If you've ever written a book or created a new product, you know what a wonderful feeling it is to see your book (or product) in stores. The corollary is also true: if you can't find your product in stores, it's a frustrating experience.
My most recent product is the Ball of Whacks. It has been selling well, and people seem to enjoy playing with it. I was in New York recently and visited several high-profile stores that carry it. What joy!
The first was the Museum of Modern Art Design Store. Here is a shot showing its display. It's even got one of those little signs (off to the right) that treat it like a work of art: "Ball of Whacks. Roger von Oech. 2006." Real classy!
I got a photo of the store manager and asst. manager happily holding the Ball. They said that it sells well there.
I then walked up the street to the flagship FAO Schwarz store at 58th and 5th (right next to the new Apple store). Just as you walk in the door on the right is a big corner display with about 50 Balls of Whacks waiting to find new homes. Here's a customer taking a look. Often FAO has a person giving live product demonstrations, and I'm told that does wonders for sales.
Roger:
It must be a great feeling to see your work on display and imagine it in use. Another author shared with me that he loves it when people go up to him and ask him to sign a copy of his book.
Posted by: Valeria Maltoni | 05 May 2007 at 02:21 PM
That's awesome, Roger! Congrats!
Posted by: Paul McEnany | 05 May 2007 at 08:27 PM
Roger,
FAO Schwarz must think very highly of your Ball of Whacks to give it a display like that.
I think that must have done more than just put a twinkle in your eye.
Wow!
John
Posted by: Shakespeare's Fool | 07 May 2007 at 06:35 PM
To All: Yes, it is a nice feeling!
Posted by: Roger von Oech | 09 May 2007 at 02:25 PM