Literary Readings

by Judy
(United States)

Last night I went to a literary reading to hear an author speak. She is very humorous and an excellent speaker. I haven't read the book but now I may do so. She read from a new book, and I felt like I knew too much and would just skip that chapter if I read the book.

How much do you read when at a reading? Shouldn't it be enough to tantalize the reader but not complete a whole portion? Interested in your take.

ANSWER:

I am not a fan of long literary readings. I think anything longer than 15 minutes is too much. It is better to talk about writing and researching the book, with a brief reading and a Q & A. If someone engages me for a full hour, I would prepare a focused talk--something that allowed me to engage with listeners more.