Some people may think that something like a ‘book signing’ would not be of much interest or fun for young children but this can be totally dependent on the adults; parents, grandparents or other adult involved.
Recently I had the pleasure of sharing a children’s books experience with not only two of my grandchildren but my own mother also. Being concerned how four and seven year-olds would view the book signing I did a few things in advance which had great results.
The evening before the book signing we went online and found the author’s web site where we found pictures of the author, Janet Mary Sinke, of her family (children and grand-children), and the book cover picture of her newest children’s book, “My Grandpa’s Coaching Third” (review coming soon).
During the evening we also discussed things involved in writing a book and different ways authors sell their books. We explored online stores like Amazon and talked about the local book stores we have visited. Then of course we discussed libraries and schools.
When we arrived at the Barnes & Noble book store on West Saginaw Highway in Lansing it took us a few minutes to find her but was well worth all the effort. The seven year-old was the first to spot Grandma Janet Mary and he shouted out, “There she is Grandma! And that’s the book we saw.”
He quickly lost interest in the stack of books when he spotted the container of small ‘baseballs’ setting on the table next to the display. Asking what those were for Grandma Janet Mary told him he and his sister both could have one. With baseballs in hand they were off to explore the store, giving ‘Grandma’ the opportunity to visit with the author.
The excitement may have lasted only a few moments but is a memory I am sure will remain with my grandchildren for a lifetime. On the way home they asked when were we were going to see “Grandma J” again! We came home with two autographed books which the kids were thrilled to show their mother and brag about having met the lady that wrote them!
Being an avid lover of books for as long as I can remember, until April 17th, 2010 I myself had never attended an author’s book signing. I am thrilled at having my first be with children’s books author Janet Mary Sinke (Grandma Janet Mary).
The book signing turned out to be a wonderful experience for all four of us and I highly recommend if you have the chance to share a book signing with the children in your life you do so.
Janet Mary Sinke Book Signings
My Grandma and Me Publishing
Order a signed copy of Janet Mary Sinke’s books Online
Sample of Janet Mary Sinke’s Coming Book Signings:
St. Lawrence Hospital Gift Shop - Lansing, Michigan 48915
Wednesday, April 21, 2010 - 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Treasure Chest - St. Johns, Michigan 48879
Saturday, May 1, 2010 - 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Schuler's - Okemos, Michigan 48864
Saturday, May 15, 2010 - 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
MSU Spring Art and Craft Show
Michigan State University - East Lansing, Michigan
Saturday, May 22, 2010 - 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sunday, May 23, 2010 - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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Comments
True and interesting information.Thank you. Our children are always watching how we act and learn from parents as role models for their lives.
It sounds like a wonderful day was had by all. :)
Sounds like so much fun. My girls love story time at the bookstore and signings are next on our list!
Very good article. I always say that children tend to imitate their atmosphere.
Wow that sounds like such a fun day and a smart way to prepare younger ones when heading to an event like this. Thanks for the helpful tips! I hope to attend a book signing one day myself.
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