Book Fair Mom
Reporting on the Hudson Book Festival in the post below got me thinking about the value of events like it for us, the authors. Beyond the obvious…
During my many years of doggedly working toward becoming published, I was, among other things, a Book Fair Mom. Helping to run and engineer a school book fair was hugely educational for me – working with teachers and librarians, keeping up with new releases, learning about the wide-ranging and varied tastes of the children in my “market” - a real mini-retail experience. So, having done it myself, I understand the thrill of “hand-selling” books to children.
So… the Book Festival. A great experience, to be sure – connecting with our readers, meeting other authors, etc. But “hand-selling” my own book? Ick. And then, hmmm… this is a very important thing to be doing. Cat, Alice, anyone… what do you think?
Debbie
Tags: Freedman
June 25th, 2009 at 3:35 pm
I always find it easier to hand-sell someone else’s book. Maybe it’s that “Don’t boast!” instruction that was drilled into me as a child. Or the fact that when complimented, I was always under the impression that, after saying thank you, you were supposed to minimize the work involved. Whatever the reason, I feel more comfortable with superlatives when I’m talking about someone else’s work.
Maybe that’s the solution, you know. When going to a book fair, go with someone who can sell your book while you sell theirs?
June 25th, 2009 at 6:16 pm
I love hand-selling my books to people at fairs and bookstores. I had to care desperately about a book to spend years writing/revising/marketing it. That means I care about it more than anyone else – and I know more about it, too. I am The Expert.
I learn so much about my books by hand-selling them! I watch for spots where peoples’ eyes light up with interest (and where they don’t.) I listen for their suggestions. I get to check out my kid-audience so I can visualize them while writing the next book. I also scope out the buying audience (parents.) I am shameless – and my enthusiasm is contageous.
But please, please, somebody else count out the change!
July 1st, 2009 at 10:17 pm
The site looks like a good start, gang. I will try to visit often.
Frank
July 2nd, 2009 at 5:06 pm
Hey Frank. Thanks and welcome!