I'm a celebrity by virtue of marriage, motherhood, and square footage of my home. Although I’ve done a lot in business and public service, I’m famous mostly because my late husband, Aaron Spelling, was one of the most prolific producers in television history. Then, as if producing Dynasty, Beverly Hills 90210, and Fantasy Island weren’t enough, we built the largest house in Los Angeles, and our kids had their own high-profile careers.
I never paid much attention when Aaron or the kids were doing interviews. They were good marketers and knew how to be just provocative and newsworthy enough. But now that I’m about to go out on a book tour, I’m getting media training to learn how to become a celebrity in my own right. I’d like to share some tips in case you ever become as famous as your house, too.
My first lesson about promoting my book is that I’m never supposed to say “book.” It’s Stories from Candyland. Next, I’m supposed to give a quick summary that makes Stories from Candyland sound appealing and compelling. Here goes: “Stories is a confection of a book because the stories are sweet, varied, and delightful.” It’s 18 chapters of universal baby-boomer experiences, but each has an unusual and fun twist or ending, which is reflective of my life.
What kinds of stories (my media trainer says everyone will ask)? Well, I especially like one where I finally got to meet my teenage idol, Rock Hudson, and I locked myself in his bathroom. Then there’s the one about how I tried to combine parenting advice from two wise men—Dr. Spock and Mr. Spock. And another describing how, after watching Oprah’s show on hoarding, I frantically examined my possessions to see whether I’m a hoarder or a collector.
Oh, and one final lesson: I’m supposed to look interviewers in the eye and sit up straight. Can do! Stories from Candyland (St. Martin’s Press; $25.95) is available now in bookstores nationwide.
