By Vicki Atkinson
I’ve found the prospect of book promotion to be daunting for many authors – much more than the writing itself. In the two years since my memoir “Surviving Sue” was published, I’ve wrestled with how and when to squirm my way into a spotlight. Even the smallest one. It can be unnerving to talk about oneself. To craft the various versions of sound bites and “elevator pitches” to suit varying audiences. Interviews on podcasts, radio programs, table talk at book fairs and more. But…I’ll let you in on a secret. It gets easier, bit by bit.
Talking about our books and asking others for input about promotion requires energy and grit but it’s not without rewards. I foolishly thought the first six weeks or so post book launch would be the make it or break it season for my book. I couldn’t have been more wrong. The slow simmer – allowing readers to react, share their input, interact with the author is a gateway to book club events, speaking engagements and opportunities to see the writer’s work through readers’ eyes.
When an offer to return to my favorite campus arrived, I was both giddy with excitement and overwhelmed. Instantly a quote from the Greek philosopher Heraclitus came to mind:
“No man ever steps in the same river twice, for it’s not the same river and he’s not the same man.”
When I return to Harper College on November 6 to read from “Surviving Sue” it will be a homecoming of sorts, but I’m stepping into the river with new shoes. I’m not the Dean. I’m not a faculty member or a former student. I’m Vicki – the author who dove into the topic of intergenerational healing by telling the story of my complicated family, especially the secrets my mom, Sue, perpetuated for years.
I’m grateful to my writer friends at the Barrington Writers Workshop for their endless support and enthusiasm. It’s a gift to be surrounded by creative folks who generously cheer one another on. It’s a newer river for me…one that I’m grateful to be swimming in.
Join me! Here are the details for the “Surviving Sue” reading at Harper College.
