By Ruth
Earlier this summer, I attended what I believed would be a promising event for any emerging author: a book fair. The anticipation of engaging with book enthusiasts to discuss my work was palpable. However, as the day unfolded, my excitement deflated. The hall was scattered with more authors than readers. I only managed to sell four books over six hours.
Fast forward a few months, and I decided to try my luck again—this time at an art and craft show. The venue was pulsating with activity, perhaps fueled by the energy of the Christmas holiday season. To my pleasant surprise, in a similar six-hour timeframe, I nearly emptied a suitcase packed with books. The remarkable contrast between these two experiences left me pondering why the outcomes were so different. Here are some tips to consider.
1. Location, Location, Location
It’s crucial to acknowledge the power of context. Book fairs, while ideal for reaching a targeted audience, may also be limiting if there are more authors than readers. With so many books vying for attention, each title might get lost in the literary sea. The art and craft show, however, attracts a diverse crowd that comes not only in search of handcrafted goods but also for unique, personal stories like mine. This creates a broader, more curious audience eager to explore new genres and authors.
2. The Holiday Spirit
The timing of the craft show during the festive season cannot be underestimated. The Christmas season invigorates a unique sense of joy, nostalgia, and the urge to find the perfect gift. A book with the author’s signature holds a timeless charm as a personal gift.
3. Interactive Engagement
The structure of the art and craft show also favors interaction and engagement. With people milling about, ample opportunities exist for impromptu conversations. This setting allows me to connect with potential readers, piquing their interest and prompting them to support my work.
4. Ads might have helped
At the event, I created a banner highlighting my status as a Minnesota Anoka County Library featured author for 2025. This drew considerable attention, and many attendees decided to make a purchase after seeing it. To them, being recognized as a featured author by the library likely served as a testament to the quality of my writing.
Reflecting on these experiences, I realized the importance of selecting the right venue for book promotion. It’s not merely about targeting book lovers, but about reaching out to communities that value storytelling and personal expression in any form. While book fairs remain a valuable platform, authors should not shy away from exploring alternative venues where literature intersects with other creative fields.
Note: If you’re interested in purchasing any of my books with my signature, please check out this link (Books and Giveaways – Abundant Life) and send me a note at ruth@ruthforchrist.com.
