the best ways to promote a children’s book
At Smith Publicity, we receive many calls from authors asking about how to promote a children’s book. There’s no doubt children’s titles require a somewhat different publicity approach, but it’s not necessarily more challenging.
Like all book and author marketing campaigns, you need a well-thought-out plan and an organized approach. Because kids don’t buy books for themselves, it’s vital to reach them along with their parents and grandparents. The adults in the family will do the book buying, and without them, you won’t see the desired results. Here are some tips anyone can follow to get started.
1. Start local. The best plan is to start close to home if you plan to independently market a children’s book. Contact your neighborhood booksellers, both chain and independent, to ask if they have a local author section and, if so, request that they include it. Offer autographed copies of your book to help drive sales. stores often put stickers on the covers of signed books to make them more attractive to shoppers.
You are reading: How to promote children’s books
2. hold local events. If your book has a theme, offer to host a promotional event (which is different from a passive signing). For example, if your book has a bee character, have an educational presentation on the importance of bees followed by a honey tasting or other hands-on activity for children. be creative. interactive events appeal to children, parents and grandparents, and perhaps even the media. of course, try to sell books while you’re there.
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3. visit local libraries. Many authors are surprised by the role that libraries can play in the marketing and advertising of children’s books. donate copies of your book to your local libraries. Offer to do a reading at your library. most libraries offer activities for children. hosting an interactive event will also work here. If the library won’t let you sell books on the site (most won’t), be sure to hand out bookmarks or business cards that direct people to stores or online sellers where your book is available.
4. work with schools and preschools. Schools are always looking for guest speakers and authors. In most cases, you can arrange to donate books to the school while parents receive autographed book order forms, which are great gifts. you can also earn a fee for your appearance. some authors sell thousands of books this way. Prepare yourself with an engaging presentation on a topic from your book or background. remember, you are an expert on yourself and your book. A presentation will help to better promote your children’s book to both students and teachers.
5. don’t forget grandparents. according to peter francese’s economics of grandparents study, “in 2009… grandparents will spend $2 trillion. Of this, approximately $52 billion will go to goods and services for their grandchildren.” Offer to talk to local senior groups and centers, display your book at local festivals, craft fairs, religious events, and other places that appeal to families and grandparents.
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6. remember your camera and ask for testimonials. Wherever you go, take your camera, document the kids reading your book, your presentations, etc., and don’t be shy about asking for testimonials. Testimonials from teachers and librarians are especially valuable because they give your book credibility. Be sure to include photos, testimonials, appearances, and events on your website and post them on your social media.
People are more likely to buy children’s books by authors they know. the more you can talk about your book, the better. once you have the local area covered and well documented on your website, it will give you the foundation (and experience) to expand your efforts. Future children’s book promotions may include contacting writers and publishers in educational, parenting, grandparenting, or children’s media. book bloggers and other media outlets can also recommend or help you promote your children’s book.
by sandy diaz
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