Author 'Cries All The Way Home' After No One Shows Up To Her Book Signing Event

Author Suzanne Young took to social media to share a deeply emotional moment that no author ever wants to experience.

In a heartbreaking tweet, she posted an image of an empty bookstore devoid of enthusiastic readers, accompanied by a gut-wrenching caption: "If you ever want to see a career low point, this is it."

Credit: Twitter/@suzanne_young

The crushing reality of sitting alone with stacks of your own books while waiting for readers to arrive can be a devastating blow to any author's confidence and self-esteem.

Young's disappointment was so overwhelming that she tearfully declared, "Crying my entire way home."

On the evening of March 29th, the anticipation was high for Suzanne Young, as she eagerly awaited fans to arrive at Barnes and Noble for her book signing event promoting her latest work, "In Nightfall," a spine-chilling tale of vampire horror.

Sadly, the author's hopes were dashed as no one showed up to the event, leaving her feeling deflated and defeated.

Despite the heartbreaking experience, Young's social media post about the event has since gone viral, with over 28,000 likes and a wave of support from fellow authors and fans alike.

Messages of encouragement flooded in, assuring the New York-based writer that she was not alone in experiencing such disappointment and that many still appreciated her work.

A bestselling graphic novel author, Michael Northrop, offered reassurance, tweeting: "It stings, but it's a blip."

Author Lija Fisher said, "I was at an event with two other authors, nobody came, so we photoshopped in an adoring crowd."

Credit: Twitter/@suzanne_young

Young herself was blown away by the support and thanked her well-wishers in a follow-up tweet: "I'm overwhelmed by your kindness and support! Thank you—thank you so much!!

"We have a new link to my dear local bookstore for signed copies of IN NIGHTFALL!"

The response to Suzanne Young's viral tweet has been heartwarming, with fans and fellow authors coming together to offer encouragement and support.

Some followers reassured Young that she would one day have a packed house, while others expressed interest in purchasing her latest book, In Nightfall.

Unfortunately, Young's experience is not unique in the literary world. Many authors have faced similar challenges and disappointments, from low turnout at book signings to negative reviews and rejection letters.

However, in these moments of vulnerability, the writing community often comes together to offer a helping hand and words of kindness.

In December 2022, authors such as Margaret Atwood and Neil Gaiman shared their own humbling moments in a Twitter thread.

It all started when fantasy author Chelsea Banning tweeted: "Only 2 people came to my author signing yesterday, so I was pretty bummed about it.

"Especially as 37 people responded 'going' to the event. Kind of upset, honestly, and a little embarrassed."

In response, Gaiman tweeted: "Terry Pratchett and I did a signing in Manhattan for Good Omens that nobody came to. So you are two up on us."

Credit: Twitter/@suzanne_young

Atwood, best known for The Handmaid's Tale, also said, "I did a signing to which nobody came, except a guy who wanted to buy some Scotch tape and thought I was the help."

For many successful authors, the journey to the top was filled with disappointment and frustration, including humbling book signings with low turnouts.

Both Neil Gaiman and Margaret Atwood, literary legends in their own right, have spoken candidly about their experiences with sparsely attended book signings in the early days of their careers.

In fact, these moments of struggle and vulnerability can often serve as a source of inspiration and motivation, driving authors to work even harder and perfect their craft.

For Suzanne Young, the outpouring of support following her recent disappointment is a testament to the resilience of the writing community and a reminder that success often comes with setbacks along the way.