Possibly the Very Best Thing about My Job

There are so many wonderful rewards in this line of work – nailing a scene, finishing a draft, getting positive feedback from readers and educators.  However, I think the one that makes me feel proud enough to burst is when a book of mine inspires someone to create something of his/her own.

 

At the recent Texas Library Association Conference, I found out about two very special tributes.  First, while walking the exhibit floor, I ran into a librarian friend.  As we were chatting and getting caught up, she showed me via a pic on her cell phone a beautiful painting of my How Not to Be Popular book cover done by a student in her district.  I was so blown away, I couldn’t speak for a moment (those of you who’ve met me will know that is quite a phenomenon).

 

She kindly forwarded a photo to me (thank you, Leigh Ann!).  So for your viewing pleasure, I present the amazing talents of Tamara P from Frisco, Texas.  As you can see, there are many fantastic covers.  Tamara's is on the far right at the top:

 

I heard from Tamara recently via my website, and she explained how the painting came to be.  “The art project was to assign each student a book cover to paint on a canvas, and I chose yours!” she wrote.  “How Not To Be Popular is honestly my favorite book.” 

 

Tamara, if my book moved you to create that painting, then I am truly honored. 

 

She went on to explain that she hopes to pursue a career in art, so I’m certain we’ll see more of her work in the years to come.

 

The next happy surprise at TLA occurred when I co-hosted the Texas Teens for Libraries' "Booktalk 4 All" with my fellow Delacorte Dame April Lurie.  It was so much fun to see how books inspired these young people to speak passionately or write poems or create video trailers.  At one point I introduced two book talkers and the gals who stood up were dressed in costume.  “How cool,” I thought. “This should be really good.”  Suddenly April nudged me in the ribs and pointed at the display screen … and there was my book cover.  They had written a hilarious sketch based on How Not to Be Popular.

 

So there I was, all worked up again.  Only this time, instead of getting sniffly with a small group of friends, I was all verklempt in front of a huge conference room full of people.  I laughed at their routine as tears seeped out of my eyes.  When they finished their performance, the two gals noticed that I was weepy.  “I’m sorry!” one of them whispered to me.  Because my throat was all clamped with emotion, I tried to pantomime back that I was fine – that I loved it.  That I’m just a big softie.

 

Afterward, I had the pleasure of meeting them.  Sonia played “Maggie” and absolutely nailed it!  She portrayed the entire character arc in just a matter of minutes.  And Callie played Rosie, Maggie’s mom, completely decked out in hippie wear.  She was so into the part and had such expert comic timing, I couldn’t stop laughing through my tears!

 

Their teacher extraordinaire, Karen Webb, snapped this happy pic of the three of us after the show – when I’d regained my composure.  Callie (Rosie) is on the left, Sonia (Maggie) to the right.

 

 

Thank you so much, Tamara, Sonia and Callie, for sharing your gifts with us.

 

Keep creating.  Keep tapping into that joy of self expression.  Keep on being a true you.