April 18, 2005
I surveyed some friends about what they do to give books they love a boost. Here are their recommendations.
1. Whenever you’re in a bookstore, look for the book and move it to the front, face out, where it's easy to see. Prime placing sells books. If it’s not there, see #2.
2. Order the book from your local independent or chain bookstore—you don’t even have to pick it up; they will shelve it after a few days and return it with no cost to them if it doesn’t sell. Once they call you to let you know it’s in, see #1.
3. If you use a canned sign-off that appears at the bottom of all the emails you send, add a “What I'm reading now” line to recommend your favorite book of the moment. You can even get fancy and link to the author’s web site. (For you PC users, just highlight the book title, select “Insert” from the main menu at the top of the page, select “Hyperlink” from the list, and type in the web address. For Mac users it’s probably even easier.) That way you’re recommending your favorite book every time you send an email.
4. Email at least five friends who would also love the book.
5. Call your local library and tell them you want to check out the book. If they don't have it, ask them to order it.
6. Review the book on Amazon.com and Bn.com—you can use the same review both places; just copy and paste.
7. Suggest that your local paper review the book.
8. If you read any book/writing-related blogs, email a recommendation to the blog host for a review or feature.
9. Suggest the book to your book club, or to friends who are in book clubs.
10. Ask the author (hint, hint) to send you postcards that you can drop at your favorite café or other hangout where other booklovers might lurk.
11. Pass your copy on to a friend when you’re done with it, or release it to the universe (see www.bookcrossing.com).
12. Let the author know of opportunities to promote the book in your area – a great new bookstore, local literary festivals, college reading series, etc.
And, of course....
13. Buy it.