Well, it’s done! At least, I think it is. At the printer now in Chicago (It was a big deal to keep it in the U.S.A.) the printers are chugging away cranking out billions of copies of my new book (not sure about that exact number). My publisher, River Road Press, is busy making all the details happen.
The cover photo is of the Decatur High School Majorettes in 1961, Decatur, Alabama. I wanted retro-majorettes because they are so gosh-darned cute, wholesome and cheerful. I wanted them to be from the great state of Alabama, and I looked everywhere for images, but couldn’t find anything I liked, until this photo turned up. It was owned by the Decatur Daily Newspaper, and we secured the rights from them. The young ladies are so happy and have that all-American look (with a dash of sass) that was the perfect fit for my stories.
We’ve been assured The Majorettes are Back in Town will arrive in time for the party you are all invited to attend. The book release party and signing will be held Tuesday, November 7th at 6pm at Page and Palette Bookstore. It will be a fun night with drink specials and snacks, and lots of awesome people. I want everyone in our area to attend, and share in this exciting night. Without your readership, this book wouldn’t have happened, so I especially want all my blog-reading friends to be there!
A collection of all the best stories from my blog, Gulf Coast Newspapers and AL.com, this is a great book to pick up and read a quick story, then come back later for another dose of cheer! A quick shot of happiness in this serious, strange world — hey, it’s also the perfect gift! — You knew I’d eventually say that.
I ran by Page and Palette last week, just because its always a good idea to pop into your local independent bookstore every few days to see what is new, and when I was checking out at the register (I bought Martin Luther by Eric Metaxes — totally kidding myself that I’ll actually have time to read it right now), I looked up and guess what I saw? — A poster with ME on it!! I just about cried from happiness and also a little bit of fright.
I have several other signings coming up, and I’ll let you know as they firm up. For now, there’s the party on Nov. 7th, but I’ll also be back at Page and Palette on November 19th for the Downtown Christmas Open House, then at the Junior League of Mobile’s Christmas Jubilee on Saturday, November 11th from 2-4pm. And all you Marietta, GA friends, come see me at The Book Exchange on November 25th from 2-4pm. There are a few other small group meetings and events in-between, but if you want me to speak at your nearby bookstore or event, just send me a note and I’ll see what I can do. Dates for Birmingham and Huntsville are in the works. So exciting!
Amazon will be an option eventually, and if you have a Barnes and Nobles, they will also carry the book – if you request it, so . . . you know what to do. (wink-wink). Independent Bookstores are the most fun and flexible with new authors, so put in a good word for me there while you’re at it. I’ll come arrange your bookshelves or something in exchange for the plug.
Thank you for all of your encouragement, support and feedback. This has been an incredible journey and I still can’t believe it. When I can finally hold a copy in my hand, I’ll be able to relax a bit. Maybe. Okay, not really.