Friday, August 22, 2003
Still not thinking about how I’m going to write the book of the Mississippi trip – just trying to let things settle down in my mind about it all (no more Vietnam-style nightmares, at least).
In the midst of all sorts of day to day stuff (helping pack up a house, preparing to get married in less than a month), I’ve shifted the work thoughts back to the first journey, and the book of the trip that’s being published in February.
I want the site of the book to be great, but what should it include? A quick trip round some writers’ sites showed that there’s certainly room for improvement, and the folks on the boards had some good ideas, of course.
In no particular order, here’s what I’m currently thinking.
Sample chapter or two (maybe with audio version for those who subscribe to the newsletter). Micko suggested including a first draft too, for those who like that sort of stuff.
Events listings (readings and the like) – the publishers say there’ll be some marketing stuff going on around the launch, and I like the idea of doing readings in bookshops and stuff, so with luck there’ll be some dates for people to stick in their diaries
Reviews, press – if I get any coverage, linking to it all might persuade people to buy the damn thing.
Blog – about what I’m up to currently, so lots of banging my head off the desk writing the second book, plus any other bits and pieces. William Gibson’s blog is a good read.
Extra bits about the trip – links to history resources, kit list and reviews, FAQs, a map, photos
Basically, I’m keen to sell copies of the book (links to the Amazon and Powells sites, too – with my reseller code so I get the kickback), but I also want to support people who have bought the book and are interested enough to come to the site.
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