Goodreads Authors/Readers discussion

I've been asked to do a public reading of my novel and I was wondering if anyone had any pointers or tips.

I've done public speaking events before (about 200 students back in Apr). However, I have not done a reading. And I have not actually attended one either (due to location of where I live compared to where any events would have occurred).

Of course the timing is tight, was asked this weekend and the reading would be the 25th. Could be as many as 600 to 1000 people at the overall event. It's not all for me (wouldn't that be grand if it was). I'll just be one of a number of things going on, probably the only author there. It will be outside and run from about 1700 (5pm) until dark.

So guessing about 3 hours of time I could be on the spot. Not sure if I should do the same section multiple times, read straight through, read random bits, run for the hills, ...

People will be coming and going to see a number of vendors/live music during the evening.

Mother's Curse is Fantasy, YA 13+, but with a few adult themes, some language, and some violence. Nothing too graphic though.

The event is targeted to new military families in the area.


Any thoughts or suggestions?

Outside? Will you have a microphone? You'll need one.

I'd pick out sections in advance and practice reading them aloud, no matter how well you think you know them.

Maintain as much eye contact with the audience as possible.

Try not to read a single section longer than about five minutes, get rough timings by allowing 3 words a second (it's a rule of thumb but it works surprisingly well). That's already a long time to keep a captive audience's interest, especially if there are other things going on around.

See about doing some Q&A if you get a bit of an audience building up. If it's just you speaking for 3 hours, you'll need some respite, even with a microphone.

Thanks Andrew! That is good advice. I've been narrowing down a list of sections to read and practice.

Good advice! Be sure to let us know how it goes.

Good luck! I can't wait to hear how it goes and I hope they let you do other things too - Like Q and A or give away books or something.

Good advice above and be sure not to read too fast. Even if you think you're reading slowly, slow it down even more.

Just wanted to give an update.

Unfortunately, the drought gave way and there was rain. This meant I was under the awning, so dry, but now too close to the stage and live music.

Net result, no reading, but I was able to talk with/meet people, so not a complete waste.