Today is IWSG Day because it’s the first Wednesday in March. IWSG stands for Insecure Writers Support Group and was founded by Alex J. Cavanaugh. You can follow other IWSG members here or on twitter using the hashtag #IWSG. We also have a Facebook page. The purpose of IWSG is to share and encourage, and members have the option of answering questions in our post.
Today’s question is: Whose perspective do you like to write from best, the hero (protagonist) or the villain (antagonist)? And why?
I think I’ll pass on this month’s question. I’ve never written from the villain’s perspective but it’s an interesting thought. In fact, I might not be able to get it out of my head. Something to ponder.
Since I’m short on time, I thought I’d pass along a hint about book signings and how to display our books. Recently, a friend purchased a 4-tiered book signing rack that keeps her book table neat and displays her books in a way that shoppers can see them from “across a crowded room” and fall in love.
This rack costs about $37 bucks from Amazon. Mine arrived yesterday. Take a look at how I’m displayed. Can’t wait for my next book signing!
So two questions for you:
Do you often write from the villain’s perspective? Give us a tip or two.
And do you sell your books at festivals and craft shows? Share some advice you think others might need if they hit the road with their books.
Ellen @ The Cynical Sailor says
Your books look great in that display! Smart idea for book signings and just to keep around the house .
Jessica Ferguson says
Thanks Ellen. I’m sure mine will be around the house more than at book signings. ?♀️
L. Diane Wolfe says
The display is great! We use two racks, a big one and a small one, for book festivals and sci-fi cons.
Jessica Ferguson says
Your displays look wonderful! And very professional!
Sara Codair says
I need to get one of those book racks! I did my first con in February and barely fit all my books on the table. I only have one novel out, but I short stories in several anthologies and zines, so I bring those.
The thing that helped me sell books was engaging people in conversation. I asked them about the con and listened to them.
The books I sold the most copies of were the ones I was the most excited about. The better I could pitch the book and sing it’s praises, the more people bought it. I was most excited about the collections of drabbles (100 word stories). I sold all but one copy of Chronos, an anthology of time themed drabbles.
Jessica Ferguson says
Great comment, Sara. I’m incredibly bad at promotion, and have a hard time talking to strangers. 🙁 I hate to act like I’m hawking my books. I need a lot of practice. Thanks for the tips.
J.S. Pailly says
That display rack does look really cool. I’ll have to keep that in mind for the future.
Jessica Ferguson says
I’m very pleased with it. You won’t regret the investment. Thanks for stopping by.
Patsy says
I’ve only very rarely written from the bad guy’s POV. It was fun to do, but doesn’t often suit what I write.
Jessica Ferguson says
Thanks for commenting, Patsy. I’ve never popped into the villain’s POV. I might have to give it a try–briefly! 🙂
Jemi Fraser says
Nice display piece! I’ve only got the one story published so far, so I have no tips in that area!! 🙂
I do like writing from the villain’s pov, but I don’t know if I could do it for an entire novel.
Jessica Ferguson says
Thanks for popping in, Jemi. You probably wouldn’t want to write from the villain’s POV for an entire novel. I don’t know… I’ve never even written briefly from the villain’s POV. Now I can’t get it out of my hear. LOL
Diane Burton says
Without asking me, Hubs made a book rack from scrap wood & scrap plastic. While it works, I like your display better. It organizes your books well. Good luck on your next book event.
Jessica Ferguson says
That sounds great, Diane. We would have if we could have but we’re not “handy-types” so have to hire or buy. So glad you popped in! Hope you’re doing well.