I've only just recovered from my trip back to Indiana last week. Six schools, 1,200 kids, two signings. It was overwhelming and pretty fantastic. The kids I met were wonderful; respectful and attentive during my presentation and they asked terrific questions. At every school a kid always asked which of my books is my favorite (I don't have a favorite. I love them all, like I do my children!). I got some other great questions, too: Did I marry the boy I struck out when I played baseball? (No). What is my favorite color? (Black). Will I ever move back to Indiana? (No, but I love to visit). What do my kids think about my writing career? (They're kind of tired of listening to me about it and occasionally they're frightened -- such as when I'm driving on the highway and writing a note to myself at the same time). Thanks to everyone who hosted me: Barker, Krueger, Elston, Kesling, Boston, South Central middle schools. You all were wonderful!

Strange but true!

I thought Pragmatic Mom's recent post, comparing my book with the new Penderwick book, was brilliant. So honored to be mentioned in the same paragraph! My youngest daughter and I love the Penderwick books -- and can't wait for the new release. Thanks so much, Mia, for such an interesting and thoughtful post! Here's the link:

http://www.pragmaticmom.com/?p=17317

LaPorte, here I come!

Okay, LaPorteans and other Hoosiers. I'll be back in town next week, visiting schools and hosting a few book signings. Please come by and say hello. Here's the schedule: Thursday, April 28, I'll be speaking at all three Michigan City middle schools. From 3:30-5pm, I'll be signing books at Reader's World in the Marquette Mall.

Friday, April 29, I'll be at Kesling, Boston and South Central middle schools.

Saturday, April 30, I'm hosting a writing workshop for sixth and seventh graders at the LaPorte County Library, from 9:30-11am. This is free, but you must sign up. No experience necessary and space is limited. Call the library or visit the website to sign up.

http://www.lapcat.org/

Also on Saturday, 11:30-1pm, I'll be speaking and signing books at the Temple News Agency in downtown LaPorte. If you want to hear me speak, make sure you arrive by 11:30.

Can't wait to see everyone!