I received this email from one of my authors:
John,
I thought you might be interested in some of my marketing:
1)I received a good review in a local Arts Magazine (circulation: 65,000) on 2/7. Here is a link to the online version. The print version includes the book cover.
http://artvoice.com/issues/v7n6/book_reviews/there_are_no_doors_on_a_cocoon_ugly_little_tales_of_nasty_little_humans_by_lou_rera
2) I am taping an interview on WKBW-TV (ABC), for a show called "Off Beat Cinema" on Thursday, 2/14. The promotional value is tremendous for online sales promotion. The show is part of the RTN network and is broadcast in over 40 markets across the U.S. I will focus on BookSurge and Amazon.
3) I am one of the vendors in a book fair in March in Buffalo, NY. Here are details for your blog:
The 2008 Buffalo Small Press Book Fair will be on March 22, 2008 at Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum, 453 Porter Avenue, Buffalo, NY.
4) Lastly,I have the book stocked in the Borders bookstores in Western New York, as well as other local book chains.
Thanks John,
Lou Rera
This is a great start to marketing your book so I ask Lou what types of activities he has been doing to get this attention. He responded with the following:
Hi John,
Here is what I did for these promotional efforts.
For the arts magazine book review I sent the editor of literary section a copy of the book. There is an editor specifically for the genre area I write, which is flash fiction. There is a larger hurdle to have self-published books reviewed, they don't always do this. That part makes it more difficult. I have had stories published by the magazine in the past, which may have helped. But nothing can guarantee a good review. I am grateful mine was.
The television show is produced by a local affiliate, which happens to be the taping station for this syndicated show. I sent the producer an email, followed by a press kit I had put together for book stores and media. The press kit had a brief bio with photo, a press release, a copy of the book, bookmarks from the book outline and a cover letter. I followed up on the press kit mailing with more emails. I was not accepted for the morning talk show, but I was accepted for the syndicated show. I am still waiting for another TV station locally to respond to a similar query.
The bookstore placement was set-up with press kits and personal contact with store managers, each with there own requirements. Borders and Barnes and Noble with other local stores.
I'm working on radio next. I have two readings/signings I've set up over the next two weeks and I cross promoted those through the arts magazine literary events calendar.
The tips from BookSurge, Writer's Digest and other web sites helped me formulate a promotional game plan. I'm hoping within the next few months to generate the bottom line: book sales. Persistence of vision.
Thanks John,
Lou Rera
Here is his book on Amazon.com: http://www.amazon.com/There-are-no-doors-cocoon/dp/1605305936/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1202828092&sr=8-1
I hope you can take some of what Lou did for his book and use it in your own promotional efforts!
Technorati Tags:
marketing a self-published book, blogs to help me market a book, book marketing blogs, self-publishing blogs, should i self publish, marketing a self published book, book marketing tools, book marketing information, book marketing assistance, book marketing help, marketing books, self publishing, self-publishing, author marketing
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Monday, January 28, 2008
Contest Opportunity - Many Genres
16th Annual Writer's Digest International Self-Published Book Awards
The deadline to enter the 16th Annual Writer's Digest's International Self-Published Book Awards is May 1, 2008. The competition is open to all English-language books for which the author has paid the full cost of publication, or the cost of printing has been paid for with a grant or prize. All books published or revised and reprinted between 2003 and 2008 are eligible.
Entrants must send a printed and bound book.
Entry Fees
First entry: $100
Additional entries: $50 each
The Categories
Mainstream/Literary Fiction
Genre Fiction
Nonfiction
Inspirational (Spiritual, New Age)
Life Stories (Biographies, Autobiographies, Family Histories, Memoirs)
Children's Picture Books
Middle-Grade/Young Adult books
Reference Books (Directories, Encyclopedias, Guide Books)
Poetry
For a complete list of rules and to download an entry form, visit WritersDigest.com
Technorati Tags:
marketing help for my book, help me market my book, online book marketing tools, book contests, book awards, win a book award, fiction book contests, book contest, non-fiction book contest, non-fiction book contests, become an award-winning author, how to win a book award, win a book contest, how to enter a book contest, how to win a book award
The deadline to enter the 16th Annual Writer's Digest's International Self-Published Book Awards is May 1, 2008. The competition is open to all English-language books for which the author has paid the full cost of publication, or the cost of printing has been paid for with a grant or prize. All books published or revised and reprinted between 2003 and 2008 are eligible.
Entrants must send a printed and bound book.
Entry Fees
First entry: $100
Additional entries: $50 each
The Categories
Mainstream/Literary Fiction
Genre Fiction
Nonfiction
Inspirational (Spiritual, New Age)
Life Stories (Biographies, Autobiographies, Family Histories, Memoirs)
Children's Picture Books
Middle-Grade/Young Adult books
Reference Books (Directories, Encyclopedias, Guide Books)
Poetry
For a complete list of rules and to download an entry form, visit WritersDigest.com
Technorati Tags:
marketing help for my book, help me market my book, online book marketing tools, book contests, book awards, win a book award, fiction book contests, book contest, non-fiction book contest, non-fiction book contests, become an award-winning author, how to win a book award, win a book contest, how to enter a book contest, how to win a book award
Contest Opportunity - All Genres - IPPY's
2008 International Independent Publisher Book Awards
The 12th Annual Independent Publisher national and regional Book Awards (IPPYs) is accepting entries for its annual IPPY Awards that honor the year's best independently published titles. Entries are now being accepted in 65 subject categories and Best Regional Fiction and Best Regional Nonfiction categories in eight United States and two Canadian regions. All independent, university, small press and self-publishers who produce books intended for the North American market are eligible to enter titles copyrighted or released in 2007. Print-on-demand and other independent authors are welcome to enter their books themselves.
Started in 1996, the IPPYs were designed to bring increased recognition to the deserving but often unsung titles published by independent authors and publishers. Established as the first awards program open exclusively to independents, the IPPYs recognize hundreds of the year's best books, bringing them to the attention of booksellers, buyers, librarians and book lovers throughout the world.
Entry fee is $75 per title, per category. You can add a regional entry for only $45 per title, per category. Deadline for entry is April 1, 2008.
Download an entry form or learn more about the IPPYs by visiting their Web site
We have had several authors when awards through this contest and they occasionally will recognize winning authors at BEA (the world's largest book fair).
Technorati Tags:
marketing help for my book, help me market my book, online book marketing tools, book contests, book awards, win a book award, fiction book contests, book contest, non-fiction book contest, non-fiction book contests, become an award-winning author, how to win a book award, win a book contest, how to enter a book contest, how to win a book award
The 12th Annual Independent Publisher national and regional Book Awards (IPPYs) is accepting entries for its annual IPPY Awards that honor the year's best independently published titles. Entries are now being accepted in 65 subject categories and Best Regional Fiction and Best Regional Nonfiction categories in eight United States and two Canadian regions. All independent, university, small press and self-publishers who produce books intended for the North American market are eligible to enter titles copyrighted or released in 2007. Print-on-demand and other independent authors are welcome to enter their books themselves.
Started in 1996, the IPPYs were designed to bring increased recognition to the deserving but often unsung titles published by independent authors and publishers. Established as the first awards program open exclusively to independents, the IPPYs recognize hundreds of the year's best books, bringing them to the attention of booksellers, buyers, librarians and book lovers throughout the world.
Entry fee is $75 per title, per category. You can add a regional entry for only $45 per title, per category. Deadline for entry is April 1, 2008.
Download an entry form or learn more about the IPPYs by visiting their Web site
We have had several authors when awards through this contest and they occasionally will recognize winning authors at BEA (the world's largest book fair).
Technorati Tags:
marketing help for my book, help me market my book, online book marketing tools, book contests, book awards, win a book award, fiction book contests, book contest, non-fiction book contest, non-fiction book contests, become an award-winning author, how to win a book award, win a book contest, how to enter a book contest, how to win a book award
Success Story - Getting on local TV stations
This author was able to get some interest from a local TV station after an article about her book was placed in the local newspaper. It is important to try and build off of your successes and Marta was able to branch one success by getting into the newspaper into another success with getting on TV. In her own words:
The television video coverage of "La Fiesta y el Mariachi" came about soon after our story was placed in the North County Times, a San Diego County area newspaper. This article was very well written and well received. We got many compliments. Channel 10 News in San Diego contacted Mrs. Hawes, the artist, and plans were made thereafter to set a date for us to show the book, read the story, and conduct interviews. Evie Ramos, of 10News.com, was our primary reporter. She was so professional and friendly. All of us felt at ease working with her. The entire taping took forty-five minutes. This positive experience was one Jefferson Elementary students and Dr. VanVooren, the principal, as well as Marsha Hawes and myself, really appreciate. (Recording was conducted 1-8-08/ airing: 1-23-08)
Here is a link to the airing:
www.10news.com/video/15124232/index.html?taf=sand
Here is her book on Amazon.com: http://www.amazon.com/Fiesta-y-el-Mariachi/dp/1419663399/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1201539421&sr=1-1
The television video coverage of "La Fiesta y el Mariachi" came about soon after our story was placed in the North County Times, a San Diego County area newspaper. This article was very well written and well received. We got many compliments. Channel 10 News in San Diego contacted Mrs. Hawes, the artist, and plans were made thereafter to set a date for us to show the book, read the story, and conduct interviews. Evie Ramos, of 10News.com, was our primary reporter. She was so professional and friendly. All of us felt at ease working with her. The entire taping took forty-five minutes. This positive experience was one Jefferson Elementary students and Dr. VanVooren, the principal, as well as Marsha Hawes and myself, really appreciate. (Recording was conducted 1-8-08/ airing: 1-23-08)
Here is a link to the airing:
www.10news.com/video/15124232/index.html?taf=sand
Here is her book on Amazon.com: http://www.amazon.com/Fiesta-y-el-Mariachi/dp/1419663399/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1201539421&sr=1-1
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Book Fairs
This is not a comprehensive list, but it does account for many fairs across the country. Book fairs are geared more toward visibility and making connections and not really a sales opportunity. Most authors would have give-aways at their booth. A good idea is to make yours a bag with the book name on it - this way the people attending the fair put everyone else's give-away into your bag and you get more visibility. Find one in your area and see if you can make some connections for your book!
