I Didn't Meet Karen Kingsbury Giveaway

...but I got an advance copy of her book, "The Bridge," that will be published in October and it's AUTOGRAPHED. I was at the Simon and Schuster booth and saw a small pile of books on the floor next to one of the booths where authors sign books. I noted the title and the staff person said they were giveaways. Karen had signed yesterday. I was disappointed to have missed meeting her, but happy to have the book. When I got home and opened it I saw the signature, "Love, Karen Kingsbury." The Karen Kingsbury is not very clear, but love is very clear.

Nothing will make me happier than to do a giveaway for this special copy. I've had the most fun three days and I want to share this terrific time and fun reading with the good citizens of Buttercupland. This is the first in what will be at least three book giveaways over the summer. Please leave a comment about a favorite book and please be a citizen of Buttercupland, too. There is also a small surprise runner-up giveaway. This giveaway closes Sunday, July 1 and I will announce the winners on Monday, July 2.

Today was an equally fun day. I met a number of authors -- all of whose work was unfamiliar to me -- but I am so glad for the discoveries. I think I've got some great reading ahead.

This charming author is Susan Elia MacNeal. I am a fan of mysteries and I think with Susan's book I've got a find. Her books take place in Wartime England and I've got some catching up to do. Due out in October is "Princess Elizabeth's Spy," and her character, Maggie Hope, is dispatched to Windsor Castle to tutor then Princess Elizabeth. What a great read for Jubilee time!

I had a great chat with Victor LaValle, whose creepy terrific novel, "The Devil in Silver" is due out in August.   I don't usually read scary books, but the first few pages -- I've been flipping through all my new books -- caught me and that it takes place in Queens, where I've worked for the last seven years, is added fun. This is a great gift book for your friends who like a good scare in their literary life.

Another great gift idea is James Dashner's "The Kill Order." Teens can be so tough to choose books for, but his series look great for fans of "The Hunger Games" and "Divergent."

My last moment of being a star-struck fan was seeing E.B. Lewis, Caldecott Honor awardee and fabulous illustrator. Yes, I am in awe of illustrators, whose talent gives life to some of my favorite books. 

A big, big thanks to the many publishing folks who made this a very special time. People were unfailingly patient, fun and friendly. This reader and blogger is very grateful!

It's tough to come back to real life after my wonderful week. I go back to work tomorrow for a day and then I am officially on medical leave, with my surgery scheduled for next Wednesday. I am going to rest, blog and read.  

Happy Reading!