Editor’s Pick by Publisher’s Weekly

Last updated: September 25, 2024

My book The 2-Hour Cocktail Party got highlighted by Publishers Weekly as part of their BookLife program.

It was also chosen as an Editor’s Pick. I’m proud of that!

I will share their review at the bottom and also tell you a bit about the BookLife program.

What is BookLife?

BookLife aims to empower self-published authors by providing them with tools, guidance, and visibility within the publishing community.

It serves as a valuable resource for authors seeking to navigate the complex landscape of independent publishing and gain recognition for their work.

Additionally, BookLife provides a platform for authors to create and maintain author profiles, showcase their books, and connect with readers and other industry professionals.

I paid $399 to have my book considered and reviewed. Then it was awarded straight-A rankings, and given the Editor’s Pick award, based on merit.

Production grades for The 2-Hour Cocktail Party by Nick Gray
Cover: A
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: A
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A

What is BookLife Editor’s Pick?

Editor’s Picks are the top books as selected by Publisher’s Weekly. They say the following on their website:

A lightning bolt and the words “Editor’s Pick” to the left of a title signify that it is a book of outstanding quality.

A lightning bolt and the words “Editor’s Pick” to the left of a title signify that it is a book of outstanding quality.

My review was written by a professional Publishers Weekly reviewer. They picked someone who is an expert in non-fiction to read and review The 2-Hour Cocktail Party.

BookLife Review

Here’s what BookLife Review said about my book, The 2-Hour Cocktail Party:

Nick Gray, creator of Museum Hack, shares strategies for how to schedule, prepare, and host an engaging cocktail party for working adults, as well as enthusiastic insight into why it’s worth doing in the first place, such as strengthening relationships and the pleasure of meeting “awesome people.” Gray’s conversational tone makes a relaxing read out of a potentially stressful situation, demystifying each step of party planning and breaking the process down into three key parts, “The Basics,” “The Logistics,” and “Party Time.” Interviews with successful party hosts demonstrate the possibilities of his techniques, even in small homes and apartments, and charming illustrations break up the manual and keep the tone light. Readers will come away with an in-depth plan to host a soirée and grow a guest list—and also reason to expect it will actually be fun.

Gray’s tone is conversational and light, suiting the subject, and this is an inviting and polished manual for adults looking to expand their network, make new friends, or simply plan a winning get-together. Gray explains the power of positive icebreakers, how to cut off a long-winded guest, and even how to avoid the awkward period when guests first arrive. (The secret? Delegating tasks, as “early arrivals…appreciate the chance to feel useful instead of making idle conversation.”) Other welcome tips include advice for handling kids, breaking up cliques, and this reminder: “As long as the liquor you buy is in a glass bottle and not plastic, it’ll do fine for an adult party.” Gray’s instructions are also straightforward and written in an inviting tone, though at times they can be repetitive—an entire chapter on name badges may be excessive for some readers.

Still, with fresh suggestions and an inviting tone, Gray fulfills what he promises in the introduction: a complete guide to throwing a networking event. Gray includes an appendix with helpful lists and examples that he introduces throughout the book, and chapter checklists summarizing the big takeaways.

Takeaway: Fresh, helpful guide to the hows and whys of throwing an entertaining party.

Read the review in full on the BookLife website here.