I exhibited my cookbook at the “Great Valley Bookfest” in Manteca this past weekend. It was very successful. Not only did I sell a lot of books, but Barnes and Noble had a large booth where they sold books written by the author exhibitors, and several of my books sold there as well. I had no advance notice that B&N was going to do that.
In addition, I was approached by a B&N representative late in the day who asked me if I would be willing to do book signings at various B&N stores. When I told the rep that I had done one at the Santa Rosa store that was unsuccessful, she said that what they had in mind would be accompanied by a publicity campaign that, she was sure, would guarantee a good audience. I am skeptical, but we will see.
Agents and publishers were absent from this particular Book Fest, but I understand that they are prominently represented at some other fairs.
I am so excited about the potential of these book fairs that I would like to participate in more of them. Although the Manteca show was free to the authors, the other California shows that I have been able to find online charge for exhibit space. As a result, I am interested in talking to BAIPA members who may be interested in sharing booth space (and thus the expense) with me. I am particularly interested in the LA Times Book Fair next April, supposedly the largest Book Fair in the US. It is charging $1250 for a 10′ x 10′ exhibit space, which, I think, could handle 2-4 authors.
I also found out about a Book Fair in Solano County next spring. Authors can get an exhibit table there for $50.
If you are potentially interested, feel free to contact me at 707-658-2844 or email me at [email protected].
Michael and BAIPA members. Get Out Books exhibited an the new California Capital Book Festival last weekend. It was held at the Sacramento Convention Center. Good turn out for an inaugural event. Good location. Well planned, nice people, good press and social media coverage. I’m sure it will be the first of many years to come. Susan Pace-Koch