Publication - Book Signings Conclusions

11 February 2012, Publication - Book Signings Conclusions

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along.  I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them.  I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1.  Have a website for your novel.
2.  Write a blog.
3.  Advertise.
4.  Literary awards.
5.  Book cards.
6.  Contests.
7.  Interviews.
8.  Blog tours.
9.  Press releases.
10.  Speaking and teaching.
11.  e-mailing.
12.  Gifts.
13.  Book signings.
14.  Book trailers
15.  ...

I'll try to wrap up book signings today.  There is certainly much more that can be written about book signings.  I do them all the time.  I'm happy to do them, but I don't plan to accomplish book signings just as book signings.  I suggest you do the same.  I haven't found them to be very helpful by themselves, but they work well as a part of another event. 

Make sure you have a unique method of signing that is still easy to do.  Remember to ask, smile, sign, smile, and present.  Interact with your readers and buyers.  Give them a reason to buy and to read your book(s).  Present your writing in the best light and make sure you are an expert in the topic of your book--this is an idea from before, I'm just uncovering it again.  By the way, sign with a flourish.  After all, it is your creation.
 
I'll move on to book trailers tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - and even still more on Book Signings

10 February 2012, Publication - and even still more on Book Signings

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along.  I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them.  I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1.  Have a website for your novel.
2.  Write a blog.
3.  Advertise.
4.  Literary awards.
5.  Book cards.
6.  Contests.
7.  Interviews.
8.  Blog tours.
9.  Press releases.
10.  Speaking and teaching.
11.  e-mailing.
12.  Gifts.
13.  Book signings.
14.  Book trailers
15.  ...

I'm writing so much about book signings because there is always author interest in this topic.  Personally, I haven't found book signings themselves to be very lucrative or successful.  I have found bundling book signings with other events to be very helpful.  For example, when I teach classes, I always offer my books for sale, and I always offer to sign the books.  When I do a talk, I offer books for sale, and I sign them.  When I sell books at a store or at a bazaar, I offer to sign the books.  The people who come aren't necessarily interested in the signing, they are interested in the book, and a secondary consideration is the signing.

So, if you want to take a lesson from this, don't necessarily have book signings--offer a talk, a reading, a class, perhaps a meet the author, and as a side note, sign books.  This little observation goes along with the note on books versus topics.  Remember, I wrote that you will likely never get an interview based on your book, rather people will be interested in the topic of your book.  Your book isn't usually the draw, it is the topic.  Likewise, people are not interested in your signature, they are interested in your book.  Sell them your book, and they will want a signature.
 
I'll try to finish up about book signings tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - and still more on Book Signings

9 February 2012, Publication - and still more on Book Signings

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along.  I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them.  I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1.  Have a website for your novel.
2.  Write a blog.
3.  Advertise.
4.  Literary awards.
5.  Book cards.
6.  Contests.
7.  Interviews.
8.  Blog tours.
9.  Press releases.
10.  Speaking and teaching.
11.  e-mailing.
12.  Gifts.
13.  Book signings.
14.  Book trailers
15.  ...

If your books are not distributed through a standard wholesaler, you will have problems placing your books in nationwide bookstores and you will have problems getting a book signing at these kinds of stores.  On the other hand, many independent bookstores will usually be willing to support a book signing and potentially a consignment placement for your books.  You won't make much if any money this way.  Of course the point isn't making money--it is advertising.

Independent bookstores are a great resource for indies and nonstandard distributed publishing (read POD here).  The problem with indie bookstores is they are looking to get their cut, and you won't get much or you might be paying for the privilege.  Many indie bookstores will charge you to have a signing event in their stores.  You might find yourself out $50 to $250 just for the signing.  When you make a deal like this with a bookstore, you can get some great play if they advertise and market for you.  Sometimes the $50 to $250 just buys tea and cookies and you still have to run all (or most of) the advertising.
 
