Five Unique Virtual Author Event Ideas to Try Today

In the digital age, engaging your global audience as an author is no longer an option–it’s essential. So many readers worldwide would love to read your book, but it’s your job to get in front of them. But how can you do that? Through virtual events. Virtual events help build genuine connections and turn casual readers into die-hard fans.

Here are five creative virtual author event ideas to try today to engage your global audience.

1. Host a Panel with Like-Minded Authors

If you’re worried about low attendance or are eager to reach a new audience, hosting a panel with like-minded authors provides a great opportunity. Each author can introduce their book, followed by a group discussion on writing inspirations or genre trends. Tackling a hot-button issue in your category can also spark lively conversation. Don’t forget to leave time for a Q&A so your audience can engage directly.

TIP: Offer a bundle book deal to encourage new sales!

2. Do a “First Draft vs. Final Draft” Reading

Who doesn’t love a peek behind the scenes? The first draft versus the final draft changes so much, so it’s fun to give readers an insight into what your first draft was like. Choose a chapter that changed significantly from your original version, and do a side-by-side reading.

TIP: Highlight what changed and why—readers love hearing your thought process and what made the final version stronger.

3. Host a Book Club Discussion

A book club is a great way to bring your story to life and engage with your readers. Prepare 8-10 discussion questions that explore your story’s plot, themes, and characters and that will foster an interesting conversation amongst the attendees.

To elevate the experience:

• Share a themed snack or cocktail recipe inspired by the book.
• Offer a downloadable reading guide.
• End the event with a small giveaway or exclusive sneak peek as a thank-you.

TIP: Record the session and share it as an extra resource for new readers!

4. Create a Themed Scavenger Hunt

A themed scavenger hunt captivates your audience and keeps them involved from start to finish. Craft a list of clues or trivia questions based on your story—some general, some more specific—and have attendees race to answer them. You can host it in a rapid-fire style using chat or Zoom’s “Raise Hand” feature to see who’s first.

Here are a few examples of scavenger hunt prompts:

• Who is the first person the protagonist interacts with?
• In what chapter is the big twist revealed?
• What is the last word in the book?
• Where does the majority of the book take place?
• Who is the protagonist’s best friend?

TIP: Offer a free signed copy of your book or an ARC copy of your upcoming book as a prize for the winner!

5. Debut Your Book Trailer

If you’ve created a book trailer, turn its debut into an event! It’s a great way to honor the time, effort, and money that went into your book trailer, and it will get readers that much more excited for your book’s release day.

Here are a few ways to make your book trailer debut more engaging:

• Perform a live reading of your first chapter
• Have a countdown to the trailer
• Host a giveaway
• Do a reader Q&A

TIP: Create a virtual background and encourage attendees to dress up!

The key to any successful virtual event is to be prepared. Before you jump into the actual event, rehearse by recruiting your friends to sit in on a run-through. After all, practice makes perfect. Best of luck!

About Zoe Mathers

Zoe is a social media manager and book marketer based in British Columbia. She helps fiction and non-fiction authors build their brand, grow their online presence, and sell more books through strategic marketing and content creation.

You can learn more about Zoe at: www.zoemathers.com or on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thezoemathers