How to get a free copy of my new book

Writers wrestle constantly with one quandry. We need to support independent book stores, because they are awesome, they hand sell our books, and they are a vital part of the community. But the chain stores also support books, and they sell large quantities. Happily, I have figured out a way you can not only support both, but also get my next book for free. Attack of the Vampire Weenies and Other Warped and Creepy Tales costs about $15 (rounded to the nearest $5 for the sake of those who feel pain in the presence of math). It sells at the chains for as little as $10. Given that, here's all you need to do to get a free book. (I suspect the puzzle-loving contingent is way ahead of me at this point.) First, buy three copies from one of the discounters. You'll save $5 per copy, or a total of $15. Now, take that $15 to your nearest and/or dearest independent book seller (easily found via the IndieBound web site) and buy a fourth copy of my book with the money you saved. There you go. Voila! A free book.

Okay, some of you are wondering whether it is excessive to buy four copies. Not at all. Here's what you do. But, first, since people are more likely to read a post that includes photos, here's a random image:


Okay -- back to the explanation. Here's what you do. Preserve one archivally and set it side as a valuable collector's item. Should we ever cross paths -- which is almost inevitable, given how much I travel -- I will happily sign that copy, thus increasing the value. Read the second copy. Give the third copy to your favorite school media center. Give the final copy to your local public library, because the governor took away all their funds. And there you have it -- you get a free book, enhance your stash of valuable collectibles, and enrich two libraries. It's a win, win, win, win, win situation. (I included myself as the fifth win.)