I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to go to a few author events. I’m always on the look out for other events near me. From my experience, I have seen some events that were wonderfully organized, while others were lacking, while a few were just plain awful.
When thinking about these experiences, I’ve realized that there are a few key things that I like to see at author events.
5 Things I Like To See At Author Events
Plenty of seating.
This is so important. I personally don’t mind standing, but it’s a bit of a bummer when the room is packed and all of the seats are filled.
Free bottles of water.
I usually have a drink of some sort with me, whether that’s water or a tea. However, I’ve been to a few author events where outside drinks were not allowed, and the location didn’t sell drinks or have a water fountain.
Adequate speaking and signing time for the author.
I’ve been to a few events that felt very rushed both with the discussion and the signing that totally ruined the experience for me. I totally understand that authors and store employees need to keep a schedule, but when I see events that are advertised as only an hour long, I probably won’t attend. That’s just not enough time!
The opportunity to pose for photos with the author.
Of course I totally understand that some authors may request no photos, and that in other situations there simply isn’t time. But I love when authors and event hosts allow it!
The opportunity (but not a requirement) to purchase the authors latest book.
I get why some authors require you to purchase the book then and there, but for pretty obvious reasons, I prefer when that is optional. At many events, I end up bringing a book that I already own to have signed.
Goodies.
Who doesn’t love walking away with a little gift?! I’ve seen free things offered like bookmarks, pins, artwork, and such. But I also love when things are offered for sale at the location; things like mugs, t-shirts, and other such things.
Thanks for reading!
What are some things that you like seeing at author events?
Fun post! I tend to go to author events at a local bookstore, so they are usually handled well. But yeah, it wouldn't be fun to not have a place to sit if it's a longer event – and having an event that's only an hour? How does that even work? It's like they don't expect people to show up!
-Lauren
http://www.shootingstarsmag.net
Right?! Too crazy!!
I totally agree with your list. I love meeting authors, and I hate when I feel rushed and don't have time to speak with my favorite author. Thanks for sharing this list.
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Ugh! I hate when you HAVE to buy a book at the signing. So annoying!
Yeah, especially when you already own it! 🙁
I love author events! And this is a great topic! I like to bring a book too so the buying requirement can be a little annoying. And yes an hour is usually NOT enough, in my experience, especially if the author is popular at all. Plenty of seating is big too.
Nice post!
Thank you! I need to get to more author events! I'd love to see your take on a list like this! 🙂
Very good list. Honestly I'd just like to see more in my area..
Same here. Especially authors that I know… I'm on the hunt this summer! There have got to be some interesting ones near me somewhere!
I would like to see crowds! I’ve never been to an event for a super-popular author, but I have been to a lot of events for lesser-known authors. Some of them were very, very empty.
Aj @ Read All The Things!
Ah yeah, that's always a struggle. I've seen a few with a tiny crowd as well. Sometimes that works in the authors favor because they can really talk to everyone! 🙂 But I can only imagine how upsetting it is to have a small turnout.
Ample seating is a must! I've been to a handful of author events where the venue either ran our of chairs or was grossly unaware of the number of attendees. Standing for about an hour is fine, but I start to get antsy. I can't even imagine those who can't stand for that long.
I feel you about water bottles but I also don't want them. Only because of the amount of plastic that would leave. If pubs could give out more water bottle swags, I'd be happy! 🙂
And yes, I love having the opportunity for a photo! Maddie Z from Dance Moms (and SIA's videos) didn't allow photos, which I completely understand since she's a minor.
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Definitely agree about seating and non-required book purchases! I'm particularly conflicted about the second when a signing is at a local independent bookstore. They're less likely to discount books, so a new HC release can cost upwards of $20 and I know that's not always feasible for fans. I wish they would encourage guests to make *a* purchase so that folks aren't as pressured to essentially pay admission at a signing.
Agreed!! That would be a great idea!
Seating is a big one. I *really* dont want to stand throughout an entire event. And not having to purchase the book at the event is important to me. Most often, by the time I learn of an event I’ve long since purchased the book and I certainly don’t want to have to buy a second copy.
Same here!!
I've never been to an author event, but I totally agree with all your points. Such good ideas, ones that honestly seem like them should be a given.
Fantastic post, Erica!
Right? I've been to a number of great events, but I've also been to some rough ones!
Ugh in our country, we have this big bookstore that hosts majority of the bookish events we have, and it's always a requirement that we buy the book from their brand, which is a HUGE turnoff for me. We also literally only get like 30 seconds to chat with the author, and they're not allowed to sign non-book items we bring. It just sucks and ruins the whole thing for me.
– Aimee @ Aimee, Always
Ugh! That doesn't sound fun 🙁
I haven't been to an author event, but I'd be giving them major side-eye if buying the book was required. What happens when you already own the book? Does that mean you have to buy another copy?
Right?! It's so frustrating!
I would love if there were a guest book of some sort for those who want to connect with other attendees.
Oh!! That's a GREAT idea!!