Without words, without writing and without books, there would be no history, there could be no concept of humanity. Hermann Hesse

When I was a girl, I would curl up anywhere I could find a quiet spot (not easy to do with seven siblings) and flip through the pages of the latest Nancy Drew novel. Later, my mother introduced me to Danielle Steel and I tore through each new book with the anticipation of Christmas. And I’d feel the same letdown when I finished as I would on Christmas morning after all the gifts were opened and the anticipation was over.

When I finished, I would call my friends and tell them about the book. If they were a good enough friend, I might even lend it to them.

Things were simpler in those days. In many ways. Not the least of which was being an author.

Back then, if an author was lucky enough to secure a contract with a major publishing house, their careers were made. They would write the book, send it to their publisher, and collect a fat advance check, then sit back and wait for the royalties to pour in while the publishing house handled the author’s publicity tours (which usually included book signings in major booksellers across the country).

Today, whether an author is traditionally or independently published (ie an “indie author”), we are tasked with sole responsibility to market our books and ourselves.

For first time novelists like myself, this can be a daunting task. And for introverts (like me), it can be an even scarier prospect. But if we are to succeed, we must step bravely into cyber space and invite new friends, like you, to read our work. And ask you to share it with your friends.

“But wait,” you say, “nobody uses an actual telephone anymore, so how do I spread the word?”

I’m glad you asked.

It’s true, the medium by which we share information has certainly changed since I was a girl. This is the good news for authors and readers today. It allows us to connect with each other in ways we never could’ve imagined five years ago when I was a kid. Okay, twenty five years ago (or so).

Anyway, here are three ways that you can help:

Reviews Sell Books:
It’s true. They really do. When you read a book you love, write a review (on Amazon, Goodreads, or any other forum for book reviews). It doesn’t have to be a long one. “Dear Author, loved your book!” would suffice.

Tell Your Tweeps:
Shout it out on Social Media. Authors are happy to provide their Twitter handles (mine is @SuzanneWVince). Tell the universe about the great book you’ve just read. And Retweet (or Share on Facebook) when one of your friends shouts out.

Share the Love:
When you read a blog posting (like this one) that you enjoy, click the little share buttons at the bottom and spread the word to all your Facebook Friends or Twitter Peeps.

So go ahead, tell the world (and me) about the last great book you read! I’ll even start. The last amazing book I read was CHASING KATE, by Kelly Byrne.

Okay, your turn!

Photos via Google Images