Top Technology & The Young Writers Workshop

Janet Beasley talks about the Young Writers Workshop she now heads up.

    
In my journey through the trials and triumphs of the literary world, I’m happy to share one triumph I look forward to every other Thursday.

     Let me back up in time to set the stage.

     Dar and I had planned several guest appearances and book signing events for late summer 2012. But as life happens at times, I was unable to travel and be at the events side by side with Dar. We were both devastated, but not willing to give up.

     I suggested we use Skype. Using this video phone technology I knew I could “be there live” via the computer. I told her not to “publicize” this, as I wanted to test the waters before launching any marketing for future events.

     Dar agreed, and ventured out to her first appearance laptop in hand, hoping for decent wifi service at the venue. She set up the display table – it looked stunning I might add. Then it was time to hook up the laptop and hopefully get Skyping. She called me on my cell phone and I walked her through the steps of Skype. In only minutes, BOOM, I was at the event with her in Michigan “live” via Skype from Florida.  Our first attempt was so much fun, and such a huge success we knew we were onto something.    

      I can’t tell you the great feeling I got each time a fan approached the Hidden Earth Series table, and I could see them in real time. I’d say, “Hello. Thanks for stopping by.”  It startled most of them at first then fascination would set in and they would just keep staring at me, asking over and over, “You’re in Florida? Really?”  It wasn’t long and people were flooding the Hidden Earth Series table in Michigan for the chance to meet and talk with the author who was sitting in Florida.

     It was through this creative genius moment, we opened the door to the Young Writers Workshop without even knowing it. Dar Bagby, was approached by the Pickford, Michigan Community Library’s head librarian, Ann Marie Smith. She invited Dar and myself to head up the Young Writers Workshop doing just what we were doing there – Dar in person and me “live” on Skype.

     Through a unique idea, we’ve opened the door for us to appear “together” in more libraries and schools. It is also a way that Dar, or myself, are able to appear at writers groups and workshops around the world. The only thing that makes it a little awkward going global is the time differences, and once in a while the system(s) will act up, or the call will drop, but it’s nothing we can’t handle.

     Dar and I have found it is amazing what opportunities technology lends itself to—when it’s working. J

     Discover all Dar and Janet have to offer by visiting http://www.HiddenEarthSeries.com

Find out more about Janet and her amazing novels by visiting our Author, Books, Trailer & Review Pages