SPRING FLING BOOK FESTIVAL
Since November 30, 2015, the date Treasure Of The Umbrunna went live on Amazon, I have depended solely on word-of-mouth and social media to sell it. I’ve given quite a few away, sent a few for reviews, of which I only got a few (but well worth it), and for the most part, went with the flow. Last Saturday, I attended my first live event.
ANECDOTAL EVIDENCE
For those of you that have never done a book signing or a festival, you’re going to hear lots of stories. Most will tell you it’s more of a networking thing, or just a chance to meet people. More than likely, unless you’re a celebrity, even with publicity, you probably aren’t going to sell a lot, if any books.
Does that mean you won’t sell anything? Does that mean you shouldn’t come prepared? Well, duh…
The other side of the coin is that you might show at one of these events and find a “depends on the crowd” situation. Your book just might be the magic potion for a “depends on the crowd” group and before you know it, your box of books is empty and you have to refer people to the on-line sites or the bookstores because you can’t give them anything on-the-spot!
WHAT IS SUCCESS?
Are you a glass is half full or half empty person?
You might as well be a half full type right from the start or don’t even bother.
Case closed.
Save yourself a lot of disappointment.
There’s always something good in going to these events.
To me, and what I get over and over again from other authors, is that these events give you a chance to network with other authors. Not only that, but when people do come by, they may not be interested in your genre, book or may even think you’re ugly. Who cares? However, they may remember you and mention that to someone else who may not think the same.
Maybe some people who are slightly interested will at least stop by your table and pick up one of your bookmarks or business cards.
Maybe…just maybe, someone will buy a book or two.
While sitting there, you’ll have a chance to chat with the other authors. You’re sitting amongst people with varying levels of experience at this game. They’ll have expertise on what to and not to do. Maybe they know of the next big event that you haven’t heard of. Maybe they even have an extra pamphlet or flyer to give out.
“Hey, why haven’t I heard of that?”
WHAT I GOT OUT OF THE FESTIVAL
First, I had a great time networking. I had a chance to chat with a bunch of different authors and get their take on working these festivals and book signings, not only here in Las Vegas, but as far away as France, of all places (not recommended, by the way!).
Second, I actually sold a book while some didn’t sell any and a few just gave theirs away.
Third, I got a line on how to place my book in the libraries in town.
Fourth, I got a foot in the door to maybe do speaking engagements at the library.
Finally, I got wind of a couple of outlets I haven’t thought of to present my book around town.
SUMMARY
You’re going to hear that these events are a waste of time and gas. Don’t bother, forget it, you’ll spend more to get there than you’ll make.
I say, if you never get out there and try, you might as well tape up any boxes of books you have and stash them in a dark corner of your garage and move on to some other passion.
Happy writing!
The Worlds Of Fred Rayworth 
I’ve never attended an event like this but it sounds like an excellent networking opportunity. I’m wondering about the tip you received on getting your book in the local libraries – is this difficult to do?
Heather,
Welcome to my site and great to have you!
As for getting your book in the library, I still have to find out how difficult it is. Several of my writer’s group members have done so and apparently it isn’t impossible, at least locally. Now, to get the book in the system nationally is probably more difficult because they usually want national reviews of some kind. Now, that’s a whole ‘nuther animal, just getting reviews you don’t have to pay for, which strikes me as kind of phony. I see hundreds of ads for book reviewers and almost every one of them is asking for money. Or, they don’t take my genre. Or they don’t guarantee they’ll read it. Or, they are overloaded. Or, their kid got sick and they are on hold for months at a time. Or_______ place your life story here. So, that’s what it may be holding you up on a national level. However, I’m not ready to say that’s completely true yet because I’m not ready to pull the trigger yet. When I get off overtime, I’ll be able to go over to the main library and talk to them in person, rather than second hand, even though I have the instruction sheet.
My suggestion is go to your nearest library and start from there. They may send you on a wild goose chase at first, but after all, getting readers, reviewers, hell…selling books is kind of like that anyway!
Fred
That is very helpful, thank you!
Heather,
You’re welcome! All the best!
Fred