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BEA15 -- Books, Authors and More Books...

I am footsore, weary and overwhelmed, but so grateful for the last three days of BookExpo America 15. I resolved to enjoy the show and not worry about what I was missing. There are four stages of events with simultaneous programs, hundreds of publishers and autograph sessions throughout the Javits Center literally every minute. I also resolved not to bring home one book that I didn't want to read or know exactly who would like to read it. I'm happy to say that I stuck to my resolution 90% of the time and yes, I am exhausted, but have no regrets about what I didn't see.

 Geraldine Brooks, with thanks to Google for animation

One of my favorite authors is Geraldine Brooks, and I scheduled most of my time yesterday around her presentation and autograph session. I generally don't wait in the very long lines for autographed copies of books, but made an exception for her novel about King David,  "The Secret Chord" which will be published in the fall. She was as intelligent, thoughtful and witty as I anticipated and yes, I sat in the front row to get this photograph. I've read most of her novels and I'm especially fond of "Year of Wonders: A Novel of the Plague," set in England in 1666.


I chatted with Dr. Ruth -- nothing racy -- and she was as friendly as could be. I can only hope I am as lively at 87. I also met Adam Carolla, who has a new book being published, too. I'm not a regular for his television work, but it was fun to meet him and I do like the picture of the two of us.


It looks like it was one big celebrity-fest, and in some ways it was. But it was also a wonderful time to talk about books and writing. I met terrific people from a number of publishers and kept Buttercupland in mind for upcoming giveaways. 

I also got a big boost of writing rejuvenation for my own writing, both from the book programs and the Blogging Conference on Wednesday. I have some ideas for a few changes for Buttercupland and for a new and very different blog. I'm not quite ready to give any more details, but I'm excited about both. Tomorrow I'm going to a program on self-publishing and I'm hopeful that will give me a concrete direction for a book I've been drifting with.

Please stop by tomorrow for a seventh birthday celebration of Pink Saturday. Always enjoy a party!

As ever, thanks for visiting and have a great weekend.

10 comments

TARYTERRE said...

What a diverse group of writers and celebrities you met. Looks like a wonderful expo. I'm glad you got to go and meet so many terrific people.

Mevely317 said...

Hard to believe it's been a year, already!
Maybe more so than Broadway, the BEA is something I'd love to experience.

Already, I'm sooo curios what's in store for Buttercupland (and its new suburb!).

Terra said...

That is a lot of days spent hiking the BEA; did you wear comfy shoes? I am sure you did. I like your blog the way it is but now I am curious about changes you have in mind.

Melinda said...

Looks like another fun year!

I would be in heaven.

Stop by and check out my Summer challenge.

M :)

The Cranky said...

It looks like a wonderful time; your smile says it all! I await the coming changes with interest.

Elaine Sipos said...

I'm jealous! What a fantastic Expo, I would have been in Heaven. Dr Ruth still looks great, actually about the same as she always did.

Starting Over, Accepting Changes - Maybe said...

90% is pretty good. It is often difficult, when surrounded by what you love, to be practical.

Nellie said...

What a fantastic event! Great that you had a chance to meet so many authors! xo

Saleslady371 said...

I can feel your excitement and enthusiasm and I wish you the very best in learning creative ways to spruce up your writing and your blog which already is great and also the book you're working on!

Susie said...

Carol, I am impressed...you met some fun famous people. Dr. Ruth seems like an old family member, as I recognized her instantly. Oh my feet would have fallen off with all that walking and standing. Bless you, xoxo,Susie