TikTok Video Ideas for Book Promotion
TikTok’s algorithm is what sets it apart from other social media platforms, and understanding how it works is crucial to effectively using the app to promote books choice cherry gold. Here are the key factors that influence TikTok’s recommendations:
Show the cover clearly and often. Use close-ups, stacks, or “satisfying” movements. All the BookTok tips in the world won’t help if people don’t actually know what your book looks like! Author Ginelle Testa does a great job of that here.
Alex Aster, a Colombian-American author, has achieved success with her young adult novel, Lightlark, and its subsequent movie deal. She had been writing for over 15 years and published six books before her first book deal. Despite her previous book series, Emblem, Island not receiving the attention she hoped for, she continued to write and posted about Lightlark on TikTok. Her post went viral, leading to her book being acquired by a publisher, reaching the bestsellers list on Barnes & Noble even before its release, and securing a Universal movie deal. Aster highlights that rejection is a significant part of the process, and she has had to learn from failures to achieve success. Lightlark is now one
Book Fair Promotion Ideas
In times past, an interview for a newspaper, radio spot, a TV show, or zine could net sales for an author. With today’s focus on the internet, you’ll probably find it difficult to make any of these options produce book sales. There are exceptions, and if any of these options interest to you, then use search engines to find opportunities. For example, in small towns and rural areas, you may find weekly or monthly newspapers that would like to interview you while plugging your book.
I remember the first offer that I created. I researched for HOURS to collect all the best information on the topic, then I spent over a day, a full 8-hour day in Canva and/or Adobe Illustrator putting the handouts together… but I wasn’t done yet!! I still had to film the mini-course videos, I had…
This strategy is particularly effective for authors seeking to expand their reach and tap into new reader markets. By working collaboratively and leveraging existing audiences, cross-promotion offers a cost-effective way to boost book visibility and drive “book promotion ideas”.
Book promotion can feel like shouting into the void… unless you have a plan. This isn’t about posting “buy my book!” on social media until your friends mute you. This is about creative, effective ways to build buzz, attract readers, and turn interest into sales.
Amazon Advertising offers a direct route to readers actively searching for books. This strategy utilizes Sponsored Products, Sponsored Brands, and Sponsored Display ads to target specific reader behaviors and interests within the Amazon ecosystem. Essentially, you’re placing your book directly in front of potential buyers browsing similar titles, genres, or authors.

Instagram Book Promotion Ideas
Format: CarouselRecommend books that fit the current season. Whether it’s cozy reads for winter or beach books for summer, these suggestions can engage your audience and establish you as a thoughtful curator of book recommendations.
Format: ReelCreate a reel that captures the essence of your book’s aesthetic. Whether your book is dark and creepy or bright and friendly, choose music and images that reflect its mood. For inspiration, check out Holly Spofford’s reel here.
Format: ReelIntroduce your audience to one of your book’s characters through a short, engaging reel. Share interesting traits, background stories, or pivotal moments from the book. This helps readers form a connection with your characters before they even open the first page.
When people share photos on Instagram, they crave for likes and followers as these are the most common ways to prove appreciation for our posts. If you want to be heard, put your target audience first.
