Local bookstores launch 'meet the author' days

Media release from Grant Dyson Media Consultant

Local bookstores launch 'meet the author' days

Bay of Plenty people are being offered a unique opportunity to meet local authors this month, (July) in a joint initiative between a local publishing company and book store chain.

Writers from Tauranga publisher Oceanbooks (www.oceanbooks.co.nz) will visit Paper Plus stores around the Bay of Plenty to meet the public and chat about their books.

Paper Plus is promoting the works of 12 Oceanbooks authors for two weeks from July 8 to 21, 2013.

Paper Plus spokesman Stuart Gunn from the Te Puke store says, “Our cluster of seven stores in the district (Te Puke, Papamoa, Mount Maunganui, Tauranga, Fraser Cove, Bethlehem and Katikati) are delighted to have local authors represented in our stores.”

He says the campaign comes as part of a strengthening relationship with Oceanbooks, which was formed in 2011 and now has more than 100 author shareholders around the country.

Mr Gunn says that it was a natural step to invite local authors into the stores, which are now stocking copies of their books, which range from novels to poetry and children’s books. “Not only do we offer locally written, good quality reading, but now the chance for people to meet and chat with the writers. We hope that as many locals as possible take up this opportunity – come and ask questions, and get a book signed.”

The authors include Suzanne Singleton, Jenny Argante, Val Bird, Ian Clarke and Lee Murray.  A full timetable of events is available from the www.oceanbooks.co.nz website, the windows of Paper Plus stores, Creative Tauranga and other locations.

“Oceanbooks Managing Director John Mc Tavish says some of the authors have already achieved some success with their books One of the new books is even a practical guide on how to drive your phone -  The Starters Guide to Android 4'  is a highly illustrated guide for newbies who want to learn how to use their new smartphone.”

Paper Plus is also organising an evening event at which many local writers will be present, and some will be interviewed. Tickets are available at all Paper Plus stores.

Mr Mc Tavish says they’re delighted with the support that Paper Plus has given to Oceanbooks and its authors. “We are jointly doing something that is quite unique. We believe this is a first for New Zealand – readers can now readily find quality books written by local authors conveniently placed in the seven Paper Plus stores spread around the region.

It’s a big deal to get this sort of special treatment (space set aside for the work of locals) when authors, to reach the book-buying consumer, have to compete against the international best-sellers we are all so familiar with. It’s hugely difficult for writers to gain exposure, especially when publishing world-wide has been in a state of upheaval.”

Mr Mc Tavish says it’s hoped that locals respond enthusiastically to the ‘meet the authors’ campaign which will benefit all concerned – the readers, Oceanbooks and its writers, and the bookstores showcasing their work.

Creative Tauranga has also thrown its weight behind the initiative. Chief Executive Tracey Ruddock-Gudsell says, “This kind of partnership between our wonderful local talent and the Paper Plus stores is exactly what the public needs. It brings readers and writers together in our community.”

ENDS

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