What Is #MGGetsReal?
Marketing can be a drag for writers, it can feel so self-promotional. And it requires a lot of time. But with the notion that good teamwork makes any effort easier (and more fun), author Shannon Wiersbitzky, (WHAT FLOWERS REMEMBER), developed a plan. Pull together several authors with books that share a common thread, and join forces to spread the word.
The common thread for #MGGetsReal? Each of the books tackles a tough topic in a way appropriate for Middle Grade readers.
The participating authors are:
· Shannon Wiersbitzky—WHAT FLOWERS REMEMBER (Alzheimer’s)
· Kathleen Burkinshaw – THE LAST CHERRY BLOSSOM, (Hiroshima)
· Joyce Moyer Hostetter—COMFORT, (War Trauma)
· Kerry O’Malley Cerra—JUST A DROP OF WATER, (9/11)
· Shannon Hitchcock—RUBY LEE & ME, (School Integration)
#MGGetsReal will blitz social media for the month of August, 2016.
Our marketing plan consists of:
1. Developing a unique hashtag for the effort. We chose #MGGetsReal.
2. Developing “group ads” for social media.
3. Posting to social media 3x week for the month of August in a way that highlights all five books.
4. Writing for two blogs not our own, (seeking blogs with national exposure where possible).
5. Retweeting using the hashtag #MGGetsReal.
6. Seeking to engage teachers/librarians.
7. Featuring other writers on our own blogs if applicable.
8. Reading/writing reviews for each book.
9. Developing a video that highlights all five books.
We’re counting on teachers, librarians, and fellow SCBWI members to help spread the word. Here’s how you can be an ally:
1. Consider reading and reviewing the aforementioned books.
2. Retweet using the hashtag #MGGetsReal.
3. Share posts on Facebook.
4. Host one of the authors on your own blog.
#MGGetsReal is a marketing experiment. Help us make it a successful one!
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