Part 1 in a Series of Book Marketing and Publicity Tips from Smith Publicity
While many books are launched in September or January, summer provides a great venue for authors to spread the word out about their books. Remember, newspapers, radio shows, magazines, etc. are still looking for entertaining, informative content!
New activities and hobbies. Both fiction and non-fiction books can be tapped for summer exploration of new interests. For example, if you have a non-fiction book about investing, a solid angle would be talking to your children about investing and projects parents and children can do together during summer for financial literacy. If your novel is about a musician, promote your book by offering tips on how summer is a great time for adults to take up an instrument.
Family traditions. If your book is at all related to family traditions and children activities, the summer opens opportunities for tie in ideas. Many novels have a theme of family. If yours covers multi-generations, one angle to explore are tips to create new family traditions (family reunion picnic), activities many ages will enjoy (cooking, sharing recipes, old fashioned card games, fishing, etc.), and how to pass this tradition on to the youngest in the family (making a scrapbook for each year highlighting the fun and specific memories).
Travel. If your book is set in an exotic location, you have probably done some research on the area. A travel essay or tips on traveling in this location is a good way to get your name and book in the media.
Children’s book. Parents are always looking for educational and entertaining ideas for their children throughout the summer.
Are you and your book ideal for television segments? August is a great time to reach out to producers at nationally syndicated programs as they begin forming their fall schedule.
Beach read. Is your book a great escape from reality? Promote your book and a vacation companion.
Be creative—have fun! The goal is to provide the media and audiences with solid information related to your book which will give you the chance to tell the world about you and your book.
