The first time I was hired at Barnes & Noble, I was student teaching in San Diego. It was a fantastic job for a fledgling English and journalism teacher. Surrounded by words. I learned a lot in that first stint about reading, readers, retail, and myself.

The second time I worked for B&N, I was getting divorced. As my ex and I teased apart our finances, I felt it necessary to supplement my income. Again, the legendary Fox Books took me in.

Most recently, I did an upaid, unsupported sabbatical (of choice) in Oklahoma. One more time, my beloved Barnes & Noble took me in. And I met some of my favorite people on the planet (for proof, please see: Holland, My Heart Acknowledgments).

One of them sent me this photo today! Holland is live. You can walk into any Barnes & Noble to request they order you a copy (or several). Please do!

And if you’re very persuasive, maybe you’ll convince your store to invite me for a book signing. I’ll be there!