Well, the book signing at Coles, Conestoga Mall in Waterloo went well, and not so well. Certainly I sold quite a number of Shadow Song and Recipes of a Dumb Housewife. The books were well-received by the public, and attendance was good despite having a lack of media coverage. The highlight of the day, for me, was meeting Kris Kurasz, an old chum of my son and daughter’s. A whole gaggle of kids (Shawn, Shane, Kris, Adam, Kelly, Matthew) all used to play D&D (Dungeons & Dragons) together and often they’d ask if I would DM (Dungeon Master) for them. (Lorina, can you come out to play?)

Kris, I am delighted to report, has turned out a lovely man, soon to be 30, quite content in his career and relationship with a sweetheart of a woman, Jennifer. It does tend to make one feel a tad older to see these ‘kids’ again. But it is also cause for a heart brimming with memory and affection.

The second highlight was meeting up with writing colleague, Matthew Wiles after having corresponded only by email since we first met. You should check out his sf novel, Red Phoenix. Of course, Matthew needs to just grit his teeth and get his work listed with Chapters. Yes, I’m talking to you, Matt!

The downside of the day was, unfortunately, lacklustre response from the particular store I was attending. Not sure if they were having a bad day, or what, but I was left to my own devices, completed my own consignment contract, and wasn’t invited to leave any books on consignment despite very positive public response. Well, one for experience. And certainly this response is remarkable only because it is so opposed to the professionalism and enthusiasm I’ve experienced with all the other branches of the Chapters/Indigo chain.

Anyway, one more book signing down. Next month (Saturday, May 31, 1-3:00 p.m.) I’ll be at Coles, Upper Canada Mall, Newmarket. Hope to see you there!