In New York I visited fourteen bookstores. In the smaller ones, an assistant would sometimes ask me "Is there something in particular you're looking for?" and a sheepish grin would appear on my face and I would say, "Yes, my book." Then I'd reach in my bookbag and pull out a copy of The Joys of Travel. I would explain the concept and extol the cover, which, I said, might attract customers looking for gift books during the holiday season. Most booksellers were receptive and said they'd order a few copies. The owner at 192 Books took time to discuss his favorite travel writers with me and then thanked me for bringing my book to his attention. If my life were a Hollywood movie - a Hollywood Christmas movie - I would return to New York next month and find my book filling the windows of every bookstore.
