To Writers and Entrepreneurs Alike

Hello Grafted In Readers,


I am taking a few figurative deep breaths after having spent a few days this week endeavoring to promote my current title: From My Red Chair: A Short Story Collection.


Book promotion search may in part open the inbox door to marketers; these folks may or may not have good intentions. The rule as understood is, If someone comes to you offering services ... close the door, delete their post, move on.

This morning, I did succumb to Google A.I. when asking about sales for books in general, short story collections to be specific, the answer provided is from an online organization I respect, Electric Literature.

They say,

Short story collections generally have low sales, with independent small press collections often selling between 300 and 2,000 copies in their lifetime. For many, especially debuts, lifetime sales may fall under 500 copies, even with traditional publication, as they are harder to sell than novels.Electric Literature (+2) - View related links

• Small Press/Independent: 300–2,000 copies.

• Common Outcome: Many books, including collections, sell fewer than 250 copies in their lifetime, particularly without heavy marketing.

Everything You Wanted to Know about Book Sales (But Were Afraid to Ask) - Electric Literature. 


So, there we have it. Don't expect the moon but also don't expect just single digits either. You and I together or solo - have to do some work ourselves!


Until next time, the Lord bless and keep us.


Mellow Rock

David C. Russell, Author

 

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