Every Writer's Journey is different

I have been writing for more than ten years now.  Almost eleven years, actually, and I have to tell you that some things I did in the past, I don’t do now.

Every author grows with each experience. 

My first book fair was at a mall in Tampa.  I tell you, this was a horrible experience for me and being my first one was a real eye opener.  However, to this day, I am thankful for this experience that almost made me quit as a writer.  I learned something.  I learned to step out from behind the table and to greet and meet people.  I learned to step out of my shell even though I didn’t want to.  After tears upon tears, I learned and my next book experience, at a former Book Convention called Indie BookFest, I did much better and I felt I was within my own family.

I would not recommend the mall for any first timer.  A local book festival or smaller book convention catered to readers would be a better experience for you.  You can get your own style the more you do these types of events and then be prepared for events like the mall where readers may not be going there just for the event.  In that way, disappointment won’t hit you so hard. 

With each event you will gain experience.  And hey-if you are that author that sits behind the table, that is okay.  Not everyone wants to be up front and vulnerable.  I get it.  For me, I had to do this and it was a bit difficult but now I am more comfortable around people, as a result.  Start wherever you want to and bloom. 

Happy Writing!