Now for a Bit of News

Since I’ve been sort of a Donna Downer this week, I’m going to end the week on a positive note. A few actually.

First off, at 2 pm CST today, Great New Books is having a Twitter chat (just like your normal book club talk-just online). You can follow along or join in by typing #GNBchat in your search field and following the conversation. If you want to join in, just make sure you add the hashtag at the end of your tweet. If you are looking for a much simpler way to join in the discussion, go to Great New Books web site and click on the Twitter Chat page under the logo. I have posted three links to explain how to use Tweetchat to make things much easier for you.

Second, about what I’m reading now. I’m hoping to finish The Unfinished Work of Elizabeth D. by Nichole Bernier. I’ve had to start and stop because of book club commitments and really want to get to the bottom of Elizabeth’s little box of secrets.

I’m anxiously awaiting my mail for Blackberry Winter by Sarah Jio. I’m part of She Reads Blogger Network and this is their October pick. It was just released a couple of days ago so it is hot off the presses. Also, in October, I will be reading Shine, Shine, Shine by Lydia Netzer for Great New Books’ next book pick.

Third, I’ve got some exciting news about a new venture I’ve joined. Sharon Bially, whom many of you know, has started a fantastic PR company for authors called Book Savvy PR. Click the link to go check us out! Since I’ve done a lot of pro bono work…ahem…via Twitter and blogging talking about authors and their books, she invited me to join her to help with the social media side of things. I’m thrilled because it is something I love to do and she is going to teach me what she knows about book marketing/PR. I consider it invaluable and am very grateful she asked me. (Love you, Sharon!!!!)

I had a very cool opportunity this week to get some first hand knowledge of pitching to the press. She asked if I would be interested in doing some press pitches for a teen anthology to be published soon via Grub Street Writers. This was voluntary because it was for Grub Street rather than Book Savvy clients but I couldn’t pass up the chance like this. Can I just tell you whom I called this week?! Publishers Weekly, Time Magazine, Huffington Post…I KNOW!! I had ginormous butterflies but  I overcame those flutters after the first call. I got a bite so I must not have sounded like a complete idiot. Sharon has been sooooo great. It has been fun getting to know her better as well as learn what it takes to market a book. She is a genius and look forward to soaking up what I can.

And last, I want to share this video I saw yesterday. It was like a slap in the face. A nice slap, if there is such a thing. It’s based on the Jewish teaching of giving 100 blessings a day  and even though I may not be Jewish, this is something I can definitely do more of.

Thanks for being here.

Have a great weekend–mwah!

Hallie