The other day I was making my way around the Blogdom (Blog-o-sphere? What are we calling it, people?) and I came across a post by Anne Riley about enticing readers to buy your book. While dear Anne forgot the most important rule—sharing pictures of Hugh Jackman shirtless—she’s spot on.
I wanted to add to Anne’s post after going to a book signing yesterday. I’ve been to several book signings over my years and my response to them has ultimately been negative. Why? Because of the same reasons Anne mentions. The authors seem cold, distracted, and some even downright hostile. Do I imagine it is the most fun thing in the world signing your name for 2 hours straight? Goodness, no. Writers tend to be shy and introspective (let’s not go into my awkwardness in public), but I’m not asking you get up and sing and dance. These people are here for you, so please act like you are at least somewhat grateful they’re buying your book.
I’m kind of a theatre bitch freak. I’ve seen shows all over the U.S. and England. BY FAR, my favorite part of the show is afterwards, running to the back door—which I found much earlier in the day and then mapped the quickest route to said door from my seat—and waiting for the actors to sign my bra memorabilia. I have never ONCE had a negative experience with meeting actors backstage. They are kind and patient and understand that I HAVE NEEDS and I need you to retake this picture with me because my eyes were closed. Yes, they’re actors. They’re probably brilliant liars. BUT I DON’T CARE because they SMILED at me and flattered me and some even pretended to want to take me home. It makes the theatre experience COMPLETE.
When a writer is apathetic towards a reader, I think, “Okay, I’m not excited about reading your book either.” Yesterday, the author in question asked, “What do you do?” When I responded with, “I’m a writer,” he looked me up and down, either assessing if I were l the lying type or trying to decide if he recognized me. When he realized it was neither, he said, “It’s hard. Too hard for most people. Just don’t expect it to be easy or pay well. You’ll be heartbroken.” And off he went, on to signing another book.
I glared at him, speechless. We writers are a negative bunch. I know that. I know how difficult it can be trying to make writing a career. I’ve been wallowing in the “aspiring writer” pool for quite some time now. I’m no stranger to its difficulties. But are we so negative we must project it onto other would-be dreamers? He wasn’t the first author to react this way and I’m certain he won’t be the last. BUT WHY, writers? Why do we do this to one another? Are we concerned about competition? Once you’ve “made it” you feel the need to keep others from potentially stealing your job?
Finding fellow writers on Twitter has done nothing but create a fantastic sense of camaraderie. Wouldn’t you, as a writer, also want to facilitate more solidarity in the real world? I’m not asking for much. Maybe a, “Hey, I love writing. If you have questions, here’s my Twitter handle. I’d love to talk to you more. Maybe gush over which flavor of Skittle is the best.” THAT’S ALL I WANT. (It’s orange, by the way.)
Elana Johnson has done it right. If you want a model for how to act with fans and fellow writers, follow hers. No matter what Elana writes, I will buy every book she puts out. Why? Because she is SO fantastic to her fans, I WANT to support her. She responds to every single @ reply on Twitter. She is an advocate for giving back. (UHM HELLO? WriteOnCon, anyone?) And to boot, she is humble and genuine in person.
What have I missed? Has your experience been similar or—I’m hoping—has it been better?
Oh, and in case the Hugh Jackman picture didn’t do it for you, here’s a gratuitous picture of the gorgeous Henry Cavill:
