OK...so it's only 2 roads. Clark and Diversey. That's how far I had to travel to do my first book signing at one of the Borders in CHicago. And, while it was barely 2 miles away, the trip was one of the most nerve-racking, exciting trips of my life.
I arrived to the sight of a giant poster of my mug in the Borders window. *deep breaths* When I opened the door, I saw a tall 2-sided display of my book right by the register. On the other side? Alan Greenspan's new book. *heart rate increases* The area manager of Borders then came up to greet me. "Jeff? Hi, I recognized you. Can I get you a water, a cup of coffee, anything to eat? We're so excited you're here." *sweating, clammy palms* "No, no coffee, thanks."
From there it was up to the book discussion area, where about 50 chairs were set up beside a giant plastic cover of my book and yet another display. *loss of feeling in my fingertips, slight dizziness* "We'll make a few announcements to the store and then you can get started. You just sit up here and relax." *relax? relax? I have the heart rate of a hummingbird*
But I saw some familiar faces. My wife, Anne, was squeezing my clammy palm. And there was my mom with a smile of pride that would choke up the toughest of men. And I saw Patti, a Gather member who had been there with support from the beginning, with a warm wave and a smile that seemed to dwarf the 6 months we had known one another. And there was David, an exec from Gather who came to Chicago and stayed to support me at my book signing.
So, when I started to talk, and there were only 8 people, I was fine. I read from my book, talked about the history and the reasons that drew me to the topic and led me to create the novel. But something changed while I was talking. By the time I had finished, the chairs were all full. In fact, they had brought in another 15. And that wasn't all...there were people standing, listening, clapping.
All I can say is it was magical and perfect. I can't thank everyone enough for their support through all of this.
The dance continues.
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Comments: 97
Congratulations, Geoffrey!
If you like true stories, check out the high school Diaries
Say hi to your mom, Kathryn E. for me!
I would have never guessed, you seemed so calm. Grace under pressure!
I finally managed to get my copy of your book, so I guess I'll be reading late the next few nights. Looking forward to it.
Best wishes, Jeff!
Light and love.
Nellotie Porter Chastain
Enjoy it, my friend.
Thanks for sharing your experience. I know it is scary wondering how many people are coming. Glad things went well. An author reads on even if there is only one or a hundred in the audience. Promote, promote, promote, and you will be successful. I'll keep my fingers crossed for you.
marty
Judy G.
Anyway after reading almost all of my advance copy it doesnt surprise me that people are lining up for it.
Some great writing in there.
You should be proud of yourself. I know all your gather friends are.
Wishing you and Anne all the best...You two deserve it!
this telling of your experience has touched me in a way I didn't think it would.
I have tears in my eyes, I think perhaps it may be becouse I know what it is like to fail that makes me keen to your sense of the tension of the moment when you "succeed".
And your mentioning your Mom and wife and indeed those who mean something to you increases the poignancy.
It makes me happy for you and sad for I have not yet felt that, but I have not given up!
Tthank you for sharing the true humanity of the moment.
I think if you keep writing about the experience, this article may be worthy of not just an article, but perhaps a small book on the wonders of success and of reaching the "finish Line" in any endeavor.
Thank you for being real, and for not shying away from the "rest of us" as you launch into this great unknown called success...
You are blessed, but we are also vicariously becouse of your willingness to share with us.
emmett
Now if you would make it to the west coast ... I bought your book today at Boarders, but there was no big display and you were not there. Maybe you can get your PR people to spread the word out here in Los Angeles....LOL
Congratulations, Geoffrey
I bought your book online but it hasn't arrived yet. I cannot wait! I'm even going to put down my new Dianna Gabaldon book to read yours when it arrives!
Congrats, my man! You make all of us at Gather so proud!
Hey, you get to the Dallas area, you be sure to let me know. I'll be there, and I'll be doin' the dance!
WHEW!
Good luck with this
Congratulations!! You are now officially an author who has made it to the big time and now you get to continue on with your dream and continue writing.
We here at Gather are all behind you and praise you for your success!
God bless you and yours!
And everyone, thanks so much for all the kinds words. You guys are my peeps!
second...WOW thanks for the wonderful read. That book is one of the best I've read in a while, which took me by surprise because I wasn't ready to be swept up by historical fiction. Even in school i tried to stay away from history. But this book changed all that.
You have a great writing style, a gift. Heck, even this post / blog had my emotions running with you.
So what's next ? :)
..
U wishing you laughter
And thanks for preparing the rest of us for "the road."
Pat
Hey, those Packers (I'm not a fan either!) won again! Check out my TOP TEN in the NFL for week 3:
http://www.gather.com/viewArticle.jsp?articleId=281474977127022
Dancing with my Dream (Vote Round Two)"
I just got back to Gather late today after dealing with the cat (some thing you commented on ) and wanted to thank you for taking the time to comfort me. If anyone else reads this feel free to send a Gather mail instead as this is the ONE time I do not want or need points but the kindness is appreciated. I do not think we get points for Gather mails and my purpose in posting here is simply to say a big THANK YOU.
I am gratified that you took time from your busy schedule to comment on that - and truly find it heartwarming.
We're all living vicariously through you - so it's a good thing you're having so much fun!
;-)
First Chapters Romance Contest Your Gift To Me" Chapter Two
Thanks for voting for my current First Chapter's entry, Peace, Love and Chocolate