Rhinebeck is Wonderful, Even in the Rain

Yesterday afternoon, I coaxed a huge gaggle of wonderful people into my car, and we all drove up to Rhinebeck for my reading at Oblong Books + Music with Emily Mandel. It was rainy, but we had enough snacks to last for several days, and spirits were high.

We are up-and-coming novelists. It says so right there on the poster.

Emily and I listen to the very wonderful Suzanna Hermans introduce us.

Me, smiling at Emily.

The Oblongirl herself.

Stephanie, smizing.

The camera-shy novelist Owen King. If you've ever wondered what it's like to be a meerkat (and come on, who hasn't), you should really read Owen's story in this anthology he edited.

My pal Loyita, cute as a button.

Emily and her reading copy of The Singer's Gun, marked with every event she's done for the book. I am so doing this next time.

My very adorable mother and the legendary Bob Woods. We are an OLTL family, in case you're just tuning in.

Stephanie, Christine and Mike were all giggles at dinner.

During the Q + A, Emily taught the audience how to properly knot a scarf. Really. I mean, I'd listen to her, wouldn't you?

Just us chickens. I mean, up-and-coming novelists.

Afterward, Mike drove us home in the dark, horrible monsoon-ish rain. We all got home safe and sound, utterly charmed by the entire experience. Viva Rhinebeck! Viva Oblong! Three cheers for everyone involved.

Yours,

Emma