Two weeks ago we attended our second independent author expo (two weeks ago already?!).  Where does the time go? This event was a good one for us as it was held at our local library, the headquarters of the Monmouth County Library System, and it was a long time coming.

About 1.5 years ago I reached out to the Children’s Department of our library asking about in-person events.  While I received a treasure trove of helpful advice (some which I still need to start on!) the author events were still on hiatus due to the pandemic.  Fast forward to August of this year when their Children’s Assistant Coordinator, Danya Romaner-Schussler, reached out to see if MaddyCakes Publishing would be interested in exhibiting at the local author/illustrator book expo.  Of course we said yes!

I didn’t know what to expect for the event. To be honest, I envisioned very little foot traffic, but saw it as an opportunity to network with other local authors, practice our pitch, and maybe have a few people take interest in our books.  We did meet with other authors, exchanged contact information and empathized on the growing pains of trying to get your own book published, let alone purchased.  Our stand was at the very end of the walkway, kind of far from the entrance. I thought it was too far, but hey, it was at least by the restrooms which worked well for two parents with a five-year-old. Convenience – check. Location – not so much.  But I was wrong.  I was very wrong.

We sold quite a few books. People came up commenting on the beautiful illustrations and the stories.  Children connected to ‘Maddy’s Little Tears’ and stood watching our book trailers.  I was in awe.  Perhaps even disbelief.  I met a little girl, Paula, who visited us in the beginning of the show.  She was quiet, reserved, and gently looked at our books, coloring pages, and of course the candy! I shared the story behind Maddy’s Little Tears, offered the girl a lollipop, and off she and her mother went to look around. Perhaps her demeanor reminded me of my own daughter, but her interaction with us left an impression on me.   About an hour before the show was to end, Paula and her mother reappeared.  The little girl had come back to choose Maddy’s Little Tears – out of all the books on display at the show.  Something in the book resonated with her – and it was a pretty amazing feeling to see her happy face.  We took a picture together and as we waved good bye, I saw her beam, holding her book close.  It was a moment I will always cherish.

When the day was over, we had a family dinner out to celebrate – I felt super excited and ready to write. I worked more on a new book I’m authoring, ‘I Hear You’, and started sourcing illustrators.   I trimmed my copy, re-read the story, and started storyboarding.  Then one week turned into two, and here we are.  A blog written late, another story stashed into the ‘In Progress’ folder, and a number of other priorities moved up in place.  But, I’m looking forward to the next “Paula Moment” and can’t wait.  Whether it’s next month or next year…the point is it’s ‘next’.