Hi, Sherry Kyle here, writing to you on my laptop from Central California.

I prayed fervently on my way to the Capitola Mall on Saturday. The direction of my prayer went something like this, “Please, God, help me to be a listening ear to those who need encouragement coming into Inklings Books & Things. Help me plant a seed for Christ. And if I sell a few books, well, that would be nice too.” I wasn’t nervous or anxious at being the featured author at my neighborhood bookstore. Instead I was eager to see who God would bring my way. Here are three stories that I hope bless you as much as they blessed me:

The first couple I spoke with was a quiet, older pair. They gingerly picked up my books and looked at the back covers, saying they didn’t know a child they could give The Christian Girl’s Guide to Style to and usually didn’t read books like Delivered with Love. “Thank you for taking a look,” I said, smiling. After we talked a few minutes, they moseyed to another part of the store. It wasn’t long before the woman came back and expressed her interest in writing poetry and her desire to publish one day. After finding out she was a Christian, I took the opportunity to tell her about Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference. Before Catherine left, she thanked me for all the information and signed my mailing list.

Raul, a twenty-six year old young man, was the next person who came by. “Are you an author?” His face lit up and he extended a hand. “I’ve never met a real author before,” his voice rose in excitement. After shaking his hand, we talked like two people who share the same passion for books. I discovered Raul loves “paranormal” books, a far cry from what I write, but it didn’t matter. I was able to encourage him to pursue his writing dream.

A woman named Carol walked right up to the table and said, “I love supporting local authors.” It didn’t matter what my novel was about she wanted to buy it. As we chatted I discovered she had a brain injury, which prevented her from writing. I found out she taught creative writing years ago and had a story idea that she felt had never been done before. Her eyes clouded when she shared the image that sparked her imagination. She wanted to write again, but was afraid. I told her that before I write I pray to God to help me because
I can’t do it in my own strength. I also asked her if she would consider writing an article instead of a novel—something possibly more doable for her. After I signed her book she thanked me for listening and told me I was worth my weight in gold.

On my way home I thanked God for answering my prayer.

We can and do make a difference. Praise God!

Do you have a similar book signing story? Please share.