Q: We are self-publishing my mom’s fourth poetry book. The family loves it, and her poetry is wonderful, but how do we reach a wider audience?
Jessica, Northern California
A: Hi Jessica, Thanks for your very pertinent question. The subjects of self-publishing and poetry are intertwined. I’ll be addressing self-publishing more directly in future blog posts so I’ll focus on poetry in this reply.
Finding a wider audience for a poetry book is problematic on the best of days, and even for traditionally published poetry. Most poetry titles enjoy very modest sales unless the poet-author is well known and enjoys a following.
As you no doubt already know, distribution of a self-published book of any genre into chain bookstores is nearly impossible. Even if you could get into the stores, sales of poetry books still remain low. If you live near one of the few remaining independent bookstores in the country, you may be able to arrange a reading/signing. The bookstore will expect you to bring in an audience — they can’t afford to advertise and they expect their signing authors to generate their own buyers.
You didn’t say what kind of poetry — certain kinds of poetry books (humorous or inspirational) make good gift books if they are well-produced and you could seek out gift stores as possible retailers. You’ll need to give them a 50% discount off the retail price.
Generate all the buzz you can (friends referring friends) and direct people to Amazon or your own web site for sales. Take every advantage to do readings at public events (clubs, church, community gatherings) and sell the books BOR (back of room) after the event.
Submit individual poems from the book to online and print literary journals which publish a fair amount of poetry each year. Earnings for published poems will range from zero to very little, but it is a way to also promote the book and build a fan base.
Mail complimentary copies to well-known individuals you think would have a reason to like the contents — ask them for a blurb or testimonial that you can use with their name for future marketing efforts.
If the book addresses a certain subject and does it well (say humor in the workplace or the love of pets) you might be able to find an organization or corporation to buy books in quantity to use as gifts at sales conferences, seminars and such.
If you have a writers group in your area, check in with them (always a great resource) for suggestions. Finally, ask your local librarian. Many libraries sponsor local author events, book fairs, or literacy programs where authors in the area are invited to offer their books at sales tables, participate in programs, or do readings.
Good luck!
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