My memoir Hope Inc was released almost a month ago, on 14 January. It explores my experiences with anorexia nervosa and schizoaffective disorder but it is not at all a depressing tale; in fact, quite the opposite. It looks at how I recovered fully from such conditions and how I have navigated my recovery over the past 13 years. It is a story of epic proportions – considering where I was and where I am now in my life. It is all about Hope – hence the title.
Since the release, it has been a whirlwind. The excitement I felt on the day of its release was mindboggling, and I thoroughly enjoyed the virtual launch (which you can watch here).
Since then, I have been interviewed on Curtin Radio station (a Perth station), and I did a really cool podcast with Sean from the ‘Reclaim Project’. I have managed to get Hope Inc into several bookstores – 5 to be exact, and also into my local post office.
I also have a Face-to-Face launch coming up on the 15th of February, where I will be doing a Q&A, a book reading and a book signing – I can’t wait!! I just had to scope out the location, but it didn’t cost me a cent. Friends and family will be coming along and other people who are interested.
Moving forward, I am going to try and secure speaking opportunities and further book signing opportunities… as much as I possibly can. I am in between jobs at the moment (which is actually working out for my own benefit), as I have the time to put into this project. If that isn’t the case for you, try and forge half a day a week to focus on your book and getting it into people’s hands.I would also encourage you to use social media to share updates about your book and get your message out there, as this is a way to connect with a lot of different people. Think Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, for a start. I have been posting regular videos on TikTok, and I have been sharing these in my Instagram and Facebook as well. I have been posting photos of the Curtin Radio interview and other photos of bookstores with my book on their shelves.
Don’t let that feeling of excitement go! You’ve got this and you can make things happen!
Kate x
