book signing

Romance Authors Support Literacy

July 29, 2017 | Romance Novels | Leave A Comment

Today is the final day of the 2017 Romance Writers of America (RWA) National Conference in Orlando, Florida. The closing event is the Readers for Life Literacy Autographing. This free book signing, which is open to the public and draws huge numbers of readers, features hundreds of romance writers. The Literacy Autographing is an opportunity for readers to meet their favorite authors and discover new ones.

Proceeds from book sales at this fundraiser benefit literacy programs and organizations. Since 1990, RWA has donated $1 million.

The Literacy Autographing is open from 3-5 p.m. today at the Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort , Pacific Hall.

Even if you cannot attend the RWA Readers for Life Literacy Autographing, there are many ways you can support literacy programs. Here are a few ideas:

Donate used books to libraries, schools, women’s shelters and refugee organizations.

Volunteer with your local literacy organization, school or community center to read aloud to children, provide one-on-one mentoring, etc.

Create a book-rich and reading-friendly environment in your home.

Donate to literacy organizations.

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Readers & Writers in Seattle

June 7, 2017 | Fun Stuff, Romance in Seattle, Seattle, Writing Life | Leave A Comment

Last weekend I attended the Readers & Writers Seattle event. As always, the best part of the event was meeting readers in person. Okay, I lied. The ripped cover models were the best part of the event. If you’ve ever attended a book signing or reader event featuring cover models, you’ll just nod and agree. If you haven’t….find one to attend ASAP!

Of course I was so busy enjoying the eye candy that I forgot to get photos with them. I did, however, get pictures with some of my reader and writer friends.

Readers Pamela, Tam and Kathy.

Seattle authors Jami Davenport, Darlene Panzera and me (Jacki Delecki).

Friend and reader, Cynthia

Some of the readers created “memory books” with a page dedicated to each author. They collect autographs and it was an honor to sign my page in this reader’s book.

Here’s a group photo taken at the event. FYI, tickets for 2018 are already on sale!

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3 Reasons to attend a Reader/Writer Event

February 8, 2017 | Fun Stuff, Romance in Seattle | Leave A Comment

One of the rising trends in the book community is the proliferation of reader and writer events. Back in the day, authors used book signings as a venue to connect with readers. With the closure of many brick-and-mortar book stores and the evolution of the digital marketplace, traditional book signings are a less popular option, especially when compared to everything a reader/author event (sometimes called a reader appreciation event) offers.

If you haven’t attended a reader/writer event, here are three reasons to finish the chapter you’re currently reading and find an event to explore today!

SWAG! Event coordinators usually assemble a goody bag for attendees, but authors also have lots (and lots) of goodies. Tip: Bring an extra tote or backpack to carry all the great stuff you collect. You can always tell the hardcore readers who have attended events before because they bring those wheeled-shopper carts!
Make new book friends. Everyone at a reader/writer event is there because they love books – reading them or writing them. This fun and friendly environment makes it easy to chat with strangers. You might even make a new BBF (book best friend)!
Meet the real person behind the book cover. Have you ever wondered what your favorite author is like in real life? Connecting in person gives you chance to bond over shared interests, laugh over an inside joke or just express how much you enjoy their work.

Each reader/writer event is different. Some last a few hours; some a few days. Some are free; some require paid admission. Some include a variety of genres; some are genre specific. Most include a book signing and opportunity to mix and mingle with authors.

I’m participating in the Reader & Writer Event in Seattle, June 3, 2017. This event includes more than 50 authors, hot cover models and other “bookish” fun. If you’re in the area, get a ticket before the event is sold out. If not, look online for other reader/writer events and have a great time!