BUIES CREEK, N.C.-Getting into print. That’s the goal of a new book by Campbell University’s Michael Ray Smith. “FeatureWriting.Net” will be released this month by Epistelogic publishing, Bloomington, Ill. “This book is for all those new writers who desire to break into the feature writing market, but need practical ideas on executing a plan,” said Smith, chair of Campbell’s Department of Mass Communication. “It’s meant to help the new freelance writer and the student who wants to snag a byline in a newspaper, magazine or online.” Amazon.Com describes the book this way: “Featurewriting.Net” guides writers from the origin of the idea to suggestions for sources in the Internet age to strategies on developing the article. Nearly 100 specific ideas for timeless feature articles are included. New writers and experienced ones will find this book light-hearted and filled with suggestions to help them snag a feature article assignment. It guides them through the basics of good writing and finding how to make the article sing. Additionally, writers will be coached on how to use the Internet to gather feature-oriented information. This book does not assume an established level of writing expertise, but takes the novice from square one through the creation of successful finished products. Examples of feature writing are included in each chapter and students are directed to analyze, critique, and model their own writing on these examples.” Smith is an award-winning writer, photojournalist, academic and conference speaker. “FeatureWriting.Net” is his fourth book. As a journalist, Michael spent a decade in newsrooms as a reporter and editor and penned more than 3,000 articles for publications such as The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, The Baltimore Sun and The Philadelphia Inquirer. In 2001-2002, his students recognized him as Favorite Professor of the Year for the college. Michael and Barbara Smith have two daughters, Shannon, a public relations counselor, and Taylor, 13, recently recognized as one of the young authors in North Carolina. In addition to Amazon.com, “FeatureWriting.Net” will be available at Campbell’s bookstore.
Book on getting published to be released in late May