This past Tuesday, I did a book signing and presentation on Waverly at the Spencer County Public Library. It was so much fun!
My friend John, a retired attorney in Rockport, helped make this event possible. He and his wife, a retired librarian, contacted the Spencer County Library to suggest having a book signing, and even dropped off a copy of Waverly for them to review. I am so thankful for their support!
In the days leading up to the signing, the library staff and I had been corresponding via email. I sent them a press release, which they dropped off at the newspaper office. However, there was a miscommunication of some sort because the press release never made it to publication.
John went to bat for me again, contacting friends in the Historical Society and his friends and neighbors to encourage them to attend the signing. Still, I wasn’t expecting much of a turnout.
When I showed up at the library, the director, Sherri, was very helpful and friendly. She was also very anxious. She pulled me to the side and explained quietly, “Now, please understand, this is a very small town. Like, very small. And given the fact that nothing was printed in the paper, I just have no idea how many we’ll have show up. I’m hoping for at least ten, if we’re lucky.”
I smiled and assured her it was fine, that I would be happy to share about my book, even if only a handful of people showed up.
As I was setting up and chatting with a few early arrivals, I started to notice the room filling up. John introduced me to several attendees as they shuffled in and took their seats, and I realized a couple of things about the small town of Rockport. First, everyone in the community seemed to know everyone else. Second, the people are extremely friendly! I couldn’t help but feel like I was in a real-life Mayberry, straight out of The Andy Griffith show.
I had a great time just chatting and getting to know folks as the room continued to fill. By the time 6:30 rolled around and it was time to start, I was shocked to see the room was nearly full, and people were even standing in the back!
I shared a few slides, explained the true events that formed the inspiration for Waverly, and then talked about the writing and publishing process. The audience was very attentive and asked great questions. It was really fun to talk about the book, the true events that inspired it, and my writing journey.
When the presentation was over, folks lined up to have their books signed. Some had already read Waverly, but others were eager to get their hands on a copy so they could start it. I nearly sold out of the entire tote of books I brought with me!
All in all, it was a great night! I met some wonderful people and was able to explore a beautiful little town.
If you are interested in hosting me for a similar presentation about Waverly, including facts and details I uncovered during my research about the Rainey Bethea hanging, please feel free to contact me! I welcome the opportunity to speak to book clubs, historical societies, and other groups about my writing journey.
Happy reading! 🙂
Amy Bellamy, Author 