Writing Rendezvous
Book Fair
Anchorage
AK
http://www.alaskacenterforthebook.org/
April
Bouchercon; the World Mystery Convention
Book Fair
Anchorage
AK
http://www.bouchercon2007.com/
September
Extreme Trail Tales: An Iditarod Event
Book Fair
Anchorage
AK
http://www.storytellersguildofanchorage.org/
March
Alabama Bound
Book Fair
Birmingham
AL
http://www.alabamabound.org/
April
Arkansas Literary Festival
Book Fair
Little Rock
AR
http://www.arkansasliteraryfestival.org/
April
Cowboy Gathering; Storytelling Weekend
Book Fair
Mountain View
AR
http://www.ozarkfolkcenter.com
August
Arizona Book Festival
Book Fair
Phoenix
AZ
http://www.azbookfestival.org/
April
Cochise Cowboy Poetry & Music Gathering
Book Fair
Sierra Vista
AZ
http://www.cowboypoets.com
February
Northern Arizona Book Festival
Book Fair
Flagstaff
AZ
http://www.nazbookfestival.org
April
Festival of the Written Arts
Book Fair
Sechelt
BC
http://www.writersfestival.ca
August
Vancouver International Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Vancouver
BC
http://www.vancouverstorytelling.org/
February
Bay Area Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
El Sobrante
CA
http://www.bayareastorytelling.org/
May
California International Antiquarian Book Fair
Book Fair
San Francisco
CA
http://www.sfbookfair.com/
February
California Indian Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Fremont
CA
http://www.cistory.org/events.htm
March
Los Angeles Latino Book and Family Festival
Book Fair
Carlsbad
CA
http://www.latinobookfestival.com
October
Los Angeles Times Festival of Books
Book Fair
Los Angeles
CA
http://www.latimes.com/festivalofbooks
April
Mariposa Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Mariposa
CA
http://arts-mariposa.org/storytelling.html
March
Orange County Children's Book Festival
Book Fair
Costa Mesta
CA
http://www.kidsbookfestival.com
September
Steinbeck Festival
Book Fair
Salinas
CA
http://www.steinbeck.org/
August
Gold Rush Book Fair
Book Fair
Nevada City
CA
http://www.goldrushbookfair.com/
May
San Diego Open Air Book Fair
Book Fair
San Diego
CA
http://www.sdbookfair.com/
June
West Hollywood Book Fair
Book Fair
West Hollywood
CA
http://www.westhollywoodbookfair.org/
September
Sonoma County Book Festival
Book Fair
Santa Rosa
CA
http://www.socobookfest.org/
September
Festival of Words at Beaver Creek
Book Fair
Beaver Creek
CO
http://www.festivalofwords.org
April
Rocky Mountain Book & Paper Fair
Book Fair
Denver
CO
http://www.rmaba.org/
August
Connecticut Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
New London
CT
http://www.connstorycenter.org/festival.html
April
Connecticut Children's Book Fair
Book Fair
Storrs
CT
http://bookfair.uconn.edu/
November
National Press Club's Book Fair and Authors' Night
Book Fair
Washington
D.C.
http://npc.press.org/programs/bookfair.cfm
November
Multicultural Children's Book Festival
Book Fair
Washington
DC
http://www.kennedy-center.org/programs/specialevents/bookfestival/
November
National Book Festival
Book Fair
Washington
DC
http://www.loc.gov/bookfest
September
Delaware Book Festival
Book Fair
Dover
DE
http://debookfestival.lib.de.us/
November
Amelia Book Island Festival
Book Fair
Amelia Island
FL
http://www.bookisland.org/
October
Festival of Reading
Book Fair
St. Petersburg
FL
http://www.festivalofreading.com/
October
Cracker Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Homeland
FL
http://crackerstorytellingfestival.freeservers.com/
October
Key West Literary Seminar
Book Fair
Key West
FL
http://keywestliteraryseminar.org
January
Lee County Reading Festival
Book Fair
Fort Myers
FL
http://www.lee-county.com/library/ReadingFestivalHome.htm
March
Miami Book Fair International
Book Fair
Miami
FL
http://www.miamibookfair.com/
November
Much Ado About Books
Book Fair
Jacksonville
FL
http://www.muchadoaboutbooks.com
May
Sarasota Reading Festival
Book Fair
Sarasota
FL
http://www.sarasotareadingfestival.com
November
Tampa-Hillsborough County Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Tampa
FL
http://www.tampastory.org/tsf_fest.htm
April
ZORA! Festival
Book Fair
Eatonville
FL
http://www.zoranealehurstonfestival.com/
January
Florida Antiquarian Book Fair
Book Fair
St. Petersburg
FL
http://floridabooksellers.com/bookfair.html
March
Georgia Literary Festival
Book Fair
Decatur
GA
http://www.georgialiteraryfestival.org
September
Roswell Magnolia Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Roswell
GA
http://www.cvb.roswell.ga.us/storytelling.html
June
AAUW Book Fair
Book Fair
Atlanta
GA
http://www.bookfairaauw.org/index.html
October
AJC Decatur Book Festival
Book Fair
Decatur,
GA
http://www.decaturbookfestival.com
September
Talk Story Festival
Book Fair
Honolulu
HI
http://www.co.honolulu.hi.us/parks/programs/talkstory/index.htm
October
Christian Book Fair International
Book Fair
Coralville
IA
http://www.christian-book-fair.com
August
Illinois Authors Book Fair
Book Fair
Springfield
IL
http://www.illinoiscenterforthebook.org/
November
Newberry Library Book Festival
Book Fair
Chicago
IL
http://www.newberry.org/
July
Printers Row Book Fair
Book Fair
Chicago
IL
http://www.printersrowbookfair.org/
June
Storytelling at the Prairie Center
Book Fair
Schaumberg
IL
http://www.prairiecenter.org/
February
Kansas Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Downs
KS
http://www.downsks.net/storytelling.htm
April
Cave Run Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Morehead
KY
http://caverunstoryfest.org/
September
Corn Island Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Louisville
KY
http://www.cornislandstorytellingfestival.org/
September
Kentucky Book Fair
Book Fair
Frankfort
KY
http://www.kybookfair.org/
November
Southern Kentucky Book Fest
Book Fair
Bowling Green
KY
http://www.sokybookfest.org/
April
Louisiana Book Festival
Book Fair
Baton Rouge
LA
http://www.louisianabookfestival.org/
October
Tennessee Williams Literary Festival
Book Fair
New Orleans
LA
http://www.tennesseewilliams.net/
March
Boston International Antiquarian Book Fair
Book Fair
Boston
MA
http://www.bostonbookfair.com/
November
Boston Globe Book Festival
Book Fair
Boston
MA
http://www.bostonglobe.com/community/events
October
Three Apples Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Bedford
MA
http://www.threeapples.org/
September
Baltimore Book Festival
Book Fair
Baltimore
MD
http://www.bop.org/events/bopaevents.aspx
September
Capital BookFest
Book Fair
Largo
MD
http://www.capitalbookfest.com/
October
The Portland Book, Print & Paper Show
Book Fair
88 Spring Street Portland
ME
http://www.bookfairs.com/portland.html
June
Michigan Storytellers Festival
Book Fair
Flint
MI
http://www.flint.lib.mi.us
July
Ann Arbor Book Festival
Book Fair
Ann Arbor
MI
http://aabookfestival.org
May
Children's Literature Festival
Book Fair
Warrensburg
MO
http://library.cmsu.edu/childlit/clf/
March
Greater St. Louis Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
St. Louis
MO
http://www.umsl.edu/~conted/storyfes/
May
Mid Missouri Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Jefferson City
MO
http://www.mrrl.org
April
Children's Book Festival
Book Fair
Hattiesburg
MS
http://www-dept.usm.edu/~slis/bookfest.htm
March
Natchez Literary and Cinema Celebration
Book Fair
Natchez
MS
http://www.colin.edu/nlcc/default.htm
February
Oxford Conference for the Book
Book Fair
University
MS
http://www.olemiss.edu/depts/south/ocb
March
Montana Festival of the Book
Book Fair
Missoula
MT
http://www.bookfest-mt.org/
September
North Carolina Storytelling Guild's Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Greensboro
NC
http://www.ncstoryguild.org/events.htm
November
NOVELLO Festival of Reading
Book Fair
Charlotte
NC
http://www.novellofestival.net/
October
Sandburg Celebration of Books and Authors
Book Fair
Hendersonville
NC
http://www.sandburgbookfair.org
November
University of North Dakota Writer's Conference
Book Fair
Grand Forks
ND
http://www.undwritersconference.org/
March
Buffalo Commons Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
McCook
NE
http://www.buffalocommons.org
May
Kearney Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Omaha
NE
http://www.nebraskastoryarts.org
March
Children's Literature Festival
Book Fair
Keene
NH
http://www.keene.edu/clf/
October
New Hampshire Antiquarian Book Fair
Book Fair
Concord
NH
http://www.nhaba.org/bookshow.htm
September
Dodge Poetry Festival
