Judging a Book by Its Author

You are going to get so tired of this subject. I know I am. But it happened yet again, hence I feel the need to report it.

Had a lovely time yesterday at my signing. The bookstore’s owners were wonderful about sharing inside information about the book business and giving me very usable career advice.

I was also told that my headshot is terrible and that I’m much more attractive in person. Repeatedly.

Here’s how I looked yesterday. For my fellow fashionistas, that’s a ‘50s peach sweater, ‘50s sleeveless top with beadwork and ‘40s celluloid and rhinestone pins. Not pictured: ‘50s-style houndstooth pencil skirt and ‘40s moderately uncomfortable but totally fabulous pumps.

I fully accepted the bad-headshot remark as a compliment. I’d much rather look better in real life than in pictures, as I suspect the opposite is what generally happens with writers. I know that sounds harsh, but it must be true, otherwise we wouldn’t have so many of those soft-focus, fist-under-the-chin, black-and-white, semi-hidden book-jacket back-flap photos. With the dog. To distract you from the author.

My next appearance will be Sunday, October 2 at the Zumaya Publications author table at the West Hollywood Book Fair. I’m not sure what I’ll be wearing, but I'll be cuter than my picture.  Click here for more info: http://www.westhollywoodbookfair.org/ Note: They won’t know what I’m wearing, either.

Thursday, October 13 at 7:00 p.m., I’ll be at a private home in Simi Valley, giving a talk and signing books to benefit the Loving Heart Hospice Foundation. Per person donation is $45 and includes a signed copy of I MURDERED THE PTA. Cupcakes and cocktails will be served. Best food combination ever! For more information, e-mail Debbie Thomas, woodranch@aol.com.