Happy Birthday, Powder Necklace!

A year ago today, Powder Necklace was released!! Thanks to all who have cheered me along on this journey -- the Facebook posts, tweets and encouraging emails have been fuel; and to the writers, editors & friends who took the time to sit me down and give me advice, open up their networks to me, and share opportunities with me. The learning curve has been sharp and quick.

The 10 practical things I've learned this year are:

1. At a book signing, never ever stay seated behind the table and wait for people to come to you. Get up and get a book/promotional postcard in as many hands & faces as possible.

2. Always keep a promotional postcard on you & don't be shy about giving them out.

3. Don't be intimidated by the person you're trying to sell a book to (Amish people like books too)

4. Don't be intimidated by the opportunity. If they invited you to be part of it, you deserve to be there.

5. Your friends and family should not be expected to attend every single event you're having to promote the book. They have a copy already. Just let them know about the events that are really important to you.

6. Bring an envelope of singles to events so you/people don't have to wait or hunt for change. (I need to get better about this one.)

7. Keep it all in perspective. Yes, you must shill, but you also must chill.
5.

8. Reach out to and support other authors. It's good kharma, plus they understand what you're going through on a completely other level.

9. Keep your eyes peeled for new opportunities to promote your work. Actively seek out book clubs/organizations/movements that would be into the themes of your book and pitch yourself as a speaker/panelist, etc; stay on top of your community events calendar.

10. Set up a Google Alert for yourself and book so you can stay on top of reviews and other mentions of your work and respond.

Thanks again for following along. It's been a dream come true.