 Like many people watching the President and the first family on November 7, I was struck by how tall Malia and Sasha have become. Wait! When did they grow up so fast? My next thought: Is it too late for them to read my middle-grade novel? For Malia, 14 and a high school freshman at Sidwell Friends, the answer is yes. But if I could be so bold, I think Sasha, 11, would love My Mixed-Up Berry Blue Summer. This brazen idea came to me last spring when President Obama came out in support of gay marriage on May 9, just two days before my book launched. I wanted to send him the book as a thank you but I knew it was impossible to just send it to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. Here's what I did:
As you get older, birthdays are smaller affairs and mostly a chance to be with the people you love. This year, my daughters made me an amazing cheesecake (wrong time of year for pie!).
I know what I like for my birthday. How do I get ready for my book's birthday? I'm overwhelmed as I learn how to celebrate the publication of MY MIXED UP BERRY BLUE SUMMER. The big day is 99 days away! So that means build the buzz, and build it now. So I've revived my twitter account (follow me @JenGenn), I'm blogging more, and joining the conversation more. And I'm inspired by AC Gaughen, and cheering for writer friends, including Kekla Magoon, and supporting independent booksellers. The good news is people are helping. The sales team is talking about my book this weekend to librarians at ALA midwinter in Dallas. I wish I could see the banner over the table! The best for me, though, is that soon June's story of pie and courage will be out. Here's hoping readers of all ages enjoy MY MIXED UP BERRY BLUE SUMMER. |
