Yesterday, I took part in the Columbus Art & Author Fair and had a terrific time because I went there with a different mindset.
In the past, I’d stress about the time and money spent on author fairs. Especially when I only sold one or two books. I wondered, are in-person events really worth it?
The Creative Penn Podcast
The day before the fair, I listened to Joanna Penn ask Mark Leslie Lefebvre about in-person events on The Creative Penn Podcast. Mark attends major book events several times a week. He explained that while it takes a lot of time, money, and effort, author fairs are a terrific way to connect with readers. He suggested authors approach these events as opportunities to engage with potential fans. Selling books is an added bonus.
Attitude adjustment
So, I adjusted my attitude. When people came by my table, instead of trying to sell them a book, I asked them what they liked to read.
If they mentioned mysteries, suspense, or thrillers, I’d tell them about a struggling reporter in my Leo Townsend series. (Side note, the tenth-anniversary Carpe Diem, Illinois paperbacks arrived at my apartment ten minutes after I’d left for Columbus, bummer).
If they liked dystopians, I described a world without evil in The Devil Particle.
And if they said they preferred fantasy or nonfiction, I directed them to fantasy authors Abigail (Abby) Morrison (who shared my table) and Meadoe Hora (next to me), and nonfiction (and fiction) author Terri Karsten a few tables down.
I had in-depth discussions with readers on everything from my writing schedule (erratic) to living in Wisconsin versus Colorado (one lady had moved from Denver). I felt a genuine connection with the people I met, and I think they did, too. Readers bought six books (not too shabby). More importantly, four people signed up for my newsletter (welcome Julie, Charna, David, and Robin!).
Networking with authors
Connecting with other writers was a major reason I went to the Columbus Art & Author Fair, particularly since I won’t be attending the Wisconsin Writers Association Conference this year. Abby, Meadoe, and I (pictured) compared swag and chatted about our writing projects, marketing strategies, and families (I inundated Abby with videos of my grandson).
I also had the chance to meet Audrey Lynden whose books I’d seen all over Instagram. And I caught up with Brea L.R. who wrote my favorite blurb for The Devil Particle – “Think Hunger Games meets Divergent with much more excitement and bigger odds.”
I ended the day by grabbing a burger and a beer at a local dive bar with Abby and Meadoe. Perfect day!
Where you can find me this fall – another in-person event!
October 26, 2024,1:30 p.m.– 4:30 p.m. – Rockford Public Library Cafe presents Bookshelf Live-A Local Author Book Fair. Rockford Public Library Nordlof Center, 118 North Main Street, Rockford, Illinois, Second Floor. I’ll be there selling books and shmoozing with other authors and local readers. See you there!
