AWESOMENESS AT ALABAMA BOOK FESTIVAL

1. I traveled with my chauffer, body guard and personal assistant -- aka my three sons. This pic was taken at the end of the day. Yes, they were pretty much bored. Would have taken an appearance by James Patterson or Suzanne Collins to get them excited. But they were good sports anyhow. And it was great for me to look over and see them there. Thanks, guys! And I promise: next book festival we go to there will be more girls. (Yes, this is what they talked about on the ride home.)


2. Rachel Hawkins, author of HEX HALL was there. Turns out, she was a stand-up comedian in a former life. Funny gal! The book bloggers ate her up. And boy was she hard to follow. Great job, Rachel!


3. Ginger Rue, author of BRAND NEW EMILY was there. A little tidbit about Ginger: we graduated in the same class at Hewitt-Trussville High School, way back when! And reconnected over being brand new authors in the kidlit world. She is just as beautiful and sweet as she ever was. Really, REALLY great to see her and meet her family. And the book is AWE-SOME! Very soon to be released in paper back, about a middle school girl who is being bullied and decides to hire a publicist to change her image. Very smart writing. (Smart girl.)


4. There were so many great authors at the festival -- I regret I didn't take more pictures. But I was fortunate enough to get this shot of Kathy Patrick, that tiara-wearing, book-loving crazy gal from Texas. Heard of Beauty and the Book, that hair salon/book store? Yep, that's Kathy. She does so much to support literacy and other authors... heck, for her, I might even put on a tiara! (And, dude, check out that monster purple can of hair spray! Bringing back the 80s one Queen at a time...)


Big huge thanks to all the organizers (Jeanie Thompson, you are amazing), sponsors and volunteers who pull this event off each year! It's wonderful, and I am so proud to be a part of it.