Family at Booknook

WRITERS ON THE RIVER

2011-11-27T12:05:00.000-08:00

Sunday November 15, 2011 writing partners Peggy Singer, Susan Morales and I participated in the thirteenth annual Writers on the River event in Monroe, where Fifty-one Michigan authors met at the newly renovated Ellis Library on the bank of the Raisin River.

Friends of the library welcomed us and served a delicious lunch, after which we displayed and sold our works to a steady stream of area residents. It was a family event, with parents and children delighted to meet the authors.

Several mothers and teenage daughters bought copies of “Family at Booknook.” In the novel Sparrow and Finch come of age together and sensitive moral issues are explored; therefore I encouraged these mother-daughter duos to read and discuss the novel together.

Bernie Smith was the vivacious and competent director of Writers on the River. In her emails she explained that she is not a man but a little old woman. A small woman she is, but certainly not old. Writers on the River is part of the legacy she leaves at her retirement. It celebrates the written word, a gift to readers and authors alike.

BEAR RIVER WRITERS' CONFERENCE

2011-07-22T12:45:00.000-07:00

“Family at Booknook” is available on Amazon, at Nicola’s in Ann Arbor and the Adrian and Ann Arbor Meijer’s stores, also available on Kindle. Currently I’m engrossed in a rewrite of my second novel.

The Bear River Writers’ Conference has been my summer highlight; Hosted by The University of Michigan, it is held at Camp Michigania on beautiful Walloon Lake. This was my sixth year at the conference.

Richard McCann, professor of Creative Writing at American University and author of memoir, poetry and fiction was the workshop leader for our group of ten. This was my second workshop with Richard, an exceptional teacher, who is open and honest and touches you deeply. This year he was editing a memoir about his mother’s death. “Be in the moment; write the hard stuff, unflinchingly;” is his motto. His words and writing triggered much emotion.

We became a group of mourners, writing about the deaths of our loved ones and supporting each other in our losses.

The last day I felt lighter and did not write about my mother’s death, but about her life, her hard work and ability to persevere. The following is an excerpt:

"RED APPLE NAILS"

I remember my mother’s hands in motion, always in motion, with her delicious apple-red nails, filed almost to a point, polished to perfection—pristine. This, in spite of her cleaning our motel—six rooms, six toilets—scoured by hand, with a rag and Babo. Not even rubber gloves. Several times a day she applied lotion, which diminished the calluses on her hands and kept them almost smooth. She wore little jewelry, only her wedding ring, white gold with a tiny diamond—a gift from my father years after their marriage.

Late Saturday afternoons she relaxed in our tiny living room with her drink of choice, Coke and Jim Beam, manicuring her nails. Mesmerized, I watched her apply two coats of shiny-red. I don’t remember wanting my nails polished. That was for grownups.

WRITING AND READING

2011-04-01T07:48:00.000-07:00

I’ve been taking a break from marketing. However, “Family at Booknook” continues to be available at Nicolas Books and the local Meijer stores. I’ve been working on a second novel about an abused woman with three children who at great risk finds the courage to leave a sadistic husband.

I’ve discovered Dan Minock’s creative writing class at Washtenaw Community College. Many have taken the class before. And why not? Dan is a talented gentle soul who recognizes the best in all of us. As a man of humor and nature he has published a book, “Thistle and Other Essays.” The students are diverse; some write daily, others are new converts. A lovely Japanese woman is exploring poetry in English. Four or five writers read each evening and we critic them, focusing on what the piece means to each of us. An added perk: senior citizens can take one course at WCC tuition free.

A reading recommendation: “The Help” by Katheryn Stockett. Set in the 1960s, a naïve young woman in Mississippi interviews Negro maids about their experiences working for white families, riveting.

NETWORKING AT THE DEXTER LIBRARY

2010-12-07T06:13:00.000-08:00

December 1st was a frigid, windy evening. Peggy Singer, my writing colleague, and I drove to Dexter and had dinner at Northpoint, a local destination restaurant—good food.

Lisa Ryan and Brenda

Adult Library Director Lisa Ryan greeted us at the Dexter library, where I was to speak. Including myself there were a total of six people in a large room with forty chairs: Lisa, my writing partners—Susan and Peggy, Peggy’s friend Mary and a very late comer. Why so few? Lisa thought it may relate to the fact that it was the week after Thanksgiving and people had Christmas on their minds. And it was COLD! In addition I am an unknown writer and did not contact the media to get an interview about the novel and event.

Peggy, Brenda and Susan

Still, Peggy, Susan and I had the opportunity to visit about the process of writing, about our group and about our books. Margaret Fuchs Singer published a touching yet riveting memoir, “Legacy of a False Promise, A Daughters Reckoning.” Susan Morales recently published a novel “A Bar Room View of Love.” In it a young woman attempts to expose an ashram and finds redemption. Check out their websites under relevant links on this blog.

Mary Higgins

Lisa, a savvy librarian and historian, has her own stories to write and Mary Higgins has written and produced a play. We stressed that writing groups provide structure, support and motivation. Lisa is in the process of establishing such a group at the library. Go Lisa!

What we learned: Many unknown authors, often self-published, send only a description of their books to the library. However, a book cannot be put into the library system without knowing the quality of the prose. This means that a librarian must read the book. A wise tactic for a little known author is to donate a book to the library. Lisa stated that, if a book earns a place on the shelf, her library will purchase another copy.

Intuitively I knew to do this when “Family at Booknook” was published. I donated novels to all the surrounding libraries. Since then, I’ve been invited to speak at Adrian, Saline and now Dexter libraries. All have assured me that they purchased extra copies. As with all writers, I want my novel read, and getting it in libraries is great exposure.

Talented Pittsfield Senior Writers

2010-11-08T07:35:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago I was a guest of the Pittsfield Senior Writers, a group of learned people with vast and varied experiences, including: coming of age in Boys Town, living under Japanese occupation and immigrating to the United States.

Under the direction of their resident poet and facilitator, Elle Cousino, these writers are embarking on a new adventure. In fact this dynamite group has published a book, “As Time Goes By.”

One member, Walter Palesch has published several articles and is well into a second novel. To illustrate how far he has come and a bit of his wit, as a teenager learning to read English, he had a crush on his gorgeous teacher. When reading “Dick and Jane,” he deliberately made mistakes. Then the young woman would turn to him, pucker her lips and say the correct pronunciation, while he inwardly swooned.

This was a fascinating group of people who had come together to share their stories. And, it was exciting for me to speak with a group of peers who are learning a new skill and sharing their wisdom and humor.

