Most writers I know would rather stay home or in the corner of their favorite library or café to write. But once in a while we all need to get our introvert selves out there. Me included.
Last Saturday, I joined more than one hundred authors who participated to the annual Amelia Island Book Festival in Fernandina Beach, Florida.
It was my first time and I was filled with anxiety. What if I got lost on my way to an unknown place? What if I didn’t find a parking spot close enough to the venue? What if I had to make several trips to unload my books and my material? What if nobody stopped by my booth? What if I spent the next eight hours alone?
“What if” is a good question to unstuck our brains and unleash our imaginations but totally worthless on the road.
This is what really happened on Saturday.
I almost got lost. There was unexpected fog and roadwork. But I made it way ahead of time to the Fernandina Beach Middle School where high school students unloaded my trunk and carried my books, my material, and even my lunch to the table I would share with another children’s book author. Meanwhile I parked under an oak tree laced with Spanish moss.
Inside the school I met volunteers who welcomed me with warm smiles and led me to the multipurpose room, already buzzing with activity. Authors were unpacking and organizing their table. Most had great promotional displays. Mine were modest in comparison, and yet everyone congratulated everyone’s books. My right and left side neighbors were super friendly and shared their chocolate and mint candies with me.
Starting around ten o’clock, visitors, many with kids of all ages, swarmed the place. Most stopped by my table and many bought my books. I spoke with all of them and was so grateful for their interest, curiosity, and warmth.
We live in a world that focuses too much on what goes wrong. Many things go wrong and we need to address them. But many things go right, too. Lots of people are hungry for stories, for them, for their children, their grandchildren, and any child in their lives and beyond their lives. Stories remain a universal human link that ties all of us.
Saturday was the proof (if I ever needed one) that books are alive and well alive.
An awesome addition to this kind of event is also the chance to meet other writers. Although we love the safety of our caves, we also know that we can be ourselves with people who share the same passion for stories and won’t judge our awkwardness.
The camaraderie between authors who write for children and teens is a well-known fact. The generosity when it comes to sharing our struggles, successes, and dreams is genuine.
At some point, I felt a little lightheaded. No wonder: It was one o’clock and I ate breakfast around six. I took a lunch break (Volunteers could man authors’ tables during breaks. How cool is that?)
I stepped outside, blinded by the light. I sat on a stone bench near a grouping of trees. My shoulders relaxed under the warmth of the sun. It was a crisp day for Floridians, I heard. Perfect for me. Despite the beautiful day, I ate my sandwich faster than I had planned.
What if I missed any of the fun?
Evelyne Holingue 
It’s often the case that we enjoy doing something we were dreading going to. I’m glad you had a good time.
I know it but keep forgetting that the effort to get out is always worth it. Agree with you, Dan. Thank you for another kind visit to my blog.
What a great experience Evelyne, to meet so many of your future readers and have that sense of community with other authors.
Both aspects were successful. I owe one of my writer friend who suggested the event. It was great to get out and meet new people. Also to return home with renewed energy. Thank you for stopping by, Andrea.
A book festival sounds so – well, festive! I am glad you ventured out and had such a successful day. Here’s to many more adventures for you and your books!
It was festive, you’re right. It was fun and encouraging. I’m back to my little cave and writing with renewed enthusiasm. See you around, Claire.
You look like you were in your element. Happy, surrounded by books and authors and readers. Sound a little bit like heaven.
I was, although I felt initially shy. Everyone was interesting and interested, so I really spent an awesome day. See you around, Marilyn.
I’m so glad you had fun (and sold books). It’s so true that some of us tend to worry about what can go wrong ahead of time, and then we enjoy ourselves once the event begins. My dad was always reluctant to go to a party, but once he got there, he always had lots of fun.
Thank you, Nicki. The day went back so quickly between the constant flow of visitors and book buyers that I forgot the time. I understand how your dad felt. People think that I’m comfortable with everyone because I truly enjoy other’s company, but I need to push myself out. Once there, it’s always great. See you on your blog.
So fabulous seeing you get a chance to meet so many that have a love of books like yourself. Best part is that they are meeting a fantastic author and I know they’ll love your book! Awesome Evelyne.
Aw, you’re too kind, Mary. I was happy to introduce my books to new readers, but moreover energized to realize that books (and art at large) remain so important to many people. That’s awesome.
It does look like a fun day! 🙂
It was fun and also uplifting to see so many people who were willing to find a book for a kid in their lives. That’s a great thing to witness. And the bonus to meet new people is always awesome. Thank you, Joey, for stopping by.
Ooh, wonderful. Glad you got out there!
You would have enjoyed the day, too, Jennifer. Like I wrote above, it’s a treat to meet both readers and writers at the same time, at the same place. See you soon on your blog.
un beau moment pour un auteur que de rencontrer ses lecteurs 🙂 extra!
C’était vraiment super! Et je me suis même fait de nouvelles amies. Merci, Stéphanie pour ta visite.
How exciting and inspiring! So glad you had such a positive experienc!
Thank you, Gulara. It was great. See you on your blog.