Keren, her editor and a familiar face
I've been to my fair share of underwhelming book launches, but last night I went to the best book launch I've ever attended in Waterstones Islington. I knew it was going to be good as I crept up the stairs (past the posters for Keren's launch) and heard the low rumble of chattering voices. Turning the corner, I found this:
People having fun!
I was soon chatting away to loads of people: my agent, my agent's husband, Fiona Dunbar, Inbali Iserlis, Nick Cross, Keren herself. Keren and her editor, Maurice Lyon, gave speeches and there were readings from Keren's novels by a teenage guest. Keren writes authentically in the voice of a contemporary teenage boy. I have no idea how she does this and am in total awe. She's one of those writers who makes you nod deeply and say, 'Keren's REALLY good.' She just is - the type of good you can't learn. I loved 'When I Was Joe' and I can't wait to start reading my signed copy of 'Almost True'.
Favourite moments from the evening? Seeing Keren's children beaming with pride as their mother spoke. Meeting Maurice Lyon and realising that Keren has one of those rare jewels in publishing: an editor who cares deeply and is genuinely vested in developing her as an author.
Oh, and can you guess from the opening photo? Whilst Keren and Maurice were busy addressing their adoring audience, I spotted a familiar face behind them. Isn't that The Chocolate Keyboard, whose blog I enjoy so much? I lurched over to introduce myself and hope I didn't frighten Anna!
Thank you to Keren, Waterstones and Frances Lincoln for a lovely, lovely evening. Here's to great success for Keren!
