If you’d like to see how a Kickstarter campaign works, follow me on my first Kickstarter journey, December 3 – January 3, to fund my short, graphic, grief memoir/self-help book for reluctant readers of all ages…
Dr. Judith Briles’ presentation on Crowdfunding, October 1, 2022, inspired me to go for it. I used nearly every nugget of information she shared during her presentation. However, the seed was planted during a group discussion in July. I appreciated all the information those who have gone before me shared, especially Rob and Nita Winter.
I could not have done this without so many BAIPA members. It really does take a village. I would like to thank nearly every member of BAIPA for sharing their expertise and encouragement. From my first meeting in January of this year to today, you all have made my dream come true. It’s been so much harder and expensive than I’d originally imagined, but it’s also been so much more fun.
John Byrne Barry helped me with the killer book blurb. Pauline Wiles built my beautiful website. Karin Fisher-Golton did the multiple edits to turn my hint of a book into a REAL book. Now it’s in the illustrator’s hands. I’ll soon need a designer (ahem, David or Ruth?). Then fulfillment is up to me. I know I’ll be turning to you all and our recordings for help with the marketing and technical questions.
I would also like to thank other members who gave generously of their time to help me with my first book: Ruth Schwartz, Becky Parker Geist, Judy Baker, Val Sherer, Kelley A. Way, David Kudler, Mike and Pam Mirabella, and especially Lorraine Segal for inviting me to join BAIPA in the first place.
4 Comments
Comments are closed.

One of my favorite things about BAIPA is its culture of generosity, the willingness — even eagerness — to share what we have each learned in the process of bringing stories to life. We provide educational programs, networking, marketing opportunities, encouragement, and information on industry vendors and services. And lots of one-on-one advice and mentoring.
We welcome all who have an interest in making connections within the world of independent publishing and learning more about how to publish and sell their work successfully. Together we are raising the standard of independent publishing and helping our members thrive.
Do join us!
—Becky Parker Geist, BAIPA Board of Directors, President
Quick Resources
Current BAIPA members do not need to register for our monthly meetings. The night before the meetings, they will receive the Zoom info. For workshop registration, members can buy a member ticket and will receive the Zoom info the night before the meetings, as well as in the confirmation email.



Chris, we’re all cheering you on! It’s wonderful to see how the BAIPA community has been part of your team, and that the knowledge and networking from our speakers and meetings has already proved fruitful for you. Best of luck!
I can’t thank you enough, Pauline!
It was an honor and a joy to work with you on this meaningful project. I’m so glad it will be a resource for grieving young people.
Thank you, Karin! Ditto!