I know that I have a mixed audience for this journal, and that the lion’s share of you are not at the promotion stage of your writing. However, there was a very good post at Jim Hines’ journal speaking about some ethical guidelines about self-promotion that I rather liked. As a result, we link.
This is going to be an issue I have to think about, as I actually have a book coming out in September. Sonya has been pretty good about promoting Cats Curious and Cat Scratch thus far. How will I have to help?
One of the things that will help Hulk Hercules is that it’s a book for kids, and it’s got some educational content. School connections and visits seem like a good idea. I also have some friends with a book store in Michigan who want me to come for a signing, and there’s a nice local book store where we may be able to place our effort. I’m sure Sonya has more ideas as well.
Carts before horse for me, however, as we still have all that editing, rewriting, proofing, all that.
Jim has some rules here that seem golden. Don’t be a dick and have fun seem the most relevant. The idea that you must keep writing is also important. There must be another book in terms of long term effort. And of course, don’t do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable or squicky to support your book.
To my way of thinking, if you comport yourself like a professional, enjoy what you’re doing, and make a sincere effort to be honest and open when you interact with other publishing professionals, that’s half the battle.
Of course, since I’m such a noob, I’m always happy to be given hot tips by my more experienced peers. That would be Jim’s number 8. Learn.
Well. This office ain’t gonna pack itself.
Catherine
