When Do They Start Asking Me?

[Peg Herring]

Since I started this publishing thing, it seems like I'm always asking people for something, which is my least favorite thing in the world (well, at least in the bottom ten, along with colonoscopies and people who cut me off on the freeway). Raised to be a rugged individualist, I have a natural aversion to asking for favors, yet I have to ask media people to cover my "events," ask publishers to take a look at my writing, and book lovers to buy my books. So I can't help but wonder when it turns around and people start seeking me out. "Hey, could we interview you for our paper?" would be a great start. And all those people who wait for James Patterson's next book, or Diana Gabaldon? An author can only dream of that.

Actually it does happen. Often out of the blue, an opportunity comes that I didn't have to beg or maneuver for. Someone asks, "Will you bring some books to the meeting so we can have a chance to buy signed copies?"

"Well, golly gee, ma'am, since you ask so nicely, I'd be glad to help you out."

Or an email arrives: "By the way, we'll be interviewing authors on TV this weekend. If you want to be included..."

"Let me think about that. Oh, heck, why not?"

These are opportunities that an author has to deem golden. You put in hours and hours to get your name recognized, to get your books in front of the public, to snare the attention of a single agent or editor. And suddenly, someone comes to you and actually asks you to do those very things, as if you're doing him a favor.

I'll be glad to help you out. And thanks for asking.