An Amazing Night

I recently shared about my experience participating in a book festival in Hungary. (You can read about it here.) During that same trip to Europe, I also had the opportunity to participate in one more book event. This one took place in Bratislava, Slovakia.

Martin, the publisher who produces my books in the Slovak language arranged an event at a large bookstore.

As authors, we never have any idea how many people might (or might not) show up to a book-signing event, so while the publisher was praying for a large crowd, I moderated my expectations.

I needn’t have worried. Many people came.

I had prepared a brief talk, which was translated by the delightful Jana.  

Then we shifted to Q & A, and with Jana’s translation help, I answered many, many questions. The crowd was engaged and asked excellent questions or shared how my books had turned them into readers (one of the best compliments an author can receive). Some of the questions made me laugh, others…almost cry.

I could tell many in the crowd were people of faith, as they asked questions about favorite Bible verses (e.g. Philippians 4:6-7) or if there are any Scriptures I reflect on before I write. (John 15:5-8 and Ephesians 2:10 are posted near my desk).

After the Q & A, I met readers, posed for photos, and signed books for over an hour.

Some of the names were difficult for me to spell, especially those with unfamiliar accent marks, but with Jana’s help, I managed.

I even got to meet two young women in person whom I’d interacted with on social media, like Instagram friend, L’ubica.

The entire night was such a unique, humbling, encouraging experience. An unexpected, undeserved blessing for sure, and a highlight of our entire trip.

Have you experienced any unexpected blessings lately?