History Author Night at Avon Free Public Library

Last night I spoke at Avon Free Public Library's History Author Night. They are having weekly speaking events as part of their Local Author Fest - all leading up to a big book fair where 30+ authors will be signing and selling books.

In addition to Monkey Business, History Author night featured a book about the history of civil war hospitals and another about historic homes in New England. Quite the diverse roster!

Although speaking in public isn't my favorite thing in the world (there's a reason why I write instead of teach, after all), I enjoyed my 20 minute presentation. I didn't even have to use my notes - awesome!

What helped a lot was that the audience seemed to be enjoying themselves too. There was a lot of eye contact and head nodding, which made me glad I wasn't totally boring them. My family (who was able to attend one of my functions, finally) said that the audience seemed touched when I shared a quote from Ella Wheeler Wilcox's poem The Voice of the Voiceless - because being the voice of the voiceless is something of paramount importance to me. 

It's the reason I wrote my book.

I swear I wasn't talking to an empty room, despite what this picture appears to show.

After a little Q&A, we sold and signed books.

I find that with every book signing, I am pleasantly surprised by the feedback and interest in my book. It's quite encouraging to find people interested in primate rights, whether I be in Kentucky, Wyoming, Massachusetts or even back home in Connecticut.

Joining the team at VeganCT

I'm very excited to announce that I have joined the Editorial Team at VeganCT, a Connecticut based website that promotes a plant-based lifestyle.

Unlike some vegan organizations, VeganCT is very inclusive and posts items not just for vegans, but for vegetarians and people just looking to live in a more animal-friendly way.

I would love to have my name associated with VeganCT due to their positive, welcoming atmosphere. I firmly believe that you catch more flies with honey, and intimidating people will never convince them to come to the green side.

I'll be posting my articles as they're available! Get hungry because I expect it will all be DELICIOUS.

History Author Night at Avon Public Library

On July 22nd, I will be speaking at the Avon Public Library. 

As part of their Local Author Festival, History Author Night will feature three local authors who will speak about their experiences publishing their books. I'm honored to be involved and excited to share my thoughts....and although public speaking isn't my favorite thing in the world, when it comes to primate rights I can muster up some courage on behalf of them.

The event got a nice write up in the July 2014 issue of Valley Life magazine.

In August I will also be participating in another event for the Local Author Festival....more info to come shortly!