NEXT EVENT: GETTING PUBLISHED
DEXTER PUBLIC LIBRARY, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 1,2010, 7:00PM

ART-A-LICIOUS IN ADRIAN

2010-09-23T06:38:00.000-07:00

EVENTS: SPEAKING ON WRITING AND PUBLISHING

Pittsfield Senior Center: Wednesday, October 18th, 10:00am
Dexter Public Library: Wednesday, December 1st, 7:00pm

NOVELS for $15.00: at Events, on line, Nicolas or Meijer

On Saturday my friend Sharon Feldman and I drove to Adrian, where I spoke at the Adrian library with four other local authors; a feature of Art-a-licious: a family fair, something for everyone. Children with painted faces made projects and improvised on stage. There were arts and crafts, with demonstrations including candle making, sock knitting and monotype printmaking; music, dancing, fair food and a gourmet dinner provided by Adrian culinary students. Amazingly it was not crowded and one could take a leisurely walk and enjoy the exhibits. Mark this fair on your calendar for next year!

Authors: Charmaine Stangl, “Charlie; The Dog Who Lived the Dream;” Deborah and Carol Marsh, “The Birth of a King;” Maurleen Gillin, a cookbook, “My Mother and Me;” Cristina Trapani Scott, “A Cup of Comfort for a Better World.” Cristina wrote a touching essay, “The Power of Pebbles” about the support and inspiration her daughter’s classmates provided, when her daughter had a debilitating surgery. The essay was one of fifty-five chosen in an intense competition, and she was paid!

The music and art were fierce competition; people wandered through the library, a few purchased books. Still, we enjoyed networking, reading and comparing experiences. Other than Cristine we had all self published and all concerned about marketing.

It was interesting that the two authors who were contracted to receive royalties had no knowledge of what that royalty would be. This was my experience with Author House. Not until the price was set, the book printed and I asked, was I informed. We authors who self publish are often naive. As I’ve mentioned before Mark Levine’s“The Fine Print of Self-Publishing” is one of several good books that are a must for anyone planning to self publish.

ART-a-licious IN ADRIAN, MICHIGAN

2010-09-16T06:59:00.000-07:00

Adrian is having a celebration of art Friday and Saturday, the 18th and 19th of September. The downtown area will host art, crafts, food and music in a festive atmosphere. It is large enough for diversity, small enough to enjoy. Demonstrations include glass blowing, sculpture and wood turning. Several local authors have been invited to speak at the public library. I will be there on Saturday the 19th from 2:00 to 4:00pm. Looking forward to seeing new and old friends.

TRAVELING TWO LANE ROADS

2010-08-20T06:51:00.000-07:00

Last week I talked and signed at five Nebraska libraries. As a psychotherapist I am accustomed to listening, not talking. In the heart of the plains, with Nebraskans’ welcoming ways, I was able to find my voice. I’m indebted to my sister Monna who participated in every discussion and navigated us across the state. Her children, librarians and the media were helpful. My family invited friends, advertised and set up; often refreshments were served. I felt almost a celebrity rather than the struggling author that I am.

A young woman, excited about “Family at Booknoook,” explained that she had just been reunited with a daughter that she had had out of wedlock. Friend Zola said that she took the book to bed intending to read a few chapters and finished it at 3:00a.m. Karen Noonan, the assistant director of Kilgore Library in Grand Island, indicated that she could see every scene and that it felt like a movie.

Husband Murray tells me to stay on message. Repeating myself time and again helped me to clarify what that is.

My Message: In spite of abuse, or difficult life situations, people can learn to trust, love and take control of their lives. There are no fairytale endings but we can develop skills to meet life challenges.

This relates to my becoming a published author at sixty nine. I have stories to tell; you too have a story. If you hone your skills and persist, in this age of technology, you can publish a book. It can be a simple spiral bound for the family or something more ambitious. Or, you may choose not to write. You may thirst for knowledge, to travel, to cultivate exotic plants or something that others do not know about.

The message: Identify your passions and follow them.

That said, there will be set backs along the way. I stumble along this path of self actualization. Being consumed with promoting “Family at Booknook,” I have neglected my second novel. And, I often make errors.

On this trip I forgot that the time changes between Imperial and Hastings. Thus, Monna and I arrived eight minutes after Jennifer Berry’s KHAS TV show had ended. Also I did not trust my GPS getting back to the Denver airport, and was stuck between two freeways before I had the sense to use the GPS

To error is human. To learn from error is growth. I will not make these mistakes a second time. Maybe.

PICTURES FROM NEBRASKA TOUR

2010-08-18T10:30:00.000-07:00

IMPERIAL LIBRARY

MONNA MILNER, SISTER

HASTINGS LIBRARY

HASTINGS LIBRARY DIRECTOR AMY GREENLAND

KHAS TV FILMING AT HASTINGS LIBRARY

GRAND ISLAND LIBRARY

FRIENDS OF 40 YEARS, LIN, BRENDA, MINI, ZOLA

YORK LIBRARY

SCHULERS BOOKS IN LANSING MICHIGAN

2010-07-30T08:03:00.000-07:00

July, 22, 2010: Schulers Books and Music makes its home in a large, airy mall store. The event planner, Whitney, breezes up from the back of the building wearing a simple black dress with a blonde dreadlock wound up in an attractive coil on the back of her neck. Her arms are draped in, what at first glance seems to be a colorful sheer fabric, but are actually artful tattoos. Whitney is smiling, self assured, all business. “Would I like something to drink? Your book has sold well. There is a group in the back waiting for you.”

Fifteen people are lined up in three rows patiently waiting for me to speak, some drinking wine. Whitney describes coming events. These authors are well published, most having won awards, several with bestselling novels. I am humbled to be included in her list of authors.

Whitney introduces me, “….First novel…. self published.” She has mentored a group of bright, accomplished readers, among them, attorneys, librarians, a nun and a physician’s assistant. They are attentive, encouraging me with their eyes and smiles. They want to know what I, the novice author, have to say.

I speak, answer questions, and we have a delightful discussion. After, there is a line for me to sign novels.

I am grateful. Thanks Schulers! Thanks Whitney!

