As an author, you may have recently published a book. I would venture to guess that you have put a lot of time and passion in order to create a piece of literature to be read by people all over the nation! Getting the attention of consumers though, can be really tough. In this crowded marketplace (there were nearly 300,000 books published in 2007 alone) you MUST take an active approach to let book buyers know that your book exists, on both a national and a local level!

While national media exposure for you and your book is ideal, there is great power in local media exposure as well. Marsha Friedman, Managing Director of EMSI, a national PR firm says that " By focusing on your hometown media outlets you will be able to build a solid base of fame and recognition from which to grow on. If you can create the local "buzz" you will also get some fantastic media experience that will come in handy when the national media starts calling!"

The good news is that there are lots of local media that are interested in interviewing authors just like you. This gives you an upper hand in grabbing their attention, and you will also gain their support in spreading the word about your book!

So If you want to create solid book "buzz" in your hometown, here are some of Marsha Friedman's recommendation that will help you achieve your promotional goals:

*Book Signings: When it comes to the secret weapon of gaining local exposure for your book, they don't make 'em any stronger than this! So what good are they? Well take a look at these facts: Books will be stocked on their shelves after you leave, unless of course you have a sell-out You'll receive free advertising and promotion in the book store's customer mailings You'll have prominent placement for as much as a week prior to your signingEmployees of the book store will give you valuable third-party endorsements As you can now see, these really are a hidden book promotional goldmine. I strongly suggest doing as many as you possibly can, including all stores that are located within a 100 mile radius. Even ask friends and relatives to see about setting up book signings for you in their hometowns." So let's get out there and create the buzz that sell the books!

* Talk Radio Interviews and Television Appearances: Generally speaking, every city has radio and television programs that have a format for guests. Marsha Friedman adds, "Go on the internet and do some research to see what is available in the local market that you are targeting. Marsha Friedman says, "Look for those with a format for guests and find the contact information for the producer." Then call and pitch yourself as a guest. Aim to get as many interviews on TV and radio as possible.

* Local Newspapers and Magazines: Marsha Friedman says, "When it comes to the print media, at EMSI we find that "Tips" type articles have an extremely high pick up rate with newspapers and magazines. So if your book offers a solution to a problem, then go ahead and work on a tips-type article." Give 6-7 helpful hints and high quality solutions to a common societal problem. Find the print publications in your local market, do web research and find the relevant contact information for the editor that would cover your topic. No one relevant listed? Gun for the editor-in-chief. Make sure that the article is professional and print worthy, if so some publications will print it "as is." But since you're a writer, this should not be a problem.

Aim to get as many as humanly possible. If you would like to learn more about gaining media attention for your company, product or service, without the financial burden of monthly retainers, Friedman is available to be of service . Feel free to contact her directly at mfriedman@emsincorporated.com or visit her firm online at http://www.emsincorporated.com. As a public relations expert Friedman has the ability to get the media attention that you desire without budget busting monthly retainers.