Yes, I really did write that “yo”.  Obviously I have been here far too long.  Ahem.

I’m really looking forward to the launch event at the Columbia Barnes & Noble next week.  I celebrated the hardcover publication of A GOOD AMERICAN there a year ago  before going off around the country on tour, and I’m delighted to be going back to mark the paperback launch, too.

I’ve lost count of the number of book events I’ve done over the past twelve months.  I’ve been to literary festivals, visited many wonderful book clubs, and given readings at a lot of bookshops.  I love doing this stuff – it’s always a treat to stand up in front of people and engage in a conversation about books.  But this event is going to be a little different, because rather than the usual author-talks-for-a-bit-then-reads-then-(if-he’s-lucky)-takes-questions-from-the-audience format, I’m delighted to announce that my friend Eleanor Brown, author of the New York Times bestseller, THE WEIRD SISTERS, will be there, and we’re going to have a conversation about all manner of things, including, quite possibly, the Olsen twins (for reasons that may, or may not, become apparent.)

Eleanor came to Columbia two years ago to read from her wonderful novel and those people lucky enough to be at that event will remember what an engaging personality she is.  She’s one of my favorite people and is an absolute riot – I think it will be a lot of fun.  I expect we shall share some war stories about life on the road – the author book tour is not quite as glamorous as you might think, you know – and have some thoughts on writing and publishing novels.  Anyone who’s interested in that sort of thing should come along.  I’d love to see you there.  If for no other reason, you should come just to hear Eleanor’s laugh.  It’s absolutely filthy.

Fun starts at 7 o’clock.