Email Campaign

Since I chose to publish my book "In the Presence of Angels" independently, I find that I'm obligated to take the responsibility for its format, content, and distribution. While anyone can now purchase the book online through Amazon.com, a large part of the marketing is left up to me.

In this era of cyberspace, I decided to begin marketing with an email campaign. First, I sent a letter of explanation and an information sheet/order form via attachment to all my friends and relatives. Then I sent to friends and members of the Hawaiian club of which I am a proud member.

Finally I hit the Internet, looking for any and all Hawaiian culture clubs on the U.S. mainland. I found a great site, but the work of finding an email address in each likely listing was daunting. I finally sent the same information to 50 mainland Hawaiian groups.

Within two hours of the mailing, I heard from one huge club in Las Vegas, offering to put my information on their website and in their newsletter. They also requested more order forms. I've heard from other groups since, and I am happily smailing out orders. Next I will email Hawaiian culture clubs in the islands.

In the meantime, I continue to let people around me know that the book has been published, picking up orders through word of mouth. Along with these requests have come a few queries about talks I might deliver to various groups in the Greater Springfield Mass. area.

Soon I will be visiting local book stores and doing book signings. My first appointment is in September when more people will be looking for books. Setting these meetings up usually means articles in local newspaers will begin to appear. Until then, I'll continue the email campaign and prepare for more new opportunities to open up.

Books are Purchased

Wow! I've been so busy, I haven't had a chance to post a comment in this blog.

I received the delivery of 100 books. I thought I'd take some time off to rest, but I wasn't allowed. First I sent several copies to the wonderful people who critiqued the manuscript before mailing it in to be published. I did this in a number of visits to the post office, and since the clerk knew the book in the mailer was mine, we talked about it each time I visited. People overheard the conversations. People purchased the book on the spot.

I had an appointment at the local beauty parlor and brought a copy of the book inside to show the gal who cuts my hair. She didn't buy a copy, but the man beside me who was getting his hair cut as well, did. I went to the bank to open a new business savings account and deposit the funds from these few purchases, and the teller bought a copy.

Fortunately, I'd had the forsight to put some books in the back of my SUV along with a few bills and change. I felt a little indiscrete, selling my book out of the back of my car like a not-quite-legal vender on the streets of New York City. "Hey, lady! Have I got a deal for you!"

But it's also a wonderful feeling to know that people want to read the book and are willing to pay for it. I am very grateful.