Selling 'Short' July 2024

Recently the local writing society to which I belong advised of a book selling opportunity. Unfortunately I've eschewed most public activities until a health issue is remedied ( hopefully soon, so I can resume my active lifestyle.) However, I realize that the society is making an effort to put the event on so when the organizer suggested I could still partake in absentia, I had to think on it (not wanting to let 'the side down' ) but ultimately declined. Why?

• There are usually fees involved - contributing to rental of table /kiosk/tent space. Unlikely to recoup in actual book sale numbers

• Books showing up without the author to promote ( org members probably haven't read them so can't elucidate salient points ) is a guaranteed loss.

• Those who are participating , usually short shifts , are certainly not there or able to promote other authors work , whatever the good intention.

• Also, when hawking one's books, engagement and feedback from the public is Value Added. Can't do that if not there.

The ROI on such an event is never substantial except perhaps in making the Local society slightly more visible . Despite all the 'cons' listed however, I would participate in the future , merely FOR THE FUN OF IT ! A chance for authors to hobnob together if nothing else, and perhaps to liberate a copy or two from storage , if you're lucky...