By Richard Jay Parker
So far I've done signings in bookshops and a debate in a library with other writers as backup but last night was my first solo gig. It was for a book club in Southampton and I wondered if I could retain the interest of my audience for more than a few minutes.
I needn't have worried. I was very warmly welcomed by an enthusiastic reading group who had all read STOP ME and had plenty of original questions to ask. But as I sat there it got me thinking about how writers need to get out more.
I've touched on this subject before and told this group that you can always recognise a writer at a party because they're usually the last to leave. They spend so much of their time locked away in a stuffy room with only their thoughts for company that any opportunity to talk about their work with similarly inclined human beings is seized grimly and firmly by both horns.
There's increasing pressure on writers to engage with their readers on every level and as I sat chatting last night it struck me that it really isn't a bad thing. How else can you get that sort of one-to-one feedback about your work?
So thanks to Caroline Petty for arranging the event and for everyone who turned up. I don't think there was anyone who didn't want to grill me about something.
I hope I didn't keep them from the polling station. Then again, if they had gone there instead they might not have got in.
Happy weekend.
I'd love to come to a reading, Richard. Let us know if you come to London!
ReplyDeleteCongrats on the successful reading! I've had Stop Me on my wish list for far too long. I need to go on a shopping spree soon!
ReplyDeleteThanks Jen - am in Sheperds Bush on June 2nd. Tweet me for details nearer the time.
ReplyDeleteMuch appreciated, Darcia. Hope you get to the shops soon.
Sounds like a wonderful experience. I agree getting out more doesn't sound like such a bad idea. (Hugs)Indigo
ReplyDeleteI love getting out and about meeting readers - I can't say I've ever found writing to be a solitary occupation. I meet people when I'm researching my books, interact with my publisher and agent, and as well as appearing at literary festivals, I am often out chatting to readers and writers groups and book clubs, as well as giving talks in libraries and colleges. None of this will generate sales like Matt Lynn's placement in Tescos but it's fun. I've met a lot of lovely people - and if you're reading this, you know who you are! (One of them has commented on this post.) So I'd recommend any author to do exactly what Richard is doing. You might find you enjoy it!
ReplyDeleteIt was very enjoyable. Thanks for dropping by, Indigo.
ReplyDeleteGood point, Leigh, but bear in mind that a lot of writers are unpublished and don't have the opportunity to get out as much!