Book Fair
Morristown
NJ
http://www.grdodge.org/poetry/main.htm
September
New Jersey Storytellering Festival
Book Fair
Hamilton,
NJ
http://www.njstorynet.org/events.htm
June
New Jersey Antiquarian Book Fair
Book Fair
Hanover
NJ
http://www.austinsbooks.com/NJABF.html
January
Border Book Festival
Book Fair
Mesilla
NM
http://www.borderbookfestival.org/
April
Taos Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Taos
NM
http://somostaos.org/
October
Cowboy Poetry Gathering
Book Fair
Elko
NV
http://www.westernfolklife.org/
January
Vegas Valley Book Festival
Book Fair
Las Vegas
NV
http://www.vegasvalleybookfest.org
November
BookExpo: America
Book Fair
New York City
NY
http://www.bookexpoamerica.com
June
New York Antiquarian Book Fair
Book Fair
New York
NY
http://abaa.org/
April
Rockland County Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Rockland County
NY
http://www.timesunion.com/communities/hvstoryall/
October
Rochester Children's Book Festival
Book Fair
Rochester
NY
http://www.rochesterchildrensbookfestival.org/index.html
November
Small Press Book Fair
Book Fair
New York
NY
http://www.smallpress.org/events/bkfair.htm
December
NY Art Book Fair
Book Fair
New York City
NY
http://www.nyartbookfair.com/
November
Akron Antiquarian Book Fair
Book Fair
Cuyahoga Falls
OH
http://www.nobsweb.org/
April
Buckeye Book Fair
Book Fair
Wooster
OH
http://www.buckeyebookfair.com/
November
Oklahoma Book Awards
Book Fair
Oklahoma City
OK
http://www.odl.state.ok.us/ocb/obaward.htm
March
Toronto Festival of Storytelling
Book Fair
Toronto
ON
http://www.storytellingtoronto.org/Pages/Festival.html
March
BookExpo: Canada
Book Fair
Toronto
ON
http://reedexpo.ca/bookexpo/index.asp
June
Stories by the Sea Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Newport
OR
http://www.olaweb.org/csd/stories.html
September
Tapestry of Tales: A Family Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Portland
OR
http://www.multcolib.org/events/tales/
November
Wordstock
Book Fair
Portland
OR
http://www.wordstockfestival.com/
November
Three Rivers Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Pittsburgh
PA
http://home.comcast.net/~3rstf/
August
Augusta Baker's Dozen
Book Fair
Columbia
SC
http://www.richland.lib.sc.us/baker.htm
April
Patchwork Tales Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Rock Hill
SC
http://www.patchworktales.org/
March
SC Book Festival & Antiquarian Book Fair
Book Fair
Columbia
SC
http://www.schumanities.org/bookfestival.htm
February
Festival of Books
Book Fair
Brookings
SD
http://sdhc.sdstate.org/festival/
September
National Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Jonesborough
TN
http://www.storytellingcenter.com/festival/festival.htm
October
Ocoee Story Fest
Book Fair
Cleveland
TN
http://www.tntellers.org/osf/
March
Smoky Mountain Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Pigeon Forge
TN
http://www.mypigeonforge.com/winterfest-storytelling.asp
February
Southern Festival of Books
Book Fair
Nashville
TN
http://tn-humanities.org/festival/current.php
October
George West Storyfest
Book Fair
George West
TX
http://www.georgeweststoryfest.org/
November
Houston Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Houston
TX
http://www.houstonstorytellers.org/
November
Texas Cowboy Poetry Gathering
Book Fair
Alpine
TX
http://www.cowboy-poetry.org/index2.html
February
Texas Book Festival
Book Fair
Austin
TX
http://www.texasbookfestival.org/
November
Texas Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Denton
TX
http://www.tejasstorytelling.com/
March
West Texas Book and Author Festival
Book Fair
Abilene
TX
http://www.abilenetx.com/apl/
September
Great Salt Lake Book Festival
Book Fair
Salt Lake City
UT
http://www.utahhumanities.org/BookFestival.htm
October
Timpanogos Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Orem
UT
http://www.timpfest.org/
August
Weber State University Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Ogden
UT
http://www.weber.edu/storytelling
March
Fall for the Book Festival
Book Fair
Fairfax
VA
http://www.fallforthebook.org/
September
Hollins University Annual Literary Festival
Book Fair
Roanoke
VA
http://www.hollins.edu/news-events/litfest/litfest.htm
March
Malice Domestic
Book Fair
Arlington
VA
http://www.malicedomestic.org/
May
Virginia Storytelling Alliance Gathering
Book Fair
Richmond
VA
http://www.vastorytelling.org/
March
Virginia Festival of the Book
Book Fair
Charlottesville
VA
http://www.vabook.org
March
AWP Book Fair
Book Fair
Fairfax
VA
http://www.awpwriter.org/conference/2007bookfair.php
February
Bellingham Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Bellingham
WA
http://www.ac.wwu.edu/~rvohs/
November
Forest Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Port Angeles
WA
http://www.dancingleaves.com/storypeople/index.html
October
Get Lit!,
Book Fair
Spokane
WA
http://www.ewu.edu/getlit/
April
Seattle Antiquarian Book Fair
Book Fair
Seattle
WA
http://www.seattlebookfair.com/
October
Riverbend Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
West Bend
WI
http://www.riverbendstorytelling.org
October
Ohio River Festival of Books
Book Fair
Huntington
WV
http://www.ohioriverbooks.org/
April
West Virginia Book Festival
Book Fair
Charleston
WV
http://www.wvhumanities.org/bookfest/bookfest2.htm
October
Yukon International Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Whitehorse
YK
http://www.storytelling.yk.net
August
Technorati Tags:
book fairs, nationwide book fairs, local book fairs, book fair opportunities, book fairs for self-published books, independant book fairs, independent book fairs, book fair
Writing Rendezvous
Book Fair
Anchorage
AK
http://www.alaskacenterforthebook.org/
April
Bouchercon; the World Mystery Convention
Book Fair
Anchorage
AK
http://www.bouchercon2007.com/
September
Extreme Trail Tales: An Iditarod Event
Book Fair
Anchorage
AK
http://www.storytellersguildofanchorage.org/
March
Alabama Bound
Book Fair
Birmingham
AL
http://www.alabamabound.org/
April
Arkansas Literary Festival
Book Fair
Little Rock
AR
http://www.arkansasliteraryfestival.org/
April
Cowboy Gathering; Storytelling Weekend
Book Fair
Mountain View
AR
http://www.ozarkfolkcenter.com
August
Arizona Book Festival
Book Fair
Phoenix
AZ
http://www.azbookfestival.org/
April
Cochise Cowboy Poetry & Music Gathering
Book Fair
Sierra Vista
AZ
http://www.cowboypoets.com
February
Northern Arizona Book Festival
Book Fair
Flagstaff
AZ
http://www.nazbookfestival.org
April
Festival of the Written Arts
Book Fair
Sechelt
BC
http://www.writersfestival.ca
August
Vancouver International Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Vancouver
BC
http://www.vancouverstorytelling.org/
February
Bay Area Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
El Sobrante
CA
http://www.bayareastorytelling.org/
May
California International Antiquarian Book Fair
Book Fair
San Francisco
CA
http://www.sfbookfair.com/
February
California Indian Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Fremont
CA
http://www.cistory.org/events.htm
March
Los Angeles Latino Book and Family Festival
Book Fair
Carlsbad
CA
http://www.latinobookfestival.com
October
Los Angeles Times Festival of Books
Book Fair
Los Angeles
CA
http://www.latimes.com/festivalofbooks
April
Mariposa Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Mariposa
CA
http://arts-mariposa.org/storytelling.html
March
Orange County Children's Book Festival
Book Fair
Costa Mesta
CA
http://www.kidsbookfestival.com
September
Steinbeck Festival
Book Fair
Salinas
CA
http://www.steinbeck.org/
August
Gold Rush Book Fair
Book Fair
Nevada City
CA
http://www.goldrushbookfair.com/
May
San Diego Open Air Book Fair
Book Fair
San Diego
CA
http://www.sdbookfair.com/
June
West Hollywood Book Fair
Book Fair
West Hollywood
CA
http://www.westhollywoodbookfair.org/
September
Sonoma County Book Festival
Book Fair
Santa Rosa
CA
http://www.socobookfest.org/
September
Festival of Words at Beaver Creek
Book Fair
Beaver Creek
CO
http://www.festivalofwords.org
April
Rocky Mountain Book & Paper Fair
Book Fair
Denver
CO
http://www.rmaba.org/
August
Connecticut Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
New London
CT
http://www.connstorycenter.org/festival.html
April
Connecticut Children's Book Fair
Book Fair
Storrs
CT
http://bookfair.uconn.edu/
November
National Press Club's Book Fair and Authors' Night
Book Fair
Washington
D.C.
