This week I celebrated another first in this year of amazing firsts. The town of Athol, Massachusetts chose TRACKING TRASH for their On The Same Page town-wide winter reading program, and on Tuesday I was invited to the Athol Public Library to speak to the community.
Before I tell you how incredible the night was, let me ask: how progressive is this town? Not only did they pick a children’s book to rally around, but they chose a non-fiction children’s book. Hooray for Athol!
I was greeted at the library by two adorable young ladies who asked for my autograph while helping me unpack in the program room. They weren’t able to stay for the presentation, but assured me they “loved” my book. And so, for me, the night was a complete success … and it hadn’t even officially begun. Thank you Lexie and Ashley!
I spent the next hour or so talking about me, my book, and the trash-tracking adventures I’ve enjoyed these past three years. My crowd–brave and hearty readers who did not let a little snow stop the festivities–asked thoughtful questions, shared their own insights, and hung out for the book signing and cookie-fest afterward. (The cookies were shaped like ducks!)
Special thanks to Anne, Karen, Jean and Debbie, the Athol librarians who made my visit a grand event. Extra special thanks to Jean, who learned I was writing about bees next and shared these with me:
Do you know how good it feels to have an entire town waiting for your next book? It feels VERY GOOD.