An autographed book is perceived as having more value. While there are several ways to capitalize on this fact, the most obvious often doesn't work. Autograph parties sound glamorous; in reality they are boring! When you're stuck in a store for two or three hours and hardly anybody shows up, it's both embarrassing and time wasting.

For non-celebrity authors, we aren't high on autograph parties. Author appearances, on the other hand, can be effective. Offer to do a mini-seminar. These value-added 20- to 30-minute presentations on the topic of your book pull more people. (It's also a nice showcase opportunity for your speaking talents.)

If the bookstore is a chain with a solid customer mailing list or an assertive independent that specializes in the type of book you have (such as business, Christian, mysteries, or New Age), you may pull a sizeable crowd. With that kind of potential support, this activity makes sense.

Something we've found that also works well for most authors is to simply stop in various major bookstores when you're in town and sign your books. (Hopefully you