I spent this past weekend signing at Readers Take Denver in Aurora, Co, at the Gaylord of the Rockies.
After leaving the event, I have since seen various threads and posts and heard from other authors about things that happened there that make me extremely sad. I personally did not witness anything beyond the chaos of large numbers and some frustrating logistical issues that often come with such huge cons. All the readers I spoke with during the event told me they were overwhelmed but having a great time.
Just like everyone involved, my only wish for events like these is a safe and respectful space where book lovers (readers, authors, narrators, influencers, publishers, and vendors) can come together and have a great time. That that wasn’t true for everyone this weekend breaks my heart.
To the victims who were subjected to any form of harassment, assault, theft, or other personal violations, please know that my heart is with you.
If you tried to get to my table to see me and couldn’t get in, I am so very sorry and upset that we didn’t get a chance to talk in person. As a small token, I would be more than happy to mail you some bookmarks and a few signed bookplates. Please contact me at author@abigailowen.com with your address to send to. And I hope that I will see you at another book con or signing down the road!
On a personal (and selfish) note, what makes me even more sad is that while others were struggling, for me this was one of my most successful events. I was, for the very first time, a ticketed author which has long been a personal author bucket list item (please note that I did pay for my table at this event). I sold out of my books (I never sell out). I had lines (I never have lines) and never had a slow moment during the signings.
I want to very much thank all the readers who were able to come by my table to say hello, get pictures, get signed books, and meet me. I loved getting to talk with you.
A few additional and special personal moments I want to note:
- As always, I loved all the creative items readers made to have the authors sign.
- Thank you to the readers who took the time to make items (like awesome coozies and little care packages) related to my books.
- Also thank you to the reader who brought one of my books all the way from France, that was so cool!
- I loved getting to meet some new-to-me authors and make new friends (also one of my favorite part of cons)!
- The reader who was dressed (just the way he dresses all the time) exactly like one of my characters was so nice about me taking pics. LOL
- My friends and publisher who I got to connect with, it was awesome to see you.
- And to Carrie who was the volunteer assigned to my table, thanks for all the help (and water).
- It snowed! I went from 90 degrees in San Antonio on Thursday to snow in Colorado on Friday!
- Also a huge thank you to my cousin and assistant Pam, who made me a gorgeous book candy holder with my logo and tagline, and who also helped me in a thousand ways–hauling books around, setting up and taking down, keeping me hydrated, and providing all the things I forgot. (Who forgets scissors? Me, apparently.)
