I have no idea where to begin because this is going to be almost painfully short. I don't usually go out and socialize about books outside of the internet. Why? I have no idea. Actually, I do. I'm painfully shy and it's easier for me to talk online. Having said that, I do attend Mysterious Galaxy's (the one in Redondo Beach) YA Book Group--although I won't be able to attend in June as ALA is going on that weekend. It's not terribly big, but it's fun to get together with a few teens (and an adult or two) to talk about YA. (Although there was that time when Melissa Meyer dropped by to talk with us about Cinder which was pretty darn awesome.)
I would love to meet up with other book bloggers in the South Bay area (the Los Angeles version of the South Bay, not the Bay area one) or maybe meet some at signings and whatnot, but again, I'm terribly shy. Also, I have this terrible habit of looking somewhat unfriendly but I promise you, if you mention books or book blogging, you'll see my entire demeanor change. (I mean, if you mention Doctor Who, Sherlock, and so forth, you'll get the same reaction as these are things I don't exactly talk to my "real life" friends about.) So if you ever see me, please do say hello! :) I'll be the pale, half-Asian chick probably rocking a pair of heels (except at ALA, I have a feeling that it'll be flats or wedges) and feeling terribly out of place--I hate going to these things alone.
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I'll be attending ALA for the first time---I'll definitely keep an eye out for you and say hi! :D I'm the same way...very, very shy in real life and I always worry that it comes off as unfriendliness or snobbishness (is that a word?). Love that our enthusiasm for books makes for an easy way to break down that barrier! :)
ReplyDeleteHope to meet you in a few weeks!
It's really intimidating to try to network at a conference like ALA-- it seems like everyone already knows everyone, and is deep in conversation already. The first time I went to a conference, I had NO idea how to approach people and break the ice. So, I empathize! I don't have any really great advice other than just getting out there and working up the courage to talk to people. A great way to break the ice is to simply tell people it's your first time at ALA. Ask a question of some sort. Librarians LOVE to take people under our wing and provide answers.
ReplyDeleteI hope you have a great time! Maybe I'll see you there!
If we lived closer to each other, we could have a proper geek out over Doctor Who, Sherlock and books. Alas Mysterious Galaxy is not convenient for me. At least the Redondo Beach one. I drive to San Diego frequently, so that's more in my area.
ReplyDeleteIs this ALA show always in Anaheim? Might have to consider it another year, since it is so close (and if they are cool with bloggers).
I wish! I'll be down your way for SDCC (sadly only on Sunday) though. :) And ALA's location (for both Midwinter and Annual) change every year.
DeleteOh, I know exactly what you mean! I'm incredibly shy as well and could never, ever just walk up to somebody and start small-talk - even about books. I just can't do it. *sigh*
ReplyDeleteWell, but can you feel the envy aura coming your way?! So wish I could attend ALA - or any other book-related event for that matter. ;) I hope you'll have a blast! :)
After reading these posts, I realize there are a lot of us who feel just like you. We just need to push ourselves out of our comfort zone a bit. Good luck! My BEA Post
ReplyDeleteI am incredibly shy too. I so know what you are saying though, that sometimes it comes off as unfriendly, but it really is just shyness. Glad to know I am not alone with that in the blogosphere! :)
ReplyDeleteMy Networking Post
On the one hand, you're so fortunate to live in a place with so many book bloggers and events! But on the other, I can see how it would be very intimidating to try to plunge into that huge community. As a fellow introvert, I can sympathize :-) I hope you figure it out!
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by my Armchair BEA Ask the Experts post.