Book that Appearance or Signing

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edited by Vivian ╰☆╮ and daycare

Weekly Editor’s Letter

Book that Appearance or Signing
by Vivian Gilbert Zabel

         Once an author finished that manuscript, submitted it to a publisher, who accepted it and printed it, the proud writer holds it tenderly. The work, however, is not over: The author can’t sit back and watch the royalties accumulate. He or she needs to publicize the book many ways: one way is through signings. For those who don’t know, a signing is when an author appears somewhere to “sign” or autograph copies of his or her book, another step in promoting a writer’s business. Since such occasions don’t magically appear (although some authors have publishers who help), authors need to plan signings or appearances as carefully as they did their books.

         As in any business, the product must be well constructed, with no faults that would create problems for the consumer. Therefore, a well-written book should be ready to present to the public. After the book is written, published, and in hand, then promoting becomes the next step.

         Appearances in front of groups is one way. Are there writing groups in the area? If the book is appropriate for high schools or colleges, an author can send a flier showing his/her areas of expertise and offer to speak or hold a workshop. One might offer to speak at church groups, community activities, or writing conferences. Having a large poster of the speaker’s book on an easel beside or behind her is one way to present the book. At the end of the speech, one can mention that she has some of her books, give title, with her and will be available to sell and autograph them after the meeting closes. Not only may a few books be sold, but the author’s name and book has appeared in public.

         Talk to local bookstores: Some will sponsor a signing. One of the stores in my community doesn’t have good turnouts for writers of adult books, but if the author has a following as found by giving speeches or workshops in the area, the owners will sponsor him or her. Therefore, preparation may be necessary. I am working on making some presentations and appearances to build a following.

         Attend writing conferences and take advantage of autograph sessions. I attended a book festival about two years ago. I had my first book in hand as I took part in a panel discussion about writing poetry. I had registered for a table during two sessions of signings. My name became known to more people, and a few books were sold. I’ve joined a state organization that is holding a conference just twenty miles away from where I live. I will be attending and taking advantage of the autograph party. My books will be in the bookstore manned by owners of a local bookstore.

         Look for community receptions or events for authors. Our city has an authors’ reception every year for local authors. I attended this year with two books in hand for the signing opportunity after the reception. I didn’t sell many books, but I made contact with a major state author who does book reviews. He will be reviewing both books, which is always a help in promoting one’s books. I also left books in the society’s book store on consignment.

         To book a signing or appearance, read the newspaper, send out fliers to advertise your willingness to give speeches or workshops, visit local bookstores. Take advantage of local literary “happenings.” No, opportunities might not look for authors, but authors can find those opportunities if willing to search. Promoting one’s writing is a must for building his or her business.

Featured Works from Writers Circle Members:
chosen by daycare

         Sit back with a cup of coffee or tea and enjoy the reading from some WC members who have been published:

ID: 316553   (Rated: 13+) Innocence Denied  Secrets threaten to tear a family apart (Winner, OakCliffReview Winner Takes All Contest) by Jessiebelle™

ID: 814613   (Rated: 13+) The Last Page (1)  Excerpt from my debut novel which is now available! by Brians Next Novel Almost Done!

ID: 715253 Invalid Item  This item number is not valid. by Not Available.

ID: 755383   (Rated: ASR) Never Give Up  A narrative essay about my youngest, who never gave up by Vivian ╰☆╮

Featured Works From Non-Members:
chosen by daycare

         Items from a few of the non-group members who have been published:

ID: 612996   (Rated: E) Fabulous Angel  An impoverished mother pleads for her babies to a God she barely knows. by Izzie, cc_s princess

ID: 1013601   (Rated: E) Primitive Instincts  A poem about Man still having primitive instincts. by Harry

ID: 803052 Invalid Item  This item number is not valid. by Not Available.

ID: 1053852   (Rated: E) Go Home  This is a poem I wrote on Monday when my aunt was passing away by skymac

Quote:

"What have you lost, really, if you try and fail? If nothing else, you have gained experience." ~~ Vivian Zabel

         Prompt by daycare: Rate and review all the items from non-members. Let them know you read their piece in the Writers' Circle Newletter.

         You are invited to submit suggestions to the Writers' Circle editors. To submit an item for consideration in the WC newsletter:

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WC Newsletter Feedback and Submissions  [E] WC newsletter submission, a cheer or jeer, or just want to join the group? Find it here! by Red Writing Hood

         All comments about this and any WC newsletter are welcome.

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Issue #213
2/13/2006
Edited by: Vivian ╰☆╮ and daycare
Rate this newsletter here: "Book that Appearance or Signing" 

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