Heaven on earth. For a seasoned bookseller like myself, heaven on earth would be the Kentucky Book Festival held November 6 at Joseph-Beth Booksellers in Lexington, Kentucky.
Not only was the store crowded with customers, always a sight to make a bookseller smile, but there were tables upon tables with stacks of books on them and happy authors sitting behind them, eager to tell you about their works. As a co-editor of MYSTERY WITH A SPLASH OF BOURBON, not only was I a spectator, but also an invited guest – double the pleasure. Along with fellow authors whose short stories were features in this anthology, I got to meet and greet the many guests who were searching for the perfect Christmas gift. Of course, that would be our book.
I took time to peruse the other works available, especially the mystery books. Wonderful selection.
I visited with two wonderful authors I had the pleasure of working with over the years: Silas House, one of Kentucky’s premier writers who was celebrating the 25th anniversary of his book, CLAY’S QUILT. And I had a word with David Domine, Louisville’s own, who had a non-fiction crime story featured. A DARK ROOM IN GLITTER BALL CITY is the story of a murder in Old Louisville, David’s haunting grounds.
Along with two other writers, I was on a panel to talk about ‘Writing Communities’ and how they can change a writer’s life.
My own experience with the Sisters in Crime is an excellent example of the gentle (and sometimes not so gentle) nudging to keep writing, finish that story or book. The overall consensus was that no writer writes in a vacuum, however much they might not want to share. A good support group is essential, especially to the novice.
Just stroll around the tables at the festival and you will meet authors who got to sit behind the table because someone had faith in their ability to tell a tale, whether it be fiction or non-fiction.
I watched as crowds of customers walked the aisles around the tables, picking up this or that, leaving with a stack of books in their arms.
The printed word is not dead. It’s just gone to that little bit of heaven called a bookstore hosting a book festival.
Beautiful blog, Elaine– and so true! We writers thrive on community, support, and encouragement– plus, there’s nothing like being in a bookstore with other writers and readers to make us feel like we’re in heaven! Thanks so much for sharing this inspiring reflection on your time at the Kentucky Book Festival.