ZIPPING THROUGH NEBRASKA

2010-07-29T08:30:00.000-07:00

NEBRASKA BOOK TOUR SCHEDULE:

Public Libraries:
McCook--Monday, August 9th at 7:00pm
Imperial--Tuesday, August 10th at 7:00
Hastings—Thursday, August 12th, at 1:30pm
Grand Island--Thursday, August 12th at 5:30pm
York--Friday, August 13th at 3:00pm

'UP NORTH" TO HORIZON BOOKSTORES

2010-07-25T09:11:00.000-07:00

My husband Murray and I took a weekend trip to northern Michigan to sign novels at the Horizon bookstores. “Up-north” is gorgeous with its deep green forests and charming lake towns. Although I was nervous, with Murray’s support and terrific sense of direction, I was able to be open to the experience and had a validating, satisfying time.

The Cadillac Horizon is a renovated, pleasant and roomy bookstore with tables and comfortable chairs. Employees Mary and Casey were welcoming; Mary served me a low calorie, iced mocha coffee that alone is worth the trip to Cadillac. Due to an art fair, the store was quiet. However, a few visitors did wander in. I visited with a “biker” whose husband was canoeing the Pine River and told her about Sparrow’s trip on the Pine. A mother and daughter attending a family reunion listened in the background. A gregarious glass frame salesman, on vacation stopped to chat. All three purchased a novel.
Because most of the people who came in purchased a book, Mary, Casey and I agreed we’d done well. I told them that I’d let them know if Cadillac’s sales beat Traverse City’s. Mary said that after three were sold to hide the novels. We laughed; fat chance of that.

Traverse City Horizon is situated in the heart of the historic district. It is huge with three stories and bargains in the basement. Customers were drinking coffee at sidewalk tables and milling about the store. Families with creative teenagers in tow were stopping on route to Interlochen Art Camp. Parents stopped to visit and many purchased novels. Thirteen-year-old Devyn, an aspiring writer, promised to read “Family at Booknook” and email me her thoughts. One young woman who lives in Adrian, the setting for the novel, purchased a book. A psychiatrist from California was touring the area with his Interlochen granddaughter. He and I visited about our experiences with unwed mothers.

The highlight was a brief encounter with a petite, bright-eyed woman wearing a beaded choker reminiscent of the 60s.

After reading the description, she said, “It sounds good.”

“It’s about a sixteen-year-old in the 60’s who gets pregnant and keeps her baby. Mother and daughter come of age together,” I replied.

She exchanged a knowing look with her handsome husband, then to me. “I was sixteen. My daughter is twenty-five. We had some hard times.”

I commented. “And now you’re happily married.”

“But not to the father,” she said

She has a story to tell, I thought.

This I’ve learned: If I relax and connect with people, I have a rich experience.
Oh, and Ludington State Park has picturesque walking trails around Lost Lake.
Interesting that it was the vacationers in both stores who purchased books. Perhaps they were looking for a remembrance of their trip.

HOME TO NEBRASKA

2010-07-16T14:10:00.000-07:00

July 16, 2010

My husband Murray and I are headed to Cadillac and Traverse city Horizon Book Stores tomorrow, Saturday, July 17th. Then were going to spend a couple of nights on Lake Michigan.

NEBRASKA BOOK TOUR SCHEDULE:

Public Libraries:
McCook--Monday, August 9th at 7:00pm
Imperial--Tuesday, August 10th at 7:00
Hastings—Thursday, August 12th, at 1:30pm
Grand Island--Thursday, August 12th at 5:30pm
York--Friday, August 13th at 3:00pm

Libraries and media are very welcoming in my home state. It will be special touring with my sister Monna, whom I see only once a year. An added bonus, I have family in every town and get to see old friends. My niece Becky is on Imperial’s Library Board and will be baking a cheese cake for that event. Hmm good!

I’ve spent most of the last three weeks working out details and haven’t done much writing. Now, I understand why people higher publicists and marketers.

HOW TO GET KNOWN

2010-06-18T06:53:00.000-07:00

Jeff Yeager, author of “The Cheapskate Next Door,” intrigues “cheapskates” and cyclists alike. At fifty-two he biked eighty miles from Ohio to Ann Arbor, arriving at Borders in worn shorts with bike in tow. Ann Arbor was his first stop on a speaking, signing, bike tour.

During his last book tour he biked three thousand miles. He also bunked with cheapskates and camped. The money he saved his publisher was donated to libraries. Generosity is included in his definition of, shall I say it again? Cheapskate.

Jeff advocates that living debt free is stress free. My husband Murray and I live within our means, and I wondered if we fit the cheapskate category. One of the criteria is that you have at least one crock pot. We have two, but a really frugal person has three.

Jeff bikes into a signing and dispenses useful information laced with humorous stories about his travels and the people he meets. He has a terrific marketing plan.

I need such a plan.

SCHEDULED EVENTS: Horizon Books in Cadillac, Saturday June 17th, 12:30-2:30pm—Horizon Books in Traverse City, 3:30-5:30pm. Shuler Books in Lansing on Thursday July 22nd, 7:00-9:00pm. My home state Nebraska, August 9th, 15th.

No bike, roller blades or ice skates, but I will fly over the whole of Nebraska, light in Denver and drive two-hundred miles back to Nebraska.

SUMMER MICHIGAN AND NEBRASKA TRAVELS

2010-05-13T07:36:00.000-07:00

SCHEDULED EVENTS:

Horizon Books in Petoskey, Saturday June 5th, 3:00-5:00pm
Horizon Books in Cadillac, Saturday July 17th, 12:30-2:30pm
Horizon Books in Traverse City, July 17th, 3:30-5:30pm
Shuler Books in Lansing,Thursday July 22nd, 7:00-9:00pm

My home state Nebraska, August 9th, 15th. Time and places to be decided.

I will talk and read, then hang around, visit and hopefully sign some books.
Horizon Book Stores are welcoming and support Michigan authors. Thank you, Horizon. I’m excited to meet and talk with readers, and traveling north in a beautiful Michigan Summer is an added bonus.

I will be able to combine the Bear River Writing Conference, at Walloon Lake near Petoskey with the talk in Petoskey. (The Bear River Conference is intense, demanding and helpful in honing one’s writing—highly recommended.)

In Cadillac I’m looking forward to reading the humorous scene that takes place on the Pine River.

My husband Murray will accompany me to Traverse City and we will enjoy a weekend on Lake Michigan.

Our twins graduated from Michigan State and we know Lansing well. On July 22nd, at the Lansing event with Shuler Books, we will “dine” at the Roadhouse, a favorite bar.

In Nebraska I will visit my sister Monna and her family. Getting to the small towns of Nebraska is a challenge. To travel to my hometown of Imperial, I fly from Detroit to Denver, rent a car and drive back east 200 miles. Believe me, that is the quickest, least complicated way to get there. However, driving across the golden Colorado and Nebraska Prairie on deserted Highway Six is relaxing, freeing and takes me back to my childhood.

