When Jack Grossman first heard Charlene “Musia” Perlmutter’s story at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, he was shocked it wasn’t more widely known. Within days, he’d promised himself to make it known worldwide. He later met Charlene and, shortly before her death in 2013, promised her as well.
Child of the Forest shares the story of twelve-year-old Musia’s survival and escape from the Horochów ghetto and the subsequent two years she spent alone and just barely surviving in the woods. This true story is at times horrifying as it shows the depravity of the Nazi regime and its influence. Yet it inspires us through Musia’s intense will to live and the love that led her through.
We asked Jack a few questions about his publishing journey and goals for the book.
Jack on working with SPARK Publications
I highly recommend SPARK Publications for anyone looking into launching a book project or seeking to get published. Choosing to go with SPARK is one of the smartest things I did. I appreciate the high level of professionalism, the vast industry knowledge, and the ability to execute on the numerous details involved in publishing Child of the Forest.
What is your primary goal for the book?
To reach as many people as possible with her story.
What surprises did you encounter on the road to writing and publishing the book?
I didn’t realize how many details were involved, from setting up accounts with the numerous vendors such as printers, distributors, merchant processing (online and in-person), the state sales tax department, legal issues, accounting issues, setting up social media sites, etc. The SPARKlers explained and simplified the process and in some cases pointed the way to industry experts, such as a CPA that specializes in book sales tax issues specific to my state, as well as nationally. I believe I was able to navigate through this extensive process in about two to three weeks. It will seem overwhelming at first, but SPARK Publications is there to guide you. I also faced some basic life challenges, an emergency room hospital scare, and a difficult recovery following a total knee replacement.
How are you promoting the book?
Through social media, including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Also through regional book signings and readings at bookstores, coffee shops and other retail establishments. I spoke and read at a middle school over a two-day period to 1,000 seventh and eighth grade students (seventeen readings to classes of approximately sixty students each). I’ve also had radio interviews, online news outlet interviews, and now magazine and newspaper interviews. I’ve donated books to libraries and have mailed dozens of promotional copies to high-profile media personalities, actors, and business executives. I am working on national TV interviews as well. I will also be doing some targeted advertising through email-specific purchased lists and niche-specific print media. And I will soon be implementing a campaign targeted to Kindle readers.
What role(s) did SPARK Publications play in publishing your book?
The SPARK Publications team proved to be invaluable. The SPARKlers were amazing to work with and provided all of the necessary experience and expertise to bring the project to fruition. There was a high-level of professionalism throughout the entire process. I am 100 percent pleased.
Do you have any advice for other authorpreneurs?
Set up an initial meeting with Fabi to discuss your ideas. She will discuss various options as well as the benefits of custom publishing. There is so much to learn, and the SPARKlers will guide you every step of the way.
What’s next for you?
The independent feature film based on an adaptation of the book! Other books will be forthcoming after the film project is completed.