An Enlightening Mind - Edwidge Danticat

Last night I was really fortunate to attend a meet and greet with one of my favorite authors, Caribbean born Edwidge Danticat, at Politics & Prose. This was my first time attending an event at Politics & Prose and didn't expect the huge turnout of what looked like more than fifty people.

I started reading her books some time ago and was struck by her authenticity and dedication to vivid storytelling. It was my purpose to download the book from Amazon but after a conversation with Marta, a book lover who sat next to me, I quickly purchased my own copy. After all, I could not have one of my favorites sign my iPad as Marta said. 

We all sat spellbound as she shared excerpts of her new book, Claire of the Sea Light, in her soothing but scintillating accented voice about the daughter of a fisherman who has gone missing. The story is set in a fictional town (partly named for the author's mom) and deals with loss, relationships and the bonds we all share. The Q & A which followed was very engaging with guests of diverse cultures and the author sharing the nuances of immigrant writing and light moments during the writing process. I did stand in line excitedly to visit with the author and share how proud I was of her writing about her heritage AND yes, I had to take a photo with her. 

Looking forward to reading my signed copy of Claire of the Sea Light by Edwidge Danticat and then I will be back on my iPad to read the other six books I have downloaded. Thankfully, the weather is set to change so I will have lots of reading time.