The best part of BEA has been the connection with friends new and old.

This was a trip that I didn’t have to make on my own. Vancouver friends Lee Fodi, Annett, Britta, kc dyer, and Denise Jaden all met with me in New York to share the experience. Then there were the countless new faces I was introduced to over the weekend, and old friends with whom I was able to reconnect.

My favourite part of the experience was probably the first day of BEA, when while waiting in line I heard someone say, “Hi James!” I turned, and it was someone I’d met the day before while attending their bookstore visit. Shortly after that, Lee and I bumped into other familiar faces who were visiting the conference from Vancouver, and of course we met a few new faces while waiting in line to see Cornelia Funke.

I also saw the realization of a dream - and wasn’t even aware of it while it was happening. I posted this picture on Facebook, and a friend commented about me signing in New York City. That’s when I suddenly realized - I signed books at the largest North American book fair in New York City!

Of course, there was also lots of sight-seeing to Central Park, the Empire State Building and Times Square. Lee and I were fine getting around the city while with the rest of the group, but once everyone else had gone home and it was just us we suddenly found ourselves getting very lost. (You’ll get to hear all about it on our podcast.)

Now, I’m on my way back to Vancouver and (I’ll admit) am feeling a little homesick. Conan, while I’m sure is having a blast at the “spa,” will also be glad to see me.