If I plan the trip right I can attend the monthly fried chicken dinner at the Senior Center—melt-in-your mouth chicken like Mom used to make. Also there will be a family celebration. Monna’s kids are having a centennial celebration for her and her granddaughter Carly. Between the two they will have lived one hundred years.

I’m in the process of contacting book stores and libraries in Nebraska; hopefully I can schedule talks in Imperial, and in McCook, Grand Island and York, where my nieces and nephew live.

SALINE LIBRARY PRESENTATION

2010-04-14T07:40:00.000-07:00

Marlee Horrocks, Director of Saline Public Library, and myself at a signing in March, where I spoke about writing, publishing and marketing "Family at Booknook." This was a sophisticated group, some of them writers interested in publishing their own work. I'm indebted to Marlee for getting the word out and attracting a large receptive audience.

TV APPEARANCE AT GRAND RAPIDS PBS AND THE BOOK NOOK AND JAVA SHOP

2010-03-17T07:21:00.000-07:00

March 1st I participated in a lively round table discussion of “Family at Booknook” with Denise Pritchard, host of Take Five Book Club, WZZM 13, Bryan Uecker, owner of The Book Nook and Java Shop and Debra Lambers, consultant. Bryan had chosen the novel as book of the month for his Book Nook in Montague, Michigan. All had read and were enthusiastic about the novel.

Check out my four minutes of fame at this link:
Take Five Book Club Video

Later that day I visited The Book Nook and Java Shop, an inviting book store, a place to meet over a cup of coffee. The staff is friendly, helpful and excited about books. The shop hosts a monthly book club, at which we had another high energy discussion about “Family at Booknook” and about writing.

As the evening came to a close, Bryan handed me a stack of “Family at Booknook” to sign. The shop had already sold numerous novels and I wondered how many a small town could sell. As the books can be returned without charge, I asked, Why aren’t you sending them back to the distributer? Bryan smiled, “We’ll sell them. They’ll sell in the summer when the town fills up with tourists."

Indeed, Montague is a picturesque town on lake Michigan. An added bonus to our adventure, my husband Murray and I stayed at the Weather Vane, a lovely Inn. The room was heated by a fireplace, had a Jacuzzi and overlooked the frozen lake, a delightful late winter’s get-away.

EVENTS

2010-02-12T14:13:00.000-08:00

FAMILY AT BOOKNOOK, is book of the month for February at The Book Nook and Java Shop in Montague, Michigan, where I will be talking about writing and publishing on Monday afternoon, March 1st, at 6:00pm

The area NPR Morning Show Host, Shelly Irwin will interview me February 26th at 9:30am.

I will appear on Take Five WZZM TV 13 for the 9:00am show with Debra Lambers and owner Bryan Uecker of The Book Nook and Java Shop.

Sunday, March 14th I will be at the Saline Library talking and signing at 2:pm.

Saturday, March 20th is Literacy day at the Adrian Mall.

STORY OF UNWED PREGNANCY IS UNIVERSAL

2010-01-07T17:30:00.000-08:00

REAL PEOPLES STORIES:

Recently I spoke to a couple of people that made me appreciate that many people relate to Family at Booknook in a very personal way.

When I was signing novels at the Adrian Meijer, a gray haired woman, aged beyond her years, yet not old enough for social security asked me about Booknook. She smiled knowingly and stated that her teenage daughter had had a baby out of wedlock some twenty years ago. The woman had given her daughter two choices: give up the baby for adoption or keep her. If the daughter wanted to keep her child, she, the grandmother, would help. The daughter chose the latter. When I asked how it had turned out, the grandmother indicated that her daughter had married and had a happy life. Then came the sad part.

The woman that I was talking with had recently been abandoned by her husband and had lived in her car for four months. Although she now has a tiny apartment, she has only a part time job. While we visited, she ran her fingers down the spine of a book. I asked if she liked to read. She said, “Oh, yes.” I offered to give her a book. She demurred but I persisted.

I met the second person before Christmas. While buying crab at Meijer, I quizzed the seafood man on its preparation. In the course of the conversation, I mentioned that his store was selling my novel. When he asked, I gave him the briefest synopsis.

Then he said, “That’s my story. My mother had me at sixteen in an unwed mothers’ home. She wasn’t going to keep me, but my grandmother talked her into it.” He stated that his grandmother had been instrumental in raising him and was like a mother to him. He was devastated when she died.

It was touching to connect with two people in such an intimate way. When they heard about Sparrow, Dave and Finch, it triggered memories of their own life shaping experiences. In each of these cases the grandmother was instrumental in helping her daughter keep and raise a child. And in Booknook it is Dave, the surrogate grandfather, who enables Sparrow to keep her baby.

Then when I was checking out Amazon Books, I ran across the following comment.

Sheila L. Wasung, “Nook Hooked” from Amazon Comments:
“This book brought back an era in which my own childhood and adolescence was spent. Sparrow endured what so many young women of this era experienced with the shame of unwed motherhood. I am so pleased that the author was able to capture the attitudes and climate of the '50s,'60's, and '70s in the USA. I found it somewhat nostalgic, even though the circumstances were less than desirable.”

DAILY TELEGRAM REVIEW OF FAMILY AT BOOKNOOK

2010-01-03T18:57:00.000-08:00

Mark Lenz: Adrian provides backdrop for new novelBy Mark Lenz
Daily Telegram
Posted Jan 03, 2010

ADRIAN, Mich. —
“Dave Stanley had to get out of the house. With yesterday’s Adrian Daily Telegram tucked under his arm, he walked to his shop, Booknook.”

So begins “Family at Booknook,” a new novel I clearly couldn’t resist. It was written by Ann Arbor psychotherapist Brenda Humphrey Meisels and published in June. You may have seen it displayed under “Bestsellers” at both ends of Meijer’s book section, tucked below Stephanie Meyer’s “New Moon” and Michael Crichton’s “Pirate Latitudes.” Three photos of a young lady adorn the “Booknook” cover, sitting above a photo of what might be a French wine shop somewhere in Brittany.

Covers frequently don’t tell the tale, however, and “Family at Booknook” offers no clue that it’s actually set mostly in Adrian, between 1959 and 1981, at a fictional bookstore. My wife, Jill, discovered the book’s actual locale after she happened to check out a copy at the library. References to landmarks such as Bixby Hospital, Mr. Ed’s, Hammerman’s furniture and Frosty Boy pop up throughout its pages.

