I attended Book Expo America this year, if for no other reason, to get a glimpse of the publishing industry’s changes. Publishing endured some wrenching upheavals in the previous 12 months. There have been consolidations among companies, staff reductions, and title suspensions to name a few. There has also been an increased presence of the electronic readers such as Amazon’s Kindle and Sony’s reader. Still, there are plenty of paper books out there. Here I am at the Spanish publishing pavilion where some fine examples of printing could be seen.

A Spanish printing company displayed their version of medieval texts, printed and bound seemingly as they were several hundred years ago. It was impressive, but no photos allowed. Books have been growing in popularity in Spain, and I look forward to seeing my own work translated into Spanish soon. Many of my characters are Spanish speakers, from Colombia or elsewhere in the Spanish-speaking world.

That’s me up there, grinning like a fool to be among the printed pages. Couldn’t help myself, really, standing in the middle of so many books and people interested in the same. Trade shows are a natural opportunity to network, do business, and gauge trends. At the same time, it’s simply fun to be among like minded souls. Relax and enjoy it.

Below you’ll see a comfortable outdoor spot, complete with fire pit, seating, and lights draped around a woven cluster of branches and vines.
Of course, flowers must be everywhere and here is a good look at the variety around another welcoming outdoor space.
I saved the interiors for your actual visit, which can be made through the 31st of May. It’s worth your time and travel expenses. Plus, the admission fee helps support a local hospital, certainly a worthy cause. My thanks to the team that puts this event together. I appreciate the opportunity to meet book lovers as well as to enjoy the show home.
For the past several days I’ve employed this ink to great effect. The yellow stands strong on the page and the orange overtones draw the eye without the school marm’s scolding of the red.
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