My Jersey Shore Book Tour Journey: Tips for Planning a Local Book Tour

When I decided to resurrect my book SWEET TEA in May for Mental Health Awareness Month, I had no idea it would lead to a real-life book tour. The first time around, SWEET TEA went on a virtual book tour arranged by my publisher. Podcasts, newspaper interviews, magazine features, and blog reviews gave my story digital legs. I was grateful—and still am. Those reviews remain online, quietly working in the background.

Back then, I was also singing weekly at assisted living communities. When activity directors discovered I was an author, they invited me to read my book to residents. It was an unexpected audience—but a warm, thoughtful one. That’s when I learned an important truth: YA fiction isn’t just for the young. Still, I hadn’t yet done what many authors dream of—a traditional bookstore event.

My First Step Inside

That changed this spring. I took the leap and planned a local book tour—my own mini adventure. What I found was that bookstores, much like people, each have a unique personality. Here's what I learned, one stop at a time.

Stop #1: The Community Haven – Asbury Book Cooperative

Walking into Asbury Book Cooperative felt like stepping into a warm, welcoming living room. The upright piano, mismatched chairs, and hand-written event flyers made it clear: this place was run on love. A table near the entrance displayed books by local authors. That gave me butterflies.

When I secured a date for my signing, I didn’t just wait for it to arrive. I showed up to other events at the store and mingled. I handed out postcards, introduced myself, and talked to readers. Several of those people came to my event. Some bought books. All encouraged me.

Lesson: Don’t just show up for your event. Show up before it.

Stop #2: The Commercial Gem – Barnes & Noble

There’s something exhilarating about seeing your name listed on the Barnes & Noble website—next to authors whose books you’ve bought. The in-store event itself had all the trappings of celebration: balloons, a colorful table, and a printed flyer just for me.

The space smelled of new books and lattes. I chatted with a passerby, offered bookmarks, and sold books to strangers who became friends. My own marketing beforehand helped, too.

Lesson: Even a corporate store can feel personal—if you do your part.

Stop #3: The Trendy Hotspot – The Book House, Pier Village

Set between boutiques and across from a whimsical carousel, The Book House was alive with energy. Beachgoers wandered in, some drawn by the microphone I set up in the corner. I offered bottles of sweet tea (of course) and healthy snacks. The excerpt I read reached the back of the store, and even the cashier stopped to listen—and later, to buy a copy.

Lesson: If the setting is lively, embrace it. Use sound, space, and flavor to invite people in.

More Than a Store

Each event gave me more than book sales. It gave me readers. Conversations. Encouragement. Bookstores are more than retail spaces—they’re cultural meeting grounds. By attending book clubs, poetry nights, and other authors’ readings, I became part of something bigger than one book.

Planning Ahead

My next novel is set on the Jersey Shore in the 1950s. Diners, taffy shops, historical female figures—these themes open up creative new event possibilities. What I’ve learned is simple: readers are everywhere. A good book is a passport.

Tips for Authors Planning a Local Tour:

·       Visit bookstores beforehand. Attend events. Get a feel for their vibe.

·       Talk to staff. Ask what has worked well for other authors.

·       Bring giveaways—like bookmarks or treats—in exchange for emails.

·       Promote your events early and often.

·       Don’t just sell a book. Make a connection.

The Journey Continues

From virtual tours to real-life hugs from readers, this experience has reshaped my view of book promotion. No longer just about numbers or posts, it’s about presence. And the stories you tell along the way.

Are you planning a book tour? I’d love to hear your questions or experiences. Drop a comment below or connect with me on Instagram @WendyDeckerAuthor or Facebook: Wendylynndecker,author.