11/14/2011

The Joy of Conversing with Readers


Each “author” event that I’ve been part of so far has offered a unique experience. Such continued to be the case on Saturday, when I meet with some lovely ladies of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship. Part of their Women’s Ministry involves fostering book clubs among their members. This event fell under the Book Club heading. 

I didn’t know exactly what to expect. In accordance with instructions, I prepared a couple of short talks— about my book and about my life and writing journey. Honestly, I felt a bit awkward through those. But at the first break, when I got to chat with several of the ladies one on one at the book table, I felt a bit more at ease. Then as I stood before them again, I read an excerpt from Wings of a Dream then asked for questions. And things changed. 

Turns out several of the ladies had already bought the book on their Kindle or Nook and had begun reading. They asked questions and made comments about where they were in the story. This spurred further dialogue about the writing process. Which, in turn,  sparked more questions about the book. 

Suddenly I felt completely alive. It wasn’t me talking at them. I was talking with them. It was conversation. And conversations that revolve around books and writing and faith are my absolute favorite.

I left there energized in a new way, knowing I hadn’t just made it through a public appearance, but I had made some new friends. 

5 comments:

Anne Mateer said...

Yes, Steve, I do subscribe to your blog via google reader. :)

Wendy Paine Miller said...

Anne,

It's that kind of interaction I treasure and I'm excited about with my books someday. That had to have felt so rewarding! :D

Thanks for the RT today! I appreciate it.
~ Wendy

Anne Mateer said...

It was very rewarding, Wendy. I just wish I knew how to get more of those kinds of opportunities!

Andrea Strong said...

I'm afraid I'm a conversation dominator with "know-it-all" leanings. I think it would be dangerous to put me in front of a crowd.

Glad you had fun though.

Anne Mateer said...

LOL, Andrea! I probably wouldn't have even contributed to the conversation had I not been the one up front! Aren't you glad we're all different? Makes life so much more interesting!