It’s never been a better time to jump into self-publishing, and one local entrepreneur is hoping to help make any aspiring author’s dreams a reality.
Author and illustrator Lizzy Campbell has spent the last few years following her passion. A mother of two teenagers, Campbell has taken her craft from hobby to profession. With help from a dedicated community she found online, Campbell was able to launch her career in publishing from her home in Cornwall. She is now the proud owner of Elite Lizard Publishing Company.
It all began back in 2013, Campbell’s children were becoming more independent. She found herself with more time on her hands so she jumped back into her own interests and passions. For Campbell, that’s just about anything creative.
Once she got her first opportunity to illustrate another author’s work, she was hooked.
“It was like a bug, and I got bitten,” said Campbell. “Then I wanted to aspire to work for a publishing company…it didn’t take long. When I put my mind to something that’s it.”
“I’ve recently decided I’d like to help other Canadians become authors. It’s my way of giving back,” said Campbell.
For most people without established connections to the literary world, publishing a book or attempting to self-publish can be daunting. This can be especially challenging for aspiring authors in remote and rural regions like Cornwall. Campbell’s company aims to help people self-publish, and acts as a consultant for new and aspiring authors.
“I’ve always been online to try to get as much reach as I can,” said Campbell. “Being online and using social media is a great way for people to connect. It’s very important.”
Campbell’s publishing has helped children as young as five get their creative work to a larger audience. While her company is selective in who they traditionally publish, they do aim to promote writers and voices from people who may not typically get the chance to have their work make it to print.
Overall, she’s now the author of 18 titles, with the most recent, Why Is This Cat Crazy, being the most recently released. Elite Lizzard Publishing is accepting submissions on their website, https://theelitelizzardpublishingcompany.ca/.
