8.5 Ways to Support Your Friend’s Debut Book

Given how we’re about to walk into 2017, I thought I’d share some tips on how to support debut author’s book launch! And what better way than to lead by example with the launch of Amy’s book, Small Admissions.

First, a note: HAPPY BOOK BIRTHDAY TO AMY!! This book is hilarious and fun. When I call something FUN, I mean it. So make sure you buy it!

Now, the key to helping your friend during his or her launch week is visibility. The more eyes to see the cover, the more ears to hear the title…the better.

Here are some steps to follow:

1) Repost reviews and articles featuring your friend’s book on social media

Stuff like this, this, and the hilarious book trailer. The more things you repost, the more opportunities for others to take notice.  

2) Go to your local independent bookstore and request the book

If they don’t have it, say something like. “I’m shocked! I heard it was really really good!” That way the book will be fresh on their minds.

(Not going to mention the bookstore that happened to not have Amy’s book. But let’s just say, they’ve learned the error of their ways)

3) Go to a mainstream bookstore dressed in extremely bright noticeable colors

Go book shopping looking like a yellow highlighter or a pink flamingo. Ask the store associate to help you find the book, even if it’s right in front of your face. Talk loudly about the book. Call your homegirl while standing there holding the book, giddily chatting how excited you are to read it. Be obnoxious. Be seen.

4) Misplace a copy where EVERYONE can see it

Whoops! How did that get there? Silly me.

(Bookstores HATE me. Hahahaha)

5) Read while you’re on line to purchase the book

As if you can’t wait to read it. Laugh out loud, literally. Gasp. Mutter. Grunt.

   

5.5) Ignore the curious stares of a married man with his family.

Yes, you’re cute, but you’re no home wrecker. Keep your nose in that book. 

(Moving on…)

6) Read the book in public

I benefit from living in a busy city like NY, where I often read on trains and buses. But I also read in places like supermarkets, hair salons, and bars. When I’m on vacation, I read on planes and beaches. I make it seem like the book is unputdownable (which most of the time, they are).

7) Leave a review

Reviews are crucial to draw attention and sells books. Imagine that, you could single-handedly improve your friend’s sales by leaving your feedback. You can find the reviews I left for Amy here, here, and here for starters.  

8) Go to the launch party

Just like birthdays, you want to celebrate the new life coming into the world. And your friend REALLY wants you to come celebrate the birth of her book. If you’re in NY, come party with me and Amy on Jan 10th! Check the invite HERE! 

 

Rinse and repeat for the next debut author.