Local author Michelle Goodman has done what so many of us are terrified to do (and may all be forced to do in our looming recession economy): cut the strings for a completely freelance existence. Luckily, she made all the mistakes first, then compiled her wisdom in My So-Called Freelance Life: How to Survive and Thrive as a Creative Professional for Hire (Seal Press, $15.95). Its a well organized how-to book about overcoming all those fears that keep us clinging desperately to our cubes. Turns out, getting a business license isnt as hard as it sounds. And health insurance doesnt have to be something youll just learn to live without. How much are your services worth? Goodman helps you evaluate your rates, along with advice on pitching, contracts, and learning when and how to say no. Freelancing isnt easy, As Goodman readily admits. But at tonights book launch shell answer questions and possibly allay anxieties about your bedroom-to-living room commute. At the very least, itll be a great opportunity to network your ass off. SUZIE RUGH
Thu., Jan. 15, 7 p.m., 2009
