We are solidly into the month of November now, and just in case you missed it, today is the day we move back to standard time. Remember to be sure all your clocks have been turned back one hour.
November often makes one think of Thanksgiving, at least here in the United States. The harvest is in, the holidays are approaching, and even if you’re not quite ready to think about that, time marches on. If you have a book, this is a great time to promote it!
November, the eleventh month of the year, is known for several key characteristics and events that would be fun to look at today. For authors, and others within the literary world, there are many things that we can tie into in order to promote our books and businesses.
Tie-In Opportunities in November
National Author’s Day: Since the first celebration in 1968, millions of people celebrate authors and the books they write on November 1. Happy Author’s Day!! And congratulations to you!
Autumn/Fall (in the Northern Hemisphere): November is typically associated with the heart of the autumn season in the Northern Hemisphere, featuring falling leaves, cooler temperatures, and the preparation for winter. It is also a very busy time in the book industry. Traditionally, the fall season, especially late September and October, has been the prime time for major book releases. Publishers often reserve this period for their biggest titles, including new works by well-known authors, potential award contenders, and books that might be popular as holiday gifts. This timing is strategic, aiming to capitalize on increased consumer spending as the holidays approach.
Spring (in the Southern Hemisphere): Conversely, in the Southern Hemisphere, November signifies late spring, with warmer temperatures and the blooming of flowers. We have readers in the Southern Hemisphere too, so for you, Happy Spring!
National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo): November is also when aspiring writers take on the challenge of writing a 50,000-word manuscript between the 1st and the 30th. It is an annual, internet-based creative writing project with participants from around the world. The project aims not only to inspire aspiring writers to plunge into novel writing, but also to foster a sense of community and support among participants. It encourages creativity, perseverance, and the achievement of ambitious writing goals within a set deadline. (If you write nonfiction, you can get writing too!)
Remembrance Day/Veterans Day: November 11 is observed as Remembrance Day or Armistice Day in many countries of the world, marking the end of World War I and honoring those who have served in the military. In the United States, this day is observed as Veterans Day, a time to honor and thank all military personnel who served the U.S. in all wars, particularly living veterans.
National I Love to Write Day: November 15th is dedicated to inspiring people of all ages and backgrounds to write. The day encourages everyone—students, professionals, retirees, and casual writers—to explore their writing abilities and express themselves through written word.
Thanksgiving: Thanksgiving is a major holiday celebrated on November 23rd this year. It’s a time for family gatherings, feasting, expressing gratitude, and often, the kickoff of the holiday shopping season with Black Friday.
Shopping and Sales Events: November is well-known for major shopping days like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, which are significant for their special offers and discounts, marking the beginning of the Christmas shopping season. And don’t forget Small Business Saturday.
Seasonal Foods and Flavors: In many cultures, November is a time for enjoying seasonal foods and flavors, such as pumpkin, squash, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, especially in regions where these are associated with autumnal or harvest themes. Pumpkin Spice latte anyone?
Bottom Line
There are other special days, weeks, and monthly events around the month of November, so do some additional research. Each of these aspects contributes to November’s distinct character, and offers ways for authors to tie into seasonal happenings as a way to promote their books. By tying into something here you can make it newsworthy again.
To your success!
Joanne
P.S. Thank you (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)
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