Well, I got some happy and a whole lot more at the Lakeshore Art Festival in Muskegon, Michigan this past weekend.  If you’ve never been to this amazing event, I highly recommend you watch the Facebook site: https://www.facebook.com/LakeshoreArtFestival
​AND set aside the weekend on next year’s calendar.

​More than twenty authors pitched tents along the street bordering the park, mimicking white sails dotting the lake’s horizon.  Under each lived many incredible stories, real and make believe.  I reunited with dear friends, members of my “tribe” who imprinted on my heart and soul years ago… and I made many new friends, who I’m sure will become special to me, as well.  The day was a delightful montage of listening and learning about each author’s imagination, their personal story, and so much laughter… it felt a little surreal.  After all, could this much happy gathered together all in one place, be an actual reality?  I’m here to tell you that truly, it is… and it’s probably more real than your eight hours of daily cubical time.   As I spent the day talking with the authors and discovered the stories their imaginations created, time slowed.  Nine o’clock in the morning to five o’clock in the afternoon felt almost like a week of pure play.  I learned amazing things about the people behind the pens and keyboards, too.  Their personal stories merit as much attention as the ones their imaginary friends force them to report. 

​The skies began in the morning with puffy clouds and a warm breeze floating in from Lake Michigan, turning to perfect blue in the afternoon, as if someone had painted it just for this day.  As the day progressed, the wind became gusty, forcing authors to grab hold of canopy stanchions and pull tight their anchor lines.  Though rambunctious, the wind never turned angry, and the warm sun refused to retreat.  One author in slicker-yellow, tickled my memory of days on sailboats and laughter… and writing poetry on the bow.

As I spent time petting a very silky-soft chicken (yes, her name is Kay-Kay, and she is the star of a book!)  ​It was difficult for me to make decisions about which books would make the trek back home to fill my shelves.  Exercising some modicum of restraint and feigned fiscal responsibility, while pretending to be an adult… I didn’t buy all I wanted, but I’m thrilled to report that at the end of the day, I stuffed a tote full to overflowing with stories I’ve never read, personally inscribed by each author! 

I find it interesting that as we age, our perception of time also changes.  When I was a student, the year began in September.  I returned to school after the long summer separation from my friends and found myself once again immersed in the creativity of music, writing, and theatre we all shared.  Oh, sure, I worked theatre in the summertime, and read, and wrote a lot… but doing all those things with a familiar group of personalities was how I found comfort.  So, the year “started” for me in Autumn.
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Now, a few decades past my years as a student, and Spring has arrived.  At this stage of my life, this is when my year begins.  April (at least in Michigan) is the beginning of Festival Season in the book world.  This is the time of year when Indie Authors begin to schedule personal appearances, book talks, and signing events.  As an adult devoted to the written word, I find Festival Season to be the best herald of Spring.  Time spent with my writerly friends is a rejuvenation of silliness after a long winter cooped up indoors, without only connection except the insanity we can create on Zoom.  But now… now, we get to stand together outdoors under tents, indoors at tables, laughing, playing, selling books, and talking about the writing craft. 

Each year, I review my checklist for Festival prep.  And each year, I discover new things to change about the way I engage.  Some of the things on the list are redundant – I’ve been doing this for a while now, and those things are a matter of routine.  Other things, sometimes small, nuanced things, I discover as positive, and work to incorporate them into the list for future events.

​Here’s a bit of what I’ve learned over the years.  I thought I would share… not only so I can check things off my list, but also to assist those who may be new to the adventure of Book Festival Season.  Take what you will, use it if it works for you, disregard the rest.  May you sell lots and meet tons of fascinating people.

