Archives - Weekly Update

I did a books presentation at my local health club this week. It’s the second time that I have done an event like this, and it was so much fun. I structured it like our “Bookaccino Live” events, but this time it was with “me” live as well. It was a great opportunity to share the books that we are championing to a live audience.

During this week, I have heard from some of the attendees, and they remarked on how they loved getting a list of what they may want to explore. I find that these days there are so few outlets writing about books, and readers still crave book conversation. I am hoping that some of them subscribe to this newsletter!

Last Saturday was such a fabulous day at the Morristown Festival of Books, despite the rain that rolled in during the afternoon. It was wonderful to see so many readers gathered to hear about and talk about books. During one panel, I asked how many in the audience were in book groups, and I think two-thirds of the attendees raised their hands. Yes, there were many compadre readers to chat with, so even if you were there alone, the conversation was brisk --- and fun.

There are weeks when I get out from behind the computer and spend time with authors, and I remember once again why I love what I do. This is one of those weeks.

On Monday night, I headed out to Barnes & Noble in Paramus, NJ to interview Clare Leslie Hall. Let me start by saying that this is one of the largest B&N stores that I have been in. WOW! I definitely could get lost for a day in there.

I loved the opportunity to finally meet Clare after interviewing her for “Bookreporter Talks To” and going back and forth with her in email. It was such a pleasure to talk about BROKEN COUNTRY after it has been on sale for seven months.

Yes, it’s that time again --- time to get to know you, our readers. Last year's Reader Survey gave us a lot of insight into your reading and book-buying habits, which was so very helpful. At every meeting we attend with publishers, and in any conversation we have with authors, the lead question is “Who are your readers?” Also, people are always asking us about the specific habits of our readers, like the formats you are enjoying, the genres you love, and where you learn about books.

So we are doing a Reader Survey again this year to ensure that we have the latest information to share. At a time when a recent study said that only 16% of Americans read for pleasure, we want to hear from our readers who we KNOW are part of this very important group.