Harvard COOP February Author Event

Yesterday marked the first of a series of meet-the-author sessions this month at the Harvard COOP. There was a fuzzy feeling in my tummy as I sat there, as an audience this time, listening to Anthony D’Aries and Tracy Kidder deliver their speeches. I had been in their shoes before as an author speaking to a crowd I didn’t quite know – except for some family and friends who came to show their support. I am an author of a children’s book. And this experience brought back fond memories!

I admire Tracy Kidder for his wealth of knowledge and experience in the publishing world. And Anthony D’Aries’ stories of his father in Vietnam and his male-dominated family captivated me. There is truth in patriarchal dominance in societies of the past and even the present…and this is true especially for some Asian communities. However, the Peranakans embrace their matriarchal culture. I guess it depends on the strand of culture one belongs to, that determines their beliefs. I stand on neither side. I believe in gender equality.

That's the Harvard COOP at Harvard Square. Managed to snap a picture of it just before I left. The snow was pretty sneaky today - snowed only when I left the COOP. I wasn't prepared with a brolly or hood...but it was nice feeling the cold on my skin (luckily I had no mascara on) and staring at the sparkly ground as I made my way back.

Here's the list of events lined up!

When I first arrived about half an hour before the start of the session. Yes, I was the second audience to arrive. *beams*

The seats started filling up...It was fuller than full-house at 7pm. We had people sitting on the floor as well!

 Anthony D’Aries giving his speech.

 And here's Tracy Kidder giving his.

They look awesome together.

Here are some tips for all aspiring writers…

• An author must learn to detach himself from his work at times. (Your editor will most likely demand pretty intensive edits that most of the time would require you to take out chunks of your work. Getting personal about it will only leave you feeling sore.)

• Timing is of utmost importance! (This I’ve learnt from my own experience too. Meeting with the right people at the right time is crucial to making your book a success. Sometimes, a past success may get you a headstart.)

• Do your homework. (No one said writing was going to be easy, unless you are writing for yourself and do not intend to get your book published by any means. Networking at writing conferences may get you hooked up with the illustrator or publisher of your upcoming novel!)

• If there’s a nagging thought at the back of your mind, quickly note it down before it’s gone. (I swear by this one! The main storyline of my novel evolved just as I was about to hit the sacks one night. I couldn’t sleep because those thoughts kept coming so I got out my notebook and started writing…and the rest was history.)

• Believe strongly in what you do and keep the flame of passion alive. (Everyone has the power to determine his own destiny.)