How Do I Support My Best Friend’s Soon-to-be-Released Book?

Dear Literary Lady,
My best friend just got a book deal! What’s are some ways to show my support?
–J.M., Raleigh, NC
Dear J.M.,
Isn’t that just about the most exciting news in the world? It’s as if the publishing world has finally affirmed what you’ve thought all along—that your friend is brilliant, creative, and destined for greatness. Admit it, you kind of want to yell from the rooftops, “I told you so!” to nobody in particular. You sort of maybe want to grab editors by the lapels of their tweed jackets and exclaim, “What took you so long?” And an itty-bitty part of you is tempted to write snarky non sequiturs to your friends on social media (“That’s a great photo of your lunch. My friend is writing a book!”).
But, of course, you won’t do any of these things, because there are more effective, and much saner, ways to show your support and enthusiasm. For example:
1. Before the book is released, start a book club if you don’t already have one. That way, when the book comes out, you can make it the book of the month!
2. Throw your friend a book shower. Everyone has bridal and baby showers to celebrate upcoming life events, so why should having a book published be any different? All the guests can bring gifts of pens, notebooks, and divine inspiration (whiskey).
3. Pre-order copies of the book for everyone you know.
4. Better yet, go to your local B&N the day the book is released with a pack of friends. Bystanders may become curious and buy a copy for themselves.
5. Even BETTER yet, go to your local B&N the day the book is released with everyone you know in matching T-shirts inspired by the book. Everyone at the store will become instantly curious and rush to get a copy!
6. Insert your best friend’s name and novel into all your conversations. For example: “So and so, the up-and-coming author of hotly anticipated novel _______, said the other day that…”
7. Shoot a trailer for your best friend’s novel as if it were a movie. Make sure it goes viral.
8. Last but not least, be supportive of your friend throughout the writing and publishing process. Make them sandwiches. Take them out for walks. Tell them that their ex was not their muse and that they’ll write brilliantly without them.
Above all, remember there’s a long, arduous road ahead for your best friend. While you may have unwavering confidence in their creative genius, they may not always be so sure. So while it’s fun and important to celebrate their incredible achievement, remember you’re a friend first and a fan second.
Love and paperbacks,
Literary Lady