My Top Concerns as a New Author

From the day I was offered the opportunity to write this book, I have had a million thoughts about it. Now that it’s done, a new wave of thoughts now cloud my mind:

Perception

How will the general public respond to a book from someone they’ve never heard of in publishing? Will they embrace it? Tell friends about it?

Sales

Book publishers everywhere are cutting back in this recession: Advances, marketing, and more. How will this affect my debut as a new author?

Promotion

I’ve never promoted a book before, and publishers these days are only doing so much to support the books they publish. I’ve been talking to bestselling authors, and picking the brains of friends who’ve published their own books as well for ideas. Still, it’s pretty overwhelming when I think about the task at hand: How do I best promote this book on my own online and elsewhere?

Tour

This is the biggest thing on my mind: Where can I drum up support for a major tour? I’m not endowed with the capital to travel most of North America for several months in support of the book. Where do I turn? Who do I call? Who are the people that will believe in this book and support it?

Appearances

I’ve been rehearsing for book store appearances here in Colorado. While I’ve seen authors in the past talk about their books, I want to do things a little differently. One thing I want to avoid is a monologue, because this book isn’t about me alone — It’s about all of us and the challenges we face on many fronts around the world. What is the best approach to all of this? What should I talk about? How shall I address negative people?

With 2.5 months to go until the book is released in stores and online, I’m growing more anxious with each passing day. One thing is certain: I’m determined to make this book a success.

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