• Tent (for outdoor events) and weights or stakes.  I use an “easy-up” style because I can set it and strike it by myself (although I must admit, it’s far easier to do it with two people), and it packs easily and fits in my car without difficulty.  Also. It has wheels on the case, which makes everything easier.  Here is the one I use, but there are many different styles out there. (https://amzn.to/3TTJwvK). I bought the 10’ x 10’ version because that’s the usual size for outdoor spaces (although some are 12’ x 12’.  Still, I’d rather have the smaller version that allows me to show at more places. 
  • I recommend you also buy tent sides.  In nasty weather, it helps protect the books and me, and in super-sunny weather, the added shade is also nice.  My tent sides have zipper flaps which allows for a nice breeze on those hot days.  These are the sides I bought (https://amzn.to/3xh6zYa), but again, there are lots out there.  The most important thing is to make sure that the sides you buy fit your tent.  Some tents have straight legs and others have angled legs – this is an important detail to know, if you’re buying the sides separately, rather than in an all-inclusive kit.   
  • As for weights or stakes, you can go either way, but be aware that many outdoor festivals aren’t on grass, so stakes won’t help much.  Tent weights are more versatile.  You can make them yourself using some recycled gallon milk jugs filled with water, sand, or cement; or you can buy them premade and fill them.  I made the mistake of buying these last time out, (https://amzn.to/4ajgFpU)  and I found that the closures, seams, and Velcro straps didn’t hold up well to repeated use.  I used Gorilla Glue to repair them, so they lasted one season, but they won’t make it through another.  This year, I plan to buy these plastic weights (https://amzn.to/3vBoA2W).  Yes, they’re a bit more expensive, but I’ve learned that when on the traveling book circuit, durability is a key component to a successful experience.  I’ll try these out this year and let you know how they work out.
• Tables.  Some venues will provide a table for you, others don’t.  It’s always a good idea to pack one in the car, just in case.  The standard sizes are either 6’ or 8’, depending on the venue.  I have a 6’ table that folds (that’s critical for travel).  I also bring along a 4’ table, especially to outdoor events.  I find that having a second, smaller table, set up behind me inside my tent is a good place to store extra inventory, my lunch box, and other things I’ll need during the day that I would rather not have sitting on the ground. I found my tables at Target, and you can also find them at Home Depot, Lowes, and of course, on Amazon.  I recommend plastic rather than metal as they seem to wear better over time, and they’re easy to clean.
• Tablecloth.  Some authors like to get customized tablecloths or table runners with their logo, or author name on the front.  Those are super-fun and catch the attention of passersby.  But be careful.  I once bought a custom table runner and discovered that it was not machine washable.  Your table is going to get dirty, so plan for this eventuality and find a vendor who can make one you can wash – a lot!  If not branded, at least cover your table in your brand’s complimentary colors – black and white are always a positive choice if you haven’t yet discovered your “brand” colors.  Remember that your tablecloth should cover the entire table and hang down in front so it looks professional, and… you can hide boxes of additional stock underneath your table and no one can see the mess.
• Chair or Stool.  For years, I just used the chairs that were provided by the event coordinators.  These are usually simple metal folding chairs.  They’re not very comfortable, and I found that I was spending more time standing than sitting due to that fact.  Now, I travel with a tall stool with a padded seat, that also has a comfy back rest.  I find it works well for greeting visitors without all the sit-down-stand-up, and it keeps me at eye-level with passersby, making engagement much easier.  Here’s the one I use (https://amzn.to/3ITepKi), but there are lots of them out there.   I like this particular stool because it packs easily, and has a small stand built into the back, so when I’m at indoor events, and my table is situated with an aisle on both sides, I can set a poster on this little stand as an attention-getter for people whose faces I may not be able to see because my back is to them.

​What does normalcy look like to an Indie Author?  Spending afternoons surrounded by a herd of authors, soaking up their inspiration, and connecting with readers of every age.  Unfortunately, as it did for nearly everyone else on the planet, the past almost three years meant a full-stop on normal.  This is a challenging thing for an extroverted author who thrives on spending time in the company of other people who also enjoy words.  It was a struggle.  I tried to focus on writing during this time of seclusion, and I was fairly productive… I published a book of poetry, two writing workshop workbooks, and collaborated on a children’s picture book with my husband.  Also, for the first time in many years, I was able to “win” at NaNoWriMo.  But life just wasn’t the same.  I found that I craved interaction with people… especially other writers.

