The magnificent Star Princess I’m on is now leaving Ketchikan. In fact this is the last week for cruise ships in Alaska and I am fortunate enough to see a little bit of the “real” and “not touristy” side of its inhabitants.
There was a little bit of sunshine this morning (and a little bit of rain this afternoon) and the weather was surprisingly warm for late September.
Since I’ve toured this area extensively last year while doing reasearch for my book Maya & Filippo Look for Whales
, today I just took a casual stroll down Creek Street. Unfortunately the salmon that I describe as swimming upstream in my book, were just lying around dead and smelling today - not a sight you want to show your children!
After our little stroll, where else could I have gone if not to a book store! A soon as the store manager saw me trying to open the door with the stroller I was pushing, she helped me in, directed me to the kids’ area and was extremely helpful.
My daughter loved this little book store, played with all the toys and I studied some of the picture books on the shelves (always benchmarking!)
After about half an hour, we headed to the cash register and I mentioned to the owner that I too have a written a children’s book about Ketchikan. She wanted to have a look and was very enthusiastic about it! She said that whales are a great topic and there are not many Alaskan books about them. She said there is no need for me to leave her a copy, she can see that it will be a great addition to her collection and she will order copies for the book store for next season.
The best part about this experience is that she was so welcoming and positive. Take-away? Sometimes with one positive remark or one smile you can make someone’s day (although of course it is our responsibility to be happy - and if you’ve read any of my books, you will see these messages in the background.)
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