Ask the book doctor

Dear Dr. Rosie:

I am a self-published author, and as part of my promotional efforts I have scheduled book signings at several stores. Although I've had over ten signings, none have been successful. I've done four local signings and six out of town. No matter where I've been, only a handful of people show upmost of whom just happened to be in the store at the time. I have lost so much money traveling to other cities and selling just ten or so books. Are the bookstores doing something wrong? I am so frustrated that I'm ready to throw in the towel.

Answer:

There are few experiences more disappointing for an author than to be sitting behind a table, surrounded by books …