​So, I worked to fill the gap by creating a series of Virtual Book Festivals.  I was a “green-broke mare” on Zoom when it all began.  I stumbled through the learning curve, and eventually, it became almost second nature.  Laughing and talking with readers and authors made the days of quarantine far more bearable.  I was able to spend time with my “tribe” each night and felt a little more connected to the world because I could see their faces, hear their giggles, and groan at their silly jokes.  I discovered some new-to-me authors… people whom I wouldn’t have known existed before the pandemic.  Some of these folks have become friends, some have been welcomed into my tribe… and Drake even became close with a few of these wonderful souls.  It was a fantastically fun experience… but still, it wasn’t the same.  I missed their hugs, I missed the exchange of energy that happens when you get a room full of creatives together, and I missed meeting readers and hearing what types of stories they would like me to create next.

​In January, I tentatively began going back into the world, participating in festivals and fairs, and connecting with humans in-person again.  I cannot begin to tell you how much I’ve missed these events.  I began with a little pop-up shop experience in Brooklyn, Michigan.  Cairns Creations & VIP, is an eclectic shop owned by the incredibly energetic, Stacy A. Saxton.  Fellow Indie Author, Douglas S. Pierce introduced me to this opportunity, and I had a great time.  Douglas and I shared the afternoon with Marianne Wieland, met some readers, and sold some books.  I was a little shaky out of the gate, but soon, I regained my stride, and I remembered how it all worked.  I began to feel comfortable back in the saddle of public events again… yet still a bit tentative with it all.  You never know how the riding season will go when you’ve been away from the reins for a while.

​March brought me to a familiar pasture, as I returned to the Michigan-Made Market at Leon & LuLu’s in Clawson, Michigan.  This specialty boutique (which was built inside the renovated roller rink I frequented as a pre-teen) is one of my favorite places to spend the day.  The energy is spectacular. The employees, the owner, the people who come to share their talent, and the visitors who appreciate what we do, always make my time there worthwhile.  Making the day even more special, was my dear friend, and fellow Indie Author, Kate McNeil, who spent part of the day visiting and laughing with me (she took this photo).  I’m looking forward to another event in this special space in June.

​April ushered in Spring with an event to support a local animal shelter at the American Legion Hall in Lapeer, Michigan.  For anyone who knows me… or meets me, for that matter, you’ll know that I usually jump at the opportunity to do anything that serves animals.  On this day, I got to spend time with my good friend, Erik Rurikson, with whom I am collaborating on a fantasy novella, and some other super-crafty people.  Seriously, the things people can make with their imagination and their hands fascinate me!  We had a good day and helped some deserving animals feel a little bit safer in the world.  I was having so much fun petting dogs and eating Girl Scout Cookies, I forgot to take photos! 

​May sunshine brought me to my first outdoor paddock in a very long time.  Although I was out of practice setting up my tent, and couldn’t have done it without help this first time out, I feel confident that I can do it now on my own, forever. Great trainers make it all seem so easy!  Thank you, Andrew.  It always feels good when I can participate in an event that lends support to a charity or school.  This time, I was pleased to lend my day to the Kearsley Marching Band in Flint, Michigan.  I was a little disappointed by the absence of the band, but the day was still a ton of fun. How could it not be?  I shared my tent with fellow Indie Author, Andrew Allen Smith.  We’ve been friends for a while, and I simply can’t think of a better way to spend my day than laughing and talking about writing and life with this gentleman.  The sunshine welcomed us, warmed us, and stayed all day.  The visitors we encountered were kind, energetic as they trotted through the sunshine, and many were interested in our books.  We spoke to several for an extended period, and the conversations were quite enjoyable.  The rain waited until just a few minutes after we packed up and were on the road before it sputtered from the sky.  Gratitude for the delay was abundant in my heart.  The high energy of the day reminded me again, why humanity is one of my favorite things about life.  I’m excited at the thought of returning next year to do it all again.

​This past Saturday, I spent the day with two author friends, D.M. Taylor and Clay Boura… and met a bunch of extremely talented authors that were new-to-me at the Macomb Intermediate School District’s Author Festival.  Although it rained heavily shortly after we arrived, the rain didn’t stay long.  Fortunately, we were indoors.  However, we got to enjoy the reverberation of thunder’s hooves upon the glass dome of the foyer.  It was a spectacular sound.  I was pleased to meet several children, some of whom wanted to become authors themselves, one day.  I also learned a bit about the weather from Owly, the mascot of NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration).  I had a lot of fun.  It’s hard not to when you get to hang out with such wonderful people and gallop through an afternoon filled with the written word.

