The last time I left a book signing, I felt invigorated, inspired, and more excited about the artist’s work. It was like how I feel after a concert!!
This got me thinking about how book signings and concerts are similar…and in some ways, book signings are even better!
Most books signings – at least the ones I have been to — follow a simple format: The author gives a short talk, takes questions from the audience, then he or she goes to a table and waits for a line of people to come through with their books.
I went to two book events last year — Viet Thanh Nguyen and Jamie Ford – and they were both awesome.I ended up liking the authors (in person) even more than I expected. They were both funny and truly entertaining.
Here are some reasons I think book signings/events may be even better than concerts:
1. You don’t need a ticket.
Most of the time you can just show up. You can decide to go at the last minute, by yourself, and still have a great time.
2. Book events are cheap.
Most book events are free since they are obviously promoting the author’s books. Actually the ones I attended were sponsored by public libraries/universities, but the author is still interested in selling books. And yes, you should buy the book. This will still only be about a tenth of the cost of any concert. Or you can bring any older book by the author to get it signed. If you are feeling cheap, you can buy a used copy before the event.
3. You can actually see the person.
Unlike concerts, every seat has a good view of the person, and you don’t need to be looking at a huge screen to see the person.
4. You actually get to meet the person.
At most you may have to wait 30 minutes to get your book signed. At this point, you can also get a photo and ask another question or just say something profound or awkward LOL. Hint: As soon as the person wraps up his or her talk, jump up to get in the line. If possible, find out where the line will start before the event. Sit towards the back so you can get there quickly.
5. You aren’t hungover the next day.
Unlike most concerts, there is no alcohol available; some book events may have wine I suppose and I would love to attend those, but still, you won’t likely be drinking adult beverages for several hours waiting for a concert to start and continuing to drink during the event (maybe this is just me??). So you will feel great the next day!
So the next time an author comes to your area, go to the book signing! I don’t think you’ll regret it.
A note on concerts: I actually do love concerts just as much as book signings but in different ways. I saw and posted about four awesome concerts last year: Green Day, Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers, Alan Jackson, and The Killers at Lollapolooza. And if you support local artists, most of the points above still apply (cheap, good view etc.)