True to form, western suspense author Craig Johnson showed up for his book signing wearing a giant Stetson. Mr. Johnson was at the library to promote his latest novel, “As the Crow Flies,” part of the Sheriff Walt Longmire series. The books have been made into a television show by A&E called “Longmire,” the first episode of which will air on June 3. When asked what it was like seeing his characters in flesh and blood, Johnson said it was “like having a houseplant you’ve had for 7-8 years start talking to you.” Johnson served as an Executive Creative Consultant on the show, and A&E made changes based on his input; he also had some say in the casting process. Lou Diamond Phillips got the role as Henry Standing Bear, the actor spent time studying with the Cheyenne in WY and was adopted by the tribe after their time together.
View more photos from the program here. Get the low down on future author events here.
John Sandford is prolific. He’s written over 30 mysteries and shows no sign of slowing down. Sandford stopped by St. Louis County Library on Friday to discuss his most recent novel, “Stolen Prey.” The audience of 200+ seemed familiar with Sandford’s extensive body of work and were full of questions, which the author was happy to oblige.
SLCL is bringing a number of bestselling suspense authors to the library this summer. Get the full listing here.
Thank goodness the Cards played a day game on Thursday so fans could come to HQ to meet author Tim Wendel and learn about his new book, “Summer of ’68: the season that changed baseball—and America—forever.” A good percentage of the audience lived through that fateful summer and so enjoyed the opportunity to reminisce about Bob Gibson, Lou Brock, Orlando Cepeda and others who were then playing their way into the Hall of Fame. But the time was redolent with meaning, not just because of baseball but because of the social climate, civil rights and war. More photos here.
Last week was Children’s Book Week, and St. Louis County Library celebrated by bringing seven young adult and children’s authors to the library! Things kicked off with a teen author panel, featuring local writers Heather Brewer, Antony John and Cole Gibsen. Sara Pennypacker, author of the popular Clementine series, also visited the library. As did Ridley Pearson, wildlife photographer Marian Brickner and picture book author Julia Durango. Additional photos from this jam-packed week can be viewed on the library’s Flickr page.
Over 900 people came to St. Louis County Library on Friday night to hear Bravo TV host and St. Louis native Andy Cohen talk about his new book, “Most Talkative.” The crowd was full of questions and admiration for Mr. Cohen, who stayed until almost 11:00 p.m. signing books. Several of Cohen’s family members were in attendance, including his mom, who signed some books as well. Some fun facts about Mr. Cohen: he actually likes provel cheese! He also claims his mouth has been his “greatest asset and my Achilles heal.” No plans are in the works for a St. Louis version of the Real Housewives, much the disappointment of some of the women in attendance. See more photos from this lively event on the library’s Flickr page.
Former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright drew a crowd of 600 people to St. Louis County Library over the weekend. Ms. Albright was in town to promote her new memoir “Prague Winter;” her appearance was a fundraiser for the Library Foundation’s Center for Family History project. The program followed a Q&A format with local radio host Don Marsh. After, attendees were able to snap photos with the former Secretary, while she signed copies of her book. Additional photos from the event can be viewed on the library’s Flickr page.
Do all former presidents get along? Not necessarily, according to TIME Magazine editor Nancy Gibbs. During her visit to St. Louis County Library last night, Ms. Gibbs’ discussed some of the conflicting personalities behind the Oval Office, as documented in her new book “The Presidents Club.” Alternately, she shared how some former presidents have struck up unexpected friendships. For example, President Clinton has become such good friends with the Bush family that they refer to him as the “brother from another mother.”
Who else is coming to the library? Find out right here.
Charles D’Angelo made a compelling case for his weight loss plan at St. Louis County Library last night. His approach appeals to a person’s whole self, not just the part that has trouble sticking to a diet. Calling his former self, which weighed 160 pounds heavier, the “king of excuses,” D’Angelo talked about how committing to his optimum health made sensible eating much easier than losing weight. The audience of 100 people loved the presentation, and many went home with renewed resolve. D’Angelo’s new book, “Think and Grow Thin,” is in high demand at SLCL branches. Get with the plan and reserve your copy here.
Author Philip Kerr gave aspiring writers two bits of advice that contradict the norm when he spoke at St. Louis County Library last night. He said, “You don’t have to confine yourself to writing about what you know.” He also said, “Always trust your imagination.” That’s the kind of insider info you can get only at an SLCL author event. Browse the list of upcoming authors here; there’s no telling what you might glean from a future event!
Mystery fans had a chance to meet their favorite writers at the 7th Annual Suspense Night on Wednesday. Authors Reed Farell Coleman, Sara J. Henry and Frank Bill participated in the event, which featured a panel discussion, plenty of Q&A and photo opps.
SLCL just announced the summer author series line-up. Get the full schedule here.