​I have many more events scheduled this summer and autumn, and I feel I’m ready… seat in the saddle, hands on the reins – not too tightly – ready to canter through the days of wonderment as I introduce readers to my books.  I hope to see you at one of these lush pastures.  If you don’t find a book on my table that interests you, I hope you’ll stop anyway and say hello.  To me, each of you is like a carrot to a mare spending her days grazing in the warm sunshine… a special treat to be cherished.

During the past year of COVID isolation, many Indie Authors – indeed, most Indie Authors – have been forced to cancel plans for fairs, festivals, and bookshop signing events.  For those of you who are unfamiliar, these events are the best way for Indie Authors to meet new readers, make (what we hope will be) a lasting connection, and sell books.  These events are not only for the readers, but for the authors, too.  It is a way for Indie Authors to network with other authors, gain valuable insight into craft concepts, marketing tips, and simply build new friendships with people who “get it”.  One who writes, after all, is a specialized brand of unique.  We talk with our imaginary friends regularly, and they tell us some of the most fascinating stories, that we are then compelled to record and share.   People who don’t engage in this process may not fully understand.  But the other writers – oh yeah – they get it.  So, events where we can connect with both the storytellers and the readers of the world are critical to our sanity.  One fuels the process to continue, the other legitimizes it.

Over the past year, I’ve been privileged to host three very different Virtual Book Festivals.  Why?  Because I noticed that Indie Authors needed another option for outreach.  Because I noticed that readers were complaining about a lack of new book discovery.  Because I missed my tribe.  And, because I live by the philosophy that says, “You don’t get to complain if you don’t take action.”  So, I jumped in the deep end, and launched headlong into what has been, and might become, one of the most positive community engagement opportunities I’ve ever done.

That first Virtual Book Festival, back in June of 2020, was a bit shaky, to say the least.  Zoom was new technology to me, and I didn’t have what I would call a solid outline.  I’d hosted in-person festivals in the past, and even produced fifty-four episodes of a TV program spotlighting and interviewing Indie Authors, but those are vastly different from entering into a digital world, attempting to achieve the same ends.  I designed a loose format of interviews and readings, hoping that it would all work out.  That first Virtual Book Festival simply reinforced the fact that, creatively, I cannot survive as a Pantser!  I enjoy the flexibility structure offers… and the back up plan when things don’t go so smoothly.  So I tried again in October.

The Autumn Virtual Book Festival was similar in many ways, but different, too.  In my very Plotter nature, I made a plan, devised a theme, and tried to build games and prizes that supported the idea.  Some of it went well, some of it didn’t.  It turns out that there is indeed such a thing as over-planning, and over committing to too many subplots.  It was a fun festival, with nearly sixty-five separate events, each author getting two days of airtime… but it was difficult to convey the core of the message – extraordinary books and authors – to readers, and it was exhausting for me.  So, I did what I do with my writing, I enlisted the help of editors and beta readers that I trust, and I killed my darlings.  After that process of evaluation, I figured, what the heck, I’ll take what I’ve learned, and try again in February.  After all, one doesn’t stop writing simply because one doesn’t sell thousands of books with the first two offerings.  And, I wasn’t doing anything in the middle of winter, anyway.

So, I revamped my plan.  I reduced the number of events, scaling back to just one per day (instead of two or three), combined authors in genre groups, rather than in individual segments, and added an element of fun and mystery with a Blind Date marketing platform.  To create a greater level of security, and (I hoped) to create a more welcoming (and less intimidating) interaction, I limited the onscreen video to presenting authors and backstage crew.  I added mini-workshops to support aspiring writers and authors with their craft, and changed the contest/prize schema to once per day, rather than once per week, with three fun bonus prizes, and a super bonus prize for the really courageous who chose to be silly along the way.  Again, some aspects of this festival were more effective and engaging than others, and I learned a lot.  The most important lesson… what is a creative marketing hook for me, is a decisive challenge for others, even after I explain my vision.  Will I ever do a Blind Date event again… perhaps not.  It was a tricky wicket for some.  However, not to be deterred completely, and because plotting is certainly my strength, even before February was over, I began planning for the June 2021 Virtual Book Festival… in the event that there was interest to continue from the authors.  It turns out, there was some interest… so, onward ho!

