The next morning started with a radio interview. I even got to do one of those "Caller number seven wins an autographed copy of Thirteen Reasons Why" things. Congratulations, Heather!
Then it was off to beautiful R.A. Long High School.
Before my two presentations in the auditorium (made up of students who'd read the book), I was presented with a proclamation declaring Monday as Jay Asher Day. It was even signed by the mayor!
After each presentation, I did some autographing of books...among other things.
In case you ever doubt that teen literature can save lives, doubt no further. If you'll look above the word PRESS, you'll see a hole. That's a several-dozen-pages deep hole cause by a BB (which probably made the last few chapters harder to understand). Thankfully, this guy was carrying a book in his backpack!
Now, whenever anyone complains about 13RW not being available in paperback yet, I'll just show them this picture.
Then I made several 20-minutes stops in English classes around campus, which I was really nervous about. It was supposed to be off-the-cuff, which meant I had to hope something semi-intelligent would come out of my mouth when I opened it (which isn't always the case). But it turned out to be a lot of fun!
The book signing in the library after school also rocked.
Then I did a TV interview, interviewed by a student at the high school. Her name? Hannah! Everyone who watched the interview was amazed at how easily it flowed and how natural we both seemed. That was all because of Hannah. She definitely has a career in this if she wants it.
The last item on my schedule was a presentation open to the public, which gave me a chance to speak to even more students, as well as adults in the community.
So thank you, Ms. Enders, for putting together a wonderful school visit. I know you worked extremely hard to organize this. Longview is very lucky to have you!
P.S. Thank you, Stacie, for the wonderful introductions before each presentation. And thank you, Trevor, for being a wonderful guide around the campus.
15 comments:
OMG. I'm totally crying. That is the best blog post about the best day ever. Thanks!
yum gift baskets. :)
thirteen reasons why was the first book i read in 2009. it was a great story! i hope you continue to write much more amazing novels in the future.
- denise
Sounds like you had a great time.
The students, too.
Aplets and Cotlets, yay! Are you more aplets or cotlets?
WOW on all levels. What an awesome day you had.
AND, I just read your book. Double WOW. Now I know what all of the fuss is about. I can really see how your book is reaching teenagers - you wrote it in such a way where there is zero preaching, yet the message of 'every action matters to every human being' is so crystal clear.
Go Jay!! Go Jay!!
p.s. you and your book are in my latest blog post :)
Wow ... sounds like a fantastic day!
Sounds like a fabulous visit!
It was an absolutely wonderful day!
Jennie - I think I'm more of an Aplet kind of guy.
K.M. - thanks for noticing the "blend" on your blog!
dear jay,
im emily i am at freshman at ralong high school and would really thank you for shraing your storys with us at school. i love meeting authros since i have meet about 15 through out school. and so far you were the most down to earth nice one. i like how my frineds got there cheeked signed by you and you put them on your blog. and your book is an A-M-A-Z-I-N-G ! it actually is one of my favorit books. thank you so much for stoppin by and it was a pleasure to meet you.
-your new fan,
Emily davis.
Wow, sounds like a fabulous day, Jay! Congratulations :-) And that BB is too funny!!!
I hope that Longview, WA continues to celebrate Jay Asher day long into the future!
It was a GREAT day, wasn't it?
Jay Asher Day dress: I think RAL colors of red and black every year on April 27th. :-)
Joan
Thank you, Emily! It was a pleasure visiting your school. And your comment was A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!
So remember, everyone. Next April 27th, you must wear red and black. If you don't, people are allowed to flick your ear. That's the tradition!
Wow, Jay Asher day? Seriously, how cool is that!?
I just read your book, and it was the best book i have read in a long time. It was moving, well written, and I didn't have to force myself to finish it. I didn't put it down once, which is saying something because I get distracted easily. Thank you.
I talked with Kevin of KLYK, and he will let me know when your interview will be on his website. I will post it here or email for you. Joan
Now, whenever anyone complains about 13RW not being available in paperback yet, I'll just show them this picture.This, Jay, has endeared you to me forever.
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