Agnes Lee wrote her first book and was excited to host a book signing to celebrate – but no one showed up or would go over to speak to her. But, the sad situation turned into something amazing
An author’s book launch turned into an event of heartbreak when not a single person showed up, leaving her to wait alone with hope.
Agnes Lee, also known as Booked With Honey on social media circles, launched her debut children’s story ‘Who Took My Stuff’, which tugs at the heartstrings with its tale of sibling bonds peppered with a dash of mystery.
To celebrate her work and hopefully see it fly off the shelves, Agnes arranged a book signing at a Barnes & Noble store in sunny California. Ready with her display and festive blue and white balloons, she anticipated some buzz, but the excitement quickly faded as no one showed up.
A heartfelt TikTok video uploaded by a bookstore employee captured the sombre mood – and raked in 13million views. The employee said: “I literally hate this shift. We have an author today. It’s her first book and nobody has gone up to her. I have to watch this for five hours. My heart is breaking.”
People felt awful for the author, with one writing: “Omg this breaks my heart.” Another said: “That’s actually sad, I hope she gets success with her book.”
Some were baffled by the lack of turnout too. One remarked: “I always get confused, why won’t at least friends show up? I’ve organised a few of these and 20 friends and family comes to support and buy then books and then others see and come in.”
Meanwhile, an author chimed in with a message of encouragement by saying: “This was exactly me seven years ago. I became a #1 NYTimes best seller this year and book signings look very different now. Stick with it! Your people are waiting to find you.”
This advice seemed to be very true – as the tides have since turned for Agnes. She recently took to TikTok with an update for her followers.
Agnes said: “Do you remember that sad Barnes and Noble author that went viral a few weeks ago? Well that was me with the book and my stuff. That 10million [now 13million] view video lead me to do a podcast with a New York Times best selling author.”
And that’s not all – Agnes also sold out her books. She expressed her gratitude and added: “Thank you guys so much for your love and support – you guys have no idea how much this means to me.”
Agnes has also announced that her books are back in stock, now available in both pink and blue. For further details, she directed fans to her website.