I gotta be a part of it, BEA, BEA

Whew! I've had so much fun this week! After three years off, I returned to NYC and BEA. Book Expo America is the largest book convention in the biz, a week of awesome booksellers, publishers, authors, and other people who love books. So many reunions, so many new friends, and how amazing to have conversations with other ADULTS. I made an effort to take photos this time, so get ready for Awesome Handheld Camera Phone Slide Show.

His Former Eminence, Jon Scieszka.

MT Anderson, a gentleman, scholar, and spy. Probably. Seriously one of my favorite writers AND favorite people ever.

Five Utahns crashed into each other. Brandon Mull and wife Mary, and Tracy and Laura Hickman. Such fun kids.

Sarah J. Maas and I on the way to dinner, pretend that this is our ride.

On a roof, having a delightful conversation with Tobin "MT Hammer" Anderson (behind the camera) and John "Blue Steel" Green, this branch continually stuck in my face, lending me mystery and allure. I'm pretty sure John wished he had a branch in his face.

John and Tobin received this packed of "11 one-inch discs" in a swag bag. Yes. 11 one-inch discs. What would you use these for, you ask? What WOULDN'T you use them for? There are ELEVEN. Pure. Magic.

Come on, people. Libba Freakin' Bray. My torso twin. I kissed her cheeks and smelled her hair. Why don't I have an ARC of her new book, The Diviners? Because there is no justice in the world.

Jane Seymour! Jane is Mrs. Wattlesbrook in the Austenland movie. She was at BEA to advertise an upcoming book, and I was so happy we had 30 seconds to say hi. I love her.

My awesome, darling editor Victoria. From The Goose Girl to Palace of Stone, she's been the voice of wisdom and encouragement.

In the Bloomsbury booth, they had this awesome light box with the cover of my new book! So surreal and happy-making. Someone said I look like the cover model, so I tried to duplicate her expression.

James Dashner lives two minutes from my house, but this spring I run into him in Chicago and New York.

I love these ladies! Elizabeth & Josie from Flying Pig Bookstore in VT. Booksellers FTW.

Mo Willems trying out a Dan Santat-decorated Big Wheel at the Art Auction.

Jeff Kinney and some awesome booksellers from Hicklebees in CA. I don't know the dude in the middle, but I admire his photo sneaking skills.

In the classy backstage of the autograph area with publicist Katy and agent Barry.

Ah BEA, you were a joy. Thanks for the memories.

EDIT: I had to add my REACHED photo!