My recent travels across Australia presented an opportunity for my first dabble into the library and bookshop tour scene. Like all new things, the learning curve was steep.
It was lovely meet the RFDS volunteers in Goolwa - Steph, Wendy and Duncan were very welcoming and I hope the full set of Opal Fields books raises a huge sum for this worthy charity.
While in South Australia, I called into Baile Books to meet Caitlin who runs this beautiful little preloved bookshop in Strathalbyn. I'll be looking to add this as a stop on my next book tour. The setting and facilities are ideal for a garden party style event.
On the way back to Queensland, we (George and I) stopped off in Balranald, right on the Murrumbidgee River. It was stinking hot, but the town turned out to welcome me at the library and I had some fabulous questions thrown my way—including one from a reader who couldn't make the event. I think it was Kate who asked if Nick was going to get his own series.
I'll have to ponder that one... A bit tricky when I write strong female leads, but you never know.
I can't thanks to the town's librarian Janaya enough. Janaya is doing a wonderful job of connecting the Balranald community. This little library is so much more than a building full of books. The youth have a safe place to hang out and do homework after school and the mature residents are given every opportunity to connect with one another through the various events Janaya is working so hard to bring to the town.
Keep up the good worth Janaya and I hope you'll have me back again in the future.
My final appearance was after a shot stop off at home. I've just gotten home from Port Macquarie where I met Leanne and Kia, along with her mum Chris and one of my ARC team Trevor. The turn out for this event was fantastic and I'm so honoured to have met some lovely readers and answered questions for a few new ones.
All up, the tour was small, but so much fun and I'm going to be far more organised next time. There were quite a few libraries I couldn't fit in on this trip, so I'll be touching base with them well in advance next time I'm ready to tour.