The story follows Sparrow Avery through her teen pregnancy in Milan and resettlement in Adrian, “where people don’t know her.” Single motherhood, education for her and her daughter and the growth of friends whose lives are connected with the book store make up Meisel’s tale. Sparrow lives in an apartment above Booknook, located at the corner of Winter and Maumee streets, and across the street from El Chapulin — a description that neatly fits the Jean Christopher Portraits building, even if the cover photo does not.

Meisels told me she came to Adrian in the 1970s and worked at Community Mental Health as a psychotherapist. She began Adrian Psychotherapy Associates and continued to work here until 1994, although she married and moved to Saline in 1979.

“I have a soft spot in my heart for Adrian,” Meisels related.

As a novel, the Author House publication is an interesting debut work. Meisels may have forgotten a few details (the spellings of old Drager Middle School and the Croswell, for example) but recalls enough others — Siena Heights College, the old A&W and the Holiday Inn lounge — to show some detailed familiarity with Adrian of the ’70s. Equally believable are the efforts to resolve old feelings and gritty circumstances. Neither Sparrow nor the rest escape unscathed, but Meisels’ main characters valiantly fight the various cycles of poverty, ignorance, abuse and loneliness.

In topic and temperament, “Booknook” reminded me of “The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society,” another unassuming novel I stumbled across last spring, which later went to No. 1 on the New York Times bestseller list. Both offer a sense of place. It won’t be easy to pass the Jean Christopher building without imagining the fictional voice of Emily, Dave Stanley’s late wife and helper at Booknook, encouraging the old curmudgeon to act sensibly.

Meisels ran into difficulties of her own trying to market her book to Michigan stores. Many are going out of business. Book store chains have harsh return rules, and they’re also consolidating. Adrian will soon be without a Waldenbooks just months after losing Guided by Grace downtown.
Meisels developed a book Web site, familyatbooknook.blogspot.com, and contacted Meijer’s Ben Negron of Adrian and Georgette St. Amant of Ann Arbor, who arranged book signings and a concert. Meisels’ book is joined on Meijer’s shelves by those of two other local authors: marriage advocate and county judge Jim Sheridan’s “A Blessing for the Heart”; and Clinton Middle School teacher Laura (Schultz) Krzyzaniak’s two publications, “Honorable Mention” based loosely on her grandfather, Nathan Knowles, growing up in the early 1900s around Manitou Beach, and “Chasing a Dream, Riding to the Occasion” about Clinton rodeo cowboy Erik Wolford.

Publishing changes are opportunities for the determined. The Web and desktop editing have simplified writing in some ways, and even Kindle users need content to read, Hopefully, the shared Western culture of “Daisy Miller” and “Tess of d’Urbervilles” — both referred to in “Booknook” — will make the transition to reading’s future.

But it’s also fun to think of promoting Lenawee County as a literary setting. After all, the state’s film tax credit didn’t produce any jobs here. Maybe books can draw readers to visit, and to ensure Lenawee County locales such as book shops aren’t relegated to fiction.

Mark Lenz, editor of The Daily Telegram, can be contacted at 265-5111, ext. 230, or via e-mail at mlenz@lenconnect.com.

Miesels TV Chat About Writing and Publishing

2009-12-24T11:25:00.000-08:00

December 23, 2009
Community Television Network, Access Ann Arbor, Channel 17 Presents:
Brenda Meisels, Author of Family at Booknookand, and Sally Seymour, business writer, as they chat about writing. (12/23, 10am & 2/pm) (12/26, 3& 5:30pm) (12/28, 11am) (1/6, 10am 5:30pm)(1/7, 11:30am) (1/9, 3pm)

TV Appearance and Recommendations for Novices:

My writer friend Sally Seymour and I taped an interview for Access Ann Arbor Channel 17. This was a first for me. I was nervous and insisted on arriving early; the crew was running late, and I subjected Sally to a long wait in the Green Room.

When we finally went to production, there was a lovely set, with a Family at Booknook poster as a backdrop. The lights were blinding, the crew out of sight in the darkened room. When Sally introduced me, I looked toward what I thought would be the audience and came face to face with this wrinkled older woman—me!

After recovering from seeing the wrinkled face intruder, we had a nice chat about writing and publishing. There was one complication; in the dark room Sally could not make out the hand signals that Dwayne, a crew member, was making denoting the time. Part way through the interview, while the camera was focused on me, I saw Sally’s eyes flitting back and forth. Thinking we were running out of time, I picked up the pace and tripped over a few words. Sally gathered her wits and asked the crew how much time we had and was signaled that we had sufficient time. However, I Could not see the signal and did not know this until the interview ended.

After the taping, Sally and I celebrated by taking our husbands out to dinner.

When Murray and I watched the first airing, I noticed every flaw but was pleasantly surprised about how well it had turned out.

Recommendation 1: If you’re over sixty, get a face lift or wear lots of makeup. And do not look in the monitor!

Recommendation 2: If you are concerned about time available, ask the crew.

Recommendation 3: Most importantly, have a good time.

BOOKNOOK SOLD AT MEIJER

2009-11-20T16:39:00.000-08:00

COMING EVENTS: Tomorrow, 2:00pm, talk and signing at the Adrian library. Friday, 12/11/09, 3:00 to 5:00pm signing at the Adrian Meijer store.

MORE COMMENTS:

Elmo Morales: I finished the book and cried at the end. I can see this as a movie...Brenda describes scenes really well. I can picture them so clearly -- colorful and picturesque.

Maureen Knight: I just finished your lovely book. I really enjoyed the characters and the story. I am glad you added the last chapter. Still, I find myself wondering where Finch is working and who she married.

Ellen Toronto: Believable and fascinating characters are an essential part of a good book for me. From that perspective Family at Booknook definitely qualifies. Dave is a lovable curmudgeon. Sparrow is quietly spunky and devoted to her daughter. In spite of her own difficult background she is committed to making a good life for her. As with any family the fate of the characters becomes deeply intertwined. The reader is drawn in to their all-too-human frailities, sorrowing in their tragedies and rejoicing in their ultimate message of hope.

MARKETING FOR CHRISTMAS

I am delighted that Meijer is going to sell Booknook. It will be in the Adrian Meijer and the three Ann Arbor stores. Meijer supports local authors, and Georgette St Amant, has taken me under her corporate wing so to speak and is shepherding the book through corporate channels.

Ben Negron the director of Adrian Meijer is planning a signing event in December, which will feature three authors, Laura Krzyaniak, Judge Sheridan and myself. A popular local band, The Injured List, will be selling CD’s. Ben tells me the band took the name in high school, when they played football and spent more time on the injured list than in the games.

