I am a huge fan of a book or literary event. Listening to authors talk about their books, and writing processes, always inspires me. Hearing authors read from their own work is also a wonderful treat. An author is able to bring characters they have created alive in a unique way. Characters from their books have already taken on a life and voice in the authors head, plots and story lines are completely understood and intimately known. It is this, which I believe, enables authors to inhabit them in a wonderful way when they read aloud.
I was reminded of this again a few weeks ago when I was fortunate enough to hear Kate Morton and Joanna Trollope discuss, and read from their new books, on stage at the Chiswick Book Festival. These are two authors who I completely love and admire, and it was an absolute pleasure to listen to them. It also made me reflect again on the joy of a book event.
I consider myself very fortunate to live so close to the home of Chiswick Book Festival which has been around for 10 years now and is well established in the literary calendar. I am also very privileged to live in London where there is almost an embarrassment of riches when it comes to book events. I suspect if I tried hard enough I could go to one almost every evening of the year.
Both of these reasons and many others beside mean that I have had the pleasure of attending many literary festivals, author talks, book launches and similar over the years. During this time I have gathered a few tips for getting the best from any book event.
Firstly and for all the above reasons, ‘ Just Go’.
I am fairly confident that wherever you live, you will not have to search too hard to find a book event near you. Independent book shops and the larger book chains all host book events. Literary festivals happen all over the UK, and in fact the world. The Literary Festivals UK website is hugely comprehensive. In October alone there are around 50 literary festivals listed on the website. Also look at bookshop websites or pick up leaflets in your local book shops for whats happening locally to you. You may be surprised. Single events are often just a few pounds and provide for a very entertaining coupe of hours.
Seek Out New authors.
It’s very tempting to just go along to events featuring authors you already love or know something about, or to simply seek out the big names. There is absolutely nothing wrong with this but don’t limit yourself. A book event is a perfect opportunity to discover new voices and authors. I have been to some brilliant events where I have read nothing by the author previously and come away inspired and excited. Harriet Evans is a wonderful author I have discovered most recently in this way.
Don’t be Afraid to Go it Alone.
I have gone to many book events on my own and I can truthfully say I have always enjoyed them. Sometimes I have found my seat, sat quietly on my own and just enjoyed the event. On other occasions I have been brave enough to chat to the person next to me, particularly if they appear to be on their own too. Usually this has turned in to a lovely chat about books and book and author recommendations. One thing you can guarantee is that anyone at a book event is only to happy to chat about books.
Arrive Early and Sit Close to the Front.
Now anyone who know me and happens to be reading this, will know I’m not renowned for being early for things, mostly on time yes, but rarely early. However, arriving a little early will give you time to enjoy that complimentary glass of wine which is often included in the usually very reasonable entrance fee (thank you very much Daunts books!), and find your self a seat near the front. Its like going to the theatre. You don’t want to spend the whole time shuffling in your seat and craning you neck to get a good view. Sit near the front, where you can see the author and host and really feel a part of the whole event.
Ask Questions (if you dare!)
All book events, however big or small will always end with a time for the audience to ask questions. Now unless you are particularly bold (and I’m not) I appreciate this can be very daunting, particularly if you are in a large auditorium. I speak as one who is not at all good at this but is determined to get better. If you have a burning question, do ask it. This could be your one opportunity to make a connection with an author you feel you know because you have read their books for so long. I wrote a piece earlier this year about my relationship with the late Anita Shreve through reading her books
Buy the Books
If you are anything like me you need no excuse to buy a book. However buying a book at a book event where you have just heard the author talk is a particular kind of book buying pleasure. And of course if autographs are your thing this is the perfect opportunity to get your book signed. If i’m honest I’m mostly not too concerned about getting my book signed but I do love this opportunity to chat to the author and also tell them how much I’ve loved their books, or enjoyed the talk or anything else. I was brave enough at an event a couple of years ago to approach the very talented Joanna Cannon, just after she had published The Trouble with Goats and Sheep. She was lovely and I really enjoyed chatting to her, and since connecting with her on twitter. Authors put their heart and soul into their writing, so they are usually only too willing to chat with their readers who have enjoyed their books. This is also a much less scary way to ask questions, if you were not brave enough during the event.
I hope this has wetted you appetite for a book event. I am hoping to fit in a couple more before Christmas if possible. I would also love to hear your recommendations for books events or author talks you enjoy.
