A Debut Author Goes on Tour

Whew! This week, I was involved in four events as an author -- each unique in its own way. Being a former teacher and school librarian, my very first school visit was a favorite! You can see me above, sharing my PowerPoint presentation.

Let's back up to a week ago last Sunday, where I helped man a table representing SCBWI and 57th Street Books at the Chicago Children's Book Fair. Featured at the table were debut author's latest books -- mine included! 

It was great to chat with other authors about their novels, and to visit the bookstore. As I descended into the basement of books, and found the MG section, I said to myself, "Some day, my novel will be found here. I think especially of Fair Investigations! which takes place at the World's Columbian Exposition, that used to sit on the very land were this bookstore is located.

On Wednesday, I experienced my first school visit. What a memorable event! I had the best time with these 5th graders. Although my first presentation went on for almost an hour, the classes were attentive and asked questions. I was impressed! At the end, the teachers bought books and asked me to sign them. What an honor! And the students all came to me waving the bookmarks I gave them so I could sign them. So encouraging. The highlight was a few hugs from boys and girls. Wow. I was on Cloud 707.

My book signing on Thursday evening at The Stomping Grounds Café in Greer, SC would not have been called a success in most people's eyes. Only two people showed, and I had no sales. But the camaraderie and the experience were valuable. Coffee shops are probably not the best venue for me at this time, but the owners were most hospitable, and did their best to advertise the event online, and so did I. 

There was so much to absorb at the Write2Ignite conference in Greenville on Friday and Saturday. Along with breakout sessions and keynotes, I took the opportunity to make two appointments with an editor and agent. I'm working on my submission to the former right now. Conferences are a great way to build confidence and connections as a writer. I highly recommend them.

Well, that's it for now. I'm exhausted and am recuperating this week, only to take off on saturday for the Evangelical Church Library Association conference. It just keeps on going! Next week, I'll shown you the lovely city of Greenville. Who knows, someday I might make this friendly city my own.

Do you know of a venue that is open to debut authors? Schools and bookstores are the norm, but I'm open to coffee shops and other opportunities. Do you know of a women's group or a rotary club that needs a speaker? Think of me! Let me know in the comments below if you have other ideas. Where have you seen authors interact with the public?