Signings

With a couple of new books out, it’s time for me to start thinking about book signings.  I’m a midlist author for a big publisher, so I’m not fortunate enough to get a book tour.  I have to set up signings on my own, and I have to admit that I’m ambivalent about the whole process.  I’ve set up a signing at my local bookstore, because I do every time I have a new book out.  These local signings are always fun.  They’re well attended, and I usually sell lots of books.

But when it comes to doing signings in larger cities at one or more of the chain bookstores — Barnes and Noble, Books-A-Million, Borders — I’m having trouble mustering any enthusiasm.  I feel like I SHOULD do them, that they provide a way for me to get my name out there a bit more and let people know about the book.  The fact is though, they rarely pay off in any meaningful way.  I’ll sell a few books, but mostly I sit there waiting for someone to come talk to me, watching as people slip by the table, afraid to make eye contact, as if they’re afraid that I’ll lure them over to me and magically force them to spend all their money.

I’d be interested in knowing from other writers out there how they feel about signings.  In your opinion, are they worth the time and effort?

Today’s music:  Bryan Sutton (Bluegrass Guitar)