Today I took more novels to Nicola’s books and dropped off Christmas fliers at several shops. At Unique Hair Salon, Karen read the back cover and bought two novels for Christmas gifts. She made my day.

GOOD READS

2009-11-16T06:27:00.000-08:00

I read novels like some people watch TV—every night. One of my top ten is Amy and Isabelle by Elizabeth Strout, about an adolescent daughter coming of age with a single, reclusive mother. Hmm, similar to Sparrow and Finch in Family at Booknook.

My favorite scene: Isabelle, the mother, is in a dither about entertaining her boss, whom she secretly loves. He and his wife do not show; Devastated, Isabelle dumps her gorgeous homemade chocolate cake into the trash. This is something that most of us can relate to. Inviting guests into our homes is anxiety producing. We worry, will the food turn out? Will there be enough? And, heaven forbid, what if our guests don’t come?

Strout's scene inspired me to write about entertaining. In Family at Booknook. Sparrow stumbles into uncharted territory, when she invites her friend Maria for dinner. Maria is late and Sparrow is fearful that Maria will not come. The dinner does not go as Sparrow has planned.

I was thrilled when Strout’s recent book of short stories, Olive Kitteridge, came out. Olive is featured in some stories and plays cameo roles in others. She is a tough appearing, no- nonsense sort of woman who estranges some people, including her son. A few readers think she is unlikeable. At times she made me cringe, but the nasty things that she says are often thoughts that we may have. In old age, we see her grow and regret her mistakes. Finally she is able to give up a bit of her rigidly and seize a moment.

I liked Olive. She reminded me a bit of crusty Dave Stanley in Family at Booknook. Sparks would fly if Olive met Dave. But I think they would be attracted to each other. Dave is mourning his sweet life Emily, and a feisty woman might bring him back to life.

Just musing. But I do recommend both books—good reads.

ADD ONS, THE ANGST OF SELF PUBLISHING, what every person who self publishes should know.

2009-11-02T17:47:00.000-08:00

COMING EVENT: Talk and Signing at the Adrian Public Library Saturday, November 21st, 2:00pm

Marketing is a challenging adventure, often exciting, sometimes anxiety producing and occasionally discouraging. Every day I learn something new. And this I should have known, did know and repressed it. It was written clearly in the information I received from Author House. Returnability, the ability for bookstores to return unsold books to the distributer is an imperative feature in marketing. It costs $1,299 for a three year period. Still, I am ordering returnability today. It should be in the system by the fourteenth of this month.

Why am I, a frugal person, springing for this? I’d like to sell a few books. The big guys, as the independent book store owners call Borders and Barnes and Nobel, won’t consider books unless they can be returned. Also the ability to return books would have to benefit the smaller stores. In addition, buying this feature also gives the distributor, Ingram, a 48% discount from Author House, which hopefully will be shared with book stores. I am told that if book stores order directly from Author House they are assured of a 48% discount.

MARKETING 101 SUGGESTIONS FOR SELF PUBLISHING:

Make your book as good as you can and then pay a professional editor. I hired three. The first copy edited; the second lived in Texas, was unreachable and did not return the manuscript. Finally I hired Elizabeth Kirchen, an Ann Arbor editor, who worked with me for several months and helped make the parts of my novel a whole—better than the sum of its parts. Self publishing companies provide some editing for a fee. But I would recommend a local person that can work with you.

Read your contract carefully and then ask questions. Then read your contract again.

Procure copyright registration, your proof of ownership, which gives your book an ISBN number. This can be done on the internet and is a bit complicated. However with help I obtained the copyright for $30. Author House would have charged $175.

I purchased a Library of Congress control number for $75, which I am not certain I need, but I think allows libraries to access a book more easily.

If you want to market your book, purchase returnability.

You may want to create a web site or a blog. Advantages for a blog, simple, free and ongoing. I chose to craft my own blog, contact the news media, send out press releases, and create posters.

The publishing company provides these types of services for fees, which range from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on what you buy. This is no panacea as, in my experience, no one at the company read my work. The author must decide the message and supply the publisher with information. The publisher will then produce your advertising material. If I am correct, authors buy posters, banners and bookmarks which may not be tweaked as they learn more about sells. Think of it as a factory that produces a certain product. For example, perhaps you order a doll in a brown dress. For Christmas you would like your doll to wear a red dress. You must make or buy your own.

Publishing companies often do not make the details of the business clear. New writers are naive and confused. Published authors could be a great source of information. If you have been published, it would be interesting and helpful to hear your thoughts on the matter.

Description of Family at Booknook

2009-10-21T07:14:00.000-07:00

The description of Family at Booknook is way, way, back on older posts, and since this blog is supposed to be about the novel, I've repeated the description.

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 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.

Michigan Independent Book Store Survey

2009-10-21T07:07:00.000-07:00

In the past two days I have called twenty-five independent books stores to pitch Family at Booknook. Ten phones had been disconnected and several stores with limited hours had answering machines. All ten of the proprietors that I reached were welcoming and expressed a desire to support Michigan Authors.

When the owners had a moment, I asked them about business—my little survey.
Carolyn at Squirreled Away Books in Armada, a farming community of 600 families, told me that she has been in the business for years and has loyal clientele. “I don’t have to compete with the big guys and we offer service.”She also sells on line, and during fall colors tourists stop in.

Amy at Horizon Books in Petoskey indicated that she and her husband opened their shop in 1960 and own their building. Thus they are well established and have low overhead. “We don’t depend on best sellers. We sell books one at a time. We pay attention to the nuts and bolts and are involved with the community.” she said.

The Island Bookstore in Mackinaw City will close for the winter. The pleasant young woman who spoke with me indicated that their book store caters to seasonal tourists. They are interested in any books by Michigan authors about Michigan.

These successful businesses seemed to have several things in common: longevity, low overhead, desirable location, service, carving out a niche and, most important, a love of books. I’d love to have comments from independent book store owners. How are you succeeding?

ANYONE CAN POST

2009-10-20T09:16:00.000-07:00

I just found a button that indicates that anyone can post without signing in. I clicked it. I hope this makes it easier for people to comment.

INDEPENDENT BOOK STORES STRUGGLE

2009-10-20T08:55:00.000-07:00

Since Family at Booknook is a novel by a Michigan author set in Michigan, I’ve been marketing to the states independent bookstores, four named Book Nook. When I mention that Booknook is set in Michigan the comment is, “We like to support local Authors.”

