ROAD TRIP!! We love a road trip and today was no exception as we headed out at 7:30 am this morning to the Savannah Book Festival!!
Once we arrived, we went to the Telfair Square to purchase books and mingle with the
other literary enthusiasts. After some hot tea and "crumpets" at Panera, the first author(s) on our list were Gabriel Bump and/or Casey Cep. Val headed over to the venue where Casey Cep was speaking (Lauryn stayed with me...tee heee) and once we were inside and ready, Val sends us a text that her venue was at capacity. Since the doors are locked once the author gets up to the podium; Val had to jog back in order to make it in time. PHEW...that was close.
Garbriel Bump began his session with a reading from the last chapter of his book, "Everywhere You Don't Belong". He then went on to explain that while he and the protagonist have some similarities, it is NOT him. He went on to elaborate that his book centers on belonging-more importantly, the African-American experience. However, when he went on the explain his book, he mentioned that the questions and topics presented in the book are universal and applicable to all.
Mr. Bump explained that he began writing his book in undergrad and completed his work while in graduate school. As a biracial child of an African-American mother and Anglo father, he shared his sheltered upbringing and many times being the only African-American child in the room. He also shared a racial profiling experience. One Anglo audience member chimed in, mentioning how she was the only person of "non-color" in her Black History Class in college and felt intimidated (Seriously Lady?).
JayBee, asked a question regarding his early interest in writing as well as some of his favorite authors. He mentioned that he began reading as a child and enjoyed reading plays. Some of his favorite authors are James Baldwin, George Saunders, and Toni Morrison.
On our way to the autograph tent, we ran into Gabriel Bump who wanted to know more about our book club.
After our book signing and photo, it was on to the next author, or should I say authors: Kent Garrett and Jeanne Ellsworth, who "penned" the book, "The Last Negros at Harvard". This book discussion was difficult to "stomach" because there were so many aspects that not only hit on the racial strife of the era, but the negative connotations associated with it. For example, these 18 African-American (Negros-as they kept saying that) were actually selected for this 1961 class. After their selection, these young men were sent to a New England Prep school prior to entry to make sure they could adapt (huh??).
During his time at Harvard, Mr. Garrent mentioned that there was a concentrated focus on "critical thinking" and that the Harvard 18 were studied by fellow students and it was no secret.
Garrett and Ellsworth are both in their 70s and spoke about their relationship and how they met on-line and after dating eventually began writing together about Mr. Garrett's collegiate experience.
Ms. Ellsworth and Mr. Garrett were working towards a documentary, but elected to write a book instead when the capital investment was not cost effective.
While standing in line, we ran into some of our social media friends like Maya Hollinshead and Turning Page Book Store from South Carolina!! Hey Y'all!!
After all the hype about "Such A Fun Age" we were anxious to meet author, Kiley Reid (and her hair) for our next session. Ms. Reid began with a 5 minute reading from her book and was quick to interject that although she has been a child care giver for most of her life, the book is not about her (what is up with all of these "suspicious" disclaimers?).
Val asked Kiley Reid a question about her newfound fame and initial reaction to the call via her book selection by Reese Witherspoon's book club. She explained that she did not receive a call, but a "DM"...What?! Even the Queen of Book Clubs, Oprah, places a call to authors that she selects. Come on, Reese, step up your game!
She went on to discuss 3 (which morphed into 4) things that inspire her when writing:
1. Awkward Moments - Children create many awkward moments
2. Money - Not hiding the fact that you are speaking or referring to money. Dispel the thought process that "Wealth=Goodness"
3. Memory - Telling a story over and over and before it ends, it has been embellished into something else
4. Children Obsessions - She used the analogy of some children she was caring for who saw a car being towed. They were so enamored with it that they asked if they could watch it..
She also mentioned how she was inspired by Donna Tartt's novel, "The Little Friend" and loves to write about life and the uniqueness of the balance of quality of life and work.
After our literary filled day; we headed to Bonefish to a nice calm dinner and to celebrate the day, which was Valerie's birthday. We had soooooo much fun and really enjoyed this year's book festival in Savannah.
I must acknowledge that Bonnie broke my CARDINAL RULE while I am driving:
"NO SLEEPING ALLOWED!!"
Okay Bonnie, that means you drive next year (Tee Heeeeee)!!