The Frugal Book Promoter

Book Information & Reviews:

Book Title: The Frugal Book Promoter (Paperback)

Author: Carolyn Howard-Johnson

Book Genre: Marketing Book

Publisher: Star Publish (July 1, 2004)

ISBN #: 193299310X

Price: $17.95

Publication Date: July 1, 2004

Page Count: 288

Recommended Audience: Authors

Reviewer: Francine Silverman

Reviewer:
Francine Silverman


In the past, most of the marketing of books was done by the publisher. Now, as more and more authors are choosing to self-publish, many find themselves floating without a paddle when it comes to promoting. A few book marketing gurus managed to carve a niche early on and Carolyn Howard-Johnson is among them.

These experts have tested the waters themselves, and drawn conclusions that are worth emulating. As an award-winning author of fiction and non-fiction, a public speaker, former retailer, and instructor in the UCLA Extension's Writer's Program, Carolyn knows the field well.

There's nothing "Frugal" about this information-packed guide. Computer savvy authors will love this book because of all the helpful websites, suggested by both Carolyn and fellow authors. One of her 10 publicity "no no's" is to never publicize your book, but to "brand" yourself. A whole chapter is devoted to the importance of branding, and, here again, the author suggests websites - for designing logos and business cards.

All book promotion avenues are covered, such as book signings, book reviews, conferences, discussion groups, catalog and corporate sales, and building a website. An Appendix contains sample queries, media releases and cover letter for an interview on national public radio. Carolyn also addresses questions plaguing authors, such as plagiarism and whether to hire a publicist.

She has the comforting tone of a mentor and writes with the precision of a surgeon - In the chapter on building a media kit, she writes: "We're going to get biological so that you can begin your media kit today. We're going to build the skeleton of our kit so that as you add tendons and muscles to your credentials, you have a place to store the information. A strong structure that has been fleshed out as you become more and more qualified….will require only a little grooming…Having the bones in place will help you visualize the progress of your writing career..."
This is a book that you'll return to again and again. It belongs on every author's shelf - beside the computer.