So many books, so little time. That’s the message I saw on a T-shirt recently.
The problem isn’t only the time it takes to read a book, either. Think about the time it can take to hunt down one specific and often elusive book to make your specific heart go pitter pat. And if the books you love are not the type that garner big sales, I hate to tell you this, they could wind up on the endangered species list.
So, what’s a booklover to do?
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Remember that old shampoo ad with the woman who told two friends and so on and so on?
She employed an exponential power that still exists.
As a writer peeking into the backside of publishing, I’ve learned I have more influence as a reader than I ever imagined. Word-of-mouth is still one of the most effective ways to promote the work of authors we love and even the types of books we want to see more of in the world. Especially when word-of-mouth partners with click-of-mouse.
Ten of my favorite ways to influence the book market (plus one more that’s entirely tech-free!)–
1. Sign up for email news and messages. Many of the writers whose work you enjoy have websites where you can exchange your email address for a free gift and/or a free subscription. However wonderfully talented and hardworking a writer may be, a publisher needs evidence of an audience that’s likely to purchase that writer’s yet-to-be published books. I’ve been told a growing email list packs the biggest punch.
2. Forward interesting e-newsletters and blog posts. If you read something you think others will enjoy, pass it on. You just might add another happy reader to your favorite writer’s fanbase.
3. Comment on blog and social media posts. Publishers look at an author’s online activity before deciding to offer a book contract. Engaged followers who do more than “like” an author or his/her work, show publishers their gamble is more likely to pay off.
4. Preorder. When your favorite blogger or YouTuber announces a book is on its way, your preorder is one way to start that book’s life with a bang. Plus, many preordered books come with freebies not available when you order after the release date.
5. Apply to join a launch team. This is a fun way to help your favorite author and get an insider’s view of the book business, too!
6. Become a crowd funder or Patreon. When serving a small, select audience, or just trying to make a noticeable splash as a small fish in an ever-growing pond, authors can run into prohibitive costs. If you want to play a financial role in getting someone’s book from concept to finished product, these are two options to look into.
7. Write reviews on Goodreads and Amazon. Reviews just before and just after a book is released have an especially big impact on helping it rise to the top of the Amazon page or find a home in a bookstore.
8. Join a Facebook group that focuses on the genre/s you love to read. Authors looking for beta readers (those who read their pre-published drafts and offer feedback) and applicants for their book launch teams will often reach out to subscribers, but Facebook groups are another place you can learn of those opportunities. They can also be a fun way to discover new authors and engage with your book-loving tribe.
9. Email your favorite authors. You know those questions that sometimes appear at the end of the e-newsletters you subscribe to? Authors really want to know how to better serve you with their work. If particular blog posts or emailed messages affect your day in a positive way, let those writers know. If their writing takes a turn you don’t appreciate so much, let them know that, too. It can take a while for a new writer to shape her work and find her voice and audience. Your encouraging and insightful words can serve that journey well.
10. Request and check out your favorite books from the library. Even if your budget won’t allow you to purchase every book you enjoy, you can help get them into the hands of more readers by influencing the selection found on your local public library’s shelves.
BONUS: Pray. I’ve saved the best for last, as this is surely the most powerful thing you can do for a writer and her work. This one isn’t a click-of-mouse power, but it’s one I use more and more often since I’ve come to know the behind-the-scenes struggles most (all?) writers contend with. You can wield this power without Wi-Fi, internet, or even electricity. And not only for the writers whose work you love and whose messages you agree with. Behind every article, post, and story are stories only God knows. Through prayer, you can be a part of those unknown stories, too. Your prayers can serve works of truth and beauty in the way Aaron and Hur propped up the arms of Moses and contribute to the story of victory on distant battlefields.
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How about you? Do you have trouble finding books you truly love? What are your favorite ways to be a modern-day patron of the arts? You can help out this writer with your answers by commenting below or emailing jody@jodyevans.com
I’d like to read more books featuring Jake and Rachel.
Great idea, Humble guy! I’ll get to work on that : )
Shared with my cousin who loves books and reads all the time.
Thank you, Sharon! I appreciate you passing it on.
I hope your cousin finds some good tips there to help her shape the worlds’ libraries : )
Another idea is to form a book club to read through and discuss a book you love together. I want to do this with Gilead by Marilynne Robinson.
Great idea, Yvette! I forgot about the power of book clubs!
Interesting! As a blogger those are all the things you want. So maybe try giving them away. I will be growing in that area! Thanks Jody
I’m glad it strikes you that way, Scott. And thanks for starting your growth in that area by encouraging this writer today : )