Yesterday I talked with Gene, owner of The Book Nook in Allen Park. When I told him I was calling independent book stores he laughed and said, “How many are still in business?” He told me that his store has been in business since the sixties and that, due to recent industries changes, he focuses mainly on magazines, but that I should go ahead and send him information. It was clear that he was a book lover and that limiting his stock to magazines was not his first choice.

I did not like the idea of charming, neighborhood book stores going under. And I was relieved when I called Janet Berns at The Book Nook in Monroe, who was busy with a huge shipment of text books. My next call was to the Book Nook and Java Shop in Montague, where McKenzie Smith told me that she ordered from Ingram and to send her information. Both women were upbeat.

But, on my next call the book store phone had been disconnected. I got to thinking about what Gene had said. I had been invited to do a signing at Cranesbill Books in Chelsea, a quaint shop packed with great books. Recently the owner, Janet Loveland, emailed me that she was sorry she could not host a signing. She was closing her book shop and getting on with her life. This woman has devoted her professional life to the world of books. Her simple statement seemed sad, as though she were leaving a failed love. Walking down the street in towns and cities I see shops with a closed or out of business signs. How many of these were once book stores?

I have little understanding of the print industry and how technology is changing it. I know technological advances are changing the way we access books, newspapers and magazines. Much information reaches us via the internet. Here I sit typing away. I will send this out to space where it could be read by millions but realistically will be read by a handful. (Still, I get to express myself and I will save a tree.) Books are read on line, and books that you hold in your hand are bought on line and often for less than a bookstore with its overhead can sell them for. My little novel is listed on Amazon and on occasion is less expensive there than it is in book stores. Thankfully the buyer must pay postage when he orders over the internet. But it’s tough out there. Even Borders is having difficulty.

Hopefully small bookstores will find inventive ways to survive. Strolling into a book store with its smell of fresh print, browsing through the shelves and having a book lover, someone that I may know, help me make a selection is an experience to be cherished.

I’m making more calls to book stores today and will post about them. It would be interesting to hear from book store owners or managers. You just have to sign in to comment. Thanks

This Comment Made My Day

2009-10-15T18:41:00.000-07:00

Ms. Meisels,

I just wanted to say that yesterday a friend bought your book from the local Walden books store and I decided to read the first chapter while riding in her care. Reluctant to give it up she finally caved in and said, "Amanda you are such a fast reader so go ahead and borrow it and I will read it later." I must say that this is the first really amazing book I have read in a long time. From the moment I picked it up and started reading it I couldn't put it down. I have already finished it and I was wondering if by chance you will write and publish another book that follows up on Finch's life? I am so interested in knowing what happens! I wish you the best of luck in any future novels that you write. I also know that I am going to have to go out and purchase this book and any others you may have published in the future. You are an amazing and captivating author. Congrats on a book well written!

Sincerely,

Amanda Blaire Krawetzke

Susan Bach emails from Waldenbooks in Adrian

2009-10-15T07:02:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share Susan's email with all those authors who are tryinkg to get their books read.

Brenda,
What a lovely blog about your signing at the bookstore! Thank you for that and for coming to spend time with us. We have now sold 15 copies of the book and the most fun one was today. A young woman came in to buy a copy because her English teacher at Jackson Community College read the first chapter to the class today! The word spreads on books that way and your visit increased interest in the book. I gave the student your book club questions and the information about your library program and I asked her to share with the teacher. Please stay in touch.
Susan

Novice Writer Trys to Sign

2009-10-11T17:27:00.000-07:00

Coming Event: Talk and Read at Adrian Library Saturday, Noveber 21st, 2:00pm

On my way to Waldenbooks in Adrian, I stopped at the Clinton Inn to chat with Laurie and Mark, who are selling Family at Booknook. We talked about the Fall Festival. I complimented Mark on his delicate, cheesy broccoli soup that he made for the Festival. Mark told me that he makes five gallon vats of it continuously for the three days of the fair.

When the Inn is open, Laurie and Mark are there, and that is six days a week. When I asked how many hours they work, Laurie promptly replied, “Eighty hours a week.” That makes thirteen hours a day. They did vacation for a week this summer, their first in nineteen years.

Laurie had sold a book. I high-fived her. We celebrate the little things.

For a couple of hours on Saturday I hung out at Waldenbooks in the Adrian mall, a social destination on a Saturday afternoon. The book store is small, but with shelves from floor to ceiling it houses a wealth of good reading—best sellers, staff picks, local authors, and a display of discounted books. There was a steady stream of lookers and buyers. Manager Susan Bach is a reader, knows her patrons and what they like. She ordered nine Family at Booknook novels a couple of weeks ago, sold them and reordered. When I asked how she did this, she said, “I make recommendations based on the kind of book I think each person would like.”

Sitting at a table just outside the entrance to Waldenbooks was a bit daunting. If I was a favorite author, readers would have been excited to stop and chat. But I am unknown and was sitting at a table like one of those people selling windows or doors at the county fair, except that I had no prizes to give out and had not thought to bring a bowl of tootsie rolls. And unlike Susan Bach, her customers do not know me, nor do they trust my judgment.

Still, some people did stop and chat. A mother, with four stair-step children and two at home, agreed that she was a very busy woman. An older man, with a carved wooden cane, talked about his canes. A woman, who told me she had moved twenty-five times but that Adrian was her home, thanked me for writing a local book.

I’ve been told that an author should mingle and be approachable at a signing. So I took Family, held the cover in a way that it could be seen and wandered around the store, smiling and trying to be helpful. No luck! Then, Susan rescued me, introduced me to Lois Speed, a member of the Morenci Library Board. Lois purchased a book and I gave her one to take to the library. A woman from a book club in Onsted picked up a list of discussion questions. A lovely older woman purchased Family for a Christmas present. This all happened in about five minutes, and then it was three o’clock. Over.

From there I swung by the Adrian library and visited with Director Carol Shouchock about my talk on November 21st. Every time I’ve been to the library, evening or day, she has been there. She indicated that in two weeks the library renovations would be complete. And the space is lovely--warm carpeting, high ceilings, two lofts, natural lighting and lots and lots of books. Carol is another person who is always working. It seems that in order to be successful, one must keep at it. One step at a time.

Blogging Class

2009-10-08T10:06:00.000-07:00

I'm at the library learning how to blog. This blog does accept comments! So, please do try and post. If you succeed let others know. If you don't succeed let me know. Thanks!

WHY DO WE WRITE?

2009-09-30T17:57:00.000-07:00

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.

COMING EVENTS

2009-09-19T15:53:00.000-07:00

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.

