Schools, Libraries, and Festivals: The Most Wonderfully Busy Time of my Year
Last week, I was away from the page for a few days, teaching writing workshops and presenting at an amazing library and school on the Texas coast. I promised pictures from the visit to Galveston, but I was having so much fun I don’t have many! It was an incredibly jam-packed, outrageously fun trip, and I was overwhelmed by the thoughtfulness, generosity, and thorough professionalism of everyone at both Trinity School and the Rosenberg Library.
This is me, dressed as a witch, teaching a talented group of kids at the Rosenberg Library how to write a truly terrifying tale.
One of about 16 devoted writers, hard at work. They even had snacks! Also, we matched witch costumes. WIN!
The librarian who set everything up at the Rosenberg Library, Karen Stanley, was not only a great hostess for a visiting author… she also curates one of the most up-to-date collections of middle grade lit I’ve seen!
Here are only a few pics of her shelves…
I kind of went nuts in there. So many amazing books I haven’t read – and so many I have! I could book talk for WEEKS in the Rosenberg.
The next day, I was ushered around Trinity School by my friend, the amazing Jen Salyer. The assistant head of the school, Amy Gaido, took my request for water between workshops very seriously…
All the little bottles, all MINE, with my initials. I felt very fancy.
And made time for a silly selfie in the chapel before the big presentation!
Jen, me, and Amy! I challenge you to find a more gracious, fun administrator anywhere!
Our writing workshops were fun…
…and I even got a great piece of fan art in the mail yesterday.
Thanks, Cadee! Keep on writing – and drawing, too!
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This Thursday, I am spending my evening at the Texas Center for the Book, speaking on a panel of two with author Caroline Gnagy, to celebrate Texas libraries, authors, and the Archives. It’s a humbling honor, and I’m only slightly nervous about speaking in front of so many of my state’s distinguished literary stars. I will wear my fancy red boots to cope with my nerves.
Then on Friday, I’ll be in San Antonio at the Friends of Northside Libraries event:
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And on Saturday, I’m moderating a panel in Austin at the Texas Book Festival! I’m so excited about this one, as the three authors are bringing three books to speak about that I adored. Raina Telgemeier, John David Anderson, and Paul Griffin will charm your socks off… come listen, ask questions, and get some signed copies!