of grey matter taunted him from their half-shells on a gilded-edged plate.

FEAR #3: WHO'D WANT TO READ WHAT I HAVE TO WRITE?

If you write it, they will come...readers, that is. This is an easy dragon to slay with the sharpened tip of some cold, hard facts.

According to the Association of American Publishers:

Overall U.S. Publishing Revenues Are Growing

Publishers' net sales revenue has grown annually; 2010's $27.94 billion is a 5.6% increase over 2008.

Americans, Young and Old, Are Reading Actively in ALL Print and Digital Formats

2010 total net sales revenue in the consumer-focused Trade market is $13.94 billion, increasing 5.8% since 2008. Both adult fiction and juvenile have seen consistent annual gains.

Apparently people are reading--and quite a bit...which is great news for writers. Strictly looking at the way the numbers crunch, there are consumers out there who will want to read what you have to write. And there's no better time to dip your toe into the water with the rise of e-book sales.

So, now that you know the facts, next time this fear knocks at your door hefting a six-pack and looking for a pity party, direct it to the toga bash down the block.