Me and the ALA Convention

I don’t do a lot of book signings these days, but when I was invited to sign my soon-to-be-released book The Love of Divena at the American Library Association convention in Anaheim, I couldn’t say no. I mean, librarians would be there. City and county and school librarians. Some of my very favorite people in the world!

The Love of Divena is the third and final book of my Blessings in India trilogy. The series follows two families through 20^th century India: one a family of “untouchables,” the other the high caste Christian-in-name family that owns them.

Okay, back to Anaheim (home of Disneyland, for those not in the know). The Anaheim Convention Center is huge! So when I saw that Abingdon Press’ booth was at the far end of the hall, my spirits sank. Books, books everywhere. How many people would keep walking the aisles until they got to me?

Well, as it turned out, lots of folks did. I started signing at 9:30 a.m. and didn’t stop until the last book was gone at 12:10. And people were still in line.

I met library folks from all across theU.S., and from many other countries, too: Ireland, England, the Virgin Islands, Nigeria, Bangladesh, Kenya, India… People were so excited to see that the series was set in India. And everyone asked if I had been there. Fortunately, I have, because many knowledgeable people wanted to engage me in discussions.

Most frequently asked questions:

• How many times have you been to India?
• Answer: Eight. Ninth time this coming October.
• Is this a Christian book?
• Answer: “Yes, but not tacked on Christianity that hits readers over the head.”
• Is it suitable for young people?
• Answer: “Absolutely! Acceptable and also historically accurate.”

“Sign me up for next year!”

Me