Book Launch, Blessings and Blatant Self-Promotion

Although its official "on sale" date is this coming Monday, I spotted my new book, You'd Be So Pretty If...: Teaching Our Daughters to Love Their Bodies -- Even When We Don't Love Our Own, in Barnes & Noble over the weekend. I have to say that seeing my book on the shelf reminded me of when the doctor handed me my newborn babies in the delivery room. After all the planning and worrying and wondering, there it was: the "finished" product. It's an exciting and powerful moment for any writer.

Yesterday, I announced the book to my Facebook friends and asked them to help spread the word to anyone they thought might be interested in the topic of mothers, daughters and body image. I was absolutely floored by the response. I feel so blessed to be part of such a great network of supportive friends and acquaintances, and I'm grateful to everyone who took the time to mention the book.

Like many women, I struggle with the concept of "tooting my own horn" -- and telling the world that you have a new book out feels very much like that. But a wise friend and former publicist gave me some great advice recently when we talked about this very topic. "It's not about you," she told me gently. "It's about your book's message."

Wise words, indeed.

Comments

[Jorge S. Olson]

I can relate!

I launched 2 books this year. One of they you'll think has a lot to do with your post because it is about Self Promotion.

Remember, there is such thing as unselfish self promotion, and with the title of your book I can see you'll help lot's of people.

Jorge S. Olson

[Alyssa]

Can I add you as a friend on Facebook? That way i can add to the promotion!!!!

[Sagan]

So very true that it's about the book's message! And will absolutely be spreading the word about your book.

[Dara Chadwick]

Thank for stopping by, Jorge, and for the kind words.

Alyssa, it's my pleasure.

Thanks, Sagan, for the support. I really appreciate it!

[James V. O'Connor]

Get out there and promote! If you want to sell books and, more importantly, get your much needed message out,it takes time and effort. Publishers expect you to do the work. It should be relatively easy to get media coverage because of your topic.

I am a publicist and an author, currently working on a book about the challenges facing people who are "unlucky in looks," and I've started my PR campaign without first finishing my book. These days, that's what you have to do. Good luck!