Selling Ourselves

I haven't yet met a writer who has a streak of perfect luck when it comes to attendance at readings.  Every author has his or her own "empty room" reading story.  My own happened last July, on one of the hottest Saturdays of the year.  A small branch library in a large, wealthy Chicago suburb kindly set up an event for me, complete with books for sale from the local independent.  When the time came to read, though, there were only four people in attendance--my mom and dad, the lady from the bookstore with her wares, and one straggler who was enjoying the air conditioning.  I read one scene and got the hell out of there as quickly as possible.

The problem is that unless you're Stephen King or Nora Roberts, readings can be poorly attended events.  (If you're one of those rare creatures who has never read to a nearly empty room, however, don't post here.  I don't like you and, in the words of Anne Lamott, will wish for bad things to happen to you.)

Publishers know how hard it is to get people to come to readings.  The book tour is a dying phenomenon. 

For all these reasons, I love this idea.  A Tupperware party for books!  Why didn't anyone think of this before?

Comments

[babelbabe]

it works for political candidates...we just hosted a coffee for our neighbor running for city council. so why not authors?

Sign me up, if you wanna come to Pittsburgh I'll host your Tupperware party : )

[churlita]

I love going to readings. Don't tell me the concept is dying. I think the Tupperware party is a good idea for many people, but it's not my thing. I've always thought that going to readings was my thing.

I can't imagine how uncomfortable it would be to read for just four people, though. How does one play that off?

[tlb]

Thanks, Babelbabe. If I ever come to Pittsburgh, you're the first one I'm calling.

Churlita, I think Prairie Lights is the exception--which is why I'm so glad to live here.

[Adorable Girlfriend]

I'm with C. -- Tupperware is a thing of the past.

[beck]

Dear Ms. Johns-
I would be honored to host an Icebergs Party here in suburban Detroit. I've been looking for an excuse to try this new recipe for ham spread and I have just the bakery that will slice white bread the long way for the perfect sandwich rolls. Please contact me when you're in the area so we can set a date. My bridge club and macrame circle will be just thrilled!
Also, is it true that Icebergs comes out in paperback today?!! I was perusing that internet yesterday and came across a fascinating site called Amazon.com. Did you know you can purchase a copy of your fine book for $.49? Well, I never...!
Sincerely,
A true fan

[tlb]

Becky Burns, you crack me up. I'll call you soon.