Last week, on
the evening of February 6th, I celebrated the publication of my new
novel, Hooperman: A Bookstore Mystery, at
Books Inc., a fine independent bookstore in Palo Alto, California. I made a few
remarks, read four short passages from the book, answered questions from the
audience, and signed books.
Another
sentimental connection: I graduated from Stanford University in December 1964,
nearly 50 years ago. My very first job out of college was to help out during
Christmas rush at the Peninsula Bookshop, a bookstore I already knew and
admired. That job lasted only two weeks, but it got me started working for
bookstores on the Midpeninsula. By coincidence, the Peninsula Bookshop (which
years later went the way of most independent bookstores and closed its doors)
was located only a few doors from the current location of Books Inc. So
appearing right there seemed to close a circle for me.
The most
meaningful sentimental feeling I got from that evening was pleasure of seeing
friends. The house was packed. There were a number of old friends and fellow
Kepler’s alumni, people I had worked alongside in the 1970s. There were also a
couple of classmates from my years as a Stanford undergraduate. My favorite
teacher, Nancy Packer from the Stanford Creative Writing Program, was there. Several
authors whom Susan and I have published in recent years were there. Not only
that, but my son Ben, and his wife, Anne, and their three children showed up. I
can’t overstate the thrill I felt to be in the company of new friends, old
friends, and family for this milestone evening. There were also some unfamiliar
faces in the audience, and their smiles warmed me too.
I’ll close by
saying I believe Hooperman: A Bookstore
Mystery to be worthy of all the attention it got that gratifying evening.
I’m fond of this book, probably because it’s all about the joy of bookselling,
the nobility of independent bookstores, and the absolute wonder of that
remarkable invention: the book. It also combines a couple of love stories and
tosses in a crime to be solved.
To learn more
about Hooperman: A Bookstore Mystery,
check out this page: http://www.danielpublishing.com/jmd/hooperman.html
Very nice post, John. It sounds like the book signing was what we all hope for, and seldom experience. And, it seems to me, well deserved. Congratulations on a successful launch of Hooperman. I am truly pleased for you.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Jim!
DeleteI would love to have been there, John. A perfect book signing! Ah, the Joy of Publishing -- and especially Hooperman. Like Jim, I am so very pleased for you.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Eileen. And good luck with ONLY YOU!
DeleteLove your blog, John. So glad your book is getting the attention is deserves!
ReplyDeleteThanks a lot, Lucy. Nice to hear from you!
DeleteJohn, I had the privilege of reading "Hooperman" a couple of weeks ago. I loved the book! I wish you much success; you deserve it!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Pat! And thanks for the generous review you posted on Amazon!
DeleteGreat post! There can be such joy in storytelling and book signings. Glad that you are enjoying both. I'm about to purchase my copy. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteYou make me proud, Theresa. Hope you enjoy the book!
DeleteWe hear that we should write what we know and it sounds like you had the perfect background to write your story. So pleased for you and wishing you much success with continued sales.
ReplyDeleteYou're right, Elaine. All my fiction is inspired by what I know, but the characters and plot are all made up. Thanks for your good wishes.
DeleteThat post was so thrilling to read, I hereby declare it the winner of the all time Joy of Story Championship Series!
ReplyDeleteAs your friend from afar, never having had the pleasure of an in-person hug; as a fan of your work as a writer; as a more than satisfied client in your roll as editor, I am nearly as pleased for you your event in Palo Alto as I would be if it had happened to me.
Wishing you ongoing joy and productivity during your sabbatical from blogging.
From the heart,
Madelyn
Madelyn Lorber, Author
THE EYES HAVE IT
www.madelynlorber.com
"Everything is possible..."
Madelyn, you're making me blush! Thanks, good friend.
DeleteI just ordered the book, John. Congratulations on an event like I hope to have one day. : )
ReplyDeleteMarja McGraw
Marja, I'm so glad you'll read HOOPERMAN. Hope you enjoy it!
Delete