Someone once sent me a short clip of a bear coming out of hibernation with its fur scruffed and bunched on its head and back. And as this sleep-dazed bear slowly ambled out, it saw the outside world for the first time in months. It did not seem impressed by what it saw because without missing a beat, the bear turned around and returned to the cave. That’s how I felt when my friends from Cafe 33 in Chennai suggested a book launch event for my debut book!
After months spent hunched over by myself over a laptop, wrangling with the text, images and layout, the last thing I wanted to do was stand in front of people. Yet, I agreed. I was sensible enough to know that my book could benefit from a widened reach. But the doubts lingered in my mind: Would people like my book? Would anyone come to the event? What would I say? What do I sign when someone buys a book?
There was only one way to find out. I had to step forward and do this.
The book launch event was to be part of a yearly musical Christmas Night Lights program hosted by my friends in Chennai. The day of the event came around. I gathered with friends and acquaintances in a beautiful garden. There were strings of light strung all over the garden. Captivating music by a talented band added to the charm of the evening. This is the kind of atmosphere that has Christmas stamped all over it.
And where was I? I took my place at a desk under a tree. Throughout the evening, people come over to buy a signed copy and catch up over a cup of hot cocoa. The stack of books went down with each purchase, which was a great feeling. But it was the conversations that night that made it all worth it. People shared about exciting ventures they were embarking on, some found inspiration to start long-forgotten projects, and I could also share a little about my self-publishing journey.
I came away encouraged and can safely say I am inspired to do more for my next book.