I was amazed by many things at BEA, but none more than the ability to walk up to a salesperson for, say, Random House, and talk a bit, maybe get a free book, and give them a bookmark or a book in return. It was easy and fun, and who knows where it will lead?

The worst part is, I promised a salesperson from, say, Random House, that I'd send him a copy of Accidental Cowgirl, and in return, he'd send me a copy of a new book by an Indian author that I wanted to read, but didn't have room for in my bulging goodie bags, and I not only can't remember his name, I can't remember the book or the publishing house, and I can't find his card (still looking).

Let this be a lesson to you: Take notes, get organized and keep all cards together in ONE PLACE!

Best of luck,

ML