A Book Promotion Novice

Having sold a copy of “Ill Conceived” to all the people who know me personally that were interested enough to buy it, I am now wondering how to publicise it more widely. Despite the advice and support of other indie authors (who I am now getting to know quite well) this is a daunting prospect which doesn’t come naturally to me.

Two recent experiences were very different. My first book talk, to the delightful retirement group in my local library (Rosehill in Ipswich: Rosehill Library - Suffolk Community Libraries )resulted in the sale of nearly all the books I had brought with me. The staff were hugely supportive, joining in and asking lots of questions, the creative writing exercise proved to be hilarious and there were several interesting reminiscences about life in the 1990s. I have now been recommended as a speaker another library group (on the 24th August at Gainsborough Library, Ipswich).

The second experience, where I tried to sell the book in a craft fair, was only enjoyable because I met some other very nice stallholders. I was also trying to sell crafts (this is my other passion) and the only thing I sold was a necklace to a very supportive friend. I can console myself a little knowing that some other stall holders sold as little as I did.

This hasn’t deterred me from booking myself into other events; The Saints Market in Ipswich on 21st June, (Street Markets — The Saints Ipswich ) The Foreword festival in Stowmarket on the 11th July (Front Page - Foreword Festival) and Ipswich Microshops Summer Fair on the 15th August. I am hoping that I can sell some crafts as well- the keyrings and bag hangs come free with the book, and of course the books will be signed with your own personalised message!