Authors don't just write. There are any number of peripheral activities essential to success. And I'm not talking about research or reappointing the writing 'shed' (invariably nothing of the sort). I'm referring to the round of events which many of us are asked to attend and which we would be insane to pass up. I've done a lot recently - which is why this blog has suffered from neglect - and enjoyed every minute. I know there are authors out there who hate the very idea of meeting their readers. Solitary creatures by nature, they would rather impale themselves upon their pens than have to deal with the public. Me - I love it. But that's because I come from an acting background and positively thrive on interaction. OK, I admit it. I'm a sucker for applause. Some of the most genuine comes from the kids I encounter when out and about. After all, if kids hate you, you soon know about it. They tend to give you that dead-eyed stare. My most recent event bears that out - I had the pleasure for the second year running of attending the Kids Lit ...