http://npc.press.org/programs/bookfair.cfm
November
Multicultural Children's Book Festival
Book Fair
Washington
DC
http://www.kennedy-center.org/programs/specialevents/bookfestival/
November
National Book Festival
Book Fair
Washington
DC
http://www.loc.gov/bookfest
September
Delaware Book Festival
Book Fair
Dover
DE
http://debookfestival.lib.de.us/
November
Amelia Book Island Festival
Book Fair
Amelia Island
FL
http://www.bookisland.org/
October
Festival of Reading
Book Fair
St. Petersburg
FL
http://www.festivalofreading.com/
October
Cracker Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Homeland
FL
http://crackerstorytellingfestival.freeservers.com/
October
Key West Literary Seminar
Book Fair
Key West
FL
http://keywestliteraryseminar.org
January
Lee County Reading Festival
Book Fair
Fort Myers
FL
http://www.lee-county.com/library/ReadingFestivalHome.htm
March
Miami Book Fair International
Book Fair
Miami
FL
http://www.miamibookfair.com/
November
Much Ado About Books
Book Fair
Jacksonville
FL
http://www.muchadoaboutbooks.com
May
Sarasota Reading Festival
Book Fair
Sarasota
FL
http://www.sarasotareadingfestival.com
November
Tampa-Hillsborough County Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Tampa
FL
http://www.tampastory.org/tsf_fest.htm
April
ZORA! Festival
Book Fair
Eatonville
FL
http://www.zoranealehurstonfestival.com/
January
Florida Antiquarian Book Fair
Book Fair
St. Petersburg
FL
http://floridabooksellers.com/bookfair.html
March
Georgia Literary Festival
Book Fair
Decatur
GA
http://www.georgialiteraryfestival.org
September
Roswell Magnolia Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Roswell
GA
http://www.cvb.roswell.ga.us/storytelling.html
June
AAUW Book Fair
Book Fair
Atlanta
GA
http://www.bookfairaauw.org/index.html
October
AJC Decatur Book Festival
Book Fair
Decatur,
GA
http://www.decaturbookfestival.com
September
Talk Story Festival
Book Fair
Honolulu
HI
http://www.co.honolulu.hi.us/parks/programs/talkstory/index.htm
October
Christian Book Fair International
Book Fair
Coralville
IA
http://www.christian-book-fair.com
August
Illinois Authors Book Fair
Book Fair
Springfield
IL
http://www.illinoiscenterforthebook.org/
November
Newberry Library Book Festival
Book Fair
Chicago
IL
http://www.newberry.org/
July
Printers Row Book Fair
Book Fair
Chicago
IL
http://www.printersrowbookfair.org/
June
Storytelling at the Prairie Center
Book Fair
Schaumberg
IL
http://www.prairiecenter.org/
February
Kansas Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Downs
KS
http://www.downsks.net/storytelling.htm
April
Cave Run Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Morehead
KY
http://caverunstoryfest.org/
September
Corn Island Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Louisville
KY
http://www.cornislandstorytellingfestival.org/
September
Kentucky Book Fair
Book Fair
Frankfort
KY
http://www.kybookfair.org/
November
Southern Kentucky Book Fest
Book Fair
Bowling Green
KY
http://www.sokybookfest.org/
April
Louisiana Book Festival
Book Fair
Baton Rouge
LA
http://www.louisianabookfestival.org/
October
Tennessee Williams Literary Festival
Book Fair
New Orleans
LA
http://www.tennesseewilliams.net/
March
Boston International Antiquarian Book Fair
Book Fair
Boston
MA
http://www.bostonbookfair.com/
November
Boston Globe Book Festival
Book Fair
Boston
MA
http://www.bostonglobe.com/community/events
October
Three Apples Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Bedford
MA
http://www.threeapples.org/
September
Baltimore Book Festival
Book Fair
Baltimore
MD
http://www.bop.org/events/bopaevents.aspx
September
Capital BookFest
Book Fair
Largo
MD
http://www.capitalbookfest.com/
October
The Portland Book, Print & Paper Show
Book Fair
88 Spring Street Portland
ME
http://www.bookfairs.com/portland.html
June
Michigan Storytellers Festival
Book Fair
Flint
MI
http://www.flint.lib.mi.us
July
Ann Arbor Book Festival
Book Fair
Ann Arbor
MI
http://aabookfestival.org
May
Children's Literature Festival
Book Fair
Warrensburg
MO
http://library.cmsu.edu/childlit/clf/
March
Greater St. Louis Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
St. Louis
MO
http://www.umsl.edu/~conted/storyfes/
May
Mid Missouri Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Jefferson City
MO
http://www.mrrl.org
April
Children's Book Festival
Book Fair
Hattiesburg
MS
http://www-dept.usm.edu/~slis/bookfest.htm
March
Natchez Literary and Cinema Celebration
Book Fair
Natchez
MS
http://www.colin.edu/nlcc/default.htm
February
Oxford Conference for the Book
Book Fair
University
MS
http://www.olemiss.edu/depts/south/ocb
March
Montana Festival of the Book
Book Fair
Missoula
MT
http://www.bookfest-mt.org/
September
North Carolina Storytelling Guild's Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Greensboro
NC
http://www.ncstoryguild.org/events.htm
November
NOVELLO Festival of Reading
Book Fair
Charlotte
NC
http://www.novellofestival.net/
October
Sandburg Celebration of Books and Authors
Book Fair
Hendersonville
NC
http://www.sandburgbookfair.org
November
University of North Dakota Writer's Conference
Book Fair
Grand Forks
ND
http://www.undwritersconference.org/
March
Buffalo Commons Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
McCook
NE
http://www.buffalocommons.org
May
Kearney Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Omaha
NE
http://www.nebraskastoryarts.org
March
Children's Literature Festival
Book Fair
Keene
NH
http://www.keene.edu/clf/
October
New Hampshire Antiquarian Book Fair
Book Fair
Concord
NH
http://www.nhaba.org/bookshow.htm
September
Dodge Poetry Festival
Book Fair
Morristown
NJ
http://www.grdodge.org/poetry/main.htm
September
New Jersey Storytellering Festival
Book Fair
Hamilton,
NJ
http://www.njstorynet.org/events.htm
June
New Jersey Antiquarian Book Fair
Book Fair
Hanover
NJ
http://www.austinsbooks.com/NJABF.html
January
Border Book Festival
Book Fair
Mesilla
NM
http://www.borderbookfestival.org/
April
Taos Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Taos
NM
http://somostaos.org/
October
Cowboy Poetry Gathering
Book Fair
Elko
NV
http://www.westernfolklife.org/
January
Vegas Valley Book Festival
Book Fair
Las Vegas
NV
http://www.vegasvalleybookfest.org
November
BookExpo: America
Book Fair
New York City
NY
http://www.bookexpoamerica.com
June
New York Antiquarian Book Fair
Book Fair
New York
NY
http://abaa.org/
April
Rockland County Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Rockland County
NY
http://www.timesunion.com/communities/hvstoryall/
October
Rochester Children's Book Festival
Book Fair
Rochester
NY
http://www.rochesterchildrensbookfestival.org/index.html
November
Small Press Book Fair
Book Fair
New York
NY
http://www.smallpress.org/events/bkfair.htm
December
NY Art Book Fair
Book Fair
New York City
NY
http://www.nyartbookfair.com/
November
Akron Antiquarian Book Fair
Book Fair
Cuyahoga Falls
OH
http://www.nobsweb.org/
April
Buckeye Book Fair
Book Fair
Wooster
OH
http://www.buckeyebookfair.com/
November
Oklahoma Book Awards
Book Fair
Oklahoma City
OK
http://www.odl.state.ok.us/ocb/obaward.htm
March
Toronto Festival of Storytelling
Book Fair
Toronto
ON
http://www.storytellingtoronto.org/Pages/Festival.html
March
BookExpo: Canada
Book Fair
Toronto
ON
http://reedexpo.ca/bookexpo/index.asp
June
Stories by the Sea Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Newport
OR
http://www.olaweb.org/csd/stories.html
September
Tapestry of Tales: A Family Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Portland
OR
http://www.multcolib.org/events/tales/
November
Wordstock
Book Fair
Portland
OR
http://www.wordstockfestival.com/
November
Three Rivers Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Pittsburgh
PA
http://home.comcast.net/~3rstf/
August
Augusta Baker's Dozen
Book Fair
Columbia
SC
http://www.richland.lib.sc.us/baker.htm
April
Patchwork Tales Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Rock Hill
SC
http://www.patchworktales.org/
March
SC Book Festival & Antiquarian Book Fair
Book Fair
Columbia
SC
http://www.schumanities.org/bookfestival.htm
February
Festival of Books
Book Fair
Brookings
SD
http://sdhc.sdstate.org/festival/
September
National Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Jonesborough
TN
http://www.storytellingcenter.com/festival/festival.htm
October
Ocoee Story Fest
Book Fair
Cleveland
TN
http://www.tntellers.org/osf/
March
Smoky Mountain Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Pigeon Forge
TN
http://www.mypigeonforge.com/winterfest-storytelling.asp
February
Southern Festival of Books
Book Fair
Nashville
TN
http://tn-humanities.org/festival/current.php
October
George West Storyfest
Book Fair
George West
TX
http://www.georgeweststoryfest.org/
November
Houston Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Houston
TX
http://www.houstonstorytellers.org/
November
Texas Cowboy Poetry Gathering
Book Fair
Alpine
TX
http://www.cowboy-poetry.org/index2.html
February
Texas Book Festival
Book Fair
Austin
TX
http://www.texasbookfestival.org/
November
Texas Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Denton
TX
http://www.tejasstorytelling.com/
March
West Texas Book and Author Festival
Book Fair
Abilene
TX
http://www.abilenetx.com/apl/
September
Great Salt Lake Book Festival
Book Fair
Salt Lake City
UT
http://www.utahhumanities.org/BookFestival.htm
October
Timpanogos Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Orem
UT
http://www.timpfest.org/
August
Weber State University Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Ogden
UT
http://www.weber.edu/storytelling
March
Fall for the Book Festival
Book Fair
Fairfax
VA
http://www.fallforthebook.org/
September
Hollins University Annual Literary Festival
Book Fair
Roanoke
VA
http://www.hollins.edu/news-events/litfest/litfest.htm
March
Malice Domestic
Book Fair
Arlington
VA
http://www.malicedomestic.org/
May
Virginia Storytelling Alliance Gathering
Book Fair
Richmond
VA
http://www.vastorytelling.org/
March
Virginia Festival of the Book
Book Fair
Charlottesville
VA
http://www.vabook.org
March
AWP Book Fair
Book Fair
Fairfax
VA
http://www.awpwriter.org/conference/2007bookfair.php
February
Bellingham Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Bellingham
WA
http://www.ac.wwu.edu/~rvohs/
November
Forest Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Port Angeles
WA
http://www.dancingleaves.com/storypeople/index.html
October
Get Lit!,
Book Fair
Spokane
WA
http://www.ewu.edu/getlit/
April
Seattle Antiquarian Book Fair
Book Fair
Seattle
WA
http://www.seattlebookfair.com/
October
Riverbend Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
West Bend
WI
http://www.riverbendstorytelling.org
October
Ohio River Festival of Books
Book Fair
Huntington
WV
http://www.ohioriverbooks.org/
April
West Virginia Book Festival
Book Fair
Charleston
WV
http://www.wvhumanities.org/bookfest/bookfest2.htm
October
Yukon International Storytelling Festival
Book Fair
Whitehorse
YK
http://www.storytelling.yk.net
August
Technorati Tags:
book fairs, nationwide book fairs, local book fairs, book fair opportunities, book fairs for self-published books, independant book fairs, independent book fairs, book fair
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Google Books
One of my authors has been working with Google to get his book information into their system. This would be another avenue for visibility into your book and I highly recommend listing your book in this service. To my knowledge there is no fee to do this and it is basically where someone can learn more about your book. The listing will be very similar to Amazon.com's Search Inside feature. They then have buying options on this Google page where customers can go to Amazon.com to purchase the book.
It looks from the FAQ section that you need to have PDF files of the book so those of you who used our Express option will have no problem working with this program. If you used our help to create the files then you will need to send me an email and I can get you the low-res proof so that you can use it for this purpose.
See this link: http://books.google.com/support/
Here is his email:
John,
I have placed my book on Google books. You requested that I send you information about this program. The program is called "Google Books Partner Program" (beta) Now that it's live, I need to fine tune the parameters.
I am trying to narrow the keywords and category, which are a major factor in successful search criteria. Since I am unknown, I need to drive buyers to my book via those filters.
