Authors and Illustrators Come Out To Play

Last night my favorite bookstore--Children's Book World in Haverford, Pennsylvania--threw its annual Authors and Illustrators Night.  The event brings together local YA and children's book authors and illustrators with avid readers, and it's always great fun.  Have I mentioned that YA and children's book authors tend to be some of the nicest people you'll ever meet?  

Authors Tiffany Schmidt, E. C. Myers, and Patti Cheshire

As a relative newcomer to the YA world, I'm always very grateful for the chance to meet others who write for young audiences.  And meeting YA readers is always a thrill.  

Jennifer Hubbard and Elisa Ludwig

Andre came with me, because he always enjoys this event too.  

In his hand, he's got an authographed copy of Jennifer Hubbards' new book, Until It Hurts to Stop, about the toll bullying takes on a teen.  We are currently engaged in heated negotiations over which of us gets to read it first.

Thanks to the excellent and enthusiastic folks at Children's Book World for this event--one of the highlights of my year.