Tayari's Blog: When Your Book Becomes a Needy Relative

By this, I mean that if yu put your mind to it, you can come up with something to do every single day to help your book that's just been published. You could visit book clubs every weekend. You could call Barnes and Nobles all over the country every single day to make it seem like people are clammering for your book. You could get a list of the independent bookstores and send them all heart-felt letters and bookplates. Really, publicizing your book can be a full time job.

But really, is that the BEST way to use your time?

There are many writers out there who are famous for the publicity they have given their own work. I am sure we have all heard the stories. But wouldn't you rather be known for what you have actually written?
This is not to say that the author has no obligation to get the word out about her novels. Lord knows that I travel, do interviews, etc.. But also comes a time when you just have to say, "No mas." Now is that time. I have to focus my energy on writing my next book. I need to step back from the marketing fracas. I have to get quiet and write. Because writing is what I'm good at. It's the thing that I love.

So, this is not to say that I am abandoning THE UNTELLING. It's my baby and of course I want it to do well. But it's time for me to give it a little tough love. I've done just about all I can for her. Of course, I'll hit the road again if something significant happens-- just the way I'd help a relative with a real emergency. But for now, I leave THE UNTELLING with all my love and best wishes.