The “Saving Simon” Orphan Book Tour is cranking into higher gear for the holidays, the book seems to be catching on as a Christmas gift, it is good for anyone who loves animals and would like to understand the true meaning of compassion. Connie Brooks has just acquired hundreds of neat tote bags, great for shopping or buying books, and it’s a perfect theme for the book. “Peace. Love. Books.” Can’t quarrel with any of that. Everyone who buys a book now from Battenkill will receive one.

Simon approves, he was happy to model this tote bag out in the pasture this morning.  Maria says Connie and the folks at Battenkill will be busy today, Simon is  irresistible to all creatures except Lulu and Fanny, who kick him in the head often and enthusiastically. The tote bags are available to each person who buys a copy of “Saving Simon, ” my latest book,  from Battenkill Books, my local independent bookstore. People who buy the books from Battenkill will also receive a signed photo postcard of Simon in his red hat, and will be eligible to win free coupons for Fromm Family Dog (and cat) Food, signed notecards, photos and potholders (as supplies last.)

I will also sign and personalize every book purchased at Battenkill, Connie has a table for me right in the bookstore, it is where I spent my afternoons on my new home-styled book tour when orders come in. And they are, we are close to 1,000.

I call this the Orphan Book Tour because Simon was orphaned and so was my book about him. When I switched publishers, mine scrapped all plans for a book tour or any kind of marketing campaign, Simon and I are on our own.  Don’t whine, is my motto, succeed instead.

We are up to it, we are looking to sell 2,000 copies of “Saving Simon” at Battenkill by Christmas. We have lots of tote bags, the supply should last awhile, but not forever. The store takes Paypal and ships anywhere in the world. Plus there are wonderful people working there, a chance to support bookstores, individualism, and community. A great Plaid Friday response to corporatism and greed. You can call  the bookstore at 518 677-2515 or order online. People love dealing with Connie and the people at Battenkill. many order all of their books from the store, from as far away as California, Minnesota, Texas and London.

Plaid Friday is a response to the corporate takeover of our holidays, by ordering the book now and getting your tote bag you can support me, Simon, independent bookstores and the notion of individuality, struggling to survive in America. Might get us to a 3rd printing as well.