The Business of Marketing

Writing books is, in many ways, the simplest part of an author’s journey. This creative process is entirely within my control; taking a seed of an idea and nurturing it into a fully realised, tangible book is something I can do on my own terms. However, once the writing is done, the challenge truly begins with marketing. Success as an author depends on how well the book is promoted and reaches its intended readers.

When I was eager to publish my first story, I jumped at the first marketing strategy that fit my budget. I spent $500 on a vanity publisher overseas to print and “market” my children’s book—the first edition of Gregory the Greedy Duck. Unfortunately, I overlooked the fine print and later discovered that the publisher kept 80% of each book’s sale as royalty. Matters became more complicated when that publisher was bought out by a larger US-based company, which meant I was suddenly liable for US taxes on any sales. Although I was told I could apply for an exemption as an Australian author, my applications were never properly verified, and the publisher even suggested I pay a special agent to smooth the process. The legal and not-so-legal pitfalls of book marketing were eye-opening, and in those early days, I encountered more than my fair share. Each time I published a new book marketing scammers would be ringing my phone, saying they had read my newest book and wanted to add my book to their list of worldwide marketing company. For a price – anywhere between $500 to $5000 they would get a couple of copies of my book and put it on the table with hundreds or thousands of other books at book fairs across the world – great marketing strategies – sigh.

After moving to Western Australia, I connected with Pickawoowoo Publishing, a vanity publisher in Nannup. Meeting with them proved invaluable, as they shared plenty of insight into the publishing and marketing world. They gave me a form letter to instruct overseas publishers to stop printing my book, and I was relieved to cut ties, having never received any information or payment for books sold. For my next story, Gregory and the Bully, I paid $5,000 for publishing but retained control over sales, avoiding both royalties and IRS tax obligations.

Now, I have a website and use social media to help sell my books. The most rewarding aspect, however, is attending markets in Northam, York, and Toodyay each month, as well as special events around Perth, especially the Christmas markets. These occasions allow me to connect directly with my readers—my tribe—and I truly cherish these interactions.

Over the holiday period, I’ve been selling my three books at markets across Perth, meeting wonderful people from all walks of life. These conversations give me the opportunity to share my books and discuss the inspiration behind my writing. Connecting with my community is one of the highlights of my journey, and I absolutely love meeting readers in person. For instance, at the Toodyay markets, I had a heartwarming conversation with a young girl about her writing, and it was inspiring to see her mother supporting her creativity. Moments like these remind me of where I started—my Year 7 teacher was the first to encourage me to write, and that encouragement has stuck with me ever since. I especially enjoy talking with young people about their creative journeys. Writing nurtures the soul, and I encourage anyone considering it to keep going, even when it feels challenging. Every story matters, regardless of where you are on your writing path.