From Earned Media to Earned Recognition

It’s been eight months since I became a published children’s author, and I’m still pinching myself!

I’ve attended book events, read to students in classrooms, partnered with local stores through consignment, placed my book in local libraries, and participated in numerous interviews.

I’ve also had the opportunity to help other authors promote their books, which has been the icing on the cake.

It’s been an incredible experience, and I’m happy to say this journey is far from over.

Much of my focus so far has been on earned media and organic marketing – generating awareness and driving sales through public relations and promotional efforts that don’t require an advertising budget.

I’m fortunate because my background in corporate communications, public relations and journalism has helped me navigate this world a little more easily than other authors who are just starting out.

And the results? My sales have been great! I mean, I’m not on the New York Times Bestseller List or anything, but I really can’t complain, especially considering multiple local stores have asked me to send more books their way, and I’ve been invited to participate in several events.

That’s all incredibly exciting, particularly for a debut author. I’ve been able to build on the enthusiasm surrounding my book and the wonderful support of family and friends to general momentum without spending much on promotion.

But as much as I appreciate the power of organic marketing, I know there’s more I can do to get Santa’s Summer Vacation in Michigan into the hands of new readers.

It’s time to dig deeper, explore new opportunities, and invest in some paid strategies to take my books’ marketing to the next level.

One area I’m currently exploring is book awards.

I'm a big believer in third-party validation, and awards provide that, along with credibility beyond sales, and recognition from industry peers. They can also help a book stand out in a crowded marketplace, attract new readers, and give librarians, booksellers, and others in this world another reason to take notice.

Personally, I like standing out from the crowd. And let’s be honest: A little recognition never hurts!

But there’s a bigger reason I’m exploring awards. I want to build my reputation as an author and establish myself as more than a one-hit wonder.

The great thing about the publishing industry is that anyone can become an author these days, and I’m enjoying helping authors like me realize their dreams. The not-so-great thing about the publishing industry is that anyone can become an author these days.

I want to be considered a good one, if not a great one.

I’ve invested a lot of my time, creativity and energy into Santa’s Summer Vacation in Michigan … not to mention my heart and soul, blood, sweat and tears. I believe in this book, and I want to give it every opportunity to succeed.

That’s why I think investing in book awards makes sense. It’s about more than adding a shiny seal to a book cover, although that would be freaking AMAZING! It’s about expanding my reach and giving my book a longer shelf life beyond its initial launch.

After all, I’ve worked hard to get this book out into the world. Now it’s time to help it work a little harder for me.

I’ve looked at various awards over the past few months and even submitted Santa’s Summer Vacation in Michigan over the summer for consideration for the 2026 Michigan Notable Books list. (We find out next month!) But now it’s time to research and determine which ones across the industry makes the most sense for my book and my goals.

I also need to decide how much I’m willing to invest in this particular area of marketing because, I’m telling you those entry fees add up quickly!

I’m definitely still learning all that goes with being an author. Follow along as I navigate the world of book awards and figure out which ones are right for me!