Turtle Publishing: Helping Authors Find Their Voice, Slow and Steady

For so many aspiring authors, the dream of holding their book in their hands feels overwhelming, caught somewhere between “one day” and “I don’t know where to start.” That’s where Kathy Shanks steps in. As the founder and creative heart of Turtle Publishing, Kathy has dedicated herself to guiding writers through the often daunting process of publishing, helping them move from blank pages and big ideas to polished books that find their way into readers’ hands.

With a background in design and a deep understanding of book production, Kathy has supported hundreds of authors on their publishing journeys. From editing and formatting to cover design, metadata, and launch support, she brings clarity to every stage of the process. Her approach goes beyond the technical, it’s about helping authors feel confident, supported, and inspired along the way.

For Kathy, publishing is not a race to the finish line. It’s about moving forward slow and steady, strong and strategic, the Turtle way. That philosophy is woven into every aspect of her work, whether she’s helping a first-time author shape their debut, or supporting seasoned writers as they take their publishing to the next level.

One of the things that sets Turtle Publishing apart is its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. Through initiatives like Stories4Kids, the NextGen YA Competition, and the Publish with Purpose program, Kathy has created platforms for children, teens, and emerging authors to share their voices, often for the very first time. These initiatives open doors for writers who may have otherwise struggled to find a pathway into publishing, ensuring that new voices and fresh perspectives are heard.

Kathy’s support doesn’t stop at publication day, either. With the Publish with Purpose Membership Group, authors gain access to ongoing resources, expert advice, and community, a space where they can continue to grow, promote their work, and build sustainable writing careers. After all, publishing isn’t just about getting a book into the world. It’s about making sure it reaches the readers who need it most.

But Kathy isn’t only a champion for other writers, she’s an author herself. During lockdown, an unexpected spark of inspiration led her to write her own dystopian story, New Earth. What began as a persistent idea that wouldn’t let go grew into a published novel that reflects her passion for the genre and her belief in the power of storytelling. Kathy also penned Publish with Purpose, a practical guide for indie authors navigating the self-publishing process. Both books showcase the same passion and dedication she brings to her publishing work: clarity, creativity, and purpose.

At its core, Turtle Publishing is about more than books. It’s about dreams coming to life. Kathy believes there’s pure magic in helping someone move their story off the “someday” list and into the real world. It’s about slowing down, embracing the process, and ensuring that every author feels empowered to tell their story in their own way.

For aspiring authors ready to take the leap or for published writers looking for support beyond launch, Turtle Publishing offers a trusted guide. With Kathy Shanks at the helm, you’re not just publishing a book; you’re joining a movement built on patience, purpose, and passion.

Discover more about Turtle Publishing and its services at www.turtlepublishing.com.au

explore resources at www.publishwithpurpose.com.au And connect with Kathy on Facebook or Instagram @publishing.turtle

Because every story deserves to be told. And sometimes, the strongest journeys are the ones taken slowly, steadily, and with purpose.