Book signing events provide an opportunity to meet lots of people. I have to say plenty of good folks show up for the fun. A recent event at Claudia’s Beach Bar on Palm Beach, Aruba, was the perfect example. There was Claudia herself, who is a gem. She puts up with my bad Spanish and teaches me the right way to say things. Plus she makes some fine drinks.
That’s her with the nice smile and me in the silly glasses. Then there was another group that I met before. Check this gang out.
Great people each and every one of them. They come from all over the USA and beyond. Massachusettes to Alaska and in between. Various professions including cops, pilots, accountants, and more. It’s good to hear their take on things to gain various perspectives on life. Plus, the laughs can’t be beat.
Bon dia.
John was in the Polish Underground during the Second World War. He fought the Nazis and the Russian Communists. His brother was involved with another resistance group which was sometimes at odds with John’s. As the war came to an end, John escaped from Poland (to avoid the Soviets) and ended up in Germany of all places before making his way to America. He was very successful in business and now visits Aruba, Poland, and other places every year. What a guy!
It’s a true pleasure to meet people who have read the book or heard about it and want to know more. I’m surprised at the questions asked, which actually serve as inspiration to keep writing. After all, if a reader wants to know more or found something particularly interesting, it is a cue to include it in the next story.
Of course, hearing people’s stories about Aruba is also fascinating. There are many visitors who have been going to the island for 20 or 30 consecutive years. That’s quite a few frequent flier miles. Aruba is a wonderful island full of nice people, good restaurants, and fringed by beautiful beach. However, I don’t write much about that part of Aruba.
I write mostly about the refinery boomtown of San Nicolaas. It was here that I came in 1994, when I first visited the island. It’s a strange place, full of characters and stories, all of which are incredible when understood in the context of the Caribbean.
The Bent Page 
You must be logged in to post a comment.