I love men. Especially the one travelling with me. He’s been my driver, Sherpa, therapist, photographer, promoter and the one who kindly says, “You look great in that.”

Then I say, “No, I don’t,” and “Did I sound stupid tonight?”

And he says, “You were amazing, really amazing, now get some sleep.”

I love women. Many remarkable women enrich my life, and so many more have been added on this journey: teachers and story tellers, aunts and booksellers, readers, bakers and pottery makers… (okay, I know I’m not a poet)

At several events, couples have introduced themselves by saying, “We are Mary and Nia from your book.” And we talked about what that means for them, and for me. With others, conversations wove through trauma and hope, loss and creativity… Oh, there are stories in us, of triumph, kindness and tenacity and I am inspired by everyone I’ve met.

Talking long after the Copperfield’s Books event in Sebastopol. Books connected us, life stories bonded us, creativity united us. Beer and wine? Um… refreshed us?

Calin setting up and Grace offering a warm welcome. Thank you Copperfield’s Books for your support, encouragement and inviting The Clay Girl to beautiful Sebastopol.

At Book Passage with Luisa, Heather and Leslie. The Clay Girl is about everyday heroes. These women foster literacy. In my book that makes them spectacular heroes!

In The Clay Girl, Ari survives because she has a tribe that supports and helps her. A debut author also needs champions to thrive. Independent Booksellers have been that for me, especially Linda, Luisa and Leslie. Their generous reviews are tucked under my pillow.

At Village Books in Belllingham, WA, sharing stories with delightful readers and everyday heroes, Cathy and Dawn.

“Oh, I loved the book, especially the part where Mary and Nia give Ari a puppy,” ~This beautiful girl is Naya and the adoration is mutual.

Photo credits, Brian D Tucker