Would it be considered rude to ask for author to sign his book ?

Question

This would not be at an official book signing. Would it be rude to approach an author, (say, at a public event), with a copy of his book, and ask for a signing? Bearing in mind that a signed book is worth more money, although that's not why I wanted to have it signed. Even if I approach and ask the author courteously, am I putting him in an awkward spot? Any published authors here can tell me? Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

No, it is not rude to ask an author to sign his book. I have done it more than a hundred times in my life, and no author has been less than courteous. They are flattered that you read the book, or have bought the book to read it. Most authors have signed their books hundreds of times at book stores and book fairs, and at trade conventions for the booksellers.

You say at a public event. Just be sure that you are not interrupting him while he is talking to someone else, and just wait your turn. Excuse yourself, introduce yourself, and tell him you would be honored if he would sign a copy of his book for you. Say please, and thank you. Other than that, if you want to say how much you enjoyed the book, or ask him a question or two, go ahead. Try to think up a good question or two that isn't trite or hasn't been asked him a hundred times.

And, if you want to really impress him, send him a thank you note, care of his publisher, at their business address. You would be amazed how much they appreciate that courtesy. Hey, he might even write you a note back, if you put your return address on the letter. And wouldn't that be a souvenier worth keeping ??

Answer 2

Most book signings have a limit mostly so that the author's hand doesn't give out. Generally it is 3 books, but ask the bookstore or where ever it is you are going what the limit is. You could ask a friend to stand in line with you so you can get them all done.

Answer 3

Well, this really depends on the author, as different people have different rections to such situations. Usually it's more awkward for the person asking than for the person signing. People signing are usually complimented, epecially snce you actually paid to have a copy rather than using online etc. =P If you really enjoyed the book, etc. explain a bit and then ask. Hope you don't get rejected.

Answer 4

It is not yet prohibited to approach any strangers in our world and to talk to them, when you of course will do it with a certain degree of care and graceful civility.

Anyway, an author who has written the book you have purchased is no longer a stranger to you. If you approach him gracefully and ask for a dedication so that you have a direct personal memory of him - his signature - in your book written by him, you are definitely not putting him in an awkward spot, unless there is something wrong in his personality that may make him react in an awkward way.

I once experienced an author who reacted in a somewhat spontaneously baffled way when I approached him with a too familiar tone of voice and said to him that I had read all the books from him previous to the one he was about to sign. His reaction took a bit of my enthusiasm away, but I think I definitely understood him - I think he had never known that a man with a face like mine ever had bought one of his books written in one of the smallest languages in the world and obviously directed to a small national host of readers. But I would not imagine a reaction of that type from an author writing his books in English. But one never knows, but I think that if you approach him with careful and gracious civility he may be quite pleased about your hope to get his signature.

Answer 5

It would be more rude if you ask the Author to sign some one Else's book

Answer 6

No, not at all most events that authors hold are called book signings so i could not imagen an author taking offence to you asking at a public event.

Answer 7

No...by all means ask.....You forked out the $$ for his book.

First, approach him by telling him that you love his book, and tell him specifically what you liked about it.

Ask if he wouldn't mind signing it. If he says no, return the book and get your money back!

If you have any questions about something he wrote or why he wrote it, he should be happy to discuss it with you as well....it is the best time to ask.

Answer 8

Oh no, that is a perfectly fine thing to do... If they think they're being 'put-on-th-spot' then they must not be to reconized and not have this done alot.

As long as you say you know you liked the book and thank them for signing it, they won't mind. Actually, it might make them feel good that someone wants their signature...

Answer 9

Frankly, I would be flattered if someone asked me to sign something I wrote. If they are famous enough, theyll be used to it and if they arent famous enough, theyll probably be thankful for the praise. Just dont interupt them in the middle of something or act like a crazed fan.

PS: From my experience, authors generally like to stay out of the limelight and behind their writing desk. Just be polite, discreet and genuine with whatever you say.

PPS: What book and author are you talking about? Just curious. :-)

Answer 10

Authors like actors, sportspeople and other high profile celebrities should expect that enthusiastic fans may approach them at public gatherings. They should remember that without fans they would not be reaping the rewards they do and so unless you are imposing upon them at a private gathering, such as seeing them out with family and friends at dinner, they should be courteous enough to acknowledge their fans.