Jennifer Lancaster

May 17, 2011, I met Jennifer Lancaster. I was so excited (and still am.) Unfortunately I missed the reading and commentary and most of the Q&A, but I still stayed in line for an hour and a half to meet her and get her signature. Worth it! She is every bit as witty in person as she is in her writing, which is hilarious.  I hadn't really read a book for almost 6 years. When I noticed a friend of mine reading a lot,  I asked her where to begin again. Her recommendation, Bitter is the New Black. That first recommendation has encouraged me back into literature and later into a creative writing course at my local community college.

On our one on one time, Jen called me "Dra" because that's what she called her friend, Audra, in college. We talked for a moment about the friend that introduced me to her books and about how she's inspired me. (For remaining somewhat tactful and not drooling over her, 10 points!)

Thank you and good luck Jen!

Jack Gantos!

I had never been to an author's event. Due to my schedule, I managed to miss all events thus far at the college this year, except my class, of course. When the professor asked who wanted to attend a lecture by a children's author, I raised my hand and swore to myself no matter what, I was making this one.

It was awesome. Jack Gantos is a phenomenal speaker and gave an extraordinary presentation. I felt very guilty that I had not read his books yet, especially after looking around and realizing I was one of the only students who did not bring a book for him to sign. Note to self: next author's event, bring a book for the author to sign!

Instead of giving a replay of his performance and part of his biography, I'm going to include a link to his web site, so you can investigate on your own. As for me, I am adding "Hole in My Life" to my must read list.

http://www.jackgantos.com/