You're almost ready for your best reading ever following my 10 handy tips and with your nifty new script in hand. Now it's time to make sure you have what you'll need the day of your reading.
The List
* denotes things to take with the podium with you or pre-set at the podium)
1. A great-looking outfit.
Whatever that means for you. For me, I like to glam it up a little. I wear a dress and heels and big blue earrings. Your audience feels special when you make an effort (and so do you).
2. Video camera & tripod.
Ideally, you'll have someone in the audience who can help you set up. But if not, do it yourself and turn on the video camera before you start -- even if you end up getting a bunch of the set-up stuff before the program begins.
You will be very glad to have this video later. I have posted video of my readings on my website, You Tube and Vimeo. I also created a "book tour" video that highlighted a bunch of appearances and book reviews. The video was great to have because it was shown at the Algonquin sales meeting. The sales force got to see me in action and had more information about the book that I hope ultimately makes it easier for them to sell.
I use either my Flip videorecorder, or my Canon videocamera. I have both a mini-tripod and a Targus full-sized tripod that is easy to travel with (but it doesn't have a leveler--:( ). To create my videos, I use Windows Movie Maker.
3. Digital audio recorder.*
Sometimes the video doesn't work. Or you want to be able to upload the audio quickly. (I've found uploading the audio is much quicker than creating a video of a reading--I'm able to get the audio up on my podcast available on itunes within the same day.)
I use a refurbished Sony ICD-MX20 recorder that records in stereo. It runs on 2 AAA batteries. The audio transfers via a USB connection. The only thing I'm not wild about is that it records in a special Sony format and I have to convert it to .mp3 after I upload it.
4. Bottle of water (room temperature) & bendy straw.*
Cold water will restrict your vocal chords. Make sure the water is room temperature. And as I advised in my earlier post. Don't drink during your reading, but if you must use a bendy straw. That way you won't dribble. And it looks more elegant.
I have found that the ideal solution is an insulated coffee mug that has a little sip opening that kind traps my bendy straw in place.
5. A copy of your book.*
You're not reading from your book, but you want to have a copy at the podium with you. I always hold up a copy of my book when I say: "That's an excerpt from my novel The Girl Who Fell From the Sky." The audience needs the visual.
6. Your script with notecards.*
If you can, place these on the podium ahead of time (open to the first page) so that you can walk up and begin your presentation right away.
7. A pen.*
I bring a pen because if I get nervous I can hold onto it. But you'll also need a pen to do the signing after the reading.
I had been using a Heidi Blue, fine point, no-bleed Sharpie. However, these often leak when subjected to pressure on planes. I recommend using a pen that's special to you--not just any pen you find. Lately I've been using a beautiful roller ball pen with a leather accent my friend Alicia gave me or the awesome ACME rollerball pen Deon Stonehouse of Sunriver Books gave me when I read at her store earlier this year.
8. Timer.*
I don't have a good timer yet. So if you have one please let me know. I always practice and time my presentations, but still I bring a watch to the podium. The watch is an imperfect solution because it's not big enough to easily glance at. And I always forget what time I started. But try to be aware of the time. Use your cellphone if needed (but be sure to put it on silent).
9. Your energy and excitment.*
Yup, that's it. And remember it's your show, your words that you've worked so hard to bring into being and get published. Celebrate that and the audience will too.
There's one more post to come on how to handle your book signing. Stay tuned! And if you missed the earilier posts find Part I here, and Part II here.