I'll write more about the details (where and when) of book signings tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - still more on Book Signings

8 February 2012, Publication - still more on Book Signings

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along.  I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them.  I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1.  Have a website for your novel.
2.  Write a blog.
3.  Advertise.
4.  Literary awards.
5.  Book cards.
6.  Contests.
7.  Interviews.
8.  Blog tours.
9.  Press releases.
10.  Speaking and teaching.
11.  e-mailing.
12.  Gifts.
13.  Book signings.
14.  Book trailers
15.  ...

There is still much more to discuss about book signings.  I mentioned before everywhere, but that isn't a sufficient answer.  Most people expect book signings to be set up in a book store with some big hoopla.  Well, unless you are a best seller, don't expect any hoopla at all.  All the hoopla has to come from you.

The simplest way to get a book signing at a book store is if your publisher has a standard agreement with a bookstore supplier like Ingram.  If this agreement exists, it is very easy to get your books into a bookstore and to have a book signing.  The reason is that a bookstore is not usually willing to take on an indie seller or a writer whose books can't be bought at standard wholesale with guaranteed return.  I've talked about this before.  If your books are standard distribution, it is not difficult to call a bookstore and set up a book signing.  Just give them time to get copies of your book and begin advertising.  The bookstore might provide some advertising for you, but unless you are famous as an author, you won't get much, if any, play in the papers, radio, or TV.  You have to generate the advertising and excitement.  It can be very helpful to discuss this with the bookstore, but don't expect much help or advise.
 
I'll write more about the details (where and when) of book signings tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - and even more on Book Signings

7 February 2012, Publication - and even more on Book Signings

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along.  I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them.  I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1.  Have a website for your novel.
2.  Write a blog.
3.  Advertise.
4.  Literary awards.
5.  Book cards.
6.  Contests.
7.  Interviews.
8.  Blog tours.
9.  Press releases.
10.  Speaking and teaching.
11.  e-mailing.
12.  Gifts.
13.  Book signings.
14.  Book trailers
15.  ...

The type of signature I use automatically generates conversation.  As I mentioned, I always sign an ancient Greek greeting "Charis" in Greek and then my signature.  I can generate conversation by simply explaining the reason for the signature.  This little bit of information intrigues and excites people.  First, you've given them a secret.  Second, you've taught them something very special and unique about history and a language.  Third, you've provided them with a piece of information they can share with their friends.  When they tell their friends about my books, I assure you they will tell the story of the signature and want to show their friends the signature and the Greek word.  If they happen to show it to a Greek speaker or a person who knows Greek, they will get a confirmation of my knowledge of history. You can see that a signature becomes a means of proving knowledge and providing knowledge. 

In developing my signature, I thought about many other methods of presentation, but settled on this as the best means to make my point--long after the signing is over. 
I'll talk about the details (where and when) of book signings tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - even even more on Book Signings

6 February 2012, Publication - even even more on Book Signings

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along.  I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them.  I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1.  Have a website for your novel.
2.  Write a blog.
3.  Advertise.
4.  Literary awards.
5.  Book cards.
6.  Contests.
7.  Interviews.
8.  Blog tours.
9.  Press releases.
10.  Speaking and teaching.
11.  e-mailing.
12.  Gifts.
13.  Book signings.
14.  Book trailers
15.  ...

When you have time during a book signing, you can speak with your readers and take your time with the signatures.  I have a signature that I use all the time.  It doesn't take long to write, and it is very specific to me and my writing.  Since much of my writing is about linguistics and history, and one of my books is about ancient Greece, I sign all my books with an ancient Greek greeting.  I use the word "Charis," and I write it in Greek and sign my name below it.  If I have time, I'll also date the signature.  If I have lots of time, I'll ask the buyer if they want a special dedication. 

When you write a special dedication, make certain you write out the name on a spare piece of paper first.  Check with the requester that you have the name spelled correctly.  Only then should you write.  Even if the name sounds common, you should follow these directions.  This way you won't accidentally sign the wrong name or misspell a name.

