I have noticed a happy trend of many book makers teaming up with their local Independent Bookstores to offer signed books this holiday/pandemic season. It does take some extra effort on both people’s parts. It usually requires that the bookstore is close enough that the author/illustrator doesn’t mind stopping in to sign books. The bookstore needs to also be willing to keep this all organized and then distribute to their customers.
But this is certainly a win win win situation. Obviously, it helps the book creator(s) sell some books. It supplies the bookstore with needed sales and traction, and—- a signed book always seems… extra ❤️.
I would like to encourage you to reach out to your (or your gift recipient’s) favorite authors and illustrators by looking them up on Social Media (Instagram or Facebook) and seeing who is offering signed books. It is usually pretty easy to follow the link to their bookstore, or to make a phone call, and BAM! thoughtful and extra special gift-giving completed. No contact necessary!
Picture Book Builder’s own Tammi Sauer is working with Best of Books. Here is The Best of Books’ link to order signed and personalized books from Tammi: https://www.bestofbooksok.com/search/site/Tammi%20sauer
Their Phone: (405) 340-9202
Here are some of Tammi’s available books:
I have partnered with Sidekick Coffee and Books: https://www.sidekickcoffeebooks.com
Copies of any of my books can be ordered and Sidekick will have Playing Possum and Blue Ethel signed and on hand. If you would like me to personalize your book and/or to have it shipped you will need to call the store (they are very pleasant and isn’t it nice to talk to new people these days?) at 319-569-1010.
Also, Sharron McElmeel, a passionate (I added the ‘passionate’) literacy advocate, recently posted a wonderful list of authors and illustrators offering signed books, you can check those out here.
If you are an author or illustrator working with an independent bookstore this holiday season to offer signed Picture Books, please feel free to add your information in the comments below. And if you know of, or have supported a maker of Picture Books by ordering signed books this holiday season, please feel free to let us know.
Happy Thanksgiving, to all of you. We all are grateful for your continued support and camaraderie.
Stay healthy and safe, everyone!
Wonderful post, Jennifer I am partnering with Beaverdale Books in Des Moines, Iowa, for signed copies of my debut picture book, BENNY’S TRUE COLORS. Call 515-279-5400 to place an order. If anyone would like a personalized copy, just let Alice or Hunter know, and I’ll be happy to stop in and sign one for your special someone.
BENNY’S TRUE COLORS is a book about knowing your true self and the joy of letting the world know you, too.
Thank you for the information, Norene. And congratulations on your new book. Can’t wait to see it!
Happy Thanksgiving to all of you at Picture Book Builders. An autographed book makes a wonderful gift…my favorite to give and receive.
Happy Thanksgiving, Kathy. Thank you so much!
Great idea! For anybody who gifts one of my books, please contact me through my website. Happy to send you a signed bookplate personalized to any of your favorite littles!
Perfect, Jill! Thanks and happy Thanksgiving!
Great suggestions! I do think signed books are extra special! Love your pumpkin greetings! Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas!