Those who know me know I'm no fan girl. Celebrities do not send me into a swoon.
Susan Orlean and Amber Polo
This weekend I met Susan Orlean, author of Rin TIn Tin and The Orchid Thief, and I was thrilled. She appeared as part of Yavapai College’s Hassayampa Institute (I love that word) Literary Southwest series in Prescott, Arizona.
Susan Orlean
The Orchid Thief
Besides her book about an iconic dog, there's more. The Orchid Thief was made into the movie Adaptation and Meryl Streep played Susan Orlean. Is that cool! Staff writer for the New Yorker. Contributing editor to both Rolling Stone and Vogue. Wow.
Orlean read from Rin Tin Tin and her work in progress about libraries. That should be a clue. Any writer who writes about dogs and libraries has my attention. She’s an amazing journalist and creative non-fiction author. You know the kind. You read their articles and their books even if you have absolutely no interest in the subject.
And now for the personal part. After I read Rin Tin Tin I heard Susan Orlean was writing about libraries sparked by her interest in the fire that damaged the Los Angeles Public Library in 1986 and destroyed 400,000 volumes – 20% of the collection.
Dogs, libraries, and book-burning. This former librarian and dog breeder was seriously hooked. I sent her a copy of Released (dog-shifting librarians nose to nose with book-burning werewolves) and a few treats for her dog. And I received a thank you note. I think she and her dog appreciated the biscuits more than the book, but I was thoroughly impressed to receive a reply. And a fan turned into a fan girl.
I love conferences, conventions, workshops, and expos. I
especially appreciate the organization that goes into planning and pulling off an
event with so much creativity and attention it looks as if it fell together
flawlessly.
As a librarian I loved library conferences: books, new
technology, books, lectures and meeting new and old friends. Did I mention
books? As a library consultant I loved setting up booths, standing for 3-5 days
(well, not that so much), demoing the new technology, meeting new and old
friends and clients, competitors’ parties, entertaining, and swag. Library sway
was always great (did you know?).
I also exhibited at law library conferences, whose parties and swag were really over the top. The books - not as much fun.
When I was involved in the world of dogs I loved the organization of dog
shows that allowed over a thousand dogs to enter a myriad of
classes and on the show day, all show up at the right time and place, judging
takes place and like a fantastical elimination contest, and the day ends with
one dog judged Best in Show. (It’s not that simple, but it still is amazing.)
Since I started writing, I’ve never attended a big romance
writers’ conference. I’d heard about the Romance Novel Convention in Las Vegas for authors and readers of romance (August 7-11, 2013) and considered it was close enough for me to drive,
but dithered. When Released finalled in the RONE (Reward Of Novel Excellence) contest hosted by the classy InD'tale Magazine, I was told winners
would be announced at the RNC. I checked the RNC website and was impressed with
the organization and raw creativity Jimmy Thomas put into this first ever
event.
It seems to have all the elements of a romance writers’
conference. Nationally knows speakers, parties for networking, book fair,
raffle, prizes, swag bags and swag tables. (The RONE contest itself was
masterfully planned and executed and deserves a post to itself.)
But some aspects were not so common. Reasonable prices for
the conference and lodging in the convention hotel. A very creative food
package. Practical programs for writers and reader. Nationally respected
speakers (Bob Mayer, Jennifer Ashley, etc.). A costume ball (with opportunity
to rent costumes) A professional photographer for headshots. Romance novelist
Virginia Nelson’s wedding (how romantic is that!). And movies for when you’ve
talked yourself hoarse.
And oh yes, male cover models will compete for a “Mr.
Casanova Competition” (how appropriate – Casanova was a librarian.) Yes Jimmy Thomas,
the organizer and host is a cover model, a great businessman, a smart and
generous man, and not bad-looking. And he does grace over 5,000
romance novel covers.
Brilliant promo idea - Authors may rent the cover models to
have them learn and perform a scene from their book.
And - the awards
ceremony!!!!!!!
And for you dog lovers:
I’d love to interview Mike O’Hearn (7-time Fitness Male Model of the
Year and a Mr. Casanova judge) about his rescue dogs. After they were
used on a photo shoot, he took them home rather than hove them returned to the
pound. Awwwe….
