Coming Event: Meet and greet at Waldonbooks in Adrian Saturday, October 10th 1:00-3:00pm
I’ve been thinking about Laura Kryzaniak one of the women who read at Art-a-licious. She wrote Riding to the Occasion about a dyslexic young man that she taught. She was saddened by his decision to quit school and applauded his becoming a champion rodeo star. Laura and I both began writing when we were touched by the torment of dyslexia.
Thirteen years ago I began to write in earnest when our youngest twelve-year old son, a severe dyslexic, could not decipher the reading code. My husband Murray, and I were compelled to send him away to boarding school. I felt like I was abandoning my son. Each morning I would journal until I felt I could begin my day. Writing became my therapy.
I think this is why people write. We write to understand, to find our voices, to make sense of our lives. We do not have to be gifted writers; the computer makes it possible. We can cut and paste and check our spelling. And when it is all done, even if it’s just for ourselves, we feel cleansed. And once in a while, if we work hard and figure out what we really want to say, we end up with something worthwhile that others want to read.
If there are any “closet writers” reading this, I’d like to hear your comments on writing. I think this blog will accept comments. You just have to register. I’m assured commenting will not open you up to unsolicited email.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Saturday, September 19, 2009
COMING EVENTS
Coming Events: WLEN FM 103.9 interview to air Monday, September 23rd, 6:15
Walden’s Books in Adrian, signing Saturday, October 10th, 1:00-3:00pm.
Clinton Fall Festival, Saturday afternoon, September 26th
Clinton Inn is going to be selling food in front of the Inn at the Fall Festival and Laurie Pedersen invited me to join them with Family at Booknook. Daughter Renee, her “sissy” Laura and I will be hanging out, taking in the scene. Come on over and say hi.
Walden’s Books in Adrian, signing Saturday, October 10th, 1:00-3:00pm.
Clinton Fall Festival, Saturday afternoon, September 26th
Clinton Inn is going to be selling food in front of the Inn at the Fall Festival and Laurie Pedersen invited me to join them with Family at Booknook. Daughter Renee, her “sissy” Laura and I will be hanging out, taking in the scene. Come on over and say hi.
ADRIAN MY FORMER HOME HOSTS ART-A-LICIOUS
I lived in Adrian in the '70s and worked at Community Mental Health. Booknook is set in Adrian. I was tickled to participate in Adrian's Art-a-licious and hopeful of connecting with old friends. The art festival, in its fourth year is well worth the trip—music, food, art and activities for the kids. Cristina Trapani Scott, a reporter from the Tecumseh Harold, read her poetry and was mistress of ceremony. With passion she introduced local authors Sally Gomez, Laura Krzyaniak and me. Several people stopped, visited and purchased.
Maumee Street was abuzz with friendly people. After a lengthy renovation, Adrian Library opened its front door for the celebration. At 7:00pm I found director Carol Shouchuck, who had been working nonstop all day, giving a leisurely tour of the library to a couple of patrons.
It was delightful to see Debbie Strayer, whom I’d worked with years ago at Community Mental Health. Her husband Lad Strayer had taken my photo for the Booknook Telegram article and was also displaying his work. Former colleagues Helen and Roger Hendricks stopped by. In retirement Roger gardens roses and gifts bouquets to various businesses. Roger said he welcomes people to come by and pick the flowers. At dusk I wandered through his garden. The roses are gorgeous: yellow, white, red, orange and colors in various shades. I love the idea of sharing. So, I picked five and am planning to take a single rose to several friends and neighbors. Thanks, Roger.
Husband Murray and I ate at the Grasshopper, my favorite Adrian restaurant: mole chalupas and green cheese enchiladas. The chalupas are crunchy and delicate, enchiladas are rich with cheese without being over powering. Here I go commenting on the food again. But seriously, when I ask for the green cheese enchiladas at a Mexican restaurant, they don’t know what I’m talking about. Our server said that locals get off the plane from wintering in Florida and head to the Grasshopper. I told Rachel, manager and wife of the owner, how my protagonist, Sparrow, lived in Booknook across from the Grasshopper and longingly watched the comings and goings at night. Rachel was anxious to read Family at Booknook and thought her teenage daughters would also like it.
