Friday, May 14, 2010

Author/Book Signing Groupie

A. J. Jacobs and me
look at my hands - I must have
been talking about my blog

I’ve been to three book signing events within five days. It’s become one of my favorite things to do. Does that put me in the nerd category?

The first event was held at Barnes and Noble. Stacy Hawkins Adams spoke about the path to the publication of her first nonfiction book, Who Speaks to Your Heart? plus entertained us with a Q & A, complete with book giveaways as prizes.

She’s had success with two series of page turning, Christian based novels, six books in all, and is now promoting her new book. I’m looking forward to reading my copy – autographed, of course.

Two days later, I was sitting in an audience at the Weinstein Jewish Community Center listening to A. J. Jacobs. I discovered him on…was it Oprah? Anyway, I saw him again on another talk show, too, promoting his book, The Know-It-All. This guy read the entire encyclopedia, but don't let that mislead you; he's quite funny.

I talked to him a minute or two while he signed copies of his other two books for me. I told him I was an information junkie. Too bad I can’t retain enough of it. Oh well, maybe in my next life.

Another two days later, I was at the Book & Author Dinner at the Greater Richmond Convention Center, sponsored by The Junior League of Richmond. This was a treat from a friend who knows how much I love books.

Six authors discussed their latest work: Sam Beall, Sarah Blake, Noah Boyd, Dean King, Phyllis Theroux, and Abraham Verghese. I decided not to purchase any of their books because I already have a few new books waiting to be read. But, from this group of authors, I will probably read at least one of the impressive books presented that night.

I’ve heard it said that surrounding yourself with people and things relating to your dreams, goals, and interests is “a good thing.” Eventually, you may accomplish your particular goal, but if not, at least you’ve had fun.
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What is your "gotta do" or "gotta see" or "gotta go" thing?
(For those of you who speak the Queen's English - "gotta" translates to "I have to."

23 comments:

Unknown said...

Wow! Now THAT is fun! I love attending book expos..the big ones like BEA. It gives me the motivation and vision to see my book published. Plus, I like meeting and talking to other authors.

Bernie said...

I have never had the opportunity to meet an author (live too far away from the city) but oh I do love my books.
I love to hear when others get to do this, sounds like you had fun.
Great picture.......:-) Hugs

Judy Thomas said...

Surrounding yourself with people who share and encourage your interests is often a great motivator, taking the time to seek out these experiences is valuable. The one mistake some people make, I think, is to only associate with like-minded people and then miss out on other ideas, opinions, etc.

Anonymous said...

Oh, that seems to change day by day, hour by hour.

Anonymous said...

Cute...its always great to do something that makes you happy!

Stephanie said...

Oh that sounds like a great way to spend your time! I'm just a wee bit jealous!

Hilary said...

I loved A.J. Jacobs first book. I thought it was great. I had high hopes for the second one, but it was kind of "meh". I have been looking for some good reads for a while, so I will have to check out those authors you listed from the Junior League Event. I've got some titles for you when you have some free time :)

Midlife Roadtripper said...

"I’ve heard it said that surrounding yourself with people and things relating to your dreams, goals, and interests is “a good thing.”

Absolutely. Becoming a part of a community is always rewarding - if only to have someone who understands our shared loves. I always come away from a writer's lunch with such satisfaction. Enjoy!

One Photo said...

Hi Anita, it all sounds so wonderful, I am glad you had such a fabulous time

Annie Z said...

Sounds like you had a lot of fun! Good for you!

I gotta go to New Zealand for a holiday! And do all the wonderful bushwalking they have there.

Nakamuras on Saipan said...

Oh...how FUN! Sigh...ok..I gotta say these are some of the things I miss about living in civilization (versus this remote island).

gayle said...

Book signings are so much fun!Great way to visit too!! My gotta...lately I am not to sure about!! Just playing with my grandson, I guess! Love your picture!!!

Arlee Bird said...

I'd like to get out to attend some book signings and author lectures. I never hear about any near my house though. I gotta be more on the look out I guess.

Lee
Tossing It Out

MissKris said...

My daughter aspires to be a published author someday and has come to 'know' several writers via the internet. She's been to many book signings and has even become good friends with a local writer whose books have been published. She also reads books and reviews them for a publisher. I've learned a lot from seeing things secondhand. It's quite the industry!

jiturajgor said...

I have experienced book-signing couple of times.You are lucky Ani, in this matter.Liked your post.

Paul C said...

I like book signings too especially if the authors have a chance to read or speak as well. Good point about being energized by what they have to say. I like what several have said about marketing and branding on the Internet.

Buckeroomama said...

I've love book signings or any event where I can meet authors I like... I've had the opportunity to meet Yann Martel (Life of Pi), Adeline Yen Ma (Falling Leaves), and Suze Orman (from that NBC talk show about money & finance).

Somehow being in the presence of these authors felt like I was in the presence of royalty, given my love of books. :)

Hilary said...

"I’ve been to three book signing events within five days. It’s become one of my favorite things to do. Does that put me in the nerd category?"

Possibly. Unless it's the same author at all three events.. then that makes you a stalker. ;) Oh, I'm kidding. It sounds like you're having a great time. Good for you. :)

Jen said...

The few authors I have met were very interesting people. You're not a nerd - you're a geek. That's ok. I am, too.

Robin said...

Hi Anita...that does sound fun..I have been to book signings in the past...not recently though...I really loved going to museums and art galleries...but lately I have not been going...with the summer months arriving I hope to visits some new venues....I also love browsing all bookstores..the only thing is now I have the kindle..so I browse and then purchase it on Kindle..but i still love to go have lattes with ma girls...and I love looking at online art as well...and blogs too..there are some really beautiful art blogs...with great inspiration..Keep having fun...!

yonca said...

It's wonderful that you're doing things you like.It doesn't make you a nerd lol.Enjoy your week!
'Do what you gotta do' right?

Menopausal New Mom said...

Look at you getting that booked signed! Yes, loved how your hands were going, definitely talking about the blog :)

I wish I had more time to read but for now with my little one, I do well to manage a magazine article.

I did buy an Oprah pick the other day and love it. I don't want to rush things, hopefully I'll have plenty of time to read when she's older

BTW, check out the cute button I put on my blog to your site, it's on my right margin with my must reads

Anita said...

Hello EVERYONE, I wish I had more time at the moment to respond to every comment, because they were all different: serious, funny, complimenting, and informative; expressing excitement and giving suggestions.
JEN - I have to Google "Geek." You're probably right - maybe that's what I am. :)
THANKS EVERYONE! THIS WAS A FUN POST FOR ME.

AS ALWAYS, I'D LOVE TO HEAR MORE. MY POSTS HAVE NO TIME LIMITS. :)