Daily Inspiration: Meet Joe Siple

Today we’d like to introduce you to Joe Siple

Hi Joe, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
The story of my road to publication and eventual success is one of perseverance. I wrote at least sixteen manuscripts over seventeen years and was rejected hundreds of times by literary agents and acquisitions editors before finally publishing my first book, The Five Wishes of Mr. Murray McBride, in May of 2018. But even then, it looked like it had all been for nothing, as very few people bought the book in the first few years after it was released. But slowly, people started to find the book and those who read it seemed to like it.

A turning point came when reviews from readers started to accumulate–reviews in which people said the book had changed their life and inspired them to make the most of the time they have left. That’s when sales went from the hundreds to the thousands to the hundreds of thousands.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It’s difficult to accurately portray the psychological impact of having your work rejected hundreds of times, with no acceptances. Although I know book publishing is a competitive business, I know most published books don’t make money, and I know a rejection is “not personal”, it’s impossible to be rejected that many times by professionals in the industry without questioning my abilities. The hardest part was reconciling the realization that I wasn’t good enough with the belief that I could become good enough if I kept working and kept improving.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My bestselling book is called The Five Wishes of Mr. Murray McBride, which is approaching a quarter of a million copies sold. I believe what sets it apart is that it isn’t just a book written for entertainment or diversion or escape, but to give the reader a powerful emotional experience that could change the way they view the world as well as how they live their lives. It’s a lofty goal, but I believe stories have enormous potential to influence how we live.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Finding a mentor can be difficult for many reasons, not least because people who are in position to be mentors are often busy with the successful work that put them in that position. In my experience, people will want to help you if they think you’re genuine and also willing to help others. If you have something to offer, not just take, finding a mentor will not only be easier, but the relationship will be more fulfilling.

Pricing:

• $10-$20

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.joesiplebooks.com

Image Credits
Author Photo: Sunshower Media