Book Fairs - a great opportunity to network

Earlier this year, at the book launch of an author that I was publishing, I met another independent publisher who suggested that we pool resources and share a table at the Manchester Independent Book Fair. Unfortunately, we missed out this year on being able to get a stall, but I went down to the city centre at the weekend to see for myself what other were doing.

As well as a handful of book stalls, there were more arts and craft type of businesses there. Being the hottest day of the year so far, the square was buzzing with browsers.

I took the opportunity to introduce myself to a number of the book stall holders and was surprised and delighted with how candid they were about the success (or otherwise) of their stall and their willingness to answer questions about how they prepare for such events. I came away full of ideas and am now greatly looking forward to attending the Sefton Book Fair in November.

Busy, Busy....

Admittedly, I haven't blogged for a while, but that doesn't mean I've been idle - oh, no! Tabby Cat Press is due to publish two new picture books in late August. Right now, authors Giovanna Lagana and Lynn Taylor are eagerly/ anxiously awaiting the proof copies and I'm just as anxiously awaiting their reactions and hoping that I got the layout right and that there are no typos this time around. Both writers are a joy to work with. Giovanna gave me full artistic control in creating the illustrations for her Rickie Raccoon books. Those who read "Rickie the Raccoon Learns about Recycling" will notice that in "Rickie Raccoon Takes a Tour of the City", Rickie has developed much more of a bandit's mask. My first Rickie was based on images found from google searches, but by chance, I caught the last 10 minutes of a documentary and discovered a raccoon living in an animal sanctuary just 20 miles away. A phone call and a visit on the wettest windiest day imaginable, resulted in some blurry photos of 'Ben', a 17 year old grumpy raccoon with a definite mask!

"Gary, Charlotte's Goose" is Lynn Taylor's second book, this time aimed at a very young audience. It is a product of love and written especially for her niece, Charlotte, who is featured in the book. Lynn has also recorded a very catchy, sing-a-long song to accompany this short story.

As for me, summer means exhibitions. I have for once, completed my submission pieces for the UK Coloured Pencil Society well ahead of the deadline and even got them framed! I am now putting the finishing touches to my second offering for the Society of Feline Artists. After that, I can get back to producing some new greeting card designs, and working on two new books that I have planned for next Spring. Watch this space!