Jump Start Your Book Sales by Marilyn and Tom Ross offer countless marketing and publicity ideas for authors and publishers. They argue that by increasing visibility and having your book available in areas outside of bookstores, you will acquire more sales. The Rosses give ideas and instructions about printed promotional materials, book signings and media publicity. They explain the maze of the book industry and the influence of booksellers, wholesalers, distributors and librarians. More importantly, they tell you how to work within the publishing system and how to gain readers. A large segment of Jump Start Your Book Sales is dedicated to money-saving tips on creating a direct mail campaign.
The authors also remind you to pursue the non-bookstores. They cite that 53% of books are not sold in traditional book retail. For example, if your book is about gardening, go after the lawn and garden stores in addition to the traditional bookstores. Have you ever considered getting your book in a catalog? Would you like your book as a premium or incentive that companies give to their clients and employees as a gift? What about book clubs and educational sales? You can find out how to go after these opportunities in this book. Jump Start Your Book Sales is the resource of resources. If you want to put together a media mailing list, Marilyn and Tom Ross will point you to the right directories. Want to get your book in museum gift stores? They will tell you about the common discount practices, how to give your book a special slant, and what associations to join.
Some of the ideas given in this book are for the self-published author, especially the first chapter. Even then, all publishing professionals can glean information. In fact, any one who reads Jump Start Your Book Sales will come away with useful, practical and money-making ideas. This review first appeared in EC Promotions.
