Tom Swift Writer’s Notebook

I had no idea what to expect. It’s summer. Lives are busy. I’m not exactly David Sedaris. Besides, Howie Mandel gives away a lot more than I do. But what a great time last night at the library.

A good crowd asked great questions — readers at my events always ask great questions — and the food! There was fresh fruit, mixed nuts, crackers, two different spreads for the crackers, cookies (some with M&Ms), and various types of soda. I’m not fooling when I say the spread was some standards better than can be scrounged from my pantry at the moment. I had my tub-o-candy along but I was embarrassed to open it up. Kind of like offering an old Carolla to a hedge fund manager.

One highlight was meeting the mother of Matt Miller, a right-handed big leaguer with his own compelling story to tell. I won’t share all this kind lady told me about her son’s backstory, but I took the proud mom’s advice and Googled him. Miller seems like the kind of guy you root for even if he’s on the other team. He attended small schools and toiled for seven years, pitching in nearly three hundred minor league games, before making his debut. Even then he’s struggled with numerous injuries. But when healthy and given a chance he gets hitters out.

She told me about her son’s long road and his side-arm delivery. I told her about Charles Bender’s improbable arrival and his unconventional pitches. She purchased a copy but more than anything I am grateful she took the time to come and talk to me — one of several pleasant conversations during the evening.

Thank you, Oak Grove Public Library staff.

This post was added on Friday, June 20, 2008 by Tom Swift at 16:26 and is filed under Events.