For about a year I have been planning to go to NYC in June, 1997. So, when I heard that Michael would be in NYC on June 19th to do a Book Signing at Rizzoli Bookstore, I arranged my visit for June 18th through June 22nd.
On the morning of June 19th, I walked over to Rizzoli's to 'check it out.' It's a unique and interesting bookstore. I enjoyed the displays and found the employees to be helpful and friendly. I wandered around the first floor, wanting to buy many items finally settling on a book for my daughter. I inquired about the book signing and was told that it would be that evening on the second floor.
I arrived at Rizzoli's at about 6:10 p.m. As I looked into the store I could see Michael on the second floor balcony. I took a deep breath and entered. First, I purchased 4 copies of The Voyeur: A J.C. Kaminer Mystery. I added those to the two copies I brought from Illinois and went up the stairs. There were about 30-40 people. They were visiting, having books signed and enjoying the wonderful ambience. As I put bookmarks in each book [so Michael would know who each one was for] someone started talking to me. I realized it was Ron, a friend of Michael's, who I have exchanged email with for the last few weeks. At the same time Barbara came over and asked if I was Debbie! What a relief - two friendly faces!!
Ron is such a great guy. He introduced me to his wife, Marti and then asked if I had met Michael yet. Before I knew it, Michael was standing before me with a big smile and outstretched arms. As he approached he placed both hands on my face and planted a kiss on my cheek! To say I was a bit stunned doesn't quite express my feelings. I mumbled something about having enough books to cause writer's cramp and with that we went over to a table where he could sign all of the books for his various internet fans!
Ron offered to take a picture of me with Michael as he signed the books. Then I took the camera to take a picture of Michael alone. As he signed the books I sort of narrated who each one was for even though the information was on the bookmarks!
I retrieved the books, said thank you and then went back to visit with Barbara. I'm so glad Barbara was there! We had a nice visit!
Michael circulated through the crowd greeting friends with hugs and kisses or a handshake. He seemed so content and really thrilled to be able to talk with his friends in NYC. I took several more pictures and Ron introduced me to several other people at the book signing. What a thrill to have people compliment the MMUUUHP. They've seen it - They think it's useful, interesting and a positive representation for Michael and his career! WOW! Then we shared email addresses. More internet friends! YEA!
I guess I was speechless [a rare condition for me!] because I didn't even mention to Michael that I had already read The Voyeur and really enjoyed it. I should have made a list because there were many things I wanted to tell Michael. At the same time he had many friends who were waiting to speak with him - maybe next time!
Here's my souvenir of the Book Signing!