To celebrate the 2013 Author's Forum at the Cottonwood Arizona Public Library, the library invited 27 local authors to meet library readers and tell them about their books. Library patrons were thrilled to meet "real" authors and authors had fun meeting a wide variety of local writers.
As a surprise treat, Richard Corey, dog fiction author, interviewed authors for his Art World of Sedona TV series. This YouTube clip features sci-fi author Val Chanda first and then an interview with me, and my not-so-real dog, talking about The Shapeshifters' Library series.
Amber: All authors want to connect with readers and potential readers. Many conferences and events are directed at writers or those who want to write. Not that writers don’t buy a lot of books (and those that don’t definitely should) but readers who gobble books for the sheer joy are like triple chocolate cake every night. Kris Tualla’s vision created Arizona Dreamin’ - Arizona's first Romance Reader event!
Amber: So Kris, how did you become the Arizona Dreamin’ Queen?
Kris: I attended the Romantic Times Booklovers Convention and heard about reader-focused events in other parts of the country. I thought - why not in Phoenix? A city this size can certainly support such an endeavor!
Amber: How did you advertise to attract readers?
Kris: The vision was to bring my fans and introduce them to your books, and vice versa. So I asked each of the 24 authors to get 4 of their own fans to come. If they did, we would be full.
Amber: Did you break even the first year?
Kris: Not even close, sad to say. Half of the authors didn't generate any ticket sales at all! I learned that new authors are hungry and understand that they need to promote. Authors published four or five years ago (or more) have no clue.
Even so, those readers who did attend had a blast! I have never seen so many consistent smiles in a very long time. Everyone was talking about who they would bring with them "next year"! Not only that, but they bought $1800 worth of books and raised $315 for charity!
Amber: Anything authors who want to attend and be part of AD2012 needed to know?
Kris: Yes. First, we are expecting double the attendees. Part of that will be generated by a special incentive offered to the 2011 attendees. Another part will be generated by the authors themselves who will each purchase 4 tickets to resell at a discount, or use in raffles and contest prizes as a thank-you to their fans.
Second, I am committed to keeping the event small and intimate. We plan to cap the authors at 24, and keep the "Book Clubs" - the meetings of authors and readers - at 10 per club.
Amber: I saw some pretty yummy photos with a cover model (definitely not female). How did you arrange that and did it help the publicity?
Kris:Ah, yes. Jimmy Thomas is definitely a thing of beauty - and currently on more than 1400 book covers. He's sweet as can be and was a doll to come, plus he added a very special touch to the event! He's also a smart businessman; he stages, photographs and sells images designed for every genre of romance novel (http://www.romancenovelcovers.com/ ). I had him on my blog last year as an example of businesses that will rise up in support of independently publishing authors.
When I asked him to come to Arizona Dreamin' he agreed. While he was here he worked, shooting covers with two different models in two separate sessions. The fun part for us is that he allowed us to watch! Then he posed with readers in exchange for a donation to our charity. Next year we'll have a special backdrop that looks like a book cover for those photos!
Amber: What about the details for Arizona Dreamin' 2012?
Kris: Saturday, June 2, 2012, Noon - 10:00pm. Tickets (probably around $30) include a delicious and bountiful buffet dinner with the authors.
Breaking News!
Location - Windmill Inns & Suites of Chandler / 3535 W. Chandler Boulevard / Chandler, AZ 85226. Event room rates are $79 per suite for those who want to make it a girl's overnight or weekend (it's next to the Chandler Mall)!
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Amber: What is the one (scratch that)… What are the 5 most important things an individual or group would need to pull this off?
Kris:
Passionate belief in the concept. I took the financial hit in 2011 because I know this event will grow!
People working with me who have a passionate belief in the concept. My committee was small but comprised of some truly amazing authors, including Deena Remiel and Tami VanGurp.
Energy - which plays out in commitment and follow-through. This isn't a path for the faint of heart!
The understanding that no author is an island. I help you and you help me; we are stronger together.
