Moving on...slowly!

So my book has been released, I've done a lot of book signings and promotional things, but then the hard question.  How do I get bookstores to carry my book? I have several online sources, but not much in the actual bookstores.  I will start making some contacts next week to independent bookstores, but my contract prohibits me from marketing to the big chains.  I am at my wits end! A marketing guy I met this weekend at a conference, advised me to have everyone I know (who is willing!) to call the bookstores and make a request for the book.  Ok, so everyone who is willing, please call Barnes and Noble, Hastings, Books a Million, etc.     The online resources that I am aware of now carrying my book are: Tate Publishing, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Books a Million, and Indiebound.org.

Awesome Group!

I was so pleased yesterday to receive a card in the mail signed by the students from Edmond North Creative Writing Class.  They continue to impress! What an awesome group of students.  I wish only the best for them in their writing careers! Oh yes, the Starbucks card they sent was pretty cool too!

Edmond North Creative Writing Class

I visited the creative writing class at Edmond North today to share what I have learned over the past year with publishing my first children's book.  There was a group of about 30 students; many aspire to become published authors (some children's authors, some novels, some illustrators, and even a novel/movie!) Everyone had great questions for me and I enjoyed visiting them.  They have been working on children's books and I got to see a few.  It's amazing the talent they have and should have no problem achieving their goals.  I look forward to seeing their names in the headlines some day!  Mrs. Spencer, you should be proud!

Creative Writing Class

I will be speaking with Mrs. Spencer's creative writing class at Edmond North High School this Thursday.  They are all working on writing children's books.  I plan to share with them the things I've learned over the past year.  I wish I'd had someone to talk with a year ago instead of learning as I go. I hope to be able to answer all of their questions.  I will admit though, I've never spoken with a high school group, so I am a little nervous!

Glorious Day!

So, another beautiful Oklahoma day prompted me to get out the ole bicycle and take her for a spin. It's 75 degrees, sunny and no wind...a perfect day to be outside. I wanted to take my little Corkie out (Corkie the Yorkie) because he LOVES to go riding.  He's 15 1/2 years old now and blind as a bat, but still thoroughly enjoys his bike rides! He loves when I go down the hill and pick up some speed and the wind blows the fur on his face.  When he was younger, he used to stand up with his little paws on the front of the basket looking like he was playing out the scene from the movie Titanic! I wish I looked that good.  I fear I somewhat resemble Elmira Gulch (from the Wizard of Oz).  The only difference is my basket is on the front!

Oklahoma Weather

So today is February 25, but it seems no one told Mother Nature.  Oklahoma skipped winter this year.  My poor roses are budding and it's about 70 degrees today.  One day last week, my thermometer read nearly 80. I can't help but think that's an inaccurate reading! I can get used to this, but I am afraid that about spring break time, we'll be having blizzard-like conditions!  It's crazy to see people is shorts and flip flops. At least its been an easy season on our heating bill!

Storkland and Kids Too!

Today I had a book signing at Storkland and Kids, Too! in Oklahoma City.  The staff was so nice! I enjoyed being at the store for my book, but also to see all the beautiful baby things.  If you need baby furniture, bedding, etc. I highly recommend this place. Did it make me want to have another little one?  NO! But someday, hopefully I will have a grandchild!

Meeting with the Lions Club

I met with the local Lions Club Monday night.  They provided dinner and afterwards I told them a little about my book, the production process, etc. We had a good night! Thank you Lions for inviting me!

Awesome 4 year olds!

Just visited Putnam City Smart Start pre K group.  They were awesome! Very attentive, polite, and seemed to enjoy my story!  (The staff was great, too.)  Everyone was so gracious and I would do this again in a heartbeat!

Kids are funny, too.  It goes something like this..."Do you have any questions?" Little girl raises her hand, "I have 4 cats at home."  Little boy says, "I have 10 cats!" Other little boy says, "I have 20 cats!" and finally, a little boy raises his hand, "I liked your story."  PRICELESS!

Putnam City Pre K

Tomorrow I have a book event with Putnam City pre K.  I am very excited.  I hope all goes well and the kids enjoy!