20 Comments

I love that you go to book festivals and are finding what works (and what doesn't) for you! I miss book events in English ;-)

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It's definitely a learning experience. Oh, I hadn't thought about book events where you are NOT being in English, but it makes sense.

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Reading and literature is a Big Deal in Czech Republic, but Dave and I can only manage children's books in Czech ;-) When we were in Edinburgh and London, it was such a treat to be among so many English-language books and to see all the literary events going on. We'll probably get ourselves to the Edinburgh Book Festival at some point.

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What an amazing experience! I think you’re living my dream retirement Gayla! ❤️❤️❤️

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Thanks, Sri. It's has definitely been fun so far.

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I remember when I was in college, long ago a few of us would spend at least one break and many weekends hitting book festivals. It was fantastic. I haven’t done that in years, but now you’ve enticed me to pick that up again. Thanks Gayla

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I'm sure there are some in your area and if not, a trip to Los Angeles for the LA Times Book Festival would be a great one to go to in April every year. :)

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You had some bookish adventures! Maybe not all good, but adventures nonetheless.

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Learning moments. :)

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Very insightful. I hope to attend a book festival or 2 in the coming year!

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Which ones do you have your eyes on attending? They are so much fun.

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Not sure yet, I have a lot of travel & other commitments (moving my daughter into college! building a new house!) in my calendar, so I need to see what will fit & where…

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There’s a great book fest in my own town put on by the LA Times that I somehow always seem to miss. You’re inspiring me to make the effort next year. Thanks for sharing your experiences, Gayla!

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I'd love to go to the LA Times Book Festival, so maybe next year for me, and you too!

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Meet you there, Gayla!🤗

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Thanks for this post, Gayla. I’ve never known what a person could expect from a book festival and feel like 1) now I know and 2) what to consider to know if a specific festival would be right for me.

I appreciated your skepticism of “the enclosed.” I call it getting “air conditioner sick” when I’m in a place where the windows don’t open or it’s not easy to get outside. 😖

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Book festivals are a great networking opportunity. I used to go regularly, but I don't have the time to do that anymore. How great that you do!

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I never had the time to go when I was still employed full time, but I'm making up for lost time now. :) Thanks for reading!

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I would love to go to the North Texas teen book festival, but OMG the crowds look crazy! I’ve had great experiences at both the LA times, and the San Diego Union Tribune, Festival of books.

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If you don't mind tightly packed crowds, it bet it would be really fun. Having that many people indoors is more than I could handle. But I learned what I can handle, so I'll know for next time.

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