Make certain that the things which are in my control are efficient and planned to the last detail. That way when things that are out of my control go awry (and they will) we are still successful!
Amber: Thanks Kris for telling us about your event for romance readers. And good luck with next year.
Kris Tualla, a dynamic award-winning and internationally published author of historical romances, writes with a fast-paced and succinct style. Her plots are full of twists, passion, and very satisfying outcomes! Kris started in 2006 with nothing but a nugget of a character in mind, and has created a dynasty - The Hansen Series.
Find out more about Kris and her books on her website!
"In the Historical Romance genre, there have been literally countless kilted warrior stories told. Well, I say it's time for a new breed of heroes!
Welcome Julie Wallace, (writer, poet, editor, trainer, and event planner)Today, I’d like to pick your brain on planning an event.
First,, Julie, please tell us about your experience in planning programs and events.
I've worked on a variety of events from poetry readings to fashion shows to simple high school fund raisers. I also spent two years working for a large non-profit. Currently I work at a software company in sales, marketing, and training. And I've seen a lot of badly organized events, so I know what not to do! Being active in the Genealogical Society of Isabella County, however, has really given me the opportunity to wear many hats. I’ve used organizational and computer skills to compile a database of first families in the county, and also written all of the promotional pieces for our annual open house event.
How did your successful “Family History Detective Day” come into being?
Not long ago I dived into researching my family history and found a supportive group: the Genealogical Society of Isabella County, (MI). While the organization had enthusiastic members and had worked on a variety of projects, they were looking for a way to reach the community and share knowledge and resources. Someone suggested and open house and I volunteered to chair the event.. Our “Family History Detective’s Day” featured speakers, representatives from organizations, and prizes; it was a free event and open to the public. We had about fifty people attend – not bad for our first year. In four months the committee met, brainstormed, planned the event, and hosted it without any major catastrophes, and we’re getting ready to do another one this coming October 17.
What are the most important pieces in planning an event?
Planning and promotion. You've got have a schedule and know who's going to be doing what and when. Spending time on the details will pay off on the day of the event. Then the actual event day, you don't have to worry. Your ability to control all of the details is gone, so you have to relax, and go with the flow of the day.
Promotion is crucial. Without it, you do not have people attending. And without people you have one sad event. So promotional ideas are perfect for brainstorming with the organizing committee. Get creative! Don't just stop at the local newspaper or radio stations and call it good. Get flyers out there at local businesses. You've got to reach people and entice them to attend. Check out Meeting & Event Planning for Dummies or The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Meeting & Event Planning for the basics.
Last week Deborah Schneider, who plans events for the King County (WA) Library System described Romance Extravaganza. If a group of authors wanted to do something like this, what advice would you give them? Plan and promote. Pick a chairperson. Set your budget. Brainstorm and get creative. Have fun planning. I think the type of approach Deborah described could work for any genre - think about Crime & Punishment for mysteries/detectives/police stories), or Joke-A-Minute for a celebration of joke books. What about poetry readings or cooking demos? Hire local actors to dress & act as characters. Tie it in with other events happening around town, for example, 2009 is the 150th anniversary of IsabellaCounty. There are many events scheduled throughout the year. The Genealogy Society is sponsoring two events this fall. First, there will be a Victorian Funeral Tea and Cemetery Walk. that features a fancy tea discussing Victorian Funeral customs; then participants stroll through a nearby cemetery and meet local actors dressed as ‘famous folk’ from the area who just happen to be buried in the cemetery. I’m also on the committee for the Historical Fashion Show, so we’ll be gathering authentic clothing from the past 150 years soon. How’s that for events for writers to love? I can feel historical romance plots thickening already!
Thanks for the tips and ideas to get authors thinking creatively. Besides events, Julie, what are you working on? I’m writing a food-inspired memoir tentatively titled "Essays To Eat By." I'm becoming active in the online writing world, and would love to connect with other writers and editors.
Deborah Scchnieder creates publicity for programs for 44 libraries in the King County (WA) Library System, the 2nd busiest in the U.S.) and promotes about 100 author events every year.
AND her second novel Promise Me, an historical romance, is due out from The Wild Rose Press.
