When I was younger authors seemed to be people who were a world away from the book I was reading. It wasn’t common to know anything about them other than their names. Favourite authors from my childhood days, such as Enid Blyton, Walter Farley, Louisa May Alcott and LM Montgomery are still largely mysteries to me. I wouldn’t know them if you showed me a photo of them.
Not only that, if you wanted to find other fans of the same books you had to find them in the schoolyard. Sometimes it was difficult to find anyone, especially if I was obsessing over a book. Not many of my school friends could relate to that mindset!
How different it is today, especially through the wonders of the internet. Now when we fall in love with a book we can search out sites where others may well be enthusing about our favourite novels as much, if not more, than we do. Not only that, but authors are far more accessible these days through their own websites and the ever-present blogging or tweeting or updates on Facebook. Most authors, especially those who are unknown, try and do all these regularly. I know I do.
I was wondering if there are some ways that work better than others, although I think it’s up to each individual and how they choose to engage with authors or fans. If you’re an author, what’s your favourite way to get in touch with fans of your books? If you’re a reader, what’s your favourite way to reach fans of the books you love or to get in touch with the author? Let me know in the comments!
Apart from the ideas mentioned in your post I enjoy meeting an author whose work I enjoy at book launches and at speaking events. I received great feedback from my own launches and every time I spoke at an event about my journey. Also enjoyed so much at conferences I’ve been involved in through my church movement in the resources area. One in particular I remember well was when Lindy Chamberlain visited our church when I was involved in selling her books and DVDs. Was able to speak a little with her – such a wonderful woman – but spoke at length with her husband Rick as well.
Yes, I’d love to meet Lindy Chamberlain.