The Book Launch

Well, it's finally happened!  My book was launched at last.  And what a launch it was!  I was SO excited watching all the people come in, and then we had to keep bringing more chairs and more chairs as they kept coming. My wonderful dog Reenie was there to calm me down and she couldn't have been better; I figured that since her photo was on the back of the book (together with me) then she should be at the launch and maybe sign/paw a book or two.  She was as good as could possibly be.  

I was anxious to get started but we wanted folks to get a glass of wine first; people were in a very good mood.  Finally, my publishers, Carol and Richard, introduced me, and away we went.  I read two pieces from my book; one of just under fourteen minutes which was about the first time I was violently packed in ice sheets, and the second, a funny three minute one.  Likely it was a bit longer than that, because I had to wait several times for people to stop laughing before I could go on.  I loved every minute of it.  And then we did questions.  There were many and I thoroughly enjoyed answering them and hearing the comments although I must admit I was a bit embarrassed when three different people mentioned they enjoyed me more than Margaret Atwood - I mean, Margaret Atwood is my hero - I think she is a brilliant speaker.  I was on stage about forty-five minutes and then I tried to make my way to the book table to sign the books.  That took a while and there was a huge line - we sold well over a hundred books that evening. 

There is a lot of work involved in a launch and I know I couldn't have done any of it without the help of my sister Judi who is such a great organizer and took care of selling the books, and me in general.  My friend Janna was masterful at welcoming people and handing out wine tickets. My friend Julie took photos of the whole event.  Estelle and Derek were Reenie the dog minders (plus helping with just about everything else) and they did a great job with everything.

The whole launch evening was a huge high for me; I think I could really get into this - I loved reading from the stage, and loved talking to people one-on-one.  The night progressed, the folks went home and then so did we, happy, excited and well and truly launched.  The new adventure begins.

Above photo courtesy of Julie Elizabeth.