Guest Author - Yvonne Russell

If the publisher does not provide bookmarks or other promotional materials, have some bookmarks professionally printed yourself.

Have Bookmarks Printed Yourself
If there are no additional promotional materials, consider having your own bookmarks professionally printed. You will need the publisher's permission, as they own the copyright on the graphics. The more you print, the cheaper the cost per bookmark.

Bookmarks as promotional materials

• can be easily packed and carried for travel


• give out at school visits


• a child who cannot afford a book at a bookstore event, is not left out if he can take home a personally autographed bookmark


• add a bookmark in the envelope with all your written correspondence


• have a coopy on your website for printing


• use as a promotional business card e.g. at conferences


• leave some at bookstores and libraries (including some autographed)

Develop an effective bookmark
An effective bookmark sparks interest in the book. Take time to develop something unique and innovative, so that it is noticed as more than just another bookmark. Aim to develop a bookmark that a child would want to keep and use. A bookmark that echoes the essence and look of the book is most effective.

Bookmark Basics
Some things are obvious, but it's amazing what is left out when developing bookmarks. Here is a checklist.

• include your name


• book jacket graphic, and additional art work, if applicable


• the name of the book (especially if not clear on the book jacket)


• your hook (to let them know what it is about)


• publisher name


• ISBN


• RRP (recommended retail price - optional as prices vary from store to store)


• list your other books or "author of xxxx"

Caution
Avoid having one fantastic side, and the other side with all the "boring" details. Mix it up, so that the details are there, but don't take over the feel and appeal of the bookmark. Also work out what is crucial to your end result, and what can be left out. With such a tiny space to work with, the old adage "less is more" applies.

Developing an effective bookmark, and using it imaginatively in your promotions, is an inexpensive and useful promotional strategy. Always be on the lookout for other low cost or free promotion ideas.