Carlsbad Writes: Start yours now

October is National Book Month, and while last year we celebrated Carlsbad’s incredible community of published authors, this year I want to shine a light on the process of becoming one.

Did you know it has never been easier to turn your ideas into a book? Whether through traditional publishing, self-publishing platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing, or even emerging AI tools that help brainstorm, edit, and format, today’s authors have more paths to publication than ever before.

Carlsbad already has over 17 published authors, from children’s storytellers to memoirists to business thought leaders. Their works remind us that the spark of an idea, something you might scribble in a notebook or share in a late-night conversation, can grow into a finished book that reaches readers across the world.

“In the economy of cool, kindness is the currency that never devalues.” — Devin C. Hughes of Devin C. Hughes

“Oftentimes, men aren’t expected (or allowed) to show emotions openly… This book seeks to help others understand grief and provides tools for healing our hearts.” — Chris Ryan of Chris Ryan Video

Quotes like these remind us that books are more than pages; they are conversations across time, culture, and community.

So, if you’ve ever dreamed of writing your own, why not start now?

Write locally, publish globally. 

Platforms make it possible for a Carlsbad author to be discovered in Tokyo or Toronto overnight.

Start small. 

A blog post, a journal entry, or even a social media caption could be the seed of your book.

Lean on tech. 

AI tools can help outline, edit, or spark creative ideas—but your voice is what makes it authentic.

Don’t do it alone.

Many people dream of writing a book but never get around to it. There is very real barriers to entry. A book is a huge undertaking. But with the current tech and AI available now, it’s never been easier to start now! And each book published is a highly unique author journey. Commit to experimenting with your personalized process. Whether that’s experimenting with a number daily such as 5 min of writing it daily, or lunch hour writing, or 1 paragraph a day, don’t over commit, that is key.  Find a writers group. Write in community and accountability. There are plenty of virtual writing groups that take the time to make you all write during a virtual call. 

This October, let’s celebrate not only the incredible books that already exist in Carlsbad, but the ones waiting to be written. Maybe yours is next. Write on, Carlsbad!