Now, as I’ve once again launched my skiff into an unknown sea, I find myself in the doldrums of self-doubt and continuous creative self-recrimination.  Am I actually providing a thing – writing a Festival Story – that people want?  I know that my motives are equal parts selfishness in my own discovery of new authors and their books, and a sincere desire to help those in my tribe to be more successful and thrive in this unusual preoccupation we share.  Yet, in the dead air of day, with the tell-tails laying flat against the canvas… I begin to hallucinate mirages of mutiny on the horizon.  Yes, I’ve got cabin fever, as do a lot of us… but is that reason enough... is another Virtual Book Festival solution enough... to outweigh the investment of my, and everyone else’s, time, attention, and money?  The promise I made to myself was that I would continue until I was told to stop… as with my writing. 

And yet, one must consider the perspective that silence may also be the answer that should direct one’s action; at least until the voices are brave enough to deny and decry.  After all, if it can happen to Dr. Suess, can’t it also happen to me?  Is that a risk that’s worth taking in the promotion of myself?  In my promotion of others?  In my practice of writing?
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I have set my sails, plotted my course, and made the commitment.  Once more, I will cast my dock lines aside this June.  Beyond that… the sea is a fickle mistress, and perhaps my time and energy as lighthouse keeper will become moot.

​I'm madly in love with bookshops; big, small, big box, and Indie.  I'm the person that, when you take me shopping at those large warehouse stores, I always seek out the book tables while you find the bags of bulk shrimp.  I've been known to stop at garage sales, just to see if they're selling any books (far be it for me to abandon homeless books!), and I have been known to browse at a bookshop for up to five hours at a time (to the complete frustration of my husband); and come home with an armload of books.  I read them all, eventually.  And it doesn't matter how full my shelves are, I will always buy more.  You can never have too many books.  Books make the best gifts, no matter the celebration.  They're great as birthday presents, holiday presents, and "please forgive me for being stupid" presents.  Seriously, there's not an occasion in this world that a book doesn't perfectly fit and the perfect gift.

My favorite bookshops though, are the Indie Bookshops.  These are wonderful escapes, carefully curated by souls who love books just as much as I do - perhaps even more - although that's doubtful.  The moment you walk into these spaces, you know that someone with a severe love of the written word has created a place where kindred souls can easily find each other, no matter their profession, hobby interests, or age.  Three of my favorite Indie Bookshops are right here, in Michigan.  I love each of these for different reasons.  And I recommend you visit them all!

​Toadvine Books; Berkley, Michigan is owned and operated by Luke Janes.  He's a wonderful man who brought his love of bookselling with him from Denver.  He had a shop there, too.  Luke is super-knowledgeable about books.  He's has a special affinity for information about rare and unique titles.  He carefully curates each box of books, to be sure that it fits his standards of excellence, and the literary dreams of his visitors.  The shop is small and inviting; with gentle jazz or classical music playing on vinyl, from a real turntable!  It's a very intimate place with beautiful wood shelving and floors, and high-back, comfy chairs placed strategically throughout.  Toadvine Books offers a wonderful collection of used and new books, and they have a very special collection of rare and unusual books, as well.  There is a large youth room at the back of the shop, filled with books for children, as well as a hearty collection of comic books and graphic novels.  Luke also offers a prominent set of shelves near the front of the shop to showcase local Indie Authors.  If you haven't been to Toadvine Books, I highly recommend the trip; you won't be disappointed.   You can find Toadvine Books at 2783 Coolildge Highway, Berkley, Michigan 48072  The phone is 248-439-0409; and you can reach them at [email protected].  The shop hours are Tuesday thru Saturday, 11am - 6pm; and Sunday, 1pm - 5pm.  Luke offers curbside pick up and advance ordering via phone, Facebook, and email.  Be sure to call him to learn about any COVID restrictions or changes in their bookselling processes.