It was a lovely evening. This marketing isn't half bad.
Maumee Street was abuzz with friendly people. After a lengthy renovation, Adrian Library opened its front door for the celebration. At 7:00pm I found director Carol Shouchuck, who had been working nonstop all day, giving a leisurely tour of the library to a couple of patrons.
It was delightful to see Debbie Strayer, whom I’d worked with years ago at Community Mental Health. Her husband Lad Strayer had taken my photo for the Booknook Telegram article and was also displaying his work. Former colleagues Helen and Roger Hendricks stopped by. In retirement Roger gardens roses and gifts bouquets to various businesses. Roger said he welcomes people to come by and pick the flowers. At dusk I wandered through his garden. The roses are gorgeous: yellow, white, red, orange and colors in various shades. I love the idea of sharing. So, I picked five and am planning to take a single rose to several friends and neighbors. Thanks, Roger.
Husband Murray and I ate at the Grasshopper, my favorite Adrian restaurant: mole chalupas and green cheese enchiladas. The chalupas are crunchy and delicate, enchiladas are rich with cheese without being over powering. Here I go commenting on the food again. But seriously, when I ask for the green cheese enchiladas at a Mexican restaurant, they don’t know what I’m talking about. Our server said that locals get off the plane from wintering in Florida and head to the Grasshopper. I told Rachel, manager and wife of the owner, how my protagonist, Sparrow, lived in Booknook across from the Grasshopper and longingly watched the comings and goings at night. Rachel was anxious to read Family at Booknook and thought her teenage daughters would also like it.
It was a lovely evening. This marketing isn't half bad.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
A CELBRATION AT NICOLAS BOOKS IN ANN ARBOR
Coming Events: Art-a-licious in Adrian, Friday, September 18th, 5:00pm
WLEN FM 103.9 interview to air Monday, September 23rd, at 6:15
Family at Booknook, will be available at Walden’s Books in Adrian, as well as: Lighthouse Coffee Shop in Milan, Clinton Inn, Nicolas Books, Ann Arbor and Amazon.
September, 16, 2009—Last night, when I spoke at Nicolas, It felt like a celebration. Old friends: three from Community Mental Health in Adrian, writing partners, neighbors, people I didn’t know but would like to know and a new friend. Swimming yesterday I discovered a potential friend in the locker room. She was dressed—I was in process. Sig is a recently retired nurse, a closet writer and was excited to come to Nicolas and hear about writing and publishing.
Besides selling books, I’d like to inspire people like Sig to develop their creative passions. (Sounds a bit grandiose) But as an aside: When I heard Jay Leno interviewed, he said he was not the best or the brightest but he worked the hardest. When he was working sixteen hours a day, the Tonight’s show was not doing so well. He upped it to eighteen hours and now, he is on at prime time. This resonated with me. I can’t work eighteen hours a day but I am working hard, and I’m having fun!
When Nicola introduced me, she indicated that she liked to spotlight local writers. I’d heard this and once I had Booknook in my hands, I went directly to Nicola’s. Doing the absolute wrong thing, I walked in unannounced. Nicola was scurrying about attending to several things at once. But, when I asked if she had a minute, she said of course. She led me over to a couch, sat and listened to my rambling pitch, agreed to look at the book and gave me some good advice. Her positive response set me on a journey to marketing. I am indebted to Nicola for her help.
Sam Adamopoulos, the young man who wrote the complementary article on the Clinton Inn event for the Adrian Telegram, was free lancing for the Heritage papers. Sam’s article will focus on self publishing, and my experience with it. It will be in several Heritage papers and the Ann Arbor Heritage magazine.
After the celebration Murray and I came home, where we relaxed with a peach martini. I say one because Murray had a sip and I enjoyed the rest. I’m still trying to duplicate Laurie’s Clinton Inn martini. I guess I have to ask her for the recipe.
WLEN FM 103.9 interview to air Monday, September 23rd, at 6:15
Family at Booknook, will be available at Walden’s Books in Adrian, as well as: Lighthouse Coffee Shop in Milan, Clinton Inn, Nicolas Books, Ann Arbor and Amazon.
