A Book Lover's Paradise!

Labor Day weekend in the ATL means that three events converge on this fair city.  There's the college football game at the Georgia Dome, Dragon*Con at the downtown hotels, and the Decatur Book Festival on the square in Decatur.  Dragon*Con is a sci-fi, anime, pop culture convention of epic proportions.  Dressing up and people-watching is so much fun!  I didn't go this year, a) because I went to another event, and b) because I couldn't think of anything to dress up as (I've donned a where's waldo? outfit and a hand-made, not by me, Rainbow Brite costume in past years).  I think my friends who went had a great time, though.  I attended the Decatur Book Fest for the first time this year, and I think it was a fabulous choice!  I woke up early on Saturday and found a spot to park near the square.  I walked around for a few minutes before I heard the snare drum announcing the start of the children's parade, led by Kevin Henkes and Lily!  

Here comes the parade!

Kevin Henkes!

Guest of Honor, Lily followed by the kiddos!!

I met this Lily and her mom (who was dressed as Delphinium Twinkle) in line to meet Kevin

Kevin Henkes is signing his hew Penny book for my class!

 I had a little while before the next author I wanted to see, so I walked around, met up with a college buddy, had a coffee, then we saw Olivia!

such a trooper, hanging out in the shade while braving the Atlanta heat!

 Sorry for the poor quality, my iPhone couldn't compensate for the shade, but I was thankful that they set up the Children's Stage in a shady spot (and I know the kiddos and their parents were).  I was super excited to see/meet Peter Brown!

Peter Brown reading from his new book "Creepy Carrots"

such a cutie!  He signed "Creepy Carrots" and "Chowder" for my class

The next author I saw was super pumped up!  He read from his Lunch Lady series, and broke out the oldie but goodie, "Punk Farm" and led the crowd in a punk version of Old MacDonald!  Love Jarrett Krosoczka!  I told him that my kiddos and I are awaiting an update on Josh (from Baghead), and can you believe that Josh is ten years old this week?

Jarrett is getting a punky "eieio" from the crowd

It was a very hot day, but it was so much fun to see parents, teachers, media specialists, and especially kids celebrating their love of books in grand fashion!  I can't wait for next year's festival!!