Happy Land has been in the world 12 weeks!
It has been a wonderful 12 weeks since my fourth and latest novel HAPPY LAND came into the world. I’ve had packed events all up and down the East Coast, and the encounters with so many enthusiastic readers has filled my soul.
Let me tell you something. I’ve never met a reader on these book tours I didn’t like. There is something about books that brings out the best in people—smiles, hugs, photos, shared stories, laughter.
I’ve made so many new friends! Book culture is alive and well, and I’m grateful to all the folks who come out to celebrate them.
By now, most of y’all know that I stumbled on the story of the Kingdom of the Happy Land while teaching myself banjo during the pandemic. I’ve spent a lot of time listening to old-time banjo musicians in North Carolina. I was honored when Tampa Enoch, a local musician AND librarian played her gourd banjo at my Bookmarks event. Click the video above to listen for a bit. Books and music have a powerful connection, don’t they?
Thanks to all of you for your support. You are part of this growing community of readers who follow my work and support historical fiction. If you’re interested in joining my bookclub, we will be reading Nancy Johnson’s PEOPLE OF MEANS for our July pick. Join us on Facebook for our live discussion with Nancy on July 21 at 8pm ET, but if you’re not on Facebook, you can watch live on Instagram or Youtube Live.
If you are a member of your own bookclub and want to join my VIP bookclub list, I’m still on virtual bookclub tour for my VIP list. You can join the list by clicking here to fill out the form.
Of course, you can also just remain connected through this newsletter. I’ll be sending out more regularly updates over the next year.
Next up? My recent visit to the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, DC and what I discovered there…