I had the best time of my life November 10-11, 2023, at the Louisville Book Festival. As someone who believes that learning and growing is a continuous process that never stops, I am thinking back on this experience, cherishing the moments, and also assessing it so that my next book festival will be better than the last. And I am not talking about bettering the festival because the Louisville Book Festival was superb! I am talking about bettering my process so that the next time I do this, I am better prepared.

Nevertheless, The Louisville Book Festival was not just an event but a vibrant classroom without walls, where every interaction taught me something new. If you are a creative that sells directly, this post is for you. Here are my invaluable lessons that went beyond book sales and delved into the art of connecting with readers.

1. The Magnetism of Character Cards:

One of the first eye-openers was the power of character cards from my book “Mrs. Franchy’s Evil Ring.” These weren’t just pieces of paper; they were bridges into the hearts and minds of young readers. The vivid illustrations and quirky character descriptions captivated the kids, making them more intrigued by the story. This taught me the importance of visual aids in storytelling, especially when engaging with younger audiences.

2. Stepping Out and Stepping Up:

Day one at the festival was more about absorbing than interacting. I was still finding my footing, but observation proved a powerful tool. A seasoned fellow author at the table next to mine shared a golden tip: always have something to give to visitors that guides them to your website, such as a QR code. This insight underscored the importance of having a tangible connection point with your audience, extending the conversation beyond the confines of the event.

3. The QR Code Revolution:

Post-festival day one, I took this advice to heart. I upgraded my magnetic bookmarks and postcards, embedding them with QR codes. These little black and white squares became magic portals, transporting people directly to my website. It was a small change with a big impact, simplifying how readers could explore my other works.

4. A Personal Touch with DIY Flair:

Perhaps the most unexpected hit was a last-minute, DIY autobiography. This simple, stapled cardstock booklet, filled with personal photos and a brief journey through my books, added a unique personal touch. It brought smiles and laughter, proving that authenticity and a bit of humor can make a big difference.

5. Captivating the book festival with a Book Trailer:

Day two saw an addition to my table setup – a looping book trailer for “Mrs. Franchy’s Evil Ring”. This visual storytelling element drew kids like moths to a flame. The moving images engrossed them, and their intrigue often translated into book sales. It was a clear example of how multimedia can enhance storytelling and reader engagement.

Last Thing:

My debut at the Louisville Book Festival was an enriching experience transcending sales. It was about learning, connecting, and understanding the multifaceted ways of engaging with readers. Every conversation, every shared laugh, and every curious glance at the character cards or the trailer added to a reservoir of knowledge that I’ll carry forward in my journey as an author.

Stay tuned for more stories, insights, and adventures in books and storytelling!

Here’s the book that people loved: