“It’s nothing earth shattering, just thoughts from the day.” With those words Kindersley writer Ron Baker introduced his published work to the world.
In the beginning: 2005-2006, Random Thoughts as Life Goes On is a collection of thoughts and musings captured from Baker’s blogging platform in the years 2005 and 2006. A natural-born communicator and thinker, Baker gives his readers a peek into the heart and mind of a pastor, librarian, vocalist, husband and father/grandfather.
From humorous snippets like a “Mouse in the House”, to quietly thoughtful portions like “When Emotions Rise,” Baker explores the thoughts that often occur to each one of us. But while many of us will then dismiss those thoughts, Baker expresses them and follows them through to satisfying conclusions.
“I have found writing to be a cathartic [releasing] opportunity,” says Baker. “Thoughts, any thoughts, will wander about in your brain until they are written. Once written—grounded you could say—you can examine them and see if they are worth watering.”
In the pages of his book, Baker said he at first found writing a strict logical procedure, first outline and then fill-in-the-blanks. In a recent interview, Baker says he now takes a more natural approach to writing. “I just write a title and pour out from there.” Baker says editing is important, but too many writers cripple themselves by editing at the wrong time. “Edit after you finish, if you don’t start somewhere you can’t finish it.”
According to Baker, writing is a pursuit that grows with time. He still adds to a journal that he started in 1994, and in 2005 he was challenged to start a blog, the blog that is still going today. It was from that blog that In the Beginning was born.
Baker says he decided to turn his blog into a book in order to reach people who wouldn’t necessarily read an online article. The book is designed to pick up and read at any spot, and less than 100 pages—and so a great reading option for those who don’t like to sit through a lengthy book.
“I wanted to write to those who like to sit down for 20 minutes and read less than 100 pages. Some people that I know rarely read because they can’t handle the long, multi-hundred-page books.”
Baker decided to self-publish, but—despite earning a Masters of Library Science in 1986—Baker found that the sea of publishing changed dramatically over the last 30-odd years. “Self-publishing has made a marked difference in how writers can bring their work to the world,” said Baker, noting that while self-publishing is a rewarding experience, frustrations and hiccups happen along the way.
“If I had taken my book to a publishing company, I would get accredited peer reviews, book tours, and the publishing company would take care of the rest of the marketing,” said Baker. “In self-publishing, you lack the accredited peer reviews, and as for marketing—you are on your own.”
However, Baker persevered and In the Beginning is now available in paperback and Kindle editions on Amazon.com. Baker aims to make In the Beginning a first in a series, and also has an idea for a novel brewing on the side.
Baker says his experience gives him a platform to encourage other writers to take the plunge and give their thoughts to the world. “Don’t give up your ideas, and don’t let the fear of self-publishing hold you back. It’s doable—I did it.”
If you would like to learn more about Baker, or would like to purchase his book, check out his blog at ronbaker.ca or Facebook @writerRonBaker.
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