There's nothing like holding that new book in our hands. We labor to birth the manuscript, and then we polish and hone our "baby" to maturity. But we're not done yet. We pass through a variety of processes and contortions with our publisher to prepare our brainchild to be presented in public. And then it happens! The title releases for all the world to see. If only they would!
Shouldn't we be able to rest after raising that manuscript from a wee notion?
As a debut novelist, I'm finding out that the work has just begun. The electric moment of clutching that hot-off-the-press book to my heart is a recent memory, and now I face a new Mt. Everest--what can I do to help my darling sell?
Yep, I said the "s" word.
The first obstacle to climb over is the idea that "sell" is a dirty word. When I received my contract offer, I was gripped with fear, as much as exhilaration. Would I be a good investment for my publisher? And I prayed from the heart that they would never regret their faith in me. I regard that prayer as a commitment on my part to do whatever I can to boost sales.
There is a mindset I battle--common to many--that makes me feel like it would be prideful to promote my work. In order to be a successful "seller," I have to find a fresh way of thinking. Here are a few ideas that help me.
1. It's okay to be excited about what I've written and to share that excitement with others. Why should I hide my light under a bushel if God's given me a gift, and I've honored Him with that gift? You know what I've discovered? People love to share my excitement. It boosts their day as much as mine.
2. As much as I'd like to pass my work out for free to anyone who expresses the remotest interest in reading it, it's okay for me to expect people to pay for the privilege. Scripture says the laborer is worthy of his hire. Who am I to go against the divine plan?
3. The sales figures for my book do NOT:
a. depend primarily on my efforts.
b. reflect the worthiness of my writing.
HOWEVER, as a faithful steward, I should promote with all my heart and pray in all dependence on God, knowing that no effort will bear fruit without blessing.
I have two big firsts coming up this week--a radio interview on Monday and booksignings on Friday and Saturday. I'm determined to love every minute and share the enthusiasm. Pray for me!
Next Saturday, I'll blog about my firsts. I tried a promo idea for the Friday book signing, and I'm hoping to report it helped. If not . . . well, you can hold my hand and sympathize with the rookie. Then I'll move on to another idea that may prove a triumph or a pratfall. Either way, I'll learn something new, and you can learn with me.
Hi! Thanks for article! It's an encouragement to us new writers out there. I'm in the middle of starting my first Christian fiction book for young adults, I was wondering, if you have any tips for me? Once I finish the book what's the next step?
Hope to hear from you soon.
GOD Bless you.
"The LORD will fulfill His purposes for me; Your love, O LORD, endures forever-do not abandon the works of Your hands. (Psalm 138:8)
IN CHRIST,
Kresten
Posted by: Kresten | September 03, 2006 at 06:59 PM