Purple Passion

Maybe you know by now that the big-boy brick and mortar bookstores like Barnes and Noble and Borders won’t carry your self-published book.  That’s because they’re dependent on major publishers, so it’s understandable.  But all online bookstores will carry you, including those named.  It’s up to you to see that you put out a well written, well edited and well proofed product.

And now to market!  Bring your adrenaline up?  It should, because this is another of the most important things you can do for yourself.  Earlier, I spoke of making friends with librarians.  This is a lifetime thing, you know.  And next door to it is contacting independent bookstores.  They’re still out there and many of them are hungry for good books you’ll help them sell as a partner.

If you like talking on the phone, begin with google and make yourself a list of independent bookstores in your area and in nearby cities.  Get the numbers and call.  Make it friendly, respectful, tell what your book is about and why they should be interested.  Don’t forget to stress that you’ll do your part in selling your book.

If you dislike talking on the phone or are just not good at it, and even if you do phone, also send them a well put together flyer with your book jacket cover photo, your photo, a brief description of what the book is about and why it will sell.  Give discount and return info.  If you have a Library of Congress Control Number, give it, and your ISBN. 

Tall order?  Not once you get into it.  You should be carried along by sheer love and if you’re anxious, that’s part of it.  Don’t strive for perfection.  Just be passionate, take care, and do your very best.  Never demand more than that from your precious self.

Next time:  Book Clubs

Marketing To Independents originally appeared on Francine Craft on March 11, 2010.