Okay, so the best day ever would have been the day my daughter was born, followed by the day I married my high school sweetheart, but last Saturday was most definitely number three of my list of remember-forever days.
Saturday October 15th, 2011 I became a published novelist. Yes, me! Here’s where I spent the day, at Chapters Bookstore in Peterborough, ON, signing books.
The store was HUGE! And because it was raining, the parking lot, along with the store, were jam-packed full. Not too intimidating. Yikes!
When I walked through the doors, the table with my name on it sat only a few yards away. I would be one of the first things customers would see when they walked in. Double yikes! Right away, the staff greeted me and helped me set up my display of books and bookmarks. They were AWESOME!
I’m a girl of few words. I know that sounds funny considering I’m an author, but it’s true when I actually have to talk to people. Even so, I managed to talk to complete strangers about The Glass Man. What struck me most was the number of people who came over to the table just to congratulate me on my release. I don’t think I stopped smiling all day, especially when most of the books on the table disappeared into customer’s bags by the end of my two hours. Wheee!
To add to the excitement, almost all of my family came out to support me. It was like a giant family reunion in the middle of a book store. Add to that some friends I haven’t seen since high school, neighbors that used to live on the 9th Line of Smith where I grew up, old employers, distant cousins, and some friends from the archery world, including a world champion who drove for several hours just for me. How special do I feel now? Absolutely overwhelmed and thankful to have so many people who care about me and support me. To all of you, I give my sincere thanks for making this a day I will remember until the end of all things.
Thanks to all of the wonderful Chapters staff who gave me selling pointers and made me feel at home. They’ve invited me back for another signing in the future, and I’ll gladly jump at the chance. Chapters is amazing to work with and made my first author adventure a great one.
Tell me about one of your most memorable days.
Wow, Jo. What an awesome start the The Glass Man’s launch. You must be so proud of yourself and have every right to be. Congratulations. 🙂
Thanks! I am, thrilled to the bone. 🙂
Aww, how lovely and happy everyone looks, all so proud and supportive. Good for you. I emailed the three managers I work with in Ontario and told them about your signing though none of them live in Peterborough. I’m glad the store staff was so kind too.
Awesome! Love the pics. I’m just so thrilled for you. Beyond thrilled. 🙂 Bravo!
This looks so wonderful. What a great bookstore. Congratulations!
It was indeed a very memorable day Joanne..I was so proud of you sitting there signing your published novel and seeing so many people at your table congratulating you with such excitment in their voices..it was a pleasure to watch…..such memories of your first one..but definetly not your last!!! Love Mom
Awesome! Confrats!
I am so proud and happy for you !!! It is so exciting for me to tell people that my sister in law is an awesome, published author !! Way to go!