September, 16, 2009—Last night, when I spoke at Nicolas, It felt like a celebration. Old friends: three from Community Mental Health in Adrian, writing partners, neighbors, people I didn’t know but would like to know and a new friend. Swimming yesterday I discovered a potential friend in the locker room. She was dressed—I was in process. Sig is a recently retired nurse, a closet writer and was excited to come to Nicolas and hear about writing and publishing.
Besides selling books, I’d like to inspire people like Sig to develop their creative passions. (Sounds a bit grandiose) But as an aside: When I heard Jay Leno interviewed, he said he was not the best or the brightest but he worked the hardest. When he was working sixteen hours a day, the Tonight’s show was not doing so well. He upped it to eighteen hours and now, he is on at prime time. This resonated with me. I can’t work eighteen hours a day but I am working hard, and I’m having fun!
When Nicola introduced me, she indicated that she liked to spotlight local writers. I’d heard this and once I had Booknook in my hands, I went directly to Nicola’s. Doing the absolute wrong thing, I walked in unannounced. Nicola was scurrying about attending to several things at once. But, when I asked if she had a minute, she said of course. She led me over to a couch, sat and listened to my rambling pitch, agreed to look at the book and gave me some good advice. Her positive response set me on a journey to marketing. I am indebted to Nicola for her help.
Sam Adamopoulos, the young man who wrote the complementary article on the Clinton Inn event for the Adrian Telegram, was free lancing for the Heritage papers. Sam’s article will focus on self publishing, and my experience with it. It will be in several Heritage papers and the Ann Arbor Heritage magazine.
After the celebration Murray and I came home, where we relaxed with a peach martini. I say one because Murray had a sip and I enjoyed the rest. I’m still trying to duplicate Laurie’s Clinton Inn martini. I guess I have to ask her for the recipe.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Clinton Inn Hosts a Scrumptious Event
September 11, 2009--Clinton Inn, a Scrumptious event
An interesting, spontaneous group of people met at the Clinton Inn last evening. My daughter Renee, and her family made it a memorable evening for me. Renee is adamant that my character Finch is patterned after her. Perhaps so. They know their minds, are honest and are not timid in speaking up. Thankfully Renee gave Booknook a thumb up. Thanks Renee!
Sam and Sally Dickson read about me in the Clinton Local and deduced that I was the Brenda Pincheon that worked at Lenawee Community Mental Health in the 1970s. It was fun to reconnect with them, especially since there are several scenes in the novel that take place at CMH. Several old and new friends were there, and a Clintonian, Pat, had seen the flyer at the Clinton Library. We also had at least four writers or would-be writers in the group.
The Adrian Daily Telegram sent reporter, Sam Adamopoulos, to interview me and a photographer to take my picture. Ann Arbor has lost its daily newspaper and it is reassuring to know that the Telegram is alive and well. Sam thought the article would appear in the Sunday Telegram.
Suzanne, from Discover Milan newspaper, has suggested that I’m becoming a food columnist. I deny this, but I have to tell you about the meals we had last night. The food was so good and so reasonable. My grandsons had stuffed trout. My husband salivated over the homemade pasta. Renee and I had seafood ravioli that melted in our mouths. And after it was all over, I relaxed with one of Laurie’s peach martinis, which I love. The Clinton Inn is a gem, well worth the drive. You might consider stopping by for lunch or dinner, and you could pick up a copy of Family at Booknook, while you are there. Or you can check the book out from your local library. The libraries all have copies.
Thanks to all of you who came last night. I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did.
Coming Events: I will be reading in the Children & Authors tent for Art-a-licious in Adrian, at 5:00 next Friday the 18th. And an interview with Dale Gaertner will air on WLEN Monday, September 21st at 6:15.
An interesting, spontaneous group of people met at the Clinton Inn last evening. My daughter Renee, and her family made it a memorable evening for me. Renee is adamant that my character Finch is patterned after her. Perhaps so. They know their minds, are honest and are not timid in speaking up. Thankfully Renee gave Booknook a thumb up. Thanks Renee!
