Publishing a book is much different than writing–it is said that writing is an art and publishing is a business. And then, juggling the promotion of Biography of a Friendship with a family priority was awkward, yet it had to be done. Still, promotion is the bane of a writer…
Before the release date, I sent 152 personalized emails to family, friends, and acquaintances. I am grateful for the 75 percent supportive feedback.
I worked on social media: my Facebook Profile, and The Writings Keys. On LinkedIn, my son surprised me with a much-appreciated shout-out. After release, I took care of my Amazon Central Author’s Page.
I took a listing for my book at the online bookstores of the Federation of BC Writers and the International Women’s Writing Guild. I also contacted independent bookstores, but in Canada, it’s easier to get my book at a large independent bookstore (Indigo).
I also participated in various events:
February 27, 2024 (Pre-release) – The Federation of British Columbia Writers / Regional Authors Spotlight on Zoom with three fellow authors. I gave a reading and an answer to a major question: Why did I write a memoir instead of a novel? Good question! A shout-out appeared in the summer edition of their magazine WordWorks.
March 14, 2024 – Launch day for Biography of a Friendship. Tule Publishing had a live event on Facebook.
April 12, 2024 – North Shore Writers’ Association Festival.
April 27, 20 – PurpleStride Walk annual fundraiser for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN), in San Jose, California. Books were gifted to qualifying donors.
June 2024 – My write-up was published in the Blackhawk Living magazine in Danville (Cal.) since my story is connected to this location. Thank you, Rakestraw Bookstore, for listing Biography of a Friendship.
July 22, 2025 – Interview by Rishab Perati for the website Living with Cancer.
July 23, 2024 – Writers’ Showcase at the Vancouver Public Library. Introduction for Biography of a Friendship.
August 6, 2024 – The Harmony Arts Festival in West Vancouver with the North Shore Writers’ Association.
September 2024 – Biography of a Friendship was selected for the North Shore Author’s Collection and is on display for one year at the three local libraries.
As I set up to reach a larger audience, I hope to get more reviews. Before becoming an author, I never thought of leaving reviews (on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or Goodreads), yet just three short sentences will help potential readers, and give credibility to an author. Yes, I could ‘buy’ reviews… really? I am not interested.
Thank you for your support! The journey continues for Biography of a Friendship