Random Monday- The Book Camp Edition

As many of you know I spent last week as one of the instructors for the Vancouver Public Library’s Book Camp program. This is a summer program for kid/teen writers and book lovers. It was incredible amounts of fun. Things I learned:
- Kids/teens still have a HUGE passion for reading and books. Yes, they love their computers, TV and video games- but they’re not at all interested in giving up on books.
- Their imagination doesn’t yet have bounds. Nothing is too out there, too silly, too weird.
- Never underestimate just how funny 11 and 12 year old boys find farting or any other type of disgusting body function. As one 11 year old girl told me “And they wonder why we like boys in books instead of them.” Indeed. Hint to the pre-teen boys out there: stop talking about farting if you’re hoping to get a girl.

One of the highlights for me was when I was approached by a teen girl who declared herself to be one of my biggest fans EVER. She had me sign books and pose for a picture. It was unclear who was more excited about the meeting- her or me. She’s not even RELATED to me. Amazing.

With Book Camp now over this week will be a bit more quiet. As a fully fledged introvert- I’m just fine with that. It’s also going to be a bit cooler this week- and I’m fine with that too. Bring on the pumpkin pie, hot chocolate and cozy sweaters.

August 20th, 2012