Sam and Sally Dickson read about me in the Clinton Local and deduced that I was the Brenda Pincheon that worked at Lenawee Community Mental Health in the 1970s. It was fun to reconnect with them, especially since there are several scenes in the novel that take place at CMH. Several old and new friends were there, and a Clintonian, Pat, had seen the flyer at the Clinton Library. We also had at least four writers or would-be writers in the group.
The Adrian Daily Telegram sent reporter, Sam Adamopoulos, to interview me and a photographer to take my picture. Ann Arbor has lost its daily newspaper and it is reassuring to know that the Telegram is alive and well. Sam thought the article would appear in the Sunday Telegram.
Suzanne, from Discover Milan newspaper, has suggested that I’m becoming a food columnist. I deny this, but I have to tell you about the meals we had last night. The food was so good and so reasonable. My grandsons had stuffed trout. My husband salivated over the homemade pasta. Renee and I had seafood ravioli that melted in our mouths. And after it was all over, I relaxed with one of Laurie’s peach martinis, which I love. The Clinton Inn is a gem, well worth the drive. You might consider stopping by for lunch or dinner, and you could pick up a copy of Family at Booknook, while you are there. Or you can check the book out from your local library. The libraries all have copies.
Thanks to all of you who came last night. I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did.
Coming Events: I will be reading in the Children & Authors tent for Art-a-licious in Adrian, at 5:00 next Friday the 18th. And an interview with Dale Gaertner will air on WLEN Monday, September 21st at 6:15.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Family at Booknook a Book Club Book
September 6, 2009
First a reminder:
Reading and signing at the Clinton Inn,
Thursday, September 10th, 6:30
Reading and signing at Nicolas in Ann Arbor,
Tuesday, September 15th, 7:00pm
My book club had a passionate discussion about Family at Booknook this evening. We are an older group of college-educated women and well remember the stigma of teenagers having babies out of wedlock. One member was angry with Sparrow that it took her so long to grow up. Others explained why it took so long. It was as though Sparrow was a person they knew.
As a group we tend to visit and skip around, but tonight we focused on the novel and issues that concern women. It was exciting. If other book clubs would like to read Booknook, I’ve written discussion questions and would be happy to visit with them.
First a reminder:
Reading and signing at the Clinton Inn,
Thursday, September 10th, 6:30
Reading and signing at Nicolas in Ann Arbor,
Tuesday, September 15th, 7:00pm
My book club had a passionate discussion about Family at Booknook this evening. We are an older group of college-educated women and well remember the stigma of teenagers having babies out of wedlock. One member was angry with Sparrow that it took her so long to grow up. Others explained why it took so long. It was as though Sparrow was a person they knew.
As a group we tend to visit and skip around, but tonight we focused on the novel and issues that concern women. It was exciting. If other book clubs would like to read Booknook, I’ve written discussion questions and would be happy to visit with them.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Coming Events & Description
Tuesday, September 8th, 2:30 P.M. WLEN interview with Dale Gaertner
Thursday, September 10th, 6:30 P.M. Clinton Inn, Clinton
Tuesday, September 15th, 7:00 P.M. Nicola’s Books, Ann Arbor
Friday, September 18th, 4:00 P.M. Book Tent at Adrian's Festival
A traumatized teenage mother, a cantankerous older man and a precocious child create an unlikely family. Sixteen-year-old Sparrow is pregnant. Banished from her home, she is deposited at Dave Stanley’s bookshop. Withdrawn and seemingly unaware of her pregnancy, Sparrow remains and works at Booknook. With the birth of her daughter, Finch, she awakens and is determined to keep her baby. Dave becomes a surrogate grandfather, protector of mother and daughter. Longing for her mysterious, absent father who, she mistakenly believes can complete her family; Finch grows up feeling the sting of being illegitimate. This is a story of relationships and of hope, in which a reclusive single mother and a feisty girl come of age.
Ms. Meisels Writes: As a psychotherapist I have heard many personal narratives and have been privileged to play a part in helping people like Sparrow. I wanted to show authentic characters that make mistakes, hurt and bleed but learn to trust, love and find resolution. The novel is set in southern Michigan: Milan, Adrian, Clinton, Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti, places I am familiar with and fond of.
I’m excited to meet and talk with people about the novel and the process of writing and publishing.
