That’s Mike Dangerpants Jung, Nova and myself. Mike is another one of my amazing cyber friendships, but I’ll save that story for another day. And by the way–it was awesome to meet them both. I now consider them “real” friends, not just cyber friends.
Right after I got home from the conference, Nova was scheduled to have an IMAGINARY GIRLS book signing at one of my local indie bookstores–Oblong Books. I packed up the hubby and the kids and we went up for the book signing. I was so excited to let my family meet Nova. It was such a wonderful experience. One giant love fest–books, author, friends, family, indie and mini-cupcakes.
I continue to support Nova because I’m a fan and because I’m a friend. I can’t say if or how Nova will support me and my book in the future. And I can honestly say it doesn’t matter. I’ve enjoyed every minute of my time with her. I learned a ton, enjoyed myself and felt great along the way. I didn’t do it to get something out of it. I did it to get someone out of it. And she was worth the time and effort it took to build the friendship.
What I will tell you is that when my editor at Simon Pulse, Anica Rissi, officially announced my book in her Fall 2012 line-up, Nova tweeted to Anica and myself that she was so excited to read it. And that felt like winning a million bucks.
Have I spent years marketing my unborn book? Absolutely. But, I’d like to think I’ve gone about it in a way that has been not only painless for everyone involved, but beneficial and even fun. You don’t have to be a spam bot to market your book. You have to be the same kind of emotionally connected person that it took to write the book in the first place.
I’m going to take back my earlier statement about an unborn book not getting a shower. If you are the kind of person who is a good friend to those around you, I have a feeling you will get showered with love, attention and support. And really, there is no better way to bring your new “baby” into the world.
I’d also like to draw your attention to two books by Kristen Lamb. They are WE ARE NOT ALONE THE WRITERS GUIDE TO SOCIAL MEDIA EBOOK and ARE YOU THERE GOD? IT’S ME, WRITER. They give you an amazing step-by step break down on how to go about marketing yourself in this very effective fashion. Plus a ton of other information. I highly recommend both books and subscribing to Kristen’s blog.
If you have any specific questions I’d be more than happy to try and answer them. And if you have any great tips on marketing your book that you’d love to share I would love to hear them. Success stories and marketing bloopers welcome. :o)
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This is all very, very true, Kim. Supporting fellow authors and being available via social media and in real life are important for the enrichment of ALL friendships and business relationships. I'm so glad you've made such great friends in the same business!! I can't wait to read your book when it comes out.
You're doing it exactly right, as far as I'm concerned. 🙂
Thank you so much guys-I know how easy it is to see such dynamic people out there being success stories and it's so easy to get caught up in how they market themselves with a book in hand. And while having readers makes more connections for you. I don't think it really changes anything. Everyone professional I've met is gracious and helpful and kind no matter where they are in their careers and to me that says a lot.
This is a great post that previously very-shy-online me needed about a year ago! Thanks for writing it, Kim. I'm definitely going to share this.
Awwww ((((hugs)))) Kristen-that is exactly why I wanted to write it. You just made my day.
Oh that's so exciting that Nova will read your book! CONGRATS! <33333
Hey and what's wrong with Petunia and Atlas?
Those are the names of my kids!
(LOL–you know I'm kidding :D)
Ha! Now, that is funny!!!!!
The Dangerpants approves of this post, and is very happy to count you among his online AND real life friends. Oh I know, that's annoying, I'll stop it now… 😉