ADRIAN MY FORMER HOME HOSTS ART-A-LICIOUS

2009-09-19T15:30:00.000-07:00

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.

A CELBRATION AT NICOLAS BOOKS IN ANN ARBOR

2009-09-16T08:20:00.000-07:00

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.

Clinton Inn Hosts a Scrumptious Event

2009-09-11T08:40:00.000-07:00

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.

Family at Booknook a Book Club Book

2009-09-06T18:28:00.000-07:00

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.

Coming Events & Description

2009-09-02T06:02:00.000-07:00

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.

More Comments

2009-09-02T05:49:00.000-07:00

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.

My post from a reader

2009-09-01T06:27:00.000-07:00

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.

First Event at Lighthouse in Milan

2009-09-01T06:20:00.000-07:00

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.

Closet Writers in Milan

2009-08-22T06:55:00.000-07:00

Since I’m counting down to my first reading at the Light House Coffee Shop this coming Tuesday, the 25th, I decided to make a last trip to Milan, meet some people and put up flyers. I had a warm welcome there. I do love small towns! It was interesting; the men were polite, helpful, but not readers. The women were enthusiastic! I met Brenda at Edward Jones Investment, who called Gwen, the financial advisor, from her office to chat. Brenda indicated she wanted to bring her friend Norma to the reading that Norma was a talented writer but timid about trying to publish. I hope that Norma and others like her will come. Tuesday is my first event. Wish me luck.

Friendly Small Town Clinton

2009-08-22T06:49:00.000-07:00

I went to Clinton a couple of days ago and had a leisurely lunch at the Clinton Inn with friend Gretchen, where we shared two amazing vegetarian sandwiches. I took Booknook event flyers and hoped that businesses would display them. This is all new to me, and not knowing what to expect, I timidly approached the first store, the Woolen Shop. The gracious proprietor was nestled in a chair, knitting a Christmas sock for her son in the UP. The shop was filled with gorgeous skeins of wool and knit items mostly done by her. I felt as though I’d entered her cheery living room. At the picturesque florist shop, Lynn put the flyer on the front door and suggested businesses that would hang the flyer. Malinda, at the spic and span, newly opened Coney Island, said she had read the Discover Milan News article “Author Writes Small Town Story with a Big Heart.” She loves to read local authors and suggested I participate in Clinton Fall Festival. A friendly librarian indicated that she would get Booknook in the library catalogue and put up a flyer. All of these women expressed interest in coming to the reading on September 10th.
Although I’ve been uneasy about approaching people, (perhaps that is an understatement). I had a great time. I came home and told husband, Murray about the adventure. He said of course I would like it that I’m a small town girl. Maybe so, but Clinton is an amazingly friendly town. And I’m encouraged to make more flyers and meet more people. Thank you Clintonians!

Dinner, Drinks and Me at the Historic Clinton Inn

2009-08-14T12:15:00.000-07:00

The Clinton Inn is a destination place for fine dining in a cozy atmosphere. Join me for conversation, a reading and signing on Thursday, September 10th, at 6:30. See links for their web site and menu.

Meet the Author

2009-08-13T17:02:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, August 25th, 6:30 P.M., Lighthouse Coffee Shop, Milan
Thursday, September 10th, 6:30 P.M., Clinton Inn, Clinton
Tuesday, September 15th, 7:00 P.M., Nicola’s Books, Ann Arbor

Enjoy a scrumptious dinner and drinks at the historic Clinton Inn, a light supper at the Lighthouse coffee shop, or cheese and wine at Nicola's. I'll be looking forward to talking with you about Family at Booknook, about the process of writing and publishing.

Have a Small Town Experience

2009-07-28T06:03:00.000-07:00

Family at Booknook is now available at the charming Lighthouse Coffee Shop in Milan, Sparrow's home town. Stop in, have a cup of great coffee and peruse the book. Or have lunch or dinner at the historical Clinton Inn in Clinton, where Sparrow and Bob have a confrontational meeting. The novel is also available there.

On Sale at Amazon

2009-07-21T15:51:00.000-07:00

Check out Family at Booknook
Amazon.com

READERS COMMENTS

2009-07-21T08:34:00.000-07:00

KERRY RUTHERFORD, a writer in Indiana: Wow! I finished your book this morning....What an epic story. It drew me in, so that every free moment I picked it up and read. I wanted to see what happened to the characters. I have to say that I teared up at the end and was very moved by the evolution of the characters emotionally. I started seeing it as a miniseries on PBS or Liftetime.

SHARON FELDMAN, an artist in Oregon: It is a wonderful story and so well told. The tenderness compassion, character development and insights are outstanding. I imagined myself as a teenager reading it and how the dialogue and insights would have been so helpful to me in that time of my life.

MARGRET FUCHS SINGER, Author of Legacy of a False Promise: A Daughter's Reckoning:
Realistic, compassionate and tender, this novel will appeal to youth and adult readers alike. It is a satisfying read.

2009-07-12T05:11:00.000-07:00

Hi All, Nicola's Books in Ann Arbor has scheduled me for a book talk on Tuesday, September 15th at 7:00 P.M.. Nicola indicates that people are most interested in the process of writing the book--why and how. I'll be talking about how thirty years as a psychotherapist listening to peoples stories, how I was inspired to write a novel.

About FAMILY AT BOOKNOOK

2009-07-07T15:58:00.000-07:00

A traumatized teenage mother, a cantankerous old man and a precocious child create an unlikely family. In 1959, date rape was not uncommon, pregnancy out of wedlock was shameful, and abortion was illegal. Sixteen-year-old Sparrow is pregnant. Banished from her home, she is left at Dave Stanley’s bookshop. Dave, grieving the death of his wife, is disturbed by her presence. However, an accident forces a temporary alliance. 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. Living life through her child, Sparrow secludes herself at Booknook. Finch grows up feeling the sting of being illegitimate. She longs for her mysterious, absent father who, she believes, can complete her family. As an adolescent, Finch hates her mother’s passivity and secretiveness.

Only when Finch calls her mother a recluse does Sparrow confront her fears and embark on a terrifying journey outside the safety of the shop. When Finch announces that she will be leaving home, Sparrow’s world is again shaken. But when tragedy strikes, it is Finch who is desolate and Sparrow who attempts to comfort her. Finch is further devastated when her mother’s secret is revealed.
Can Sparrow confront her past and ease her daughter’s pain?

2009-06-18T18:23:00.001-07:00

Hi All,

My book, Family at Booknook is now available at Amazon, and Author House book store. My author name is Brenda Humphrey Meisels.