Touring Notes

A brief follow-up from the previous posting:

In Philadelphia

Last weekend I finally met Paul Dry, the publisher of my earlier book, The Book Shopper. Even though Paul and I have been book friends for 10 years we never had a face-to-face chat. Along with my longtime partner and editor, Denise, we rendezvoused at the Reading Terminal Market (how appropriate) in downtown Philadelphia. We talked books and writing for almost two hours as we feasted on pulled pork sandwiches and beer. Along with a handful of book recommendations, I also received some editorial and publishing advice. Paul suggested that the best strategy for book promotion is to write that next book. This reminded me of an aphorism of one of his other authors, Eva Brann: "Shameful reason for writing no more books: not being read. Fair reason for not being read: being unreadable."

With Paul Dry (right) at Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia

In Carrollton, Georgia

Also last weekend, I was one of the panelists for a new concept in book events. Hosted by Printer's Ale Brewery and Underground Books of Carrollton, the 90 minute program featured music (songwriter Tyler Key ) and brief readings from three writers. I was joined by Joseph Scott Morgan and Roger Johns. In between talking about our books, the evening adopted a "Wait, Wait Don't Tell Me" type of format as hosts/bookstore owners Josh Niesse and Megan Bell peppered the audience and panelists alike with questions on literary trivia. Like having lunch with Paul Dry, it was a fun experience just to talk books. Reading and writing are usually solitary endeavors and an opportunity to share words and beer was a rare pleasure indeed.