I'm currently in Los Angeles for the annual Book Expo America, otherwise known as BEA.
Why BEA?
I have a book coming out on August 1st and I showed up to support my publisher and do some networking.
Now I must confess. I am a trade show junkie.
I love the vast conference centers with aisles and aisles of vendors hawking their goods and services.
I'm especially a sucker for the freebies and swag. It's not that I can't afford to buy the stuff, but it is fun to get goodies.
It's also a lot of fun to meet new people, especially celebrities who frequently make appearances at shows like these.
I decided to bring my son along for the ride this time as I thought he'd find it interesting.
I was right.
Z is an aspiring writer, and I believe it has been inspiring for him to observe authors in their element and to meet some of them first hand.
I think he also is enjoying the free books. :-)
Want to see some photos from our time at BEA so far?
Here you go!
This is Scott Adams of Dilbert fame. They ran out of books for him to sign, but he did draw Dogbert on a sticky note for me.
Barbara Walters signing her new book. There was a massive line to meet her. I was NOT in that line.
Rick Frishman, publicist extraordinaire and incredibly nice guy!
With Chris Hendrickson, a friend who has a book coming out this fall. Could it be a future best-seller?
The day ended with a wonderful dinner featuring Chris Howard, Rick Frishman, David Hancock, myself and Z (who took the photo).
The Book Expo halls are MASSIVE and we only saw half of the exhibits today. Tomorrow we will hit the rest.
Oh, and in case you are wondering...
The book I have coming out on August 1st is shaping up to be another best-seller! It is called "Click Here to Order
Great title, Joel! Sounds like something Seth Godin might release... a perfect fit for you.
I'm in booth 2433 as http://www.PromoteAbookMEDIA.com. Connect when you get a moment.
I've always been intrigued with your processes and how you've created such significant momentum in your business, and in those you coach.
We've helped 44 authors make the NY Times/WSJ bestseller's list. Maybe there's something we could do together? Just thinking out loud.
Have a great show.
best,
Mark Alan Effinger
http://www.RichContent.com
Great work Joel. I am a book lover too. Get my free book from my website.
Joel.
Once again you've managed to outshine yourself (if ever there was such a thing).
We are, after all, all gregarious beings, and you've just given me new insight into "networking.'
I live in the Atl, and we have expos every week! Go figure.
Every day in every way...
In light, love and laughter....
Hi Joel,
Sorry that I did not see these posts until now. I was at BEA, too, and would have loved meeting you while you were in town.
Photos from my book signing are here if anybody would like more "behind the scenes" coverage of the Book Expo.
http://www.scottfox.com/2008/06/book-expo-2008.html
I sent you an email Saturday about an interesting press opportunity, too, fyi. Please let me know if you'd like to collaborate on that.
Best,
Scott Fox
Great blog Joel you must really know the business inside out.