Being a new author, I approached my first ever author event – the launch of my new series, The Rescue Princesses – with some apprehension. Would enough people come to the event? Would they enjoy it?
I needn’t have worried. My local book shop was welcoming and people were very happy to come and chat to me on the day.
So here’s my guide to enjoying a first event with young readers and their parents.
First, get into your role! I felt a little old to be a princess, but I could manage being a queen! Just don’t expect your other half to let you off household chores afterwards. Apparently, even if you’re royal, you still have to wash up!
Me in my queen costume
Second, connect with your readers! Talking to the children who were buying the book was a joy and a privilege. I even had one baby call me Santa! It must have been the red cloak that confused him…
A Princess Emily look-alike
Third, have an activity planned! The Rescue Princesses characters might have swung from one bookshelf to another, but tiara-making was probably more acceptable to the book shop staff!
Decorating tiaras
Most of all, enjoy the day! Many thanks to Waterstones at Midsummer Place in Milton Keynes for having me along.