What I Learned At Tonight's Book Event

I did an event tonight with two other authors: Caro Soles and Rick Blechta.  This was my first multi-author event and I was lucky to be paired with two established writers.


Caro Soles has written and edited a number of mysteries, such as A Tangled Boy, Drag Queen in the Court of Death, Blood on the Holly; plus fantasy and other works.  http://www.carosoles.com/


Rick Blechta is the author of several mysteries, including The Lark Ascending, Cemetery of the Nameless, and A Case of You.  http://www.rickblechta.com/


So, these two know the ropes about events and readings and signings.  I learned a thing or two from a couple of seasoned pros.


1.  When it comes to reading from your own book, you can read any part; you need not begin at page one.


2.  Unless you're good at doing voices, select a passge that doesn't contain a lot of dialogue.


3.  If doing events with other authors, don't be shy about shamelessly promoting them - give them a shout out... it's pay itself back :)


4.  It may be worthwhile to get someone to read with you (i.e. if the passage has a lot of dialogue).


5.  Not all bookstores are created equally.  Authors will tell you - based on their own experiences - which stores do more to promote you and to publicize the event.


6.  When doing a reading, don't be afraid to skip parts.  Some words, sentences or paragraphs sound fine when you read silently, when it's just in your head, but don't work as well with a live audience.


So, there you go.  The bottom line - if you're a new author - is BE A SPONGE!  Soak up all the tidbits and advice established authors offer.  You never know what's going to work, but it's sure nice learning from those with experience.