Book Festivals, Kind Words & Why This Journey Matters
Dear Friend,
Hello friends,
Wow! It’s been a packed October, and it’s only halfway through!
We had such a fantastic time meeting new Millie and Maudette families in Heber and Salt Lake City, Utah, and then came home just in time for the Uhland Fall Festival. What an incredible experience!
I was blown away by all the kind words and excitement around the books. So many people shared sweet compliments about the beautiful illustrations (thank you, Rosina!). My favorite part, though, was watching the faces of the little ones-and even the “little ones at heart”-as they said “awww” while holding Millie Lost Her Nose or smiled when reading Maudette Flew the Coop. Those moments fill my heart.
It’s truly humbling to see how many families connect with these simple, silly stories that also carry deeper messages. Your joy reminds me why I do what I do.
A Moment That Meant A Lot
At the Uhland Festival, I had one of those moments that really sticks with you. A woman stopped by my booth and studied one of my books for quite a while. I wasn’t sure what she was thinking, maybe she noticed a typo or something out of place?
Then she looked up and asked, “Who formatted your book?”
I told her, “I did.” And I braced myself for the classic, “Oh, you should’ve hired a professional.”
But instead, she smiled and said, “Well, it looks really good. Like a professional did it.”
She went on to tell me she’d worked in the publishing industry for years and could usually tell when a book was self-published, but she never would’ve guessed mine were.
That meant the world to me. When you’re learning everything from scratch, juggling roles, and doing your best without the big publishing budgets, a moment like that reminds you it’s all worth it. Because at the end of the day, I want every child who holds my book to feel the same joy and wonder I felt with my own childhood favorites.
A Note to You
And in that same spirit, I want to take a moment to acknowledge you.
Yes, you-for reading, sharing, encouraging, and believing in my stories (and in me). You make this dream possible. I’m truly grateful for your kindness and support.
If no one has told you lately, you’re doing great. Keep chasing your dreams, because you never know who might be inspired by your story someday.
Thank you again, from the bottom of my heart, for all your encouragement and support. I hope to see some of you this month, and as always, may your days be full of laughter, stories, and a touch of wonder.
With gratitude,
A. B. Wade
📚 AB Wade Books