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Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Dashner Does Houston

By Tamra Norton

My good buddy James Dashner, author of The 13th Reality: The Journal of Curious Letters, published by Shadow Mountain came to H-town for a week of school visits and Barnes&Noble events, so of course, I insisted he stay at "Hotel Norton" while he had events in the northern parts of my fair city.

Knowing James was coming and doing his presentation to a bajillion elementary schools, I asked if he wouldn't mind doing his presentation for the homeschoolers and others in my area. After a quick visit with the lovely Rebecca Denham, YA librarian at the awesome Barbara Bush Branch of the Harris County Public Library, the gig was scheduled, and I was psyched. I've seen James in action numerous times--even team taught a few classes with him--so I knew his presentation would be fantastic and get the kids pumped about reading, writing, and "Changing the World"--the theme of his book tour. He did that, and more!

I don't want to give away too much of James' presentation, but if you've ever been curious about what The Dude looks like in tights... Well, I've already said too much. But here are some photos, complements of the incredible and lovely Sunbum.

Me, James and my two youngest kiddos.
Every kid went home with an autographed poster.
And a bookmark!

The maaaahvelous Sunbum (my adopted daughter, if her mom would let me) and her fave author.


"Friends of the Library" not only had books for sale, but a nice spread of cookies, fruit and vegetable trays, punch and even cheese (which James gobbled up before anyone arrived).
What happens when James eats too much cheese!



James and me at Nauvoo Books--the rockin'-est bookstore in Houston!

Come back again, James...but maybe not during hurricane season! :)

7 comments:

Julie Wright said...

looks like a good time. The only thing that would have made it better was if I were there with you guys!

Tamra Norton said...

Now TAHT would have been fun, Jules! Some of the best times I've ever had were hangin' with my buds when we're all completely exhausted but so happy to be together after a long day at a writer's conference. Can't wait for the next round...

Marcia Mickelson said...

Sounds like a ton of fun. I need to make it up your way one of these days.

Janette Rallison said...

You're making me miss my storymaker friends! So glad a good time was had by all (despite the cheese . . .)

Lauren said...

Sister Norton you are da bomb dot com!!!!!!!! I love, love, love your fairy book!!!! It was totally awesome! When I finished it I was so sad because there wasn't more! It was that good!

Tamra Norton said...

YAY, Sunbum!!! I'm so glad you liked my manuscript. Now, if only "The Publisher of My Dreams" would get back to me with a contract! (fingers crossed)

Lauren said...

Mine are still crossed! I'm really hoping that you get "the publisher of your dreams" also!!!!