Nevada Barr

It should be no secret I look up to and idolize authors. When I worked at a bookstore I had the chance to meet countless authors personally. (I also had the chance to brew their coffee…) Most of these authors had penned books no one had heard of, books that simply rested on some obscure bookshelf and would never achieve high readership. Once a local author appeared and after we put out thirty chairs we noticed only two customers arrived to sit in them. I was horrified by the scene and acted fast- making sure us booksellers filled a few more of the chairs. After all, what could be more horrifying than showing up for a book signing only to discover no one was interested in your masterpiece?

Yesterday I attended a book signing by mystery writer, Nevada Barr. The event was packed. She has a strong fan base and the fact she just penned a novel set in Michigan’s Isle Royale National National Park and was giving her talk in Michigan only added to the excitement.

Here is where I should casually mention the fact I’ve never read a single Nevada Barr novel… But my older sister is a huge fan and I’ve been hearing about her stories for years now.

So, what is Nevada Barr like in person?

She is tiny. She is adorable. And she has a fantastic personality. She knows how to work a crowd and loves to mix in humor with her stories. I was amazed and slightly jealous to be honest. Here was a woman who could be talented, charming and funny all at once! Also, in the past she has worked in several fields, from acting to law enforcement to being an actual park ranger. And not only does she pen bestselling novels, she is also a painter. And did I mention she has a beautiful smile? So yes, Nevada Barr is charming and I look forward to reading her mysteries.

My photos from the event are up on flickr.

Later this month (on April 19 to be exact) I meet AMS... MUST FIND A WAY TO CONTROL MY EXCITEMENT. I should also settle on what my one question for AMS will be. Something tells me, "Will you marry me?" won't work.