Thursday, September 10th, 6:30 P.M. Clinton Inn, Clinton
Tuesday, September 15th, 7:00 P.M. Nicola’s Books, Ann Arbor
Friday, September 18th, 4:00 P.M. Book Tent at Adrian's Festival
A traumatized teenage mother, a cantankerous older man and a precocious child create an unlikely family. Sixteen-year-old Sparrow is pregnant. Banished from her home, she is deposited at Dave Stanley’s bookshop. Withdrawn and seemingly unaware of her pregnancy, Sparrow remains and works at Booknook. With the birth of her daughter, Finch, she awakens and is determined to keep her baby. Dave becomes a surrogate grandfather, protector of mother and daughter. Longing for her mysterious, absent father who, she mistakenly believes can complete her family; Finch grows up feeling the sting of being illegitimate. This is a story of relationships and of hope, in which a reclusive single mother and a feisty girl come of age.
Ms. Meisels Writes: As a psychotherapist I have heard many personal narratives and have been privileged to play a part in helping people like Sparrow. I wanted to show authentic characters that make mistakes, hurt and bleed but learn to trust, love and find resolution. The novel is set in southern Michigan: Milan, Adrian, Clinton, Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti, places I am familiar with and fond of.
I’m excited to meet and talk with people about the novel and the process of writing and publishing.
More Comments
Carol SouchockDirector Adrian Public Library
I read your book this weekend and really enjoyed it. I did not want to put it down! I would like to plan on a book talk/signing with you in late October or early November.
An Avid Reader writes on Amazon Books
This wonderfully paced story will keep you turning pages until the final, hopeful outcome. Many different age groups will relate to the multi-generational characters, and the choices they make ring true. This would make a terrific book club selection.
I read your book this weekend and really enjoyed it. I did not want to put it down! I would like to plan on a book talk/signing with you in late October or early November.
An Avid Reader writes on Amazon Books
This wonderfully paced story will keep you turning pages until the final, hopeful outcome. Many different age groups will relate to the multi-generational characters, and the choices they make ring true. This would make a terrific book club selection.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
My post from a reader
September 1, 2009
No one seems able to decipher how to enter comments. If someone out there has the key please let me know. Until we solve the mystery, I'll be happy to post comments.
Diane Neal of Harbor Springs, Michigan wrote: I ordered Family at Booknook from Amazon. It arrived Friday afternoon and I finished it Sunday mid-day -- I didn't want it to end. What a treat to follow these characters' lives in small-town Michigan. This is a sweet, touching story that is sure to resonate with readers of all ages. Well done.
No one seems able to decipher how to enter comments. If someone out there has the key please let me know. Until we solve the mystery, I'll be happy to post comments.
Diane Neal of Harbor Springs, Michigan wrote: I ordered Family at Booknook from Amazon. It arrived Friday afternoon and I finished it Sunday mid-day -- I didn't want it to end. What a treat to follow these characters' lives in small-town Michigan. This is a sweet, touching story that is sure to resonate with readers of all ages. Well done.
First Event at Lighthouse in Milan
August 26, 2009 A red letter day! Personally I sold five books today. Renee at Snips Hair Salon read Booknook in two days, friend Diane said she did the same. Is it because it is engrossing or is it short?
Lighthouse Coffee Shop event brought out an intimate group, family, friends, and two that I invited when I put up posters. The guests were interested and supportive, the chicken pasty delicious.
For all you would be published authors out there, personal contact is the key. I’d had a phone conversation with Susan Wess, the director of the Milan Library. I’d stopped in at Edward Jones and met Brenda. Susan and Brenda recommended that I speak at civic organizations, Rotary and Chamber of Commerce. Good suggestions for all of us marketers—a readymade audience.
Lighthouse Coffee Shop event brought out an intimate group, family, friends, and two that I invited when I put up posters. The guests were interested and supportive, the chicken pasty delicious.
For all you would be published authors out there, personal contact is the key. I’d had a phone conversation with Susan Wess, the director of the Milan Library. I’d stopped in at Edward Jones and met Brenda. Susan and Brenda recommended that I speak at civic organizations, Rotary and Chamber of Commerce. Good suggestions for all of us marketers—a readymade audience.
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