My twelfth published book comes out May 28. It’s called Ghostwriter. Along with writing the follow-up supernatural thriller for my publisher, I’m in the process of starting to plan signings and events for this book. I hope to do more booksignings for Ghostwriter than any other book before it. I’ll do them in the Chicago area, of course, along with the Carolinas. I’m also working on a longer tour to do for this.
There’s a part of me that would love to not have to do any of this. Brad Pitt was quoted recently as wishing he didn’t have to “hawk his wares” when it came to marketing his movie. In a sense, he doesn’t have to–he creates enough publicity as is. But when you’re an author many people haven’t heard of continuing to build a name for himself, every little thing helps. In the words of Depeche Mode, everything counts in small amounts. So booksignings where I sell a dozen or 20 or 30 books are great because I interact with people and have them to get know a little more about myself and my work.
Stay tuned on this blog and on my website for upcoming events. If you’re a fan and would love to have me come to your area (wherever that might be), please let me know. If you are close to an area and can come to one of my events, please come. I’m proud of my work and continue to get affirmation on it, so I don’t feel bad wanting to share that with others.
We’ll have some dates up soon so stay tuned.
20 to 30 books sold at a signing sounds very good in light of what I’ve heard.
Are you a “sit behind the table” or a “walk around and mingle” guy?
For most authors (unless you’re a huge name), that is good. And sometimes I only sell a dozen while other times I might do better than 30. I usually sit at the table. I don’t want to be overbearing or scare people. Sitting behind the table usually allows people to feel a little safer (though I always get asked if I’m the author, if that’s my real name, and where the restroom is).
Travis — do you know a guy named David Murray in Chicago? He serves as editor of Vital Speeches of the Day and an executive communications newsletter for speechwriters. His blog, Writing Boots, is about writing in general (http://writingboots.typepad.com/writing_boots/). David’s a good friend, even though and perhaps because we’re on opposite sides of the political fence. In his newsletter, he often notes books about speechwriting/ghostwriting, including novels.
I don’t know him, Glynn, but thank for the info about him. I’ll check out his blog.