Books, Books, Books! (and giveaway!)

This was a very big week for me because I received 17+ books (a few not pictured) and a magazine to review -- and that's a lot! Of course, I only review the books that truly interest me and that I think would be of value to my readers over at decor8... but it still means that I have a lot of reading to do this month!

This book (below) is especially precious to me as I was asked to be a contributor. I've contributed to other books in the past but each time feels brand new. It's always a great honor to have an author approach me because as much as I love online publishing there is nothing quite like seeing my name in print but above that, to partake in something that can positively impact the life of another. When I think of the readers who will love and appreciate The Handmade Marketplace it makes me feel content inside because I remember where handmade "was" and back then there were no rules, guidelines, support -- everyone was out there stumbling around trying to do what they thought was right. And now so much advice exists from experienced and successful business owners that it's so much easier to launch a creative new career than it once was.

As mentioned, this book is called The Handmade Marketplace by Kari Chapin and it explores the whole independent arts and crafts movement and how a small business can really navigate it - from A-Z. I wrote three pages for this book and Keri quotes me in other places throughout. Again, a huge honor to be a part of this title. There are others who contributed also and I really like reading their advice on an variety of topics and find the mix of ideas from all over the world extremely beneficial to those who are trying to navigate the waters as a small business owner. Pick up a copy if you can, you'll love it.

As you can see, I have a lot to look at this month! I sometimes wish I could hire someone to read them and write the reviews for me but that would be cheating! I'd love to hire staff to help me with the myriads of things that I am currently doing -- all completely on my own. But I can't complain; these books are a pleasure and I know the blood, sweat and tears that goes into publishing and so I want to do the author proud should I decide to write about them on decor8. I wish I could review each and every title but for the sake of time, and also personal taste in which I must stay true, I cannot.

Do you see any titles in my stack that you'd love to own? I have an extra copy of The Handmade Marketplace (thanks, Kari!) and of Flea Market Style special edition magazine (thanks, Matthew!) so if you live in Germany and would like to own one of these, please comment below with your choice (the magazine or book) and I will pick a winner using random.org and mail either the book or the magazine to two lucky winners. I'm offering this mini giveaway to those living in Germany only because these titles are not yet available here and I think it may be nice for someone local and loyally reading haus maus to receive one. :) To enter, comment below and tell me which one you'd like to receive and why.

xo,

Holly