You can see that the links for sales are readily available. Here is the result of the basic Google layout. The process takes about two weeks from sign-up to a live link. Basically, it's a do-it-yourself process with a fairly straightforward user interface.
http://books.google.com/books?q=lou+rera&as_brr=3
Here is Lou's book on Amazon.com:
http://www.amazon.com/There-are-no-doors-cocoon/dp/1605305936/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1201189846&sr=1-1
Technorati Tags:
marketing a self-published book, blogs to help me market a book, book marketing blogs, self-publishing blogs, should i self publish, marketing a self published book, book marketing tools, book marketing information, book marketing assistance, book marketing help, marketing books, self publishing, self-publishing, author marketing
It looks from the FAQ section that you need to have PDF files of the book so those of you who used our Express option will have no problem working with this program. If you used our help to create the files then you will need to send me an email and I can get you the low-res proof so that you can use it for this purpose.
See this link: http://books.google.com/support/
Here is his email:
John,
I have placed my book on Google books. You requested that I send you information about this program. The program is called "Google Books Partner Program" (beta) Now that it's live, I need to fine tune the parameters.
I am trying to narrow the keywords and category, which are a major factor in successful search criteria. Since I am unknown, I need to drive buyers to my book via those filters.
You can see that the links for sales are readily available. Here is the result of the basic Google layout. The process takes about two weeks from sign-up to a live link. Basically, it's a do-it-yourself process with a fairly straightforward user interface.
http://books.google.com/books?q=lou+rera&as_brr=3
Here is Lou's book on Amazon.com:
http://www.amazon.com/There-are-no-doors-cocoon/dp/1605305936/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1201189846&sr=1-1
Technorati Tags:
marketing a self-published book, blogs to help me market a book, book marketing blogs, self-publishing blogs, should i self publish, marketing a self published book, book marketing tools, book marketing information, book marketing assistance, book marketing help, marketing books, self publishing, self-publishing, author marketing
Charleston (SC) Area Book Events
For those of you who are local authors please see below. I am working on compiling a list of book fairs across the country, and hope to have this completed soon for the rest of you.
Piccolo Fiction Open 2008 call for short stories Jan 1, 2008 - Apr 9, 2008The PFO is a literary competition in its ninth year of the Piccolo Spoleto Arts Festival. The theme this year is “Endings.” $200 will be awarded for the top story, followed by a $150 and a $50 prize, as well as runners-up. Deadline for Entries: April 9, 2008 postmark.
http://www.charlestoncity.info/dept/content.aspx?nid=328&cid=9056
SC Book Festival- Fri Feb 22nd to Sun Feb 24th
http://www.scbookfestival.org/
Patchwork Tales in Rock Hill, SC- March 6-8
http://www.patchworktales.org/
Augusta Baker's Dozen
RCPL’s annual storytelling festival, cosponsored by the University of South Carolina School of Library and Information Science, brings to life the world of storytelling and children’s literature. The festival honors the works and achievements of nationally-known author and storyteller Augusta Baker, who moved to Columbia in 1980 and was appointed the Storyteller-in-Residence at USC. A(ugusta) Baker’s Dozen Set for April 21-22
Lois Ehlert, a renowned author and illustrator of numerous books for young children, will be the featured guest for the 20th annual A(ugusta) Baker’s Dozen—A Celebration of Stories on April 21-22 at the Main Library. Ehlert wrote and illustrated Color Zoo, a Caldecott Honor Book, as well as Color Farm and Circus . She illustrated many other books, including Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr., Crocodile Smile by Sarah Weeks, and A Pair of Socks by Stuart J. Murphy.
The two-day festival, sponsored by RCPL and the USC School of Library and Information Science, honors nationally-known author and storyteller Augusta Baker and continues her legacy of inspiring others to introduce children to the magic of literature and stories. Here’s What’s Happening at the 20th Annual Event
* Friday, April 21 - Storytelling for Fourth Graders Nearly 2,000 fourth graders will listen to stories on the grounds of the Robert Mills House. (By Invitation Only) * 7 p.m., Friday, April 21 - Augusta Baker Lecture: An Evening with Lois Ehlert Lois Ehlert will discuss the inspiration behind her artwork and award-winning children’s books. Reception, book sale and autographing follows. (Bostick Auditorium ) * 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., Saturday, April 22 - Storytelling for Families (click for full schedule) http://www.richland.lib.sc.us/baker.htm
These events are free and open to the public. Questions? Call 803-929-3474
Piccolo Fiction Open 2008 call for short stories Jan 1, 2008 - Apr 9, 2008The PFO is a literary competition in its ninth year of the Piccolo Spoleto Arts Festival. The theme this year is “Endings.” $200 will be awarded for the top story, followed by a $150 and a $50 prize, as well as runners-up. Deadline for Entries: April 9, 2008 postmark.
http://www.charlestoncity.info/dept/content.aspx?nid=328&cid=9056
SC Book Festival- Fri Feb 22nd to Sun Feb 24th
http://www.scbookfestival.org/
Patchwork Tales in Rock Hill, SC- March 6-8
http://www.patchworktales.org/
Augusta Baker's Dozen
RCPL’s annual storytelling festival, cosponsored by the University of South Carolina School of Library and Information Science, brings to life the world of storytelling and children’s literature. The festival honors the works and achievements of nationally-known author and storyteller Augusta Baker, who moved to Columbia in 1980 and was appointed the Storyteller-in-Residence at USC. A(ugusta) Baker’s Dozen Set for April 21-22
Lois Ehlert, a renowned author and illustrator of numerous books for young children, will be the featured guest for the 20th annual A(ugusta) Baker’s Dozen—A Celebration of Stories on April 21-22 at the Main Library. Ehlert wrote and illustrated Color Zoo, a Caldecott Honor Book, as well as Color Farm and Circus . She illustrated many other books, including Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr., Crocodile Smile by Sarah Weeks, and A Pair of Socks by Stuart J. Murphy.
The two-day festival, sponsored by RCPL and the USC School of Library and Information Science, honors nationally-known author and storyteller Augusta Baker and continues her legacy of inspiring others to introduce children to the magic of literature and stories. Here’s What’s Happening at the 20th Annual Event
* Friday, April 21 - Storytelling for Fourth Graders Nearly 2,000 fourth graders will listen to stories on the grounds of the Robert Mills House. (By Invitation Only) * 7 p.m., Friday, April 21 - Augusta Baker Lecture: An Evening with Lois Ehlert Lois Ehlert will discuss the inspiration behind her artwork and award-winning children’s books. Reception, book sale and autographing follows. (Bostick Auditorium ) * 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., Saturday, April 22 - Storytelling for Families (click for full schedule) http://www.richland.lib.sc.us/baker.htm
These events are free and open to the public. Questions? Call 803-929-3474
Monday, December 17, 2007
Beyond the Bookstore Ideas
It is imperative for authors to think beyond the bookstore when marketing a self-published book. A bookstore is where you have the most competition - the lowest likelihood of being carried - and would make the least amount of profit.
One of my authors has written a book that explains the sport of soccer at a very basic level. Instead of going to bookstores I recommended going to local YMCA's and other youth soccer leagues marketing the book to the parents of these kids. Try and get creative about your own book concept and look for opportunities such as this.
Here is a link to his book on Amazon.com: http://www.amazon.com/Soccer-Sidelines-Whats-goin-there/dp/1419653423/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1197906619&sr=1-1
Another one of my authors recently emailed me about one of his newest beyond the bookstore ideas. Here is his email:
"john here is a good lead for your customers.....cigarette cigar stores.....we just did one at a place called cigarette express....sold 18 books from noon till 2 pm (more there than a borders store)...lots of walk in traffic etc...."
Here is his book on Amazon.com: http://www.amazon.com/These-Scars-Are-Sacred-Written/dp/1419627988/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1197906585&sr=8-1
Try and get creative about your own book concept and look for opportunities such as this.
Technorati Tags:
marketing a self-published book, blogs to help me market a book, book marketing blogs, self-publishing blogs, should i self publish, marketing a self published book, book marketing tools, book marketing information, book marketing assistance, book marketing help, marketing books, self publishing, self-publishing, author marketing
One of my authors has written a book that explains the sport of soccer at a very basic level. Instead of going to bookstores I recommended going to local YMCA's and other youth soccer leagues marketing the book to the parents of these kids. Try and get creative about your own book concept and look for opportunities such as this.
Here is a link to his book on Amazon.com: http://www.amazon.com/Soccer-Sidelines-Whats-goin-there/dp/1419653423/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1197906619&sr=1-1
Another one of my authors recently emailed me about one of his newest beyond the bookstore ideas. Here is his email:
"john here is a good lead for your customers.....cigarette cigar stores.....we just did one at a place called cigarette express....sold 18 books from noon till 2 pm (more there than a borders store)...lots of walk in traffic etc...."
Here is his book on Amazon.com: http://www.amazon.com/These-Scars-Are-Sacred-Written/dp/1419627988/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1197906585&sr=8-1
Try and get creative about your own book concept and look for opportunities such as this.
Technorati Tags:
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Friday, November 30, 2007
Video for Book
I posted previously on how to make a trailer for your book. One of my authors recently did something of this nature where she took images from her book and put them to a music score and then listed this on YouTube. This can be an additional avenue for people to find out about your book and can also be a good tool to send to prospective television interviews.
"I created the videos in Windows Movie Maker, just using still photos (many of which are in my book). It was fairly straightforward and simple to do, and I was able to complete it in one afternoon."
Here is her link on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hB1iuyo9Mk4
Here is her link on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Born-Without-Tail-Ariel-Wulff/dp/1419664360/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1196435732&sr=8-1
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"I created the videos in Windows Movie Maker, just using still photos (many of which are in my book). It was fairly straightforward and simple to do, and I was able to complete it in one afternoon."
Here is her link on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hB1iuyo9Mk4
Here is her link on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Born-Without-Tail-Ariel-Wulff/dp/1419664360/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1196435732&sr=8-1
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marketing a self-published book, blogs to help me market a book, book marketing blogs, self-publishing blogs, should i self publish, marketing a self published book, book marketing tools, book marketing information, book marketing assistance, book marketing help, marketing books, self publishing, self-publishing, author marketing, book video, how to make a video for a book, marketing with a book trailer, marketing with a book trailor, what is a book trailor, what is a book trailer, how to create a book trailor, how to create a book trailer
Monday, November 5, 2007
Contest Opportunity
One of my authors has started a company offering contest opportunities to authors with cash prizes available.
