Debut Event at Toadstool Books in Keene, NH

I handed a stack of books to the bookseller at Toadstool Bookshop, so excited that Shipshape would have a home on the shelves of my local bookstore. “Could you sign them?” she asked. It hit me as it did several times that day that yes, I’m the author of this book. People are excited to buy the book with my signature in it. I’m still getting used to that. I’m not sure I’ll ever get used to that because it’s both humbling and exciting at the same time.

When I walked into the bookshop, there was my table with a forest green tablecloth and my picture. Debut author, me! I talked about the book, read a short section, and couldn’t quite believe that people were interested in my book.

As I was packing up, a mom and her two little children (preschool age) came up to “talk to the author.” I showed them the book, and we talked about how the author’s name is always on the cover. It was my name. The look of wonder on that little boy’s face was precious. He wanted to know why my book didn’t have pictures. He wanted pictures. We talked about using your imagination when you read. I’m not sure he bought it, but it was a beautiful teachable moment for all of us.

That’s what it’s about for me. I want to help kids get excited about reading, about their imaginations and creativity. That’s when anything is possible. This is the first of what I hope will be many events where I can talk about robots, tunnels, and why teachers are the best people on the planet.