Press Kit

This week I'll be preparing my press kits and sending them out. I'll also visit some local book stores and libraries to pitch my book -- I'm hoping to get some signings and readings set up.

So...

What's in a press kit? Here's a list of things to be included in a press kit:

1. Press Release -- basically an announcement of your book. Make it news worthy. Make it relevant and exciting and let people know why it matters.
2. Author Bio -- not a memoir; just a brief summary of who you are and what you've done in terms of writing. Feel free to include any fun facts of yourself, but don't bog it down with endless details
3. Author Photo -- professionally done headshots preferred. Do not include a snapshot that looks like Aunt Marie took of you while drunk. Also, be recent. Don't include something that is 10 years and 30 pounds earlier
4. CD, audio, video (optional) -- if you have done TV or radio interviews in the past, it's a good idea to include a copy of the footage or taping. That's to show that you're camera or radio ready
5. Business cards and other marketing materials such as bookmarks, posters, etc.
6. A copy of the book covers -- so they can use it for copies
7. A copy of your book -- so they can check it out and see what the fuss is about...
8. Reviews -- if you have any positive reviews, include them
9. Q&A and suggested questions -- media are busy people; they want you to do most of the homework for them. Besides, it gives them a better idea of what kind of writers you are