Please click on this link to learn more about this opportunity: http://www.sumthingnew.com/writing
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Please click on this link to learn more about this opportunity: http://www.sumthingnew.com/writing
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Thursday, October 25, 2007
Know your book's online presence through Google Alerts
Google has a great program that allows you to be alerted every time a certain search term is inputted into Google. This allows you to be notified whenever someone searched for your name or possibly the name of your book so you can get an idea of what marketing efforts are building general interest in you and your book and which efforts generate little online traffic.
This program is free to use and you can find out more by going to www.google.com. Click on the “News” tab located directly above the Search tool. Then, click on the “News Alerts” link on the left panel. You can then enter “Search terms” and Google will send you a personal e-mail whenever these terms are found on the Web.
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This program is free to use and you can find out more by going to www.google.com. Click on the “News” tab located directly above the Search tool. Then, click on the “News Alerts” link on the left panel. You can then enter “Search terms” and Google will send you a personal e-mail whenever these terms are found on the Web.
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marketing a self-published book, blogs to help me market a book, book marketing blogs, self-publishing blogs, should i self publish, marketing a self published book, book marketing tools, book marketing information, book marketing assistance, book marketing help, marketing books, self publishing, self-publishing, author marketing
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Creating a Podio Book
One of the hottest new marketing waves to come over the book industry is the free podcast or podio book. It is virtually cost free and is a great way to create a fan base for your writing as they do not have to pay anything until they get a taste of what you are offering. The author to my knowledge to see great success with this technique is Scott Sigler. He has been releasing Podio books since 2005. His first podio book, EarthCore resulted in thousands of downloads, which later translated in to sales on Amazon and other online retailers. He’s continued to release serialized versions of all his books, and in the case of his book, Ancestor, he reached that much coveted top ten spot on Amazon. You can read more about Scott if you click here. He is a great example of a new breed of authors who are taking responsibility for the marketing of their book and finding success by utilizing creative ideas and innovative technology.
Click here to see an example of a Podcast from a top 5 book on Amazon.com: http://www.amazon.com/Am-America-So-Can-You/dp/0446580503/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/105-9159004-3086846?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1192048047&sr=1-1
If you want to make your own Podcast and get in the game, click here to find out how: http://www.newmediamusings.com/2005/02/how_to_podcast.html
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Click here to see an example of a Podcast from a top 5 book on Amazon.com: http://www.amazon.com/Am-America-So-Can-You/dp/0446580503/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/105-9159004-3086846?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1192048047&sr=1-1
If you want to make your own Podcast and get in the game, click here to find out how: http://www.newmediamusings.com/2005/02/how_to_podcast.html
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Creating a Book Trailer
A great new way to help market your book is to create a video trailer for your book. This can be used on your personal website, on www.youtube.com, and in your publicity packages that you are sending to TV stations. Here is an interview one of my colleagues held with an author of ours who has used this idea to successfully market her book.
SPA: Congratulations on the book and the video. Obviously the video is a reflection of the material in the book, but what kind of pre-production work went into it?
Author: Well, with virtually no budget there's not a ton of pre-production. Luckily, my background is live theatre and a bit of film so I had access to a lot of really talented people. For instance, my costume designer at the theatre built the gorgeous red cloaks (I use one for my readings now!) and my set designer made the actual flask for the Miist of Kalliope. However, this same kind of talent can be found working at fabric stores and paint shops, not to mention art schools. As for the sets, I have a room in my basement where there are no windows so it was perfect for creating dim, moody locations. Basically, I yanked out everything I had from my Halloween stuff...and let me tell you, as an official Halloween Freak, I had lots...and decorated the room like an old library. I made scrolls from dollar store parchment paper, used lots of candles and focused on tight shots as they would be easier to "make real". The fire was a total fluke. I had put flour on the book to look like dust and when I went to blow it off, it caught on the flame of the candle and made this awesome fire. Man, can't pay enough to get special effects like that! For the outside shots I just snuck into a cemetery not too far from my house, threw the cloaks on my sister and her two kids and said "walk". That was a laugh! I was also able to use a photography studio for a few hours. They had the big stone walls, which really helped for some shots.
SPA: Where did you find your actors?
The walking in cloaks is my sister and her kids. And then there's a shot of my nephew's eyeball and my niece reaching for an old teapot. The rest are me (opening the book, the creepy looking Simp) For the Simp I just used red food coloring, petroleum jelly and kleenex and mixed it all together to look like gross peeling, bloody skin. I think it worked as it freaked out my daughter! Oh, and I had a hideous wig! The growling teeth were my dog's.
SPA: The music is chilling and I think a key to the success of your video. Where did you find the music?
I was so very fortunate with the music. The composer in residence of your city's symphony caught wind of my project via a mutual friend and offered to do the music. How fantastic is that! Of course I said 'yes' or rather squealed 'YES!' and after viewing the rough cut of the video he composed this amazing score. I was blown away! I'll never forget hearing it for the first time. There I was crying with headphones on in the middle of this coffee shop. He'd just nailed it so perfectly! Obviously, this isn't something that will happen for everyone but there are many music options such as schools, free online stuff and even Garage Band.
SPA: What equipment did you use to shoot and edit the video?
We shot on digital video, with a pretty decent 3 chip camera. My friend did the editing on Final Cut Pro, which is a really accessible program. We got sound effects from free sites online and then he put it together, brilliantly I might add. But he has had quite a few years experience on the program. This is where I think the money should be spent.
SPA: How long did it take you to shoot and edit?
The shooting took two or maybe three days and about a week to edit.
SPA: Do you have any advice for other authors who may be thinking about putting a video trailer together for their books?
Well, I just did an interview with our local TV station and they were absolutely thrilled with all the 'stuff' I had for them to work with (book trailer, footage of readings, props, costumes etc). It made their job so much easier and made the entire story, not only longer (aka more air time, aka more exposure), but also much more interesting for viewers. Also, my readings are much more fun. I play the trailer on a giant screen (always supplied by the school or library) even before I enter. By the time I come in the kids are already with me. They're sold! And they can't wait for me to read more of what they've just seen. The book trailer has been absolutely my strongest marketing tool. It's a fantastic way of giving media a taster. This plus the website. I spent a lot of time and money on my website. Probably the most (aside from my book, of course:) But, keep in mind I am sharing with a demographic that has grown up 'virtual' so I wanted to impress them with the best of that. I think that, especially if an author is going POD, then a book trailer and website are essential. But don't go cheesy or cheap on the trailer. Do some research and some sniffing around at film schools. Do it right, the best way possible. A really bad trailer is worse than no trailer at all.
Thanks again for the opportunity to share with you, Richard. It was a real pleasure!
All the best,Kami
SPA: Thank you, Kami. Great advice and great video!
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SPA: Congratulations on the book and the video. Obviously the video is a reflection of the material in the book, but what kind of pre-production work went into it?
Author: Well, with virtually no budget there's not a ton of pre-production. Luckily, my background is live theatre and a bit of film so I had access to a lot of really talented people. For instance, my costume designer at the theatre built the gorgeous red cloaks (I use one for my readings now!) and my set designer made the actual flask for the Miist of Kalliope. However, this same kind of talent can be found working at fabric stores and paint shops, not to mention art schools. As for the sets, I have a room in my basement where there are no windows so it was perfect for creating dim, moody locations. Basically, I yanked out everything I had from my Halloween stuff...and let me tell you, as an official Halloween Freak, I had lots...and decorated the room like an old library. I made scrolls from dollar store parchment paper, used lots of candles and focused on tight shots as they would be easier to "make real". The fire was a total fluke. I had put flour on the book to look like dust and when I went to blow it off, it caught on the flame of the candle and made this awesome fire. Man, can't pay enough to get special effects like that! For the outside shots I just snuck into a cemetery not too far from my house, threw the cloaks on my sister and her two kids and said "walk". That was a laugh! I was also able to use a photography studio for a few hours. They had the big stone walls, which really helped for some shots.
SPA: Where did you find your actors?
The walking in cloaks is my sister and her kids. And then there's a shot of my nephew's eyeball and my niece reaching for an old teapot. The rest are me (opening the book, the creepy looking Simp) For the Simp I just used red food coloring, petroleum jelly and kleenex and mixed it all together to look like gross peeling, bloody skin. I think it worked as it freaked out my daughter! Oh, and I had a hideous wig! The growling teeth were my dog's.
SPA: The music is chilling and I think a key to the success of your video. Where did you find the music?
I was so very fortunate with the music. The composer in residence of your city's symphony caught wind of my project via a mutual friend and offered to do the music. How fantastic is that! Of course I said 'yes' or rather squealed 'YES!' and after viewing the rough cut of the video he composed this amazing score. I was blown away! I'll never forget hearing it for the first time. There I was crying with headphones on in the middle of this coffee shop. He'd just nailed it so perfectly! Obviously, this isn't something that will happen for everyone but there are many music options such as schools, free online stuff and even Garage Band.
SPA: What equipment did you use to shoot and edit the video?
We shot on digital video, with a pretty decent 3 chip camera. My friend did the editing on Final Cut Pro, which is a really accessible program. We got sound effects from free sites online and then he put it together, brilliantly I might add. But he has had quite a few years experience on the program. This is where I think the money should be spent.
SPA: How long did it take you to shoot and edit?
The shooting took two or maybe three days and about a week to edit.
SPA: Do you have any advice for other authors who may be thinking about putting a video trailer together for their books?
Well, I just did an interview with our local TV station and they were absolutely thrilled with all the 'stuff' I had for them to work with (book trailer, footage of readings, props, costumes etc). It made their job so much easier and made the entire story, not only longer (aka more air time, aka more exposure), but also much more interesting for viewers. Also, my readings are much more fun. I play the trailer on a giant screen (always supplied by the school or library) even before I enter. By the time I come in the kids are already with me. They're sold! And they can't wait for me to read more of what they've just seen. The book trailer has been absolutely my strongest marketing tool. It's a fantastic way of giving media a taster. This plus the website. I spent a lot of time and money on my website. Probably the most (aside from my book, of course:) But, keep in mind I am sharing with a demographic that has grown up 'virtual' so I wanted to impress them with the best of that. I think that, especially if an author is going POD, then a book trailer and website are essential. But don't go cheesy or cheap on the trailer. Do some research and some sniffing around at film schools. Do it right, the best way possible. A really bad trailer is worse than no trailer at all.
