Youth Services Symposium

You know how sometimes everything in the universe seems to align perfectly, so cool stuff kind of just happens for you? Well, I’ve been lucky enough to experience this mystical alignment for the last several years, and things just keep rolling along. (Not that I haven’t worked my tail off at the same time.)

Back in January, at the ALA conference, my editor met a lovely woman named Sue McCleaf Nespeca, who was putting together a conference for librarians in Ohio. Sue thumbed through Egmont USA’s summer catalog, and happened to see my book . . . and the fact that I’m from Ohio. Soon after, Sue contacted me, inviting me to present at the Youth Services Symposium on May 6th in Bowling Green, Ohio, and May 7th in Twinsburg, Ohio. Talk about exciting! I mean, to present my book to 100 or so Ohio librarians over the course of 2 days is an incredible opportunity. Factor in the overnight stay in a hotel (which means no diapers to change or drippy noses to wipe), and I had myself a little dream vacation from reality. A few days to simply focus on myself – and my book. This might sound selfish, and if so, fine. I’m only being honest here, and an uninterrupted block of writing time was a dream come true.

I had several hours in the car over the course of the two days, and I must say that Jason Mraz’s Summer Breeze, I’m Yours, and Live High were my favorite music choices. Throw in a Little John Mayer and Dave Matthews Band, and I almost felt like I was back in college again.

The presentations were so much fun. I mean, what’s better than talking to a room full of librarians who love books as much as I do, and don’t think I’m crazy when I talk about being magically transported by the wonder of words? I shared my journey to publication – the highs and lows of searching for an agent, revisions, the inspiration for my novel, and more. I was able to share my book trailer, and the story behind its creation, which was SO much fun! (They actually clapped!)

One of the most inspiring events of the two days occurred when I was waiting for lunch on May 7th. With about 10 minutes to go before the current presentation ended, I was able to sit and chat with Dandi Daley Mackall, author of over 400 books. (That is not a typo. She has written and published over 400 books!) As I sat there with her, I thought to myself, "This is going to be one of those moments I always remember." When I asked Dandi what advice she would give to someone who is just starting out, she said, "Don’t let being a write take over the writing." Simple, yes. But absolutely brilliant.

Another highlight of the day was signing books. My books! Egmont USA is such a supportive and wonderful publishing house. When this presentation was first planned, they shifted my printing date forward (YAY) so books would be available for purchase at the symposium. And guess what . . . people bought some! Here’s a picture of me signing, and another of a line, an actual line, of librarians waiting for my autograph. Can I tell you how special that made me feel?!

Pictures make everything more fun, don’t they? Problem is, my camera was acting up, so these are a little blurry. I think it’s time to invest in a new camera. Regardless, as a former yearbook advisor who loves photography, I decided to share anyway.