Old jokes used to introduce themselves with “So-and-so [a trio usually] walk into a bar…” Today I walked into a bookstore (leaving two outside to wait for me, so there’s the trio) to pick up a book I preordered a few months ago “Big Nobody” by Alex Kadis. Because the book sounded hysterical, it got a starred Kirkus Review and yeah, it’s Greek themed. Anyway, I open the door to the Corner Bookstore, excited as I always am walking in because their selection is so French-kiss literary fiction, or as their website says: “We take enormous pride in our stock, and carefully select current fiction and nonfiction titles to bring only the best of the best to our customers. Our commitment to carrying “only the best of the best” extends to all sections of the store…”

What do I see entering the store hand still on knob, front and center taking up the queen spot of what’s newly out in the best of books? [Austin Powers voice]: Yeah, baby. I see Baris’s signature cover of my book To Love Like Venus. She’s there looking at me from the shelf, popping her bubble gum: I’m always three steps ahead of you. Surprise b*tch.

I lost all of my favorite local bookstores in the last decade or so. The Corner Bookstore is the remaining local one that gives me intimate selection-pleasure with a polite staff. They wrap your books in gold (it may be paper, but the way they do it makes me feel like it’s gold). Kudos to them in ordering my book.

If you’re in NYC and looking on where to buy the book, please go there first. Even if you’re coming to my book launch on 3/21, get the book there first. Supporting them means more.

1313 Madison Avenue at 93rd Street, New York City 10128 (212) 831-3554

I’ve been here when other authors came in to sign their books. They were cool as cucumbers, no fuss. That was NOT me. There is one thing attending events at CENTRO PR has made me take pride in: I celebrate my warmth, expressions of joy, smiles and giggles.

PS: without spoilers, it’s meaningful this book is sold on Madison Avenue.