A reviewer gets thousands of books a month—so why did one plain-looking title jump to the top of the pile? The packaging signaled a story worth opening. We break down the art and strategy of creative mailers and author swag that make reviewers, influencers, and readers pay attention, share photos, and prioritize your book.

We start with the first impression: simple upgrades like colored bubble mailers, clever on-theme stickers, or parchment-style wraps that create instant curiosity without custom-box budgets. Then we get practical about what goes inside. You’ll hear how consumables turn a pitch into a memorable experience, and why handwritten notes still win in a digital age.

Not everyone wants print, and that’s okay. We share a hybrid approach, too.

 We also profile three investment tiers: Budget ideas, mid-range boosters, and deluxe - when you really want to get creative! Beyond the book, we show how to reflect your author identity and causes you care about so your package feels human, not corporate.

You’ll walk away with a sourcing list (printers, Etsy makers), a QR strategy that routes to a clean landing page with buy links and bonus content, and a checklist to keep shipping costs low and breakage near zero. Ready to turn your next book review request into an experience people keep and share? Be sure to tune in! 

Subscribe, text us your favorite swag ideas at 888-402-8940, and leave a quick review to help more authors find the show.

Send us your feedback!

📱Text Penny & Amy: send us your show feedback, burning marketing questions and new topic ideas!

Text the word PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to sign up to send us messages and receive new episode announcements. And don't forget to save our number!

Check out our Book Marketing Jumpstart options if you're ready to take your brand, platform and SEO up a few notches.

Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!

1. Be sure you're following the show: by clicking the + Follow button on the top right of our show page. If you're already following you'll see a ↓ downward arrow.
2. Locate Ratings & Reviews: Scroll down on our podcast page until you find the "Ratings & Reviews" section.
3. Rate the podcast: Click on the stars to give the podcast a rating.
4. Write your review: Under the star rating there will be the most recent review and just below that click "Write a Review" and compose your review in the text box that appears.
5. Save: Once you've written your review, click "Save" to submit it.

Can't use Apple Podcasts? Email us your review and we'll put it on our website: [email protected].