Wednesday, March 20, 2013

Meet the Authors Event

I was pleased to join three other authors from Missouri and Arkansas to speak at a "Meet the Authors" event recently. Friends of the Library from the Webster County Library in Marshfield sponsored the small but mighty group of about 35 (from teens to retirees).

Each author--Allison Merritt, Pati Johnson Tierney, Kymberley Cook and I discussed our publishing stories (and sometimes woes) and recapped our respective books. It was interesting and everyone, of course, had a different path to publication.

I spoke about starting short (i.e., six-word memoirs and short stories in anthologies) to build publishing credits. Then, I discussed the novel that I started (and finished) a few years ago and why I switched genres  to children's picture books. The picture books have been a surprising joy in my life, and while I do plan to get back to novel writing, I will always, always, always write for children. My goal is to write at least one new picture book every year. I can't think of anything more important that children's literature and inspiring a child to read or write. And their precious faces and honest questions when I read to them just make my heart swell!

I'd encourage every author to force yourself to speak publicly. Many writers don't particularly enjoy public speaking--including me--but once in a comforting room with a supportive audience, the fears soon melt away.

L. to r.: Beth Carter, Allison Merritt, Kymberley Cook and Pati Johnson Tierney

Four genres were represented--thriller, steampunk fantasy, paranormal YA and children's picture books so the Friends of the Library heard quite a variety of fun writerly topics. Thanks to the Webster County Library for the invitation and to everyone who attended.

8 comments:

  1. Congrats, Beth and good for you for stepping out there into the public speaking realm. I would have loved to have seen your presentation.

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    1. Thank you. All of the authors stepped up to the plate and were very informative. I was listening so intently I forgot to get the jitters!

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  2. Good for you, Beth. I agree. All authors should experience public speaking. It's part of the promotion game.

    Looks like you had a great time. Maybe you should start a page on here for all your publicity, i.e., book signings, speaking engagements.

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    1. You've done your share, Shirley! Can I add a page to Blogger? I think you told me I could.

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  3. WTG Beth. You ladies are awesome! Hugs and Blessings!

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  4. My grandkids love your picture books. We're anxiously looking forward to the next one.

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    1. You made my day, Russell! I've got two more in the works. Well, drafted anyway. Thank you, and I'd be forget grateful if you'd write a review on Amazon. ;)

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