Blimey, being an author is challenging... After the hectic holiday season I picked up where I left of with regard to promoting
Fred & Fiona Flea: The Crown Jewels Caper.
Book promotion is a constant uphill battle for a first-time, unknown author. No-one out there cares about the book more than I do, so I work tirelessly to open up new opportunities to highlight this new children's adventure story. If I don't bring it to the attention of retailers, parents, teachers, librarians, and children then who will? I can't simply leave it alone to become a bestseller all by itself, as if by magic. How can it sell if no-one knows it exists?
I am under the impression that some writers and new authors think that just because their book is published then it WILL sell, and bring in substantial royalty payments. Some may think "I am a published author. Just sit back and watch the money roll in. The hard work is over." Fortunately, I was not
too naive in that regard. I knew I would have to work at it, but was not prepared - to be honest - for how difficult an uphill struggle it would be. I have energy and enthusiasm. I believe it this awesome adventure story I co-wrote. I work very hard to push my product. However, it is tiresome to depend on other people to give you a leg-up, and when it takes ten calls and emails just to speak to someone - never mind agree on a consignment or an event. Other people have their jobs to do; their own lives; their own families; their own special projects which take precedence.
I guess, what I want to say to writers and new authors is this. No-one cares about your work more than you. Keep plugging away and make it happen. Work hard and do not give up. It may not be an overnight success, but it won't be a success at all if you don't work at it.
