For our 2024 blog series, we’re highlighting industry professionals to find out more about their time in the book world. Follow along for insight on what catches a reviewer’s interest, things to avoid when pitching a media outlet, what librarians are searching for and more.
Today, we’re chatting with Barbara Bos, the managing editor and owner of Women Writers, Women’s Books. Barbara was born in Holland. After finishing University she left for the UK. Since then she has uprooted herself twice more, currently living with her family in a small village in Galicia, North-West Spain.
1. As someone who hears about A LOT of books, what makes one stand out to you?
Good question! For me personally, the books that stand out have the perfect blend of cover, title, and description. But of course, this is subjective, and I’m aware of that. Sometimes it’s just that a book catches my eye because the subject is on my mind.
2. What’s the worst thing an author (or publicist!) can do in telling you about a book they’d like you to consider for coverage?
Long-winded descriptions with long lists of endorsements and no background on the author. I want to know about the author!
3. What makes your job easier?
Publicists and authors who have taken the time to check out the site and who know what type of content we’re interested in.
4. What’s the most memorable (or maybe funniest) pitch that’s ever come your way?
So many are memorable! Recently, an author pitched an idea to change our Character Interview format into a script. I loved that!
But come to think of it, the most memorable one is a recent pitch by Crystal King; she interviewed Salvador Dalí from her book In the Garden of Monsters.
5. Did you always know you wanted to be involved in the book world?
Not as such! I always wanted to be a writer and ventured on Twitter in 2011 to get in touch with other authors initially. I was invited via Twitter to write a piece for www.booksbywomen.org, which had just launched, and became involved in running it and growing it into the lovely community it is now!
6. What is your most recommended book and why?
Counterclockwise by Ellen Langer. It’s a non-fiction book about the psychology of possibility. It blew my mind. and I’m always and forever quoting from it. All her books are amazing. I contacted her after reading the book, and I interviewed her for the site.
7. What is a book that surprised you recently?
Not Yours To Keep by Zelly Ruskin. I literally took the day off after having read the first paragraph. The storyline, characters, pace—it’s perfect. An amazing debut.
8. What is your favorite part about working in the book community?
Ohhh, this is hard. I guess my favorite part is connecting with authors. Seeing authors who have worked hard for many years finally getting published, especially when we have featured them before they published. The book community is wonderful and supportive, and I just love being part of the camaraderie!
Ellen Whitfield is senior publicist at Books Forward, an author publicity and book marketing firm committed to promoting voices from a diverse variety of communities. From book reviews and author events, to social media and digital marketing, we help authors find success and connect with readers.
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