10 Author Events To Host if You’re an Indie Publisher
Find new authors, connect with current authors, make new connections…
As an independent publisher, you understand the importance of fostering connections with readers, authors, and the literary community at large.
Hosting events not only allows you to showcase your passion for books but also provides a platform to build your brand, promote your titles, and engage with a diverse audience.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking for fresh ideas, this article presents seven exciting events tailored specifically for indie publishers.
From intimate book clubs to immersive literary festivals, these events offer opportunities to connect, inspire, and create a lasting impact in the vibrant world of independent publishing.
So, dust off your creative chops and get ready to make your mark on the literary landscape.
1. Panel Discussions
Gather a group of authors from different genres or with diverse writing backgrounds for a panel discussion on a specific topic, such as storytelling techniques, the writing process, or the future of literature.
Encourage audience participation by allowing them to ask questions and engage in the conversation.
Hosting a panel discussion as an indie publisher is a fantastic way to bring together authors, industry professionals, and avid readers to delve into engaging literary conversations.
I’ll have an article up soon on how to organize an author panel discussion.
2. Writing Workshops
Writing workshops can be a great way to bring authors together for collaborative projects you’re considering.
It’s also a great way to find new authors to sign to your publishing company.
Organize a hands-on workshop where authors share writing tips, techniques, and exercises with aspiring writers.
This interactive event can provide valuable insights into the craft of writing and inspire participants to improve their skills.
It can also be a great way to gain exposure for your publishing company.
Make sure to publicize the event by posting to social media or contacting local news stations to cover the event.
3. Book Readings and Q&As
Book readings can be a great way to introduce readers to a new author within your company.
Arrange a book reading session where new authors share excerpts from their latest works or a favorite piece.
Follow it up with a Q&A session where the audience can ask questions about the book, the author’s inspirations, or the writing journey.
Organize this kind of event in a local public library or a cafe, depending on the size.
You could also spring for a book-themed or literary-themed cafe for extra points with your authors and readers.
4. Literary Salons
A literary salon is an intimate and intellectual gathering where individuals passionate about literature come together to engage in discussions, readings, and shared experiences centered around books and literary works.
The salon is typically hosted in a cozy and inviting setting, such as a private home, a bookstore, or a small café, to create an atmosphere that encourages meaningful conversations and connections.
A literary salon embraces the spirit of community, providing a platform for literary enthusiasts, authors, poets, and intellectuals to share their love for literature.
It’s a space where ideas are exchanged, perspectives are challenged, and the beauty of language and storytelling is celebrated.
During a literary salon, participants are often seated in a circle or around a central focal point, creating an environment that fosters inclusivity and equal participation.
The salon host or a designated moderator may guide the discussions, introducing thought-provoking topics, literary themes, or specific books for exploration.
Host an intimate and cozy gathering reminiscent of traditional literary salons.
Create a relaxed atmosphere where authors and readers can mingle, discuss literature, share book recommendations, and engage in stimulating conversations (and maybe enjoy refreshments?).
Consider incorporating themes like poetry readings, book swaps, or author-led discussions.
5. Author Book Clubs
An author book club is a unique and engaging gathering that centers around the works of a specific author.
It brings together readers, fans, and literary enthusiasts who are passionate about a particular author’s writing and offers them an opportunity to delve deeper into their works through in-depth discussions and shared experiences.
The book club meetings are usually held at regular intervals, such as monthly or bi-monthly, to allow ample time for participants to read and reflect on the selected books.
The meetings can take place in various settings, such as homes, libraries, bookstores, or even online platforms, depending on the preferences and logistical considerations of the club members.
During the author book club meetings, participants engage in lively discussions and share their perspectives, interpretations, and emotional responses to the author’s works.
The club could adopt various discussion formats, such as guided conversations led by a facilitator, open group discussions, or smaller breakout groups for focused conversations on specific aspects of the books.
In addition to discussing the content of the books, author book clubs often explore the author’s background, writing process, inspirations, and literary influences.
This deeper understanding of the author’s life and craft helps participants gain insights into the motivations behind the books and the context in which they were created.
To enhance the book club experience, members may incorporate additional activities.
These can include inviting guest speakers, such as literary experts or scholars, who can provide valuable insights and facilitate enriching discussions.
Members might also organize author-themed events, such as attending book signings, literary festivals, or even arranging virtual author meet-ups where participants can interact directly with the featured author.
Start an author-led book club where participants read the author’s book beforehand and then join a live session to discuss it.
This kind of event allows readers to interact directly with the author, gain deeper insights into the story, and explore the author’s creative intentions.
6. Writing Contests and Awards
Hosting a writing contest as an indie publisher is an excellent way to provide exposure to talented writers while promoting your brand and engaging with your audience.
Hosting a writing contest as an indie publisher not only brings exposure to talented writers but also strengthens your brand presence within the writing community.
By providing a platform for writers to showcase their skills, you foster connections, build relationships, and create a lasting impact on the literary landscape.
Organize a writing contest centered around a specific theme or genre.
Invite authors to submit their work, and have a panel of judges, including the featured author, evaluate the entries.
Conclude the event with an awards ceremony to recognize the winners and provide them with an opportunity to showcase their writing.
7. Literary Scavenger Hunts
A literary scavenger hunt is an interactive and immersive activity that combines the thrill of a scavenger hunt with the exploration of literature.
It invites participants to engage with books, literary landmarks, and literary trivia as they follow clues and solve puzzles to uncover hidden treasures within the world of literature.
Create a literary-themed scavenger hunt in a local bookstore or library, where participants search for clues related to famous authors, book quotes, or literary trivia.
Incorporate prizes and giveaways to make it more exciting and encourage participation.
You can even limit it to a certain time period, such as The Harlem Renaissance.
Have fun with it and play around with potential ideas until you have the kind of event you’re really excited about.
8. Book Launch Parties
A book launch party is a festive and celebratory event that marks the official release of a new book.
It brings together authors, readers, publishers, and literary enthusiasts to commemorate the culmination of the writing process and to introduce the book to the world.
Celebrate the release of an author’s new book by organizing a lively book launch party.
Include elements like live music, themed decorations, author readings, and book signings.
Encourage attendees to dress up as characters from the book or the author’s previous works.
BONUS: Literary Food Tastings
Combine literature and gastronomy by hosting a literary food tasting event.
Choose a book or an author known for their vivid descriptions of food, and collaborate with a chef or a caterer to create a menu inspired by the book.
During the event, the author can read passages while attendees savor the corresponding dishes.
A literary food tasting is a unique and flavorful event that combines the pleasures of literature with the delights of gastronomy. It brings together the world of books and the world of culinary arts to create an immersive and sensory experience for participants.
Select a specific literary theme for the event.
This can be based on a particular book, author, genre, or literary period.
For example, you might focus on a classic novel set in a specific location or explore the works of a renowned food writer.
The theme will serve as the foundation for selecting relevant passages or quotes to accompany the food tasting.
Planning Your Indie Publishing Events
Hosting author events as an indie publisher opens up a world of opportunities to connect with readers, support emerging talent, and establish a vibrant literary community.
From book launches to writing workshops, each event offers a unique experience that can leave a lasting impact on both authors and readers alike.
By organizing these author-centric gatherings, you have the power to showcase your passion for literature, foster meaningful connections, and build a loyal audience base.
Whether it’s creating a dynamic panel discussion, organizing a literary salon, or hosting a writing contest, these events allow indie publishers to shine a spotlight on their authors and their works, driving engagement, exposure, and ultimately, success.
So, embrace the power of author events and let your indie publishing journey flourish as you create unforgettable experiences that celebrate the magic of storytelling.
