Once a garment store owner told me, "Your acquaintances are the ones who will never visit your store. So, you have to disregard them first when opening a store."
Though I didn't open a store, I discovered a similar behavior in people after writing three books. I am sure I couldn't have realized the same had I not written the books. Here is my experience I wanted to share with you all. In case you are a writer or aspiring to be one, my observations may help you.
So, here is a list of all kinds of readers/non-readers you come across after investing months into writing and publishing your book:
Encouragers: They buy your book irrespective of the fact that they don't read much or they are not interested in the topic you have written on. They may never read the book. But they spread the word and show the book to everyone they can. They are genuinely proud of you.
Well-wishers: They buy the book and read it irrespective of the fact that they don't read much or they are not interested in the topic you have written on. They ignore the minor mistakes you've made in the book. They also help you by spreading the word and posting positive reviews.
Not-a-big-deal type: The moment you tell them about your book, they say, "My nephew also wrote a poem and posted it on social media." They may hit the Like button on your social media posts about the book. However, they will never remember the name of your book.
Blind advisors: They are not at all interested in your book. They will never be able to manage to write even a paragraph in their life. But they message you and congratulate you. Then they ask you why you have chosen the subject, why not some other subject. They provide you with readership data, marketing tips, etc. They never read your book. They are not into reading.
Ever-aspiring writers: They don't listen to you much. They tell you that they also want to write a book but never get time and that you could write because you have all the time in the world.
How Come! Let Me See type: They will buy your book and read it irrespective of the fact that they don't read much or they are not interested in the topic you have written on. They don't believe in your talent. They want to know how bad you are so they can tell it to the world.
Close ones but non-readers: They do not buy your book nor do they ask for a free copy. But out of courtesy, when you give them a free copy, they accept it with gratitude. They feel you are friendly with them and you value them. They also ask you to sign the book. For the rest of their life, the book will lie at the corner of their shelf. They will show people how many books they are yet to read.
Real unknown readers: They buy a copy, read it, and if they like it, they write their review on the site. Some even go to the extent of writing an email to you.
Reviewer friends: They buy your ebook when it is available free of cost. Then, they review your book. They highlight the mistakes in your book in their review post. They take the review task very seriously.
Honest friends: They honestly tell you that they are very proud of you and that they can't read your book because they have a different preference when it comes to the subject.
Then, what should you do?
Keep writing.
Your writing should provide you with great satisfaction irrespective of whether anyone reads your books or not. Even if you are able to touch one heart with your writing, you are successful as a writer. Do you agree?
