One of the proudest and most rewarding things I’ve participated in in my writing life is the Battenkill Book campaign, a fusion of a writer’s life, a book tour, and the struggle of an independent bookstore to survive and prosper in the Corporate and Digital.  Connie Brooks has faced challenges bravely and without complaint,  and we teamed up this fall to promote my book, “Going Home,” and to also think of ways – it seemed a bit hopeless then – to draw people into a wonderful local bookstore that seemed nearly overwhelmed by change. It was her idea to have me offer to sign books to people and personalize them if they bought them at her store. It turned out to be a good idea.

I was shocked when we got past 200 books, amazed when we got to 500 and astonished when we got to 700. Then Rose died and people began spontaneously ordering books in her honor and her memory. Some are for themselves, some for shelters and friends and animal support groups. Rose’s memory has sold nearly 300 books in 48 hours and this afternoon and evening we will almost surely soar past 1,000 thanks mostly to her.

I just left the store and we had past 900- and the phone was ringing and e-mail orders rolling in all day. So we expect to name the 1000th person around 4:30. Maria and I are returning to the store then. The 1000th person to buy “Going Home” will get a free book and an invitation to visit Bedlam Farm. It might not be simple. I took calls from South Africa, Nebraska, Iowa, Canada and England yesterday and this morning. So there is an hour or so to go if anybody wants to purchase “Going Home” in honor of Rose or for any reason from Battenkill, which is having a great Christmas season. You can call 518 677-2515 or e-mail the store at [email protected] Connie had the whole family in there this morning taking calls. Connie will be taking orders beyond today, but this is the last guaranteed date for Christmas orders. What a satisfying thing to be a part of.

Can’t thank you enough. This is a powerful statement for lots of reasons. I am just overwhelmed. Happily so.