The Book Revue
On February 8th, 2019, several weeks after my first book launched on Amazon, I had my first book signing at the Book Revue in Huntington, New York. I had been looking for a venue to have my book signing for weeks, and at the suggestion of a coworker, I stopped by the store to set up a book signing. I had never set foot inside the building, and when I did, I was blown away. The book store's size, scope, and minor details hit home with me, such as the staircases that brought to a loft area overlooking the store. Or, the children’s area, which was slightly sectioned off and gave a majestic fantasy feel, or the quiet, cozy café area. There are rows of bookshelves on wheels that give the managers the ability to move them around and create a more open or intimate space, depending on the day's needs.
As my mini-tour through the Book Revue continued, I noticed the numerous photos of celebrities, athletes, and former presidents. The sheer magnitude of the place had hit home, that I was to be having a book signing in a place where numerous other successful people had had their book signings. It was a bit nerve-wracking but in a good way.
With the day rapidly approaching, I feverishly ran around, trying to get signs made, postcard giveaways, and anything else I could think of to make the experience more enjoyable to guests. The stage was set, with chairs placed, a podium set up in the middle, and a wood table to sign my books. Then Book Revue was a bit trepidatious to see if a self-published author could get the minimum amount needed to have a book signing. Still, with the help of friends, family, and several people who showed up randomly, they and I were both pleasantly surprised by the turnout. I had nearly seventy people in total, with laughs and storytelling to go around. All in all, it was a magical evening that rivaled my expectations.
Now, why am I telling you this wonderful story?
Because the Book Revue, which was founded in 1977, is closing its doors later this month. In a letter to the customers on their website, owner Richard Klein said the following:
I am writing today to all who have so loyally supported our store over the years. We have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of love for Book Revue in recent days. Sadly, we will be closing the store to the public some time in September as we will be vacating the premises by the end of the month.
Many people have generously offered financial assistance and I know that some are puzzled by my decision to decline these offers. As you know, the past year has been extremely difficult. Forced to close for nearly three months and unable to host events, we found ourselves for the first time in 43 years, unable to cover all our expenses. It is true that the debt we incurred could be satisfied by using the assistance we have been offered. The landlord, however, is offering to rent our space at a rate that is more than double the amount we were paying before the pandemic hit. The bookstore cannot afford to pay that amount of rent. I have considered moving the store, but have decided against such an enormous endeavor after taking my age and health into account.
When I first heard the news, I was crushed. Then I heard of the outpouring of love that followed, but still, even with sizable donations, it appears to be too much. The building has been such an integral part of my life, and the infancy of my success will soon close. I hope someone will buy the Book Revue and look to keep and or improve on it with new ownership. If Richard Klein ever reads this blog, I would want him to know the tremendous impact that place had on me and my life. And I, for one, thank you, sir, from the bottom of my heart.
This blog may not have been long, but that was not the intent. I wanted it to be short and deliberate, to give a brief glimpse into a day that shaped my life. If you want to know more, you can visit the Book Revue or visit my gallery section, where you will see pictures of my book signing.