Local Authors Taking Publicity Into Their Own Hands

Authors are in shock as more and more literary agents are demanding that they deliver detailed promotion proposals before submitting manuscripts to publishers.

And while most writers are overwhelmed at the idea of creating publicity campaigns, some clever locals are orchestrating ways to keep their titles in the public eye.

Les Cole, author of “The Sea Kings: The Prophecy,” a historical adventure set in the Mediterranean region of 3,500 years ago, has announced a promotional plan.

House of Adda Press will contribute a free copy of the book to the school library chosen by any buyer of his book, which is available at many bookstores. The offer runs until Jan. 31. Contact Cole at P.O. Box 6088, Ventura 93006, or call 659-4480.

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The Irwin Award for Excellence in Book Publicity was presented to Catherine Cloud Templeton of Camarillo by the Southern California Book Publicists. The award, bestowed at the group’s October dinner, recognized Templeton’s publicity campaign for her novel “The Righteous Rebel.”

Templeton, 87, managed to drum up media interest for her book, which was published by a small press in Texas, even before it was in the bookstores. And she continues to organize autograph signings.

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The prolific children’s author Lee Wardlaw of Santa Barbara has taken an active role in notifying the local media about her latest book, “Bubblemania: The Chewy History of Bubble Gum,” even though she is published by a major New York house. Her publicity packet includes a copy of the book, a brief bio and news about bubble gum-blowing contests in conjunction with book signings.

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Self-publishing and getting publicity for a book of poetry and prose is a daunting challenge. But Roni, author of “Sensuous Cinema of My Mind,” has broken from the pack by getting booked into every venue where poets present their work.

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In Santa Barbara

The Ephron sisters--Amy, Delia and Nora--have turned out screenplays, novels and essays. Amy will sign her new novel, “A Cup of Tea,” at 7 p.m. Friday at the Earthling Bookshop. And local author Richard Sessions will discuss his historical novel, “Island Woman,” at 7:30 p.m. Monday. Earthling is at 1137 State St.

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* Frances Halpern and Jon O’Brien are co-hosts of “Beyond Words” at 10 a.m. Sundays on KCLU-FM (88.3), Ventura County’s National Public Radio station.