I have two book signings scheduled for next week. I'll be promoting my children's book, so even though that might be a bit different than a book for grownups, perhaps some of you can tell me - what elements make up a successful book signing?

I'm planning to have bookmarks and some flyers prepared. I'm taking plenty of business cards. What else? These are both in book stores. Do you meander through the store? Do you dance or sing? Nah, I'm kidding. although I might resort that soon! LOL!

Donna

Plant some good friends in the store to "wander" up and gush, in a loud voice...."oh Topsy Turvy Land...my son/daughter loves that book, I'm going to buy one for my neice/nephew...." or "Donna Shepherd, I've read your work...what's your book about???"

if that fails, dance or sing

(DISCLAIMER - All of the above advice does not come from a real author, I only play one on TV - nor have I had a book signing yet, so have no idea what makes a succesful book signing, but I'm hoping to have one next month and will therefore borrow whatever really good ideas appear in this post)

oh, ya, and make sure you add a real loud "squuueeeelll"! that will get some attention for you!

D.

Have the book store advertise. Invite every friend you have. Contact your local writers group and let them know about it. Contact churches in your area. And, have fun and relax.

....and breath!

(sorry)

D.
qw

If you are like me, you would look like you were dancing to a tune you heard last week. Nix the dance thang...

Don't over do it on your table setup. Less is more. Make sure you have plenty of books displayed (I know, no brainer, but I needed to say it), send out an announcement to your mailing list a week ahead of time. Make sure the local paper has it in there, and call and asked them if they will come and do a shoot for the next day's issue. Mine did without my asking. The bookstore called them and asked. I made "teasers" up for stories in my book and gave them away... DON'T DO CANDY AND SUCH. Not for a book signing. Personally, I think that is a waste of time. Others may feel differently. Have a yellow sticky pad nearby so when someone tells you they want the book autographed to SIMBOBWANDA... you can say, "Oh what a lovely name! How about writing that down for me right here so I make sure I spell it correctly." Then shove the yellow sticky and pen over to them. Don't have drinks or food around. Accidents happen and its usually with someone's child who has an ice cream cone or something like it. Ask Pam Kimmell what can happen...eeek!

Of course have plenty of supplies on hand. Extra pens, business cards, bookmarks, bookplates, and you might want to consider having a guestbook. I do. It says at the top, "Name, Address, Email." This way I can say "thank you" later and follow up. I also had a little mesh bag with a zipper so if anyone gave me a business card of their own (and they did) for say, future speaking gigs, you have a safe place to put it and don't loose it!

Be ready when someone says, "and what is your book about." Have it down to two sentences! That's about how long you have before their interest wanders...

Just a few tidbits.

JJ

Great advice here Donna from your fellow writers - JJ's right about people putting drinks/food down on your table though - WATCH OUT! The last signing I went to someone spilled a whole cup of coffee over my books AND the two other authors (one of who had a $46.00 coffee table book!!) - the guy who spilled bought the "ruined" books but KEEP YOUR EYES OPEN!!! LOL

Above all - HAVE FUN....do what feels right for you - stand out in front of your table and be "accessible" to the public - shake hands - JJ's right about having a short "what my book is about" ready for those who ask. They WILL ask.

ENJOY and let us know how things go Donna! WOO HOO!

Put something out to draw people to your table. A large dish of candy usually works. Good luck!

Kelly

If your book is for kids, you might consider advertising your event (yes, it's an event, not just a booksigning) as a reading. Advertise to parents to bring along their children. Take five minutes and read part of your book. You'll hook the kids, who'll then beg their parents to buy the book for them.

Make sure you wear a nametag so that everyone knows you're the author.

Oh, and find out where the bathrooms are. You're gonna be asked.

I knew you were the group to ask! These are great ideas and suggestions.

And I'll find out where the restrooms are.

Donna