Tucson Festival of Books (3/3): Connecting with readers
Hello, again! There are two stories that I would like to share or rather, two customers that stood out in my mind when I was at the festival.
Fifteen minutes later…
She was back.
I was surprised. My first thought was that there was something wrong with the copy I gave her. Instead, she said that after she had left, she read the start to my book. She commented that I had a great hook and she wanted the complete trilogy! Talk about making an author’s day! She also asked if I would be willing to speak to her classes next year in conjunction with my Tucson Festival of Books trip, which, of course, I agreed to do. She was a lovely woman.
I swallowed the lump forming at the back of my throat as my heart thrummed achingly. I smiled at her while inwardly I reprimanded myself–Stop being such a sap! You CANNOT cry over this! I explained that I simply couldn’t have her walking around without that third book. Book one and two wouldn’t stand for it either. So, I gifted the book to her. She was so gracious, and after talking with her, I learned that she was an avid reader. She thanked me, and I handed her three signed books and a free canvas bag for her to carry them away.
So, in the end, the Tucson Festival of Books was a success! I left feeling supportive that a junior high teacher finally found some books that her students could sink their teeth into. I also felt rewarded that one of my books that otherwise wouldn’t have, landed in just the right reader’s hands. Sometimes in life, it is better to give than to get.
As for me, I boarded a plane and headed back to the East Coast just in time for snow, once again. Ugh! →
If you are an author and haven’t attended a book festival for your book(s), I highly recommend you give it a try. I don’t think you will regret it! Here is a link for some festivals across the country. https://www.everfest.com/book-festivals There are most likely numerous smaller festivals in your community as well.