Michael J Flagg is the writer behind The Learning Curve of a First Time Self-Published Writer Online. He is a retired university lecturer who nowadays takes part in live theatre, an interest of Michael’s throughout his working life. You may know him for his first book following the life of Arthur Edwin Simms. An impressive tome, Michael chose to self-publish and this is what inspired his latest works. Michael’s experiences as a self-published writer are used as a basis to forewarn and forearm budding writers of some of the frustrations and pitfalls they might encounter when self-publishing.

When we asked Michael why he decided to write a book about self-publishing, he told us that writing his first book and self-publishing was an experience that other budding writers might profit by. He suggested it would be useful for college and university libraries dealing with leisure, tourism and hospitality. Michael also told us that he would have benefited from reading the book in his own time of self-publishing. The Learning Curve of a First Time Self-Published Writer Online (or The Learning Curve to quote from here onwards) is essentially a sequel to his original biography of Arthur Edwin Simms. It discusses the frustration and loneliness of being an online self-published writer. A unique aspect of the book that you may not be aware of is in chapter one; Michael has made references to Punch and Judy performances as well as a suggested link to Loggie Baird. These directly follow on from Michael’s first book, so you might want to have a read before fully understanding the hints!

Having experienced the highs and lows of self-publishing first-hand, we asked Michael what the most rewarding and difficult aspects are. He told us “the most difficult aspect is being or feeling entirely alone, especially when trying to decipher technical instructions online”. Of course, the most rewarding thing is finally seeing the book in print.

As previously mentioned, Michael has followed his love of theatre throughout his working life. He started with a two-year part time acting diploma at Mountview Theatre School, and twelve years with the Tavistock Repertory Company at Canonbury Tower, Islington. He also performed with other companies at The Cockpit, Webber Douglas, Rudolph Steiner Regent’s Park and the Kenneth More Theatre Ilford Essex including some directing. Now, living in Kent, he performs for the Dickens Players and the Hilderstone Players and has taken on professional engagements with Gordon Clarkson Productions at Margate.

Michael hopes to receive a positive reaction from aspiring writers about The Learning Curve, particularly those contemplating biographies similar to his own. His expertise in the industry leave us no doubts for the book’s success in helping others along the self-publishing path.