Clowning Around

Okay, this isn't me, but close. Unruly hair. Skyhigh eyebrows. Triple-set smile. Two days to go until that dance showcase—two days—and I'll admit: I've been a bundle of nerves. It would be so much better if I were so much better. Plus, I could use a decent pair of shoes. The kind that turn when they're supposed to and stay put when they're asked to—trainable, obedient ballroom shoes (oh, and let's add to the mix a spiking heel, for fashion's sake, because you don't dance bolero in a pair of Converse (though yes, Melissa, I do love Converse). Why do we put ourselves into these ridiculous positions? Well, who would we be if we didn't?

HOUSE OF DANCE is due out next month, and I'm feeling rather anxious about that, too. I thought I'd get used to this—publishing books, steeling for a response—but as a matter of fact, it gets harder. My characters are no longer mine once they emerge between hard covers. Still I want embrace for them. Which is why I was so deeply touched yesterday when I (quite by accident) happened onto the HarperTeen site (www.authortracker.com) and read some of the responses from early readers. I don't know if those who generously take the time to read and respond to books will ever know how much their time and kindness means to people like me, but if any of you are reading this, I thank you. A million times, I thank you.