As part of Black History Month we’re shining the spotlight on a few of the Black authors we’ve had the privilege of working with over the past year. These self-published authors are promoting their books in a range of unique ways. Take a look to inspire your own book promotion ideas!
Record a podcast at your launch event
Author Ray Byfield recorded a podcast episode to answer questions about his new book at his launch event. Last September, Ray hosted a socially distanced book launch to celebrate the release of This Business of Life and Business. He shared this video to his YouTube page; he posted it to his website; and, he promoted it on his Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook pages.
Creating one piece of quality content can go far when you adapt it for promoting on each of your platforms.
Pitch to journalists for a deeper connection with your audience
Arnelle M. Cruz was interviewed by The Hollywood Times to discuss her book The Survivor Story of Arnelle: A Girl from Africa. Arnelle opens up about what it was like growing up in Liberia, and she tells readers how they too can overcome adversity.
Interviews and feature stories, like Arnelle’s interview, give readers a deeper insight into your story.
Submit your book for awards
Author Charles Darkoh is making waves as a finalist in the National Indie Excellence Awards for his book Victims of Hope.
Putting yourself out there by submitting for book awards is a vulnerable process. But the recognition that comes from being a finalist or winner can take your book to new heights!
Attend events to reach new readers
Shazardes G. Richards shows us how it’s done at the Black Excellence Ball. He connected with other guests and told them all about his new poetry book, Explicit Thoughts. You can see on his book’s Amazon page that this effort brought in some great reviews, and it gave him some quality images for his Instagram and Facebook pages.
Each of these authors continuously experiments with new ways to promote their book. They pick avenues that align with their genre, and seek out places, whether in person or online, where their audience is likely to be. Take these tips and try them yourself!
