Every day, talented writers pour their hearts into stories that have the power to entertain, inspire and engage. Many of these authors live in your community, crafting narratives while navigating daily challenges. Supporting local authors goes beyond just buying books; it's about giving them the motivation they need to succeed.
Why Support Local Authors?
Local authors enrich the literary world with their stories. Their writing often reflects the unique experiences and cultures of your community, making it relatable and meaningful. When you support them, you’re not only promoting creativity but also helping to cultivate a lively literary scene.
Imagine walking into your local bookstore and browsing through shelves of books crafted by your neighbours. Well, you don't need to imagine it, just walk into an indie bookstore like mine in the scenic Adelaide Hills.
There, you might find stories set in your favourite local parks or characters that resemble people you know. Local authors often provide insights into themes that national bestsellers well overlook. For instance, a writer from your city may tell a gripping story about a festival that holds significance in your community, offering a perspective often missing from mainstream literature.
There are countless murder mysteries being written now about the Flinders Ranges and deaths on York Peninsula, all while you're still only buying books if the characters walk New York or London streets. Lame.
The Impact of Your Support
Buying a book from a local author creates a powerful ripple effect within the community. The money you spend can fund their next writing project, provide essential resources for marketing, and even help them support their families. Heck, I've got a HECS debt up to my neck: every sale helps!
Many authors balance their writing careers with full-time jobs or other commitments. A local author, for example, might work as a teacher while spending evenings crafting stories. I've personally got two other jobs (I've had previously to balance 5 jobs!) just to get food on the table and pay the mortgage, and still have to find time to get you a new book published.
When you purchase books from local authors, it’s a form of validation, showing them that their creative efforts have not been in vain. They don't need to cut off an ear in depression, nor do they need to cark it before someone finally reads their life's effort.
Knowing that someone in their community values their work can boost their morale significantly. Just imagine the pride they feel when local readers choose their books over major titles.
How You Can Support Local Authors
Supporting local authors can be done in various ways:
Attend Local Book Signings: Look out for events at bookstores or community centres. There are plenty of authors' markets or authors at markets, or authors at libraries, bookstores and community halls. These gatherings allow you to meet the writer and hear them discuss their inspirations, enriching your reading experience.
Spread the Word: If a local author’s book resonates with you, share it with friends, family and coworkers. Your recommendation can greatly increase an author's visibility. Word-of-mouth is THE most effective marketing tool for us poor authors.
Write Reviews: Pleeeeeease write reviews. After enjoying a local book, leave a review on sites like Goodreads or Amazon. Even a short review can help fellow readers discover their work. Even if you hate the book, leave a review on Amazon. We see it, we improve on it.
Join Local Book Clubs: Engage in conversations about local literature, not just the stuff big companies want you to be talking about. You're only helping millionaires get money. Book clubs provide an excellent opportunity to learn about new authors and share your thoughts, helping to promote their work. Heck, ask them along to your club to talk about their book!
Grab some merchandise: Love a local author but you've read all their books already? A lot of us don't just sell books, but T-shirts, jumpers, even mugs. Every cent helps us. The less time we have to go to another job to make ends meet, the more time we can write for your entertainment.
Supporting Local Voices Matters
Fostering community and creativity goes hand in hand with supporting local authors. Your actions signify that you value artistic expression in your neighbourhood. By uplifting local talent, you help ensure their stories are heard and continue to flourish.
Local authors rely on their craft and the backing of their community to thrive. Without locals helping local authors, we're genuinely buggered.
So, why not explore your local literary scene? Your next favorite book may just be waiting for you nearby. Together, let's commit to supporting local authors like their lives depend upon it, because - honestly - it does.
Come for a drive to D.M.W. Productions Australia (68 Main Street, Lobethal) to pick up your next read. Or jump on Amazon and grab a copy of some awesome indie authors. Here's a couple just to name a few to start you off:
Julia L. Miller
Sarah L. Barnett
Matt Mememaro
R. Max Tillsley
Karen Carlisle
Lisa Stanbridge
Matt Pike
Travis James
Portia Stanton-Noble
Michelle Prak
Scott Cirakovic
Chris Page
Michael Walley
Jesse Simon
...
The list goes on!
Happy reading!
Thanks for the fantastic article, Darren. You have explained the trials of being an author really well and the ways in which members of the public can support authors and their creative endeavours. The world would be a much less exciting place if no-one bothered to use their imaginations or share their creativity. Readers...embrace the stories that authors are willing share. As an author, it takes a lot of effort and courage to put yourself out there.