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Originally posted in Funds for Writers by C. Hope Clark
This happens at every appearance I make. Someone hears me speak or hold a conversation, then they buy my book, saying, "I don't normally read fiction, but after hearing you talk, I believe I'd like to try one of your books." We then talk about which one to start with, and a sale is made. Hopefully a fan is made as well. I already know you don't want to appear in public. Most writers don't. Frankly, I'd rather be home in my cutoff sweats and t-shirt with no makeup typing away on a new chapter. I'd rather not put my dogs in a kennel to drive a state away or pack up boxes of books. . . pondering on whether to bring 30 or 130 copies. But once I am there, I own it. I love someone coming up and saying, "I love your books." or "I've followed you for years." But it doesn't stop there. I ask if they write, or what they read, or where they are from, or what they do for a living. How often do they come to Edisto Beach (I do a lot of signings down there) or come to South Carolina. Because asking about your readers makes them love you more. Why? Because it shows that you care more about the reader than simply making a sale. People love for others to care about them. You should care about your readers. These people have offered up to you hours of their finite life, which is a phenomenal gift. A certain number of heartbeats and breaths they'll never get back, all because you were chosen to be a permanent part of their life. . . of their memories. Y'all, that's what you ought to be thinking when someone picks up your book. So, when they say they've chosen your book, especially if it's a genre they don't normally read, then feel honored and thank them from the bottom of your heart in return.
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 Have you seen this? It's a one day event to benefit the families of the victims of the Orlando shooting. Over twenty-one actors from shows like Arrow and The Walking Dead are donating their time, and 100% of the proceeds go to OneOrlando.org. Tickets start at $55. It's your chance to meet some of your favorite celebrities and give to a good cause!
 I've been incredibly blessed this year, and we're only nearing the end of April. I know many authors are still struggling to find their way in this community, whether it's through their writing or the marketing of their books. Because of my blessings, I want to pay it forward.
Over the next month, I'm going to randomly choose authors to give something to. It might be a sale, quote graphics, a book video, or business cards. Or maybe a day's worth of shout-outs on my 5000+ Twitter page. Whatever I'll do, I want it to benefit the author and, hopefully, bring a smile. I want to let authors know that we are in this together, that if we work together as a team, everyone reaps the rewards. And so begins my journey of giving back! I'll be on the hunt this week! |
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