​Book Cottage, Jackson, Michigan is owned and operated by Nancy Lemler-Oakley.  She's a wonderful woman, and a terrific author, in her own right.  Book Cottage is an eclectic mix of both new and used books.  There is a large shelf near the front door where Nancy displays books written by local Indie Authors, and she also has a large children's section with toys, games, and puzzles, including the Michigan Chillers series.  As you walk through the shop, you're enticed by the overflowing shelves of books, all easily organized.  But the extra gem here, is that Book Cottage also hosts a market area with consignment items.  Here, you can find wonderful treasures from toys to glassware, clothing and tools.  The fun thing is, you come in looking for books, and leave with books AND an unexpected extra treasure or two.  Nancy hosts events throughout the year to showcase both local authors and local consigners... it's always a delightful surprise to discover something new at Book Cottage.  You can find Book Cottage at 4500 Francis Street, Jackson, Michigan 49203.  The phone is 517-768-8030 and you can reach them at [email protected].  The shop hours are Monday thru Thursday, 9am - 5pm; Friday 9am - 7pm; Saturday, 10am - 4pm, and Sunday, 12pm - 4pm.  Nancy offers curbside pickup as well as advance ordering via phone, Facebook, and email.  Be sure to call her ahead to learn about any COVID restrictions or changes in their bookselling processes.

R&B Used Books; Grand Blanc, Michigan is owned and operated by Beth Dumity.  This shop has been around for over fifteen years, and it keeps growing each year.  Beth has organized her gargantuan collection of used books into eleven rooms, each one holding shelves full of one particular genre.  You'll find both paperback and hardback books here, and she accepts books on trade for store credit.  One of the most fascinating things about R&B Used Books is that Beth rescues books from donation sources - both private and organizations - and finds them new, forever homes.  She has a non-profit organization that gives back to the community with the love of literature.  Her goal is to provide books to anyone who wants to read, and she does a stellar job at it!  R&B Used Books also has a generous space to support local Indie Authors, and, something extra-special; Indie Author, Boyd Craven is the author in residence at the shop.  Much like a shop cat, you may find him on any given day, sequestered in his writing space, crafting his next book.  The wonderment of having a resident author is that occasionally, when Boyd comes up for air, you can ask him questions about his books, his writing process, and when you're hooked - and you will be, quickly - he will gladly sign books for you.  His entire catalogue us hosted at the shop, of course.  Make sure you visit R&B Used Books... but plan on spending a few hours.  There are literally THOUSANDS of books at amazing pricing!  You can find R&B Used Books at 12830 Saginaw Road, Suite F, Grand Blanc, Michigan 48439.  The phone is 810-695-7762 and you can reach them at [email protected].  The shop hours are Monday, by appointment only; Tuesday thru Saturday, 11am - 5pm; Thursday, 11am - 7pm, and Sunday, 1pm - 5pm.  Beth offers curbside pickup as well as advance ordering via phone, Facebook, and email.  Be sure to call her ahead to learn about any COVID restrictions or changes in their bookselling process.

This is an event that I look forward to every year.  It is spectacularly well organized, in an fantastic location, and partnered with the SterlingFest event... all things that make this a super-fun day.  The Sterling Heights Library is the sponsor of this event that brings together 70 Michigan Authors of nearly every genre known to literature.  The tables are nicely spaced under the portico in front of the library, extending toward the Police Station, and overlooking the Arts & Craft show.  The number of people who walk through this event every year is staggering!  This event is so well-trafficked that the city provides for parking lots in outlying areas, and has shuttle buses to bring people in.  There are food vendors, musical acts playing throughout the day, and so many friendly faces, it's hard NOT to have a good day at this festival.

My favorite part of the day, aside from the new readers I get to talk with, is the time I get to spend sharing the day with my tribe.  I'm thrilled to say that out of the 70 authors that were in attendance, I am friends with about 75% of them already!  I was able to catch up with my friends and have a great day in the sunshine, surrounded by books.  I can't think of a better way to spend a Saturday!

My husband, amateur photographer, Dave Plopa, took some photos, posted here... and he caught me and some of my friends having fun on video, too.  A huge thank you goes out to him for all his love and support!

I'm excited to attend this fun event next year!

Photos and Video provided by Dave Plopa Photography