Struggling Writers discussion

I've got a new book coming out next month - whoop whoop and weirdly I'm totally on top of that.

My query is actually an idea I had which I thought would be awesome but it turning out less so.

This new book is a sequel and I have been doing lots of little promo pieces for it - short paragraphs, news articles linking into the book itself - all that type of thing.

What I am short of is art work and I know the book is quite visual so I had the dubious genius idea of asking artists to read the book and come up with a drawing inspired by the story.

In return their work would be featured during my promotion schedule, which would last to August and also I'd give a cash prize to the winner - the one who got the most likes.

Sounds simple and I don't know if it's because I'm an indie author and have spent the last year helping out my fellows that I just figured artists would be in the same boat - chasing a bit of exposure.

Well I hit a brick wall straight away. I have artists aplenty but they all want paying before they do anything! Some of them are great and if I could afford it I would, but unfortunately I do need to eat.

So my question is - do you think this is a fool hardy idea in the first place or am I just digging in the wrong place for artists?

Hi L.E.! I honestly have no idea what to tell you, but I tried to alter your title so it was a little more specific.

Hi LE I have a friend who dabbles, she did drawings for me and if I am not mistaken they can be seen on here in my photos, if not some are on my website, or on my Facebook author page.

Thanks Sarah and Irene. I've thrown in the towel on this one. It's just not working. Most of the artists I initially got involved have pulled out. But hey at least any author thinking of giving this a go will know better.

It took far too much stress and work but we live and learn. Now I might try hiring a plane for some sky writing ;)

You could always have t shirts printed with the cover of your book and give them to the local school for prizes at their next school fete!

Put a challenge out for the person who gets most selfie's on facebook and twitter whilst wearing the t shirt, to win a signed copy of the book!

In fact with a pack of transfer papers and a couple of dozen white t shirts you can probably DIY it. All you need is a computer, the photo of your cover, a pack of iron on transfer paper, an iron and ironing board and Bob's your mother's brother you have a promotional item! You can buy badge kits too, and magnets to make your own fridge magnets, and key rings in clear plastic to put your photo or logo in!

Do you have a plastificator (that may be the French spelling) sorry about that make your own table mats and book markers of the cover, or ask shops in your area if they'll pin a photo on their notice board!

Good luck!

I like it as a plan Sarah. Although I won't be ironing anything ;) but the key rings are a great idea. I have just had bookmarks and stickers printed!!! I'm really excited. Great ideas - big thanks

Not a problem L.E, pleased to be of help.

I am not surprised by the artists reactions. You are asking them to spend the time to read your entire book, then more time to create a cover for what is essentially a contest. All without any payment unless they happen to 'win'.

Reverse the process. What if an artist gave you an image, told you to then go and write a book, that they were also having other writers do a book, and if it happens to be the one they like the most then only one of you gets paid...

My advice is to avoid the 'contest' idea. You will end up with some work that has been ripped off.

Set your budget for the cover. Go to Elance or artists sites and check out their portfolios to see if you like their work. Choose one of them, then pay them to create a cover for you based on your book title and description.