Thanks again for the opportunity to share with you, Richard. It was a real pleasure!
All the best,Kami
SPA: Thank you, Kami. Great advice and great video!
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Monday, August 27, 2007
Success Story - Why a Press Release matters
One of my author's recently chose to have a professionally written Press Release through our company and received some great feedback and landed on the front page of his local paper. A good press release in the right hands can be a good tool for getting the word out about your book.
Here are his comments in his own words:
I wanted to share my good news with you. Due to your skillfully written press release, my local news paper did a front page story and photo on me! Here is the link: http://www.snponline.com/
Here is the link to his story in case the front page has changed by the time you are viewing:
http://www.snponline.com/FRONT/Stories/1.HTML
Here is Mark's book on Amazon.com: http://www.amazon.com/Making-Preacher-Naked-Pulpit/dp/1419667939/ref=sr_1_2/103-7613588-2714267?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1188248959&sr=8-2
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Here are his comments in his own words:
I wanted to share my good news with you. Due to your skillfully written press release, my local news paper did a front page story and photo on me! Here is the link: http://www.snponline.com/
Here is the link to his story in case the front page has changed by the time you are viewing:
http://www.snponline.com/FRONT/Stories/1.HTML
Here is Mark's book on Amazon.com: http://www.amazon.com/Making-Preacher-Naked-Pulpit/dp/1419667939/ref=sr_1_2/103-7613588-2714267?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1188248959&sr=8-2
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Contest Opportunity - All Genres
Here is more detailed information about this contest:
LOS ANGELES (August 21, 2007)_ The 2007 DIY Book Festival has set Sept. 25,
2007 as the deadline for entry to its sixth annual celebration of independent authors and publishers.
This year, the DIY Book Festival is placing a special focus on the poetry, fan fiction, unpublished stories and comics/'zines categories. Special reduced entry rates, exclusive category cash prizes and special spotlights for select entries are among the plans.
The DIY Book Festival will consider self-published or independent publisher non-fiction, fiction, biography/autobiography, children's books, teenage, how-to, cookbooks, science fiction, audio/spoken word, photography, art, comics, 'zines, fan fiction, poetry and e-books published on or after Jan. 1, 2005. All entries must be in English and have been self-published or issued by an independent publishing house.
Our grand prize for the 2007 DIYBF Book of the Year is $1500 cash and a flight to the awards ceremony, held in October. All entrants receive free admission to the annual DIY Convention in Los Angeles each February and are eligible for special exhibition discounts at that event. Genre category winners will receive a combination of books, software and cash awards.
Submitted works will be judged by a panel of industry experts using the following criteria:
1) General excellence and the author's passion for telling a good story.
2) The unique use of guerilla marketing tactics to reach a wider audience.
This includes innovative marketing, merchandising, publicity tactics and other innovative methods of reaching an independent audience..
ENTRIES: Please classify your book and enter it in the following categories.Multiple entries must be accompanied by a separate fee for each book.
1) General Non-fiction
2) General Fiction
3) Children's books
4) How-to
5) E-books (word or .pdf file acceptable)
6) Comics
7) 'zines
8) Photography
9) Fan Fiction
10) Poetry
11) Art
12) Teenage
13) Biography/Autobiography
14) Audio/spoken word
15) Compilations/Anthologies
16) Best Unpublished Short Story
17) Cookbooks
18) Science Fiction
In addition to honoring the top selections in the above categories, The DIY Book Festival will award the following chosen from submissions:
1) DIY Author of the Year-Honors the outstanding book of the competition.
2) DIY Book Design of the Year --- Honors outstanding and innovative design.
3) DIY Independent Publisher of the Year-Honors the top publisher based on materials displaying excellence in marketing and promotional materials, as determined by our judges.
FESTIVAL RULES: DIY Book Festival submissions cannot be returned. Each entry must contain the official entry form, including your e-mail address and contact telephone number. All shipping and handling costs must be borne by entrants.
NOTIFICATION AND DEADLINES: We will notify each entry of the receipt of their package via e-mail and will announce the winning entries on our web site (www.diyconvention.com). Because of the anticipated high volume of entries, we can only respond to e-mail inquiries.
Deadline submissions in each category must be postmarked by the close of business on Sept. 25, 2007. Winners in each category will be notified by e-mail. Please note that judges read and consider submissions on an ongoing basis, comparing early entries with later submissions at our meetings.
TO ENTER: Entry forms are available online at www.diyconvention.com or may be faxed/e-mailed to you. Please contact our office for fax requests.
Applications must be accompanied by a non-refundable entry fee of $10-$50 (see entry form drop-down menu for specific category prices) in the form of a check, money order or PayPal online payment in U.S. dollars for each submission. Multiple submissions are permitted but each entry must be accompanied by a separate form and entry fee.
You can also enter the contest by phone by calling 323-665-8080 between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Pacific time.
Entry fee checks should be made payable to JM Northern Media LLC. We're sorry, but entries must be mailed and cannot be delivered in person or by messenger services to the JM Northern Media offices.
Entry packages should include:
1) One copy of the book;
2) Your official entry form or a copy;
3) The entry fee or receipt for online payment;
4) Any marketing materials you wish to send. Marketing is used as a tie-breaking consideration by our judges.
Entries should be mailed to:
JM Northern Media LLC
attn: DIY Book Festival
7095 Hollywood Boulevard
Suite 864
Hollywood, CA 90028-0893
Phone: 323-665-8080
AWARDS: The DIY Book Festival selection committee reserves the right to determine the eligibility of any project.
The 2007 DIY Book Festival is part of the DIY Convention: Do It Yourself in Film, Music & Books, which also produces the DIY Film Festival and the DIY Music Festival. The 2007 DIY Book Festival is sponsored by Final Draft Screenplay Software; The Hollywood Creative Directory; Imagic; Alcasid.com and The DIY Reporter.com.
I hope you do well and do let me know if you win or place in any category!
Technorati Tags:
marketing help for my book, help me market my book, online book marketing tools, book contests, book awards, win a book award, fiction book contests
LOS ANGELES (August 21, 2007)_ The 2007 DIY Book Festival has set Sept. 25,
2007 as the deadline for entry to its sixth annual celebration of independent authors and publishers.
This year, the DIY Book Festival is placing a special focus on the poetry, fan fiction, unpublished stories and comics/'zines categories. Special reduced entry rates, exclusive category cash prizes and special spotlights for select entries are among the plans.
The DIY Book Festival will consider self-published or independent publisher non-fiction, fiction, biography/autobiography, children's books, teenage, how-to, cookbooks, science fiction, audio/spoken word, photography, art, comics, 'zines, fan fiction, poetry and e-books published on or after Jan. 1, 2005. All entries must be in English and have been self-published or issued by an independent publishing house.
Our grand prize for the 2007 DIYBF Book of the Year is $1500 cash and a flight to the awards ceremony, held in October. All entrants receive free admission to the annual DIY Convention in Los Angeles each February and are eligible for special exhibition discounts at that event. Genre category winners will receive a combination of books, software and cash awards.
Submitted works will be judged by a panel of industry experts using the following criteria:
1) General excellence and the author's passion for telling a good story.
2) The unique use of guerilla marketing tactics to reach a wider audience.
This includes innovative marketing, merchandising, publicity tactics and other innovative methods of reaching an independent audience..
ENTRIES: Please classify your book and enter it in the following categories.Multiple entries must be accompanied by a separate fee for each book.
1) General Non-fiction
2) General Fiction
3) Children's books
4) How-to
5) E-books (word or .pdf file acceptable)
6) Comics
7) 'zines
8) Photography
9) Fan Fiction
10) Poetry
11) Art
12) Teenage
13) Biography/Autobiography
14) Audio/spoken word
15) Compilations/Anthologies
16) Best Unpublished Short Story
17) Cookbooks
18) Science Fiction
In addition to honoring the top selections in the above categories, The DIY Book Festival will award the following chosen from submissions:
1) DIY Author of the Year-Honors the outstanding book of the competition.
2) DIY Book Design of the Year --- Honors outstanding and innovative design.
3) DIY Independent Publisher of the Year-Honors the top publisher based on materials displaying excellence in marketing and promotional materials, as determined by our judges.
FESTIVAL RULES: DIY Book Festival submissions cannot be returned. Each entry must contain the official entry form, including your e-mail address and contact telephone number. All shipping and handling costs must be borne by entrants.
NOTIFICATION AND DEADLINES: We will notify each entry of the receipt of their package via e-mail and will announce the winning entries on our web site (www.diyconvention.com). Because of the anticipated high volume of entries, we can only respond to e-mail inquiries.
Deadline submissions in each category must be postmarked by the close of business on Sept. 25, 2007. Winners in each category will be notified by e-mail. Please note that judges read and consider submissions on an ongoing basis, comparing early entries with later submissions at our meetings.
TO ENTER: Entry forms are available online at www.diyconvention.com or may be faxed/e-mailed to you. Please contact our office for fax requests.
Applications must be accompanied by a non-refundable entry fee of $10-$50 (see entry form drop-down menu for specific category prices) in the form of a check, money order or PayPal online payment in U.S. dollars for each submission. Multiple submissions are permitted but each entry must be accompanied by a separate form and entry fee.
You can also enter the contest by phone by calling 323-665-8080 between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Pacific time.
Entry fee checks should be made payable to JM Northern Media LLC. We're sorry, but entries must be mailed and cannot be delivered in person or by messenger services to the JM Northern Media offices.
Entry packages should include:
1) One copy of the book;
2) Your official entry form or a copy;
3) The entry fee or receipt for online payment;
4) Any marketing materials you wish to send. Marketing is used as a tie-breaking consideration by our judges.
Entries should be mailed to:
JM Northern Media LLC
attn: DIY Book Festival
7095 Hollywood Boulevard
Suite 864
Hollywood, CA 90028-0893
Phone: 323-665-8080
AWARDS: The DIY Book Festival selection committee reserves the right to determine the eligibility of any project.
