Boston Book Festival

 I had a wonderful time at the Boston Book Fest on Saturday! I found out about the Writers' Room (there's an open house next month, I'm thinking of applying), got myself a subscription to The Writer magazine (half price! yay!), and sat in on three fascinating panel discussions—Americans Abroad, Historical Fiction: Imagining the Past, and Herstory: Women in History. All the panelists were very thoughtful and articulate, and I took a lot of notes.   There were two best moments, and both happened at the exhibitors' booths. I stopped by the Grub Street booth (I've been meaning to apply to teach there for four months already, so this was a good kick in the tush) and picked my "literary fate" from a jar of buttons.Which did I choose?Starving artist."No," I said, and dropped it back in the jar. "I'm done with that."Someone at the booth replied, "Really? That was fast." Someone else told me I could choose another one.So I picked this one, which I could live with.  The other best moment happened at the Small Beer Press booth, where I had the pleasure of meeting Susan Stinson.  We chatted about how supportive librarians are, and she positively bubbled over as she told me how many people had turned out for her launch event (which was at a library). Here I captured her mid-laugh. I know that giddy feeling, and it was really fun to watch her enjoying the fruits of her accomplishment. I'm excited to read her novel! 

@comet_party Really lovely to meet you, too. I hope you like it -- having the book out is like a moveable feast of an extended bday event.— Susan Stinson (@susanstinson) October 20, 2013

   I left Copley Square that evening with the sense that I've only just begun to tap into the literary community here. I want to attend more readings and other fun events, and make more writer friends!