Sunday, October 2, 2011

Odd-Ball Writer

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What is that title all about? That's what you’re thinking, right? It's about me.

I think most people picture writers as reclusive individuals, living and working in isolated settings, wearing flannels or threads from the late sixties and talking only to our characters. Not worried which direction our hair takes either. Some of my fellow acquaintances might fit that image to the T, but me, not so much. Okay, I’ll admit to having bad hair days. I do love working in my flannel PJs, and I do love the clothes of the Woodstock era —especially my favorite blue jeans with a butterfly patch on my *** (I’ll let that image up to you)

I do live on a mountain top, as you can see from this picture, but there usually is so much going on in the house that I have to lock myself in my office in order to have a one on one with my characters. Or go hiking with a pen and pad in hand, otherwise I’m too connected to the outside world.



A lot of my writer friends fear book signings. Not me. I love talking to people, especially those who love books as much as I do, ( I got my gift of gab from my aunt-who also landed me my first job as a waitress) which brings me to the reason for my post today. I spent a few hours this week doing signings at two libraries. Lehighton Memorial Library and Dimmick Memorial Library. Both unique and manned by wonderful librarians and supported by great friends.
I met and spoke with a host of people. Friends and locals who I love for supporting me. I also met quite a few people who were from as far away as Settle (WA), Baltimore (MD), Queens (NY), NJ, Maine, or California . It was fun chatting with them, learning why they were visiting our area, which is AWESOME BTW. For instance, the couple from Seattle was researching their past. Their ancestors actually had held their wedding reception in the house where I was signing. (Dimmick Memorial Library Annex)

At each library the patrons and I discussed what type of books we liked to read. We shared our favorites (Anyone ever hear of ‘God On A Motorcycle’—I have to Google that one) and they gave me the opportunity to tell them about my own books. A few were truly intrigued in me as a writer and that fascinated me. I’m me.
By being open and honest, I think I changed the image of a writer for a few.
So, if you’re a writer and fear getting out there to talk to readers, don’t be. They’re just like us, except they don’t have characters whispering in their ears.

If you’re a reader, thank you for appreciating our work.

If I met you this past week, I want you to know I thoroughly enjoyed our conversations. I’ll be signing again real soon. Check my website www.autumnjordon.com under news or like my FB fan page Autumn Jordon’s Fan Page, or follow me on Twitter - Ajordon.

And remember, before Borders and B&N and Amazon there was the library. Libraries are struggling and their services are needed by many. Consider helping them with a donation. Many accept used books. Talk to your librarian on how you can help.

Now, more pictures of Jim Thorpe, PA Area. (I wish I could insert a train whistle here) October-fest is all this month.



6 comments:

  1. I grew up in Chambersburg, PA (pee-yay) and attended PSU. Folks there are great. Loved your post. I write this in my flowered flannel jammies and head of hair that faces west when I look east. Writing is a great profession. We don't need to tug on panty hose or worry about lipstick on our teeth. And, we get to play literary god. Great post.

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  2. WE ARE... That is so cool, Vonnie. We're almost sisters. LOL.

    Yay, I love being who I am too. Thanks for stopping by.

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  3. Good for you Autumn! Wish I had your nerve. Love the pics too.

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  4. We should do a signing together, Beth. We'd have so much fun.

    The icing on the cake was my DH took to early dinner afterwards at one of the resturants. YUMMY!

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  5. Wonderful post, Autumn! I love that your local libraries are so supportive.
    Love your autumn pics too - my favorite time of year! I didn't realize you were in PA (pee-yay, as Vonnie correctly points out, lol) too.

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  6. Yes, I am. I love my backyard.

    Thanks for stopping by today. I hope to meet you one day.

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