The 2007 DIY Book Festival is part of the DIY Convention: Do It Yourself in Film, Music & Books, which also produces the DIY Film Festival and the DIY Music Festival. The 2007 DIY Book Festival is sponsored by Final Draft Screenplay Software; The Hollywood Creative Directory; Imagic; Alcasid.com and The DIY Reporter.com.
I hope you do well and do let me know if you win or place in any category!
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marketing help for my book, help me market my book, online book marketing tools, book contests, book awards, win a book award, fiction book contests
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Bookstore Returns Program
A bookstore returns program is something I advise to authors with a high degree of caution. It is always a more profitable option to focus on direct selling to customers and online sales, but many authors want to establish a bookstore presence as well. I suggest going directly to Baker and Taylor to set up as an individual vendor with them. Here is some information on how to do this:
Link: http://www.btol.com/inf_details.cfm?id=193
Email: pubsvc@btol.com.
Again, this is not something I advise doing as a general rule and if you have any questions on a returns program feel free to email. It is important to remember that this will not make any bookstore order your book - it only makes it less of a hassle for them to do so.
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Link: http://www.btol.com/inf_details.cfm?id=193
Email: pubsvc@btol.com.
Again, this is not something I advise doing as a general rule and if you have any questions on a returns program feel free to email. It is important to remember that this will not make any bookstore order your book - it only makes it less of a hassle for them to do so.
Technorati Tags:
marketing a self-published book, blogs to help me market a book, book marketing blogs, self-publishing blogs, should i self publish, marketing a self published book, book marketing tools, book marketing information, book marketing assistance, book marketing help, marketing books, self publishing, self-publishing, author marketing, returnable status, how to get a returnable status, make a self published book returnable, how do i get my book into a bookstore, getting my book into a bookstore
Monday, August 20, 2007
Success Story - Getting a local appeal
Paige Cummings is one of my authors who has done very well at attracting a local appeal for her book. She has also found that combining her marketing efforts with other self-published authors has made the experience more enjoyable and productive.
In her own words:
I have learned that marketing is critical, and it is a lot more fun when you are doing it with other people. Dac Crossley, another BookSurge author, is a close friend and writing buddy. We, with six other writing buddy pals, created a loose coalition called Southern Scribes. As a group we actively market and promote each other's works. One of our initial successes came at the Comer, Georgia Farmer's Market. Dac and I each sold ten books the first time out, and they have invited us back for any Saturday we wish to come. While there we networked with an individual who is responsible for "unusual" vendors for another (larger) Farmer's Market, and we will be doing booksignings there. We have made it into the newspapers three times so far-- one article on the Southern Scribes, one article on the Harriette Austin Writer's Conference and one photograph of Dac and I each donating a copy of our books to the Madison County Library. >From those three articles, we have been invited to two festivals for book-signings, two libraries for book-signings and to an art gallery for a combination art-show, book-signing and story telling.
My best piece of luck came when an old friend in my hometown (where Under the Liberty Oak is set) read my book while visiting her mother in the hospital. She told her husband, who happens to be an AP columnist-- he emailed about 200 people in his list who like his short stories and essays-- and told them about the book. Said that they might find some of their own pranks in print. And he also contacted the Brunswick, Georgia newspaper-- I am going to be a featured article in the bi-monthly magazine "Coastal Times."
Her and her husband also actively contact independent bookstores, local gift shops, and have taken out ads in free circulations.
You can find Under the Liberty Oak on Amazon.com at the following link: http://www.amazon.com/Under-Liberty-Oak-Paige-Cummings/dp/1419668013/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/103-7613588-2714267?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1187622536&sr=8-1
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marketing a self-published book, blogs to help me market a book, book marketing blogs, self-publishing blogs, should i self publish, marketing a self published book, book marketing tools, book marketing information, book marketing assistance, book marketing help, marketing books, self publishing, self-publishing, author marketing
In her own words:
I have learned that marketing is critical, and it is a lot more fun when you are doing it with other people. Dac Crossley, another BookSurge author, is a close friend and writing buddy. We, with six other writing buddy pals, created a loose coalition called Southern Scribes. As a group we actively market and promote each other's works. One of our initial successes came at the Comer, Georgia Farmer's Market. Dac and I each sold ten books the first time out, and they have invited us back for any Saturday we wish to come. While there we networked with an individual who is responsible for "unusual" vendors for another (larger) Farmer's Market, and we will be doing booksignings there. We have made it into the newspapers three times so far-- one article on the Southern Scribes, one article on the Harriette Austin Writer's Conference and one photograph of Dac and I each donating a copy of our books to the Madison County Library. >From those three articles, we have been invited to two festivals for book-signings, two libraries for book-signings and to an art gallery for a combination art-show, book-signing and story telling.
My best piece of luck came when an old friend in my hometown (where Under the Liberty Oak is set) read my book while visiting her mother in the hospital. She told her husband, who happens to be an AP columnist-- he emailed about 200 people in his list who like his short stories and essays-- and told them about the book. Said that they might find some of their own pranks in print. And he also contacted the Brunswick, Georgia newspaper-- I am going to be a featured article in the bi-monthly magazine "Coastal Times."
Her and her husband also actively contact independent bookstores, local gift shops, and have taken out ads in free circulations.
You can find Under the Liberty Oak on Amazon.com at the following link: http://www.amazon.com/Under-Liberty-Oak-Paige-Cummings/dp/1419668013/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/103-7613588-2714267?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1187622536&sr=8-1
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marketing a self-published book, blogs to help me market a book, book marketing blogs, self-publishing blogs, should i self publish, marketing a self published book, book marketing tools, book marketing information, book marketing assistance, book marketing help, marketing books, self publishing, self-publishing, author marketing
Thursday, August 2, 2007
Coffee And Books
A co-worker of mine provided this idea to some of his authors and it worked well so do read below and see if you think it might be a good idea for you!
What goes better with a book than a good cup of coffee? It’s a natural fit. How many coffee shops have you approached to do a book signing? Chances are if you live in or near a metropolitan area you are within short driving distance of a coffee shop. I’m not talking about a coffee shop in a bookstore. I’m talking about a free-standing neighborhood coffee shop. They specialize in serving a loyal customer base, and that loyal customer base is your demographic.
Here’s your assignment. Walk into your local coffee bar, order your favorite brew, and hand the manager a copy of your book. Let him or her know that you are available for a signing anytime and you are going to be doing some heavy marketing. If the manager’s not there, ask for his or her business card and send them a signed copy of your book and include a brief note outlining your proposal for the book signing. Stress your greatest asset, you’re a local author.
Now you’re ready for the coffee shop tour. Make sure you have plenty of books on hand.
Happy marketing!
Technorati Tags:
marketing a self-published book, blogs to help me market a book, book marketing blogs, self-publishing blogs, should i self publish, marketing a self published book, book marketing tools, book marketing information, book marketing assistance, book marketing help, marketing books, self publishing, self-publishing, author marketing
What goes better with a book than a good cup of coffee? It’s a natural fit. How many coffee shops have you approached to do a book signing? Chances are if you live in or near a metropolitan area you are within short driving distance of a coffee shop. I’m not talking about a coffee shop in a bookstore. I’m talking about a free-standing neighborhood coffee shop. They specialize in serving a loyal customer base, and that loyal customer base is your demographic.
Here’s your assignment. Walk into your local coffee bar, order your favorite brew, and hand the manager a copy of your book. Let him or her know that you are available for a signing anytime and you are going to be doing some heavy marketing. If the manager’s not there, ask for his or her business card and send them a signed copy of your book and include a brief note outlining your proposal for the book signing. Stress your greatest asset, you’re a local author.
Now you’re ready for the coffee shop tour. Make sure you have plenty of books on hand.
Happy marketing!
Technorati Tags:
marketing a self-published book, blogs to help me market a book, book marketing blogs, self-publishing blogs, should i self publish, marketing a self published book, book marketing tools, book marketing information, book marketing assistance, book marketing help, marketing books, self publishing, self-publishing, author marketing
Monday, July 23, 2007
Publishing's Transition to Online Marketing
I found this lengthy article on online marketing strategies by major publishers http://www.publishersweekly.com/article/CA6417182.html?q=unique+marketing. The article focuses on YA and children's books titles, but I think it can be applied to virtually every genre. It focuses on the transition by many mainstream publishers to online marketing techniques as more and more transactions are taking place through online channels. I would read through the article and see if some of the strategies might work for your book. It is also a good indicator that even traditional publishers are seeing more of a shift to online sales and developing an online presence.
The highlights: Over the past 12-18 months (article was posted in Feb) - there has been a major shift by trad publishers to online marketing. A recent Pew Internet and American Life Project poll discovered that 21 million teens are spending their afternoons after school online. Some publishers are devoting as much as 70% of their over-all marketing budget for a title to online strategies. Those strategies include: "re-energizing a Web site (or developing a new one) or ramping up tech knowledge to create campaigns utilizing blogs, podcasts, instant messaging, viral marketing campaigns, video sharing, ads on third-party URLs, video book trailers and social networking sites like MySpace"
Technorati Tags:
marketing a self-published book, blogs to help me market a book, book marketing blogs, self-publishing blogs, should i self publish, marketing a self published book, book marketing tools, book marketing information, book marketing assistance, book marketing help, marketing books, self publishing, self-publishing, author marketing
The highlights: Over the past 12-18 months (article was posted in Feb) - there has been a major shift by trad publishers to online marketing. A recent Pew Internet and American Life Project poll discovered that 21 million teens are spending their afternoons after school online. Some publishers are devoting as much as 70% of their over-all marketing budget for a title to online strategies. Those strategies include: "re-energizing a Web site (or developing a new one) or ramping up tech knowledge to create campaigns utilizing blogs, podcasts, instant messaging, viral marketing campaigns, video sharing, ads on third-party URLs, video book trailers and social networking sites like MySpace"
Technorati Tags:
marketing a self-published book, blogs to help me market a book, book marketing blogs, self-publishing blogs, should i self publish, marketing a self published book, book marketing tools, book marketing information, book marketing assistance, book marketing help, marketing books, self publishing, self-publishing, author marketing
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