INSPIRATION | All About the People

About a week ago, I had a book signing in Columbia, Missouri, about two hours from my St. Louis hometown. As a new author, you’re not well known and don’t know what to expect. You do what you can to get the word out, but I’ve seen several signings for unknown authors and, well, enough said!

I’m thankful to say we went through almost the entire supply the bookstore had ordered. We left only four copies behind, which went beyond my dreams. When new readers come on board, it’s a thrill.

But I have to say, the best part of a book signing has nothing to do with selling books. The day boils down to the people.

Columbia’s Barnes and Noble is located in a shopping mall, so a lot of traffic came into the store in four hours’ time. Most customers hadn’t heard of From The Dead yet. Many decided to stop by to chat and/or buy the book. Most people asked what the book is about. But I loved turning the table by asking what type of books they like to read. Eventually some opened up about other aspects of their lives—what they do for a living or a dream they carry.

That was fascinating. The visitors came from all walks of life.

Moms with kids. A musician. Two ministers. A book reviewer. Students with dreams of their own. And the list goes on.

Each person had a unique story.

And a unique (written) story can serve as a common thread among people of diverse backgrounds.

While talking with visitors, once again it hit me that we’re not members of a glob. We’re individuals. And as an author, I have the privilege of connecting with individuals through the written word. Each individual faces an array of circumstances as he or she reads a novel. Some of those circumstances aren’t too encouraging, so an author has the opportunity to speak from the heart and remind them not to give up.

This latest experience provided fresh insight and vision in preparation for my next novel.

It’s all about the heart. And it’s all about the people who cross our paths.

Thanks for the reminder, those of you who stopped by to say hello!

Hope this helps. Never give up!

johnherricknet.blogspot.com
www.johnherrick.net

Blog Tour and Book Signing Update

Latest From The Dead blog tour interview at Debbie's Book Bag! http://bit.ly/ij4BMP

On Monday, 11/29, I'll stop by BLKosiner's Book Blog. http://bit.ly/fujFrI

The book signing in Columbia, MO, this past Saturday went so well. Thanks to all who showed up. I'm blessed with terrific readers, and it was nice to meet you in person!

Have a great Thanksgiving, everyone!

John

www.johnherrick.net
johnherricknet.blogspot.com

NEWS | November 20 Book Signing - Columbia MO

For those in the Columbia-Jefferson City, Missouri area, I would love to meet you! I will visit the Barnes and Noble - Columbia Mall location for a From The Dead book signing on Saturday, November 20, 1-4 p.m. The book makes a great gift!

Details at the Barnes and Noble site: http://store-locator.barnesandnoble.com/event/3064699

www.johnherrick.net
johnherricknet.blogspot.com

NEWS | Student Shout-out

I would like to give a national shout-out to an up-and-coming writer, Lauren Edmonds, who recently wrote an article about From The Dead. The article appeared in The Explorer, the student newspaper at her high school (and my alma mater), Hudson. Great job, Lauren! http://bit.ly/9oJaWA

www.johnherrick.net
johnherricknet.blogspot.com

Book Noise: Interview & Giveaway "From the Dead" by John Herri...

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The Elliott Review: Guest Post: John Herrick on Keeping It Real: "When I decided to write about a preacher’s son in From The Dead, the character’s religion was the last thing I planned to examine. Upon hea..."

The Elliott Review: Review: From the Dead by John Herrick

The Elliott Review: Review: From the Dead by John Herrick: "This book wowed me for several reasons. The main reason is that I love John Herrick's treatment of the subject matter. With this book, he breaks the mold..."

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Book Noise: From the Dead by John Herrick:There is an uplifting quality in Herrick's storytelling that shouldn't be passed up. Once in a while a book grabs you and will not let you go; for me it is "From the Dead..."