In May of 2021, my dear friend Paula, gave me a garden party to discuss and promote my book. We had planned this event last year before COVID 19 hit but had to postpone it until this year.
Paula is so talented. She arranged tables and chairs in her lovely backyard garden festooned with flowers and an array of lush green foliage. It was a perfect day. The sky was blue, the temperature pleasant, the conversation, stimulating and the food, delicious. She made no less than three cakes along with an assortment of delicacies. Below is my hostess, Paula, the second from the left. She requested guests to wear a hat, optional of course, since the accessory is sort of my trademark. I’m standing with book in hand, grinning like the Cheshire cat in Alice in Wonderland. This was my first public gathering regarding my book. Since everyone who attended had read it except for a few, I opened with a short synopsis of the story. I had prepared questions beforehand but looked forward to hearing what friends had to say about the book.
We had a lively discussion about theme, symbolism, character and plot. It was delicious. Our conversations went beyond the scope of the plot. There were themes in the book which we contrasted with the political dynamics of today.
It was an immensely enjoyable occasion. Thank you, Paula!