In Gabrielle Zevin’s The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry, she writes with great passion and insight about the special nature of the independent bookstore, how a bookstore is truly part of the soul of a community. If you haven’t read this novel yet, you should. It’s delightful. Bookstores mean a lot to me (I know, surprise, surprise). But there is just something irreplaceable about the physical space of a bookstore – the thousands of worlds dwelling in the stacks, the smell of the pages, the very act of being greeted by another human being who loves the weight of a book in his or her hands as much as I do. It really does have a soul.
On Saturday, May 3, as part of CA Bookstore Day, I got to experience this soul firsthand when The Bookseller of Grass Valley hosted a beautiful party for the launch of my new YA novel CATCH A FALLING STAR in the multi-purpose room of Forest Charter School. They rolled out a red carpet, dotted the room with stars, set up a photo booth with costumes, and baked delicious treats. We gave out books and a prize basket full of goodies donated by other local businesses. Looking out at the audience, everyone there to celebrate this book and support The Book Seller, I couldn’t help but feel that soul Zevin wrote about in her novel — that special energy community creates.
So I want to send out a huge thank you to The Book Seller for my special day. They sure made me feel like a star. Here are some shots of the special event.
Outside Inn says
You’re such a star!!! It was a lovely event, and I’ve been telling people right and left they need to buy the book (both online and in real life).
kimculbertsonwritesYA says
You’re the best, Erin – thanks!! And thank you for all your support with the event!
sspierings says
So sorry I missed it…but the book is already a part of the family, and copies will be sent all over the globe!!! Happy for you 🙂
kimculbertsonwritesYA says
Thanks, Sachiko!!
bevlyon says
Fabulous event, Kim! I was so pleased to be there. Bev
Bev Lyon
kimculbertsonwritesYA says
It was lovely to see you there, Bev!
Alice Acheson says
Dear Fellow Independent Bookstore Fan,
Lovely description!
Best, Alice
kimculbertsonwritesYA says
Thanks, Alice!