Battenkill Books is a David and Goliath story I am enjoying. Friday is Connie Brook’s Birthday (Happy Birthday, Connie) and when  I stopped in to sign books, she was on the phone taking an order for “Going Home” and I picked up the phone and shocked a therapist from Massachusetts, a very lovely person, who was ordering my book. We are having fun. Connie was also taking a slew of orders for writer Jenna Woiginrich’s new book “Barnheart” which is out early and Jenna has also agreed to personalize copies of her book purchased from Battenkill. There are more than 100 orders already in. Jenna, like me, is a compulsive writer. Connie is happy.

Connie has sold more than 600 copies of “Going Home: Finding Peace When Pets Die,” and nearly 100 copies of “Meet The Dogs Of Bedlam Farm,” my first children’s book. We are heading for 1,000 copies by New Year’s and we believe we will make it. Connie is offering a free video of “Going Home” or a signed Bedlam Farm notecard with each of those books – or any of my books – ordered throughBattenkill Books,  which now has Paypal. You can also call her or her charming mother Marilyn at 518 677-2515.  Many people are already re-ordering “Going Home” as they or their friends and family members lose pets. I love helping take orders on the phone and surprising readers. We have fun. December 2, from 4 p.m. to 6, I will be at the bookstore with Lenore. (Dec. 10 at Northshire, Manchester, Vt., 2 p.m).

It is a great pleasure to see Connie and Marilyn so busy, and so happy. Connie is not looking for sympathy. She is coming up with many innovative changes that are helping her small and independent bookstore outflank the giants. I think this David and Goliath story will have a long and happy ending. If you can, cast a vote for independent bookstores and support the peoople who are fighting to keep them vibrant.

Come and see Connie explain the juicy holiday offerings and her ideas about bookstores. Marilyn will be on in a few days: