Highlights of the Empire State Book Festival

The 2nd annual Empire State Book Festival escaped bad weather but not poor attendance. At least it appeared that way; I suppose we'll have to wait for official numbers.

Which is too bad. There were plenty of great authors in attendance, including Ann Martin (of The Baby-Sitters Club), who gave the opening remarks, and Rosanne Cash, who gave the keynote address. In between there was plenty to do, for book buyers, lit lovers, and aspiring authors.

Empire State Book Festival Highlights

My own personal list:

1. The Illustrator's Panel. Artists discussed their approach to picture books in the Picture This presentation. Featuring Julia Gorton, Daniel Kirk and Steven Petruccio (and a host of technical problems), I found this the most informative of all the panels I attended. Julia Gorton is probably the most experimental of the three, and Steven Petruccio's rich, detailed work impressed me greatly. I've long been a fan of Daniel Kirk's Library Mouse books. I found his approach to his work similar to mine, even if his art is far better. But then that's why I attended this panel.
2. Words Come First. A panel featuring two writers (Susanna Hill and Amy Axelrod) and one writer-illustrator (Iza Trapani, who I saw last year), on the idea that story comes first. And while there are some exceptions to this (Mo Willems created the drawing of Pigeon before he ever wrote a word), I generally agree with the premise here. The writer writes and the illustrator gives it added life. Examples of artistic disagreements and wonderful working relationships abounded. Spoke briefly with Susanna Hill afterword, because I like both Punxsutawney Phyllis and Can't Sleep Without Sheep. Looking forward to getting her new book April Fool, Phyllis.
3. Rosanne Cash. Her speech was heartfelt but also full of a seasoned performer's tricks (audience participation, a brief break into song, etc. -- plenty of ways to keep people engaged). Best of all, she didn't use a PowerPoint presentation. Authors always seem to rely on visual gimmickry rather than words to hold their audience. Long been a pet peeve of mine, and I often wonder, should my writing career gets to the point where I'm doing presentations, if I'd rely on such technology. Have audiences come to rely on it, too? Can the power of words alone hold them? Is there a fresh way to do this? Or like Rosanne, would I rely on the tricks of a seasoned performer? Great to watch her work.
4. SCBWI Members. Ran into a few Eastern New York SCBWI members, some presenting, some buying, all supporting each other. Picked up a copy of Liza Frenette's Dead End, and spoke briefly with Coleen Praratore (hopefully you'll soon see her The Wedding Planner's Daughter as a TV movie). I also greatly enjoyed talking with young adult writer Eric Luper and getting his thoughts on my agent situation, the business, etc. I'm forging relations with some of the same people with whom he regularly works. Eric graciously answered my questions, and I guarantee I will be picking up a copy of his newest book, Jeremy Bender and the Cupcake Cadets when it comes out in May. It will be a summer reading project for Johnny K.

While I still believe the Empire State Book Festival is a worthwhile cause, it was not without its problems. Authors only receive one hour to sign books, a move perhaps limited by space, but one that seemed to frustrate some of them. They would have gladly enjoyed staying throughout the day to meet readers and fans, and still take time off to do their presentations. This is the way most book festivals operate, so rather odd that this one does not. Also, some authors are scheduled to sign books after the keynote address. A keynote speech generally means THE END, so walking down the hallway afterward was depressing. The booksellers and vendors had all packed up, making the Egg feel deserted. A long line waited to see Rosanne Cash, but the other authors were largely ignored. Some earlier authors had signings schedule right after their presentations (which makes sense), but others did not. There was no feeling of immediacy, of striking while the iron is hot.

All in all, I like this festival. The talent is amazing, the vendors varied, non-profits are encouraged to attend (had a wonderful time chatting with The Children's Literacy Connection), and it's great for downtown Albany, but a few kinks need to be worked out. Hopefully come season three.

I'll be there.

THE END