The book-signing that wasn't

Just wanted to share this odd little adventure. I had published my first novel, The First Impression, a mystery published by Amazon and set in my hometown of Lynchburg, Virginia. I queried the owner of a local bookstore about stocking my book; he checked while we were on the phone and said he could get it from his distributor. And he sounded enthusiastic about the book having a strong local angle and a hometown author. Well and good ... or so I thought.

Several weeks passed, during which time I moved from Washington, DC to Lynchburg. Once settled in, I stopped by the bookstore and the owner suggested we have a book-signing. Well and good again ... or so I thought.

I designed a nice poster (I also do commercial work in Photoshop -- I designed the book cover as well), and the store owner had several printed to let his customers know about the signing.

Come the appointed day I arrived at the store, pen in hand and ready to roll. The owner was out, but his employees had set up a table in front, and one told me I could put my books there. "Where are the books?" I asked. "You brought your own, right?" She said.

After lobbing that one back and forth a couple of times, it became very clear that they expected me to bring the books to sign, while I assumed that this being a bookstore -- that's BOOK store -- they would be selling the books that I signed.

So it turned into a book-signing with no books, almost. They had a couple of copies that I had sent them earlier, when I was asking if they'd like to stock it. A few people came in bringing their own copies for me to sign.

No bloodshed, but not much gain either. I pass this wacky little tale along to anyone contemplating a book-signing. As obvious as it might seem, make sure you have a clear and mutual understanding about who will furnish the books.

Good point David.  I had a similar experience in the early days of my book being published.  My publisher didn't use a distributor at that time.  I was expected to bring my own books.  I ordered them and they didn't arrive when promised.  It was a disaster.  My interest in book signing turned sour.

I’ve never hear of writers having to bring their own books to a book store. What are they thinking?

I think I’d tell the customers, “Oh just pick any book in the store, I’ll be glad to sign it for you…lol”



What did you do Abe?

While in the bookstore, I called and with approval of the Bookstore, ordered 40 books to be delivered to the bookstore.  I then got stickers from the Manager and signed them to be placed on the books that read: "Book signed by author".

At least you were able to secure a book signing at a bookstore. I've been to only one and nobody bought one. I've had a devil of a time getting bookstores to have a signing for me.

Book stores are no longer the "signing" place of choice.  Go to coffee shops and places related to the subject matter of the books.  You'll get a much better reception.  Seed the audience with friends and relatives so you don't feel so alone.

I did a major presentation once for six people.  Three bought books ...