On Christmas Day 2008, my in-laws gave me the box set of Charlaine Harris’ Sookie Stackhouse novels. Reading books in a series works well with my personality. When I love something, I sort of become obsessed with it. Of course, this also applies to books. I don’t want to say goodbye to the characters once a novel has captured my mind and heart. I had started writing a novel in 2007, but never finished it. Charlaine’s fun, adventurous and fast-paced style inspired me to start fresh with a new story. She helped me realize that I wanted to entertain people and create stories that would become a reader’s dear friend. I want people to forget they are reading words on a page and believe that they have stepped into their own special world that feels like an escape from reality. That is the joy I look forward to when reading a book and that is what I believe Charlaine has mastered in her writing.
On Wednesday, I traveled to Shippensburg, PA with my Dad to hear Charlaine speak at the local university. We arrived an hour early and eagerly awaited Ms. Harris. The performing arts center was packed with fans (men and women from college age to senior citizens) and hands shot up when the Q & A session began. Charlaine talked about her friendly relationship with Alan Ball and the cast of True Blood. She mentioned wishing that she had thought of Jessica’s character before Alan and the fact that she was a little wary of Marianne’s “meat-tree” at first. Charlaine told us that she writes at an office near her home every day of the week and that she regrets having to deal with so many business details now that she has reached this point in her career. She revealed that she never outlines her stories and that her lack of record keeping has gotten her in trouble many times (fans love to point out the inconsistencies and plot holes). Charlaine didn’t have to search for an agent at the beginning of her career. She took a creative writing course after graduating from college and her teacher connected her with her agent-to-be. Overall, Ms. Harris was funny, sharp and down-to-earth.
I became quite nervous while waiting in line to meet her. She has accomplished so many things I dream of doing. While signing my book, I thanked her for being an inspiration to me as a writer. She smiled and gave me a few encouraging words. It felt like I had come full circle. The book I have worked on for over a year is now out in the world trying to find an agent. Meeting Charlaine made it a little easier to wait until it finds a home. If you have a chance to meet a writer you admire, don’t hesitate! It can be a magical experience.
{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
OH MY GOODNESS, I looove her books!! I think I’d go a little silly, crazed fan if I saw her in person.
Ok, that’s a gross exaggeration. But still, how FUN!!
I’m so happy to hear that you are a fan:) It was totally worth the four hours of driving to meet her in person and hear her speak! I recommend checking out her events calendar. She may be visiting a city near you soon:) Hope you had fun in NYC!
Its always such a kick ass experience to meet someone you admire from afar – I really need to pick up those books as I love every second of True Blood
I don’t think you’ll be disappointed with Charlaine’s work if you love True Blood. Thanks for stopping by!
That’s so cool! What a neat experience!