We had about a dozen writers, about 20 listeners and a table full of poets laureate from far-off states in attendance for the very first reading of action-packed, two fisted tales from Live Free or Die, Die, Die! Seemed like everyone had fun on either side of the mic and the book looks great in the limelights.
Most readings we staged last time around were in bookstores and those were good too, but the success of the “pub” readings like this one at the Barley House (and the one on the same occasion last year) makes me think we may be missing our best shot at spreading the gospel of NH pulp fiction. One of my writers, Rob Azevedo, pointed out that the Shaskeen in Manchester and lots of other pubs have stages and spaces set aside where we might draw a small crowd to listen on some night when there isn’t a bar band playing. We’ll approach the Shaskeen first to test the concept, but this could be a good twist in the plot. And with October in the air, maybe we can set up one reading where we feature stories from both LFODDD and the original NH Pulp Fiction anthology, Live Free or Undead.
If you have thoughts or suggestions for such venues (or for regular bookstores who you think would have us), drop me a line.
-Rick
The central NH Storytelling Guild http://cnhsg.net/ may be able to suggest venues that would be receptive to the opportunity.
In Jackson NH the Shannon Door Pub or Wildcat Tavern might be receptive to an opportunity. Also there is a restaurant/tavern in the Ossipee area that features storytellers. I will try to get the name.
Also, independent book store White Birch Books does book readings in a variety of locations including the Believe in Books Theater in the Wood in Intervale (just north of North Conway). This theater is the NConway headquarters for the Polar Express.
Brass Heart Inn Bed and Breakfast, Chocorua, NH is the Story Teller presenter.
Thanks, Rob. Not sure how many readers we could get who would travel north of Conway, but it will be interesting to see.
Rick – There is a Coffee House in Sunapee on Friday nights – here’s the link for more info … http://sunapeecoffeehouse.org/. The Flying Goose in New London has a Thursday night concert series throughout the fall and winter (http://flyinggoose.com/). Finally, Morgan Hill Bookstore (http://www.morganhillbookstore.com/) does readings from time to time.
When and where do the books go on sale?
Take care, Susan
Water Street Books in Exeter is very supportive!