J.L. Borges slipped copies of his book into the pockets of overcoats hanging up in the cafes he frequented. J.L. Carr gave away copies of his remaindered novel (he had a thousand in the shed) as awards for non-existent competitions to selected recipients. The book was recommended on the radio by one of thse, a noted litterateur and wit (Frank Muir) and Carr sold the lot at full price. My poetry book 'The Complete Poetical Works of Phoebe Flood' was remaindered and I picked up 600 copies at 30p each. I sold the lotfull price (£3.50) at Primary Schools where I gave performancs and readings. Mothers wouldhave their arms twisted by boys and girls who thought I was famous because I told them so. Of course it was a children's book and it had pictures.
Chris is right. Like Richard lll you have to bustle. It's a ghastly prospect and I'm no good at it - except with children.
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