Perspective

I was pretty excited about the children’s book festival. I didn’t have much time to prepare, as I’d been traveling. I wasn’t entirely sure I’d be in town. About a week and a half before, I put things together. I paid the entrance fee. I ordered copies of my book and a proof of my newest book, which I hoped would arrive on time. I designed and ordered a poster and bookmarks. I got a ring toss game and treats for the kids. Asked fellow authors what they would bring, made lists, and many other boring-ish, time-consuming things. When I say “boring-ish”, I mean potentially boring to my readers. I am a book nerd who loves planning things, making lists, talking to fellow authors about making said lists, and most of those other things I mentioned above.

I had certain expectations going in. I hoped to sell books, of course. But I also expected to meet lots of people–other authors, new readers, etc. I hoped to meet R.L. Stine and possibly get an interview. I hoped to not get sunburned. That sort of thing.

Then I went to the book festival and that is where perspective comes in. After it was all said and done, I had the wrong perspective. My expectations were not met. I did sell books, but only five. I met a few people and though most were friendly and kind, a few were not. I won’t go into detail as it really doesn’t matter. I didn’t get anywhere near Mr. Stine because I had to stay at my booth. Despite loads of sunscreen, I got sunburned badly. And to make everything even worse, a staff member came by and told me that there were drinks and refreshments inside for the authors.

That last part doesn’t seem so bad, but I’m not done.

How nice! I thought to myself. I decided to go check it out. There was a lovely table with a spread of sandwiches, snacks, and ice-cold drinks. As I went to grab a drink, a security guard stopped me and said, “This is for authors only.”

I assured her I was an author and showed her the tag I’d been given upon arrival, then continued about my business. Only to be interrupted again by the same lady.

“What’s your name?”

I stated my name.

“This is only for the headlining authors,” she said.

A humbling experience.

Apparently, there was some miscommunication among the staff.

I turned and left feeling insulted and quite grumpy.

I stayed a while longer, but the heat won. I packed up a little early and went inside for R.L. Stine’s author performance with my husband and kids. It felt unprofessional, but I don’t regret it one bit.

On the ride home, we stopped for ice cream and I sulked a bit. But then I changed my perspective.

I did not sell only five books. I sold five books! Five more children (at the least) will read my story, The Magic Telescope. And I hope they enjoy it. I did meet some lovely people, some of whom had wonderful things to say about my books. I got feedback on Halloween Night and Other Poems from children and teachers and parents. Some of our very best friends showed up and I got to catch up with them. My husband and boys were there with me the whole time and they were so sweet. My friends who couldn’t be there texted to root for me. True, I didn’t get to speak to R.L. Stine, but my kids did. They got an autograph and their picture taken with him. And he was fantastic. Overall, I think the book festival was great for the community.

I can’t find anything positive about sunburn, but it is always a good idea to stay humble. One day, hopefully, I’ll be a headling author. Or perhaps I’ll organize a children’s book festival, and when I do, I will treat even the local, lesser-known authors like they are headlining authors themselves.

What brought about the change in perspective?

Maybe it was the ice cream.

Don’t let little things get you down, y’all. Keep lookin’ up.

God bless,

T