AND she's been named RWA's 2009 Librarian of the Year!
AND she'll be accempting her award and present a two-hour workship at the annual RWA Conference in DC in July.
So, here'a a preview:
Besides taking your librarian to lunch, what’s the best way to approach your local library to pitch a program, get some publicity, and hopefully sell books?
Most librarians don't have time to lunch with authors, (we're not agents or editors and library staff is spread very thin these days). Many authors call me to pitch a program, but to be honest they do it all wrong. They usually call it a "reading" and that makes me think they'll come to the library, read out loud from their book and let the audience ask questions.
That's a pretty boring program. I encourage authors to think about presenting a program, that is -- something specific around the research for the book, the setting, the premise or even a writing workshop. I want a program that is different and unique. I have to convince patrons to come in to the library after they get home from work, so they want more than the bookstore version of an author event.
What do you want to see in a print and/or online media packet?
I honestly wish more authors would create an on-line media packet. That should have several descriptions of their book, (long and short), the blurb for publicity, several versions of a jpeg cover, (at least 300 dpi) and a great headshot. There should also be an excerpt on their webpage. And speaking of webpages, I'm not impressed by Flash graphics, music or all the interesting stuff folks try. If you're a video game developer, then your website should be flashy, but as an author -- get to the important information. My biggest pet peeve is an opening that makes me wait and click to get to the homepage. I'm a VERY busy person, and I want information not entertainment. Music also makes me crazy, as I work in an open design office. I have to keep my earphones plugged in all the time to avoid shocking my co-workers with a blast of music.
Can an author sell books at a library event? How does that work?
We always try to have books for sale at author events, because our patrons want to buy books and have them signed. We allow an author to bring their own for sale, or we try to arrange for a bookseller to bring a supply. This is usually for bigger, better known authors, as bookstores don't have a lot of extra staff to send out in the evening for events. Our only rule is that library staff cannot be involved in book sales. In a few cases our Friends of the Library members have arranged to have a supply of books and they sell them. Usually they keep 10% of the sales. We do not ask for any portion of the sales when a bookstore or author is handling the sales.
What the best way for the library and the author to work together to promote an event?
In my case, give me all the information I need right away. I'm trying to promote a debut author right now, but he sent his bookcover image inside a Word document, (not as a jpeg as I requested). I've waited a week now to put his information on our Meet the Author page on the library website, (we get over 2 million hits per month). He's hurting himself by not responding. Overall, that's the biggest problem when I work with authors, they don't respond to my requests. I can't submit a request to our graphics department to create flyers either, so again -- the clock is ticking and he's losing promotional opportunities.
I'm also shocked when I visit an author's website and they haven't updated it with the library program information. Use all the free access, (MySpace, Facebook, Twitter if you must) to tell other folks where you'll be and what you'll be talking about. Also, create a program that is interesting.
Give us an example of a great romance author program held at one of your libraries?
Recently we had an event called, "Romance Extravaganza" and we had an entire day devoted to romance. We partnered with the Greater Seattle Romance Writers of America chapter, and they had their monthly meeting at our Covington Library. Then we had a major author as our keynote speaker, Amanda Quick/Jayne Ann Krentz. This was followed by a booksigning with 6 authors, and then panel discussions. We had over 145 people attend that day. You can see photos of the event on my blog at www.debschneider.com
Any other advice you’d like to offer?
Too many authors only consider the attendance at a program as a sign of success, instead of reviewing all the publicity efforts that happen around an author event. We always see "holds" go up when we feature an author event, and that can signal a "buy" for the collection. I'm truly surprised when authors don't ask for copies of flyers, bookmarks, posters, etc. after a program, because they can send these to their editor or publicist.
For more tips visit Deborah’s blog, attend her RWA program, or look for the CD after the conference.
Thanks Deborah for visiting and best of luck with Promise Me.
And now for the personal part. After I read Rin Tin Tin I heard Susan Orlean was writing about libraries sparked by her interest in the fire that damaged the Los Angeles Public Library in 1986 and destroyed 400,000 volumes – 20% of the collection. 
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