This week, I had the pleasure of attending a book launch for a colleague who’s about to have her first children’s book published. It’s been a long haul for her, and I wanted to get my hot-off-the-press copy. Her name, by the way, is Eileen Holland and her book is Sophie Trophy (I hope to have her guest blog in the near future!). It’s a delightful story for the 8 to 10 age group.
Her event Monday night was held in the same room where I launched my second novel back in 2008. Seeing Eileen’s happiness and exuberance brought back great memories of other book launches I’ve attended and hosted, and I have to say there’ve been a few of them. Looking back, I’ve attended launches at arts centers, community halls, libraries, bookstores, a pub, a restaurant, a church, and of course, there’s been a few Facebook online launches.
My first launch back in 1995 is still one of my favorites, not just because this was my first published book but because it was a house party for friends, families, and writing colleagues. We served a lot of food and wine that night, I sold books, and everyone had a good time. Best of all, I didn’t have to worry about being out of the room by a certain time or cleaning up early. Honestly, if I hold another one, I might just do it again, which brings me to my second point. Will I ever do another launch? Even though, I’ll be bringing out book number ten over the next few months, it’s not a question I can answer right now.
While I didn’t hold a physical launch for my latest Casey Holland mystery, Knock Knock, I did the usual launch-day announcements. It was the third week of November and I was in over my head with weekend craft fairs, the day job, and my publisher’s launch of one of my novellas a week after that.
While it’s still gratifying to see a new book in print, I’m not overly excited to be the center of attention again. The speech preparation, venue rental, RSVPs, and catering issues have always caused this introvert a fair bit of anxiety. Still, maybe another house party is the answer. We’ll see. The Blade Man is coming either later this year or early next…I’ll let you know when.
Whether I’m the host or in attendance, I love “house-party” book launches. They’re so much more intimate.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, it made a huge difference.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I enjoy my book launches. I always hold them at a local independent bookstore, Albany Books, in Tsawwassen. That way they get the business too. Many people buy other books as well as mine. It is no work for me. I just have to show up, smile, read a chapter and sign books. I love to support small bookstores if possible. I live mostly n Spain now but I fly back to launch my books if possible.
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s a good idea to have a go-to place. Yes, I’ve been thinking about hosting one at a new local independent store.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are a saint, however, for helping out and being a mentor! Oh…and that means a great example for the rest of us!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Think about one for your fantasy novel
LikeLike
Maybe. It seems so far off right now.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Interesting discussion, Debra. I haven’t attended book launches except virtually. I’m going to have to look around for them.
LikeLiked by 1 person
In my area, Metro Vancouver, there are many throughout the year, but I find that info can be found at your local library. Many of the events I’ve attended are hosted by people I’ve met through my writers’ group. It’s so gratifying to see how many of them have gone on to publish books.
LikeLike
Debra, I love the idea of a book-party launch such at a private house … lots of opportunity to mingle, stay, chat, (dance) and like you say, know you don’t have a deadline! Since this is your most memorable and enjoyable one I think you should do one again for your 1oth book! Congrats on writing and publishing so many – that’s fantastic.
My first book was launched with fanfare on my blog and kindly picked up by so many others, but no actual party launch. However, for my second book we’re already planning a party … my brother has a bigger house so he just doesn’t know yet that he’ll be hosting it! 😀😀 (Which I know he’ll love to do and his fiancée is into event planning for Samsung so thought I’d enlist her help too!) Now, I just need to publish a book!😀
Good luck to your friend Sophie and her first children’s book … it looks a lot of fun!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Anika! Yes, do try a house party, and best of luck on your next launch!!
LikeLiked by 1 person