As a local author

I got invited to my local Richmond public library’s inaugural Writers for Readers event a week before spring arrived. It was my first time being invited as an author, so I was both overwhelmed and terrified at the same time. Before my book was released nearly two years ago, I had no prior experience interacting with readers in public. I was surprised to get the email from the librarian, and I remember I was gasping for air. Both excitement and fear filled me, but in the back of my mind, I knew that this was a great opportunity for me to interact with the public and get experience.

As a risk-taker, I responded to the invitation with a lot of questions. I want my first public appearance to be remembered. When the big day finally arrived, I never would have imagined that I would be calm, and I relished every second of setting up my table. Nine was my table number. Even though I was in the corner, I never felt excluded because I got to speak with the guests who came to my table as soon as the event began. And seeing my book on the library shelf was awesome.

The best part of the event was that I shared the experience with my nieces, Charlene and Jasmine. They silently supported me from the sidelines during the entire event. I was grateful that they came to join me, and I hoped they could continue my legacy. I have no children of my own, but I dedicated every word in my book to my family’s next generation.