I have recently had a interaction with a less than polite author (*cough* I will not name names.) He seemed a little annoyed when I asked him for an interview even though he did agree to it. I don't see why he was so impolite...It does not just benefit me but him as well. Several of my readers are now interested in his novel.
I just wanted to know about other's interactions with rude authors and how they handled the situation.
Have not had rude encounters with authors. However, have had some encounters with others in regards to interviews for newspaper articles. I figure it is one of two things, either they're having a bad day or they're arrogant. I try to give them the benefit of the doubt. If I have a second encounter, that's usually enough to convince me of the latter ... then that's the end of it. As for myself, being a writer and author, I consider myself blessed and am grateful for any interest. And particularly humbled by those who thank me for my interest for a story or who like what I write.
I hope I never get so warped that I would be rude to someone who expressed interest in my work. However, that being said, I have had an encounter with a rather rude bookstore person. I didn't pursue it further because there are so many other pleasant people out there!
We all have bad days and sometimes we don't always come across in the best light.
But to argue the other side. Take a look at how you approached this author, the style in which you asked, etc. Sometimes bloggers can also come across as pushy. Not saying that you were. Like I said, just arguing the other side. But some authors might have valid reasons to be annoyed. Some might feel that they don't have the time for an interview. It's just one more thing on their to do list. This is especially true of high profile authors. Why would they need the help from little old me? It's in the best interest of all book bloggers to use proper etiquette when contacting authors for review.
Excellent points. I try to be very perfessional and courteous to authors. Every blogger should really. They do not have to take the time out of their lives, but when contacted they need to realize that the way they treat/react to bloggers is not just representing themselves but their current/future novels as well.
I have been very lucky with my true crime writers.They seem to all be really nice people.I have even gone as far as to request that they make a comment on a review I have done for them and this gets done within hours of me asking.I can only speak for true crime writers but they are all wonderful.
We all have one of those days, but... if it happens more than once pass. I think s/he needs to realize they are only as good as the readers who buy their books. Word of mouth gets books sold & word of mouth keeps them sitting on the shelf.
I wouldn't bother with him/her again no matter what.
Bottom line, there is no excuse for rudeness. He didn't want to do the interview, but realized it would benefit his wallet.
Oops, I meant...s/he. lol.
Sour grapes to him, dumbo do.
I have personally found that email is the best way to get on someone's friendly side. They get back to you at their convenience, which means that you generally aren't subject to their moodiness.
That being said, this is an industry where you really have to sell yourself almost as much as your work. Being rude to your fans (especially the ones who are promoting your work) it's really a case of cutting off your nose to spite your face.
I've had that happen not too long ago when I gave less then stellar review of a book. I guess she didn't appreciate that I didn't swoon over her book, but not everyone is going to like what a person writes. It just wasn't my style. But what can you do? I just kept pluggin' right along and didn't bother anymore.
Authors are people just like us. But the other authors I've been in contact with have been great!
awww, I"m sorry to hear that! I know you through blogging, and I know you're one of the friendliest people in the bloggosphere! :) Don't let one bad apple spoil the bunch, though - just keep on keepin on! :)