murder.booklocker.com

One of the folks over at the Chicago Writers Association has just posted a book trailer. Most of us followed the link to check it out. Smooth!

So it got me thinking. How does one produce a book trailer and does my book need one? According to Dorothy Thompson, (editor of The Writers Life) in an article entitled “How to Pump Up Your Book Promotion With Do it Yourself Book Trailers,” it’s easy. What she doesn’t discuss is how pathetic some of the trailers look.

The debate over whether an author can benefit or not is highlighted by an exchange at HelenKay Dimon’s site. She said: “Here’s what happened: I got the email, liked the title, clicked on the link, watched the trailer and then went searching out this author and the the publisher just because I got nosy… . While it’s true I won’t be buying this book, more than likely it would not have hit on my radar screen at all without seeing the trailer.”

Several readers responded to her post — not all were complimentary nor enthusiastic. However, it is worth noting that the author of the book (and trailer) also responded:

“My very inexpensively produced book trailer has done wonders in the few weeks it’s been out. In addition to going out in the Authors After Dark mailing, it’s been posted to my author website, YouTube, numerous discussion forums, and MySpace ~ all for free. Viewed now in the thousands with very little effort beyond the production. As a result, my Amazon sales figures have seen decent spikes. Do book trailers work? Mine got you fine folks talking!”

Which means, that you’ll probably be seeing one from me soon!