An Author’s Guide to Connecting with Book Clubs
Getting your book into the hands of readers for reviews, discussion, and word-of-mouth is an essential part of a book marketing campaign. It’s also the dream of most authors to see their book spark lively discussion and community building. One way to do that is by connecting with book clubs, which can be challenging and time-consuming as there’s no one central place where book clubs congregate. Below are some ways that you might connect with book clubs both locally and virtually.
● Reach out to book club leaders and organizers.
Search for relevant book club groups on Facebook, Goodreads, Google, MeetUp, local newspapers, and public library websites.
Ask about book clubs with your friends, at your workplace, and at your local library, church, or community center.
Talk to your local bookstore. Do they host a virtual or in-person book club? Do local book clubs meet at their store? Do they recommend book club picks to customers?
● Create a book club discussion guide.
Make the discussion guide available for download on your website.
Upload the discussion guide to book club groups or websites.
● Offer incentives.
Offer signed copies and swag like bookmarks or stickers.
Offer to facilitate the discussion for book clubs that purchase books.
● Be an active member of book clubs.
The best way to get in with a group is to be part of the group!
Being a book club member will give you insight into what types of books are selected and what members like to discuss.
● Be vocal about your support of book clubs.
Share your interest in connecting with book clubs on social media.
Add a section to your website encouraging book clubs to select your book.
Include a discussion guide in your book.
● You or your publisher can also reach out to these online book clubs for advertising options:
Fresh Fiction
Silent Book Club
These tips will help you to connect with book clubs to increase the awareness of your book and engage with your readers. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there!