I used to live in Ann Arbor, Michigan, a glorious place for writers and readers alike with a bookstore, or two or three, on every block. I especially enjoyed attending readings at Shaman Drum because they regularly featured up-and-coming authors in an intimate setting. I first heard Bonnie Jo Campbell there, and she’s now nominated for the National Book Award! What made it really special was the introduction given by the owner or one of the staff (not sure of the person’s name or title). This person did so much research and clearly spent so much time preparing the most eloquent introductions that I’m afraid sometimes I enjoyed them more than the reading itself! I vowed that if I should ever publish a book, I would make it my mission to give a reading there. Now, I’m afraid that’s not possible. Thanks to writer friend Lisa for cluing me in to this amazing bookstore’s unfortunate demise.