Remember, ask, write, present.  Smile the whole time.  I'll explain how I use my signature to generate conversation and cement expertise, tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - even more on Book Signings

5 February 2012, Publication - even more on Book Signings

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along.  I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them.  I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1.  Have a website for your novel.
2.  Write a blog.
3.  Advertise.
4.  Literary awards.
5.  Book cards.
6.  Contests.
7.  Interviews.
8.  Blog tours.
9.  Press releases.
10.  Speaking and teaching.
11.  e-mailing.
12.  Gifts.
13.  Book signings.
14.  Book trailers
15.  ...

We discussed the how and where of signing books--at least I told you what I do and what I've observed in making book signings.  The big question is what should you write.  If you are a bestseller and have thousands (or at least hundreds) at your book signings, you might contemplate just signing your name.  Many authors shorten their full signature to something simple.  The reason you shorten and write simply is because you have to write quickly.  When you sign a book this is the approach:

1.  If they didn't ask or it isn't obvious, look them in the eyes and ask, "Would you like me to sign your book?"
2.  If the say yes, open to the page you usually sign.  Sign it.
3.  Hold the book out with it opened to the signed page, look the person in the eyes, and while handing them the book say, "Thank you."

Follow this basic pattern and the world will be good.  If you have more time, you don't have enormous crowds, or you just want to/need to make more of a mark...
I'll write about that tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - more on Book Signings

4 February 2012, Publication - more on Book Signings

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along.  I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them.  I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1.  Have a website for your novel.
2.  Write a blog.
3.  Advertise.
4.  Literary awards.
5.  Book cards.
6.  Contests.
7.  Interviews.
8.  Blog tours.
9.  Press releases.
10.  Speaking and teaching.
11.  e-mailing.
12.  Gifts.
13.  Book signings.
14.  Book trailers
15.  ...

Where should you sign a book?  The usual place is inside the cover on the title page.  The title page is the very first page in the book.  I don't sign the title page--I sign the dedications page.  There is a reason for this.  First, the dedication is for the entire book.  It's basically a throwaway page, but it is where the author makes his official declaratory statements for dedicating the book.  Plus there is lots of room on that page.  The title page usually has some space, but not a whole lot.  Everyone uses the title page.  When someone writes their name in a book--it's usually on the title page.  When someone signs a book as a gift (not the author)--it's usually on the title page.  I use the dedication page.  If you buy one of my used novels and you find a signature on the dedication page--it will be mine.

What should you write? I'll write about that tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Book Signings

3 February 2012, Publication - Book Signings

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along.  I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them.  I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1.  Have a website for your novel.
2.  Write a blog.
3.  Advertise.
4.  Literary awards.
5.  Book cards.
6.  Contests.
7.  Interviews.
8.  Blog tours.
9.  Press releases.
10.  Speaking and teaching.
11.  e-mailing.
12.  Gifts.
13.  Book signings.
14.  Book trailers
15.  ...

Book signings come in many varieties, but you can categorize them broadly as two types.  The first is when you sell or give away a book and you just sign it.  The second is when you actually work through some venue (usually a store) and sell and sign books.

The first is the easiest--let's talk about signing books.  A big bold marker that doesn't bleed through book pages is the best tool for signing.  I should use that, but I don't.  I use a 1mm (thick) gel tip or rolling ball.  They don't bleed, and they make a thick black line (I like blue best, but I usually don't get too picky).  The point is that you want the tool (pen) you use to make a dark thick mark.  Pick a tool you like and keep it nearby and with your books.  The reason--every time you sell or give away a book, give the person you are giving the book to an option to sign the book.  I've never had anyone ask me not to sign a book for them, but you should ask--especially if they bought it from you.  Remember, don't irritate your readers.

The next question is where and what.  I'll write about that tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.