Cassandra Clare and Holly Black

We were so delighted to host such great talents as Cassandra Clare and Holly Black on April 12. Background in case you don't know: Cassandra writes the Mortal Instruments series, the first of which is soon to be a movie (yay). Holly wrote The Spiderwick Chronicles, Tithe, Valiant, Ironside, White Cat, Red Glove, a graphic novel series, and a book of short stories, Poison Eaters. Oh and coedited three anthologies. We hosted the event at the menlo park library and we expected a large crowd. But we were surprised to find people starting to arriving as early as 3.30 for the 7.00 event, full of enthusiasm and toting bags of books. We gave out numbered tickets to make the signing line easier, so the earlier you arrived the earlier you would be in the signing line.

We had about 160-200 people in all. Full of enthusiasm and questions, they hung on every word the authors uttered. Lots of local bloggers, one of our local authors was there - Lisa Desrochers (Personal Demons), one of the Mundie Moms, lots of teens, all ages in fact from Spiderwick fans on up. Cassie read from the Clockwork Prince, Holly from Red Glove. We had books to give away (thank you, Nancy), Holly had bracelets to give away. The atmosphere was very festive. The audience would have kept them forever if they could. The two authors were clearly friends and clearly enjoyed working with each other and that set the whole tone of the event. And apparently they were wearing each other's shoes. Future projects? Holly has finished Black Heart and they have a cover. Cassie said they have not cast Jace yet but are down to a few candidates. Holly says she's working on a middle grade novel next. And Cassie said she'll write a contemporary novel after she finishes City of Heavenly Fire.

It was a huge signing lineand, of course, everyone had piles of books and wanted to take photos, but everyone left grinning, saying how much they had enjoyed meeting the authors and when were they coming back. We were so very lucky that the library staff were so fabulous about staying so we could get to the end of the line (we ran 40 minutes over closing time). What a fabulous event. Thank you to all who attended, especially those who drove hours to get here. They were such fun - I'd thoroughly recommend you go to any event near you if you get a chance.