Posted on February 14th, 2024

Community backing plays a crucial role in nurturing the dreams and creativity of emerging self-published children's book authors, including myself. Over the years, I've crafted captivating children's tales to ignite the imaginations of youngsters and instill a lifelong passion for reading. Upon deciding to self-publish a couple of my stories, I encountered minimal community support despite my dedicated marketing efforts.

While I participated in book readings, signings, and managed to sell some copies, the level of support fell short of my expectations, especially from my local community. Supporting children's book authors isn't just an investment in creativity; it's a contribution to the diverse and enchanting world of children's literature. If you find yourself unsure of how to support an emerging self-published author in your community, the following are several ways to help ensure their imaginative stories reach a broader audience.

• Purchase Directly from the Author: One of the most direct ways to support self-published children's book authors is to purchase their books directly. Many authors sell their books through their websites or at local events. Buying directly ensures that a higher percentage of the sales goes directly to the author, supporting their creative endeavors.
• Spread the Word on Social Media: Social media is a powerful tool for promoting and discovering new books. Follow self-published children's book authors on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Share posts about their books, write reviews, and use relevant hashtags to increase their visibility. Word-of-mouth recommendations can go a long way in expanding their audience.
• Attend Author Events and Book Launches: Keep an eye out for local author events, book fairs, or book launches featuring self-published children's book authors. Attend these events to show your support in person. Not only will you have the chance to meet the authors, but you'll also contribute to the lively atmosphere of literary gatherings.
• Request Their Books at Local Bookstores and Libraries: Encourage your local bookstores and libraries to carry the works of self-published children's book authors. Many independent bookstores are open to showcasing local talent. Requesting their books at libraries helps introduce these stories to a wider audience, including families who may not have discovered them otherwise.
• Write Reviews on Online Platforms: Positive reviews on platforms like Amazon, Goodreads, or other book review websites can significantly impact an author's visibility. Take a few minutes to share your thoughts on a self-published children's book you enjoyed. Honest reviews provide valuable feedback for both authors and potential readers.
• Gift Books to Schools and Libraries: Consider donating copies of self-published children's books to local schools and libraries. Teachers and librarians are always on the lookout for quality literature to share with young readers. Your gift not only supports the author but also introduces these imaginative stories to educational settings.
• Organize or Participate in Read-Aloud Events: Host read-aloud events at local community centers, schools, or libraries featuring self-published children's book authors. These events not only promote literacy but also provide authors with an opportunity to engage directly with young readers and their families.
• Collaborate on Educational Initiatives: Work with local schools to integrate self-published children's books into educational programs. Authors may be willing to participate in school visits, virtual readings, or workshops. Collaborating with educators enhances the educational value of these books while supporting local talent.

I genuinely trust that this blog has provided valuable insights into supporting self-published authors and emphasized its significance. Backing self-published authors of children's books takes you on a delightful expedition into a realm filled with creativity, imagination, and heartfelt storytelling. Communities play a pivotal role in fostering a diverse and enchanting literary landscape for young readers by actively engaging with and promoting these authors. The next time you're in search of a gift for a child or a new bedtime story, contemplate exploring the enchanting world of self-published children's books, becoming a part of the journey in nurturing young imaginations.