Book Expo America!

OMG! I forgot to blog on Thursday!!! Eeek! But I'm here now, so it's okay. Whew! Sorry.

Book Expo America's new mid-week dates are fast approaching and I am stoked! In part because a certain Sister is coming to visit! And my book blogging, beta reading, 2009 book expo buddy, Jess! Will also be making an appearance! Conferences and book fairs are always a ton of fun, and BEA is one of the best.

Last year was my first time attending, and I was not at all prepared. I was lost, confused and befuddled for most of the time I was there. And I was late, so I had already missed all the freebies (and who doesn't love free books?). Still, I finally got to meet Jess in person and I also met Maggie Stiefvater for the very first time. I saw super-agent Andrea Brown from a distance, but I didn't think I'd have anything constructive to say to her so I just awed from the corner.

This year I think I'm prepared! I have business cards ready! A giant tote bag! And I plan to get there BEFORE 8am! The place opens at 9, I think, but I want to attend the Children's Book Author Breakfast!

If you don't know what BEA is, visit their website for more information. It is a trade only event, meaning it is not open to the public, but if you're a book blogger, you may be in luck!! Book bloggers can register for a FREE press badge! But badges are subject to approval so don't try to fool them. If you say you're a book blogger, be a book blogger.

And if you plan on attending this year, let us know and maybe we'll see each other!