Book readings and signings have always been challenging for me. It’s not that I don’t like public speaking, I actually enjoy that part. What I get nervous about is that I’ll be stuck in a quiet corner of a bookstore with a pile of my books, nothing to say and worse yet, nobody to listen. Thankfully, that has never happened… in fact, last week, it was quite the opposite!

I’d like to extend a huge thank you to Island Books and my 40+ friends and supporters who showed up for my Book Launch Party. It was a joyful occasion with wonderful food and refreshments, and a really festive atmosphere.

One moment that stands out in my mind is when I looked out at the crowd and saw Joe and Lila Greengard in the audience. You might remember Joe from my blog post and other publications where I talk about the importance of having a mentor who can guide you. He is also prominently featured in Sheer Determination because he has played such an important role in my success. When I looked out and saw him listening, I realized that I’ll always have a story to tell and I’ll know the right moment to share it. With my new book, there really is a chapter for every occasion and I knew it was the perfect time to read from Chapter 25, called “Do You Have a Mentor?” What a pleasure it was to talk about Joe and our history when he was in the room to hear my gratitude and when I saw tears welling up in many people’s eyes, I knew that our story resonated with many in the room.

Here is an excerpt from my book in the Acknowledgement section:

My heartfelt thanks to Lila and Joe Greengard. You have walked alongside of me since the early days of my business and have always been there when I stumbled and fell. Your gracious ways have taught me that it is not necessary to be an aggressive and single-minded business owner; instead, one can be kind, compassionate, and humble, and still succeed. Joe, you taught me an important lesson: “When what appears to be a giant ‘paper tiger’ blocking my way, it can always be gently pushed aside to clear the way.” With you by my side, the tiger was never as frightening. I feel so fortunate that you decided to take me under your wing and share your wisdom.

The same thing happened when I pulled from Chapter 5, “Back on the Street,” In this section of my book, I shared how much I missed working as a member of a supportive team vs. working independently with a group of commission minded employees. I chose this topic specifically for the women in the audience whose mission was to support each other to succeed. I also talked about teamwork and the supportive spirit I’ve always tried to cultivate in Studio 904 and how it makes such a difference.

Moments like this make all of my nervousness melt away, feeling like I’m in the right place at the right time and savoring the moment.

With all this excitement about Sheer Determination, please don’t forget about my other book, Keiko’s Journey….

If you haven’t had a chance to attend one of my Book Events, there is another one coming up this weekend at Kinokuniya in Seattle. Those of you who have read Keiko’s Journey or have seen me and my team perform the Book Reading Drama will be happy to know that I’ll be revealing new details about my mother’s story that were not included in the book. Please come if you can, Saturday, May 27, 2017 at 2pm, Kinokuniya, 525 S Weller Street, Seattle. CLICK HERE for details.