Meet Me at the Gala, Dahling
Apparently every year before the trade show part of Book Expo starts, there is this magical wonderful thing called the Children's Gala, sponsored by the Canadian Children's Book Centre. Many, many thanks to Scholastic Canada for including me this year! I can't begin to express what a blast it was for me. But I'll try.
This year the event was held at Montana, downtown at 145 John Street. It's a big place with a lovely outdoor patio section which sadly, I didn't really get a chance to enjoy, 'cuz I was so busy yapping with so many people inside!
The evening started out fabulously, because guess who was one of the first people I got to meet? Robin Muller, the author of my upcoming illustrated book 13 Ghosts of Halloween! So many of my children's book friends had told me what a sweetheart Robin is, and he certainly did not disappoint. He is simply a wonderful, charming, delightful and kind gentleman with really, really nice biceps. This picture does not do justice to the man's cuteness factor.
What a thrill to finally meet the man whose magical words inspired my pictures!
I also got to meet many of the wonderful and talented folk who work at Scholastic, and who all had a part to play in creating 13 Ghosts. I'm truly honoured to be associated with such fine people.
Even though Montana is quite spacious, the place was packed, baby! – with oodles of happy children's authors and illustrators and editors and marketing folk, and then put alcohol in that mix, and a good time is definitely had by all! I also had a chance to chat to the adorable Bob Kain, creator of that other famous yellow bird, Chirp! And it's not a fun night unless Naseem Hrab, librarian for the Canadian Children's Book Centre, and lover of all things kid-related, is in the house!
Naseem Hrab and Bob Kain, getting in the party mode.
Those two just can't get enough of each other.
Also in attendance for the festivities were authors Liam O'Donnell and Colin Frizell. Liam is the author of many books, including the famous Max Finder series, plus he has a new graphic novel coming out in October, entitled Wild Ride, published by Orca Books. Colin Frizzell writes screenplays and short stories, and is the author of two YA books published by Orca, Chill and Just J. Both these guys know how to have a great time!
Liam describing the life of a freelance writer – "well...sometimes it's up, and...gee...sometimes it's down!" Colin grimaces in agreement.
Liam says to the bartender – "I'll have what everyone else is having!"
Naseem in a serious moment.
UPDATE: Naseem took some great shots, too, so I thought I'd add a couple. Here's a great one of the three hot boy writers: Colin, Liam and Jeremy Tankard, creator of Grumpy Bird!
And a nice one of Bob Kain, myself and Robin Muller.
It was an amazing night of laughing, kvetching, schmoozing and meeting some of the most wonderful people ever. It may be stating the obvious, but children's book folk really are fun.
For more pics from that night, check out the photo pool from Quill & Quire.
Next post: The Book Expo experience!
How exciting, and it looks like a ton of fun!
Posted by: Andi | June 11, 2007 at 06:32 PM
Those photos are hilarious (and more than a bit embarrassing!) Was there no moments when I wasn't making a funny face or gesturing madly? Oh well . . . It was a great night and great to see you again Patricia.
Posted by: liam | June 12, 2007 at 06:52 PM
Heh...hope you don't mind too much Liam...it was lots of fun spending time with you, I must say. And regarding the pictures, well – you're so very animated and expressive, which is just what you want in a writer!
I'm pretty sure I can make it to Colin's book launch, so hopefully I'll see you there!
Posted by: Patricia | June 12, 2007 at 06:57 PM
You are so on the go, woman!
Sounds like you're having a ball - looking forward to your next post.
Posted by: Beth | June 13, 2007 at 09:23 AM
For the record, I think I'm making funnier faces than Liam! :D
Posted by: Naseem | June 13, 2007 at 04:01 PM
Yes, Naseem, but you're trying to make a funny face - I guess I just do it naturally. Good thing I'm a writer and can hide behind the computer screen. :P
Posted by: liam | June 13, 2007 at 08:49 PM
HA! I wasn't trying...I made that expression ONCE and my face just stayed like that!
Good thing I'm a librarian and can hide behind a book. :D
Posted by: Naseem | June 14, 2007 at 11:08 AM