Ooh, Michael Connelly!!!!

Yes, I signed up for the ALA July conference in Chicago. I don't know how I will afford to go. I don't know where I will stay. I wasn't even sure I would go...until today. Today I finally read some of the goings on and one is an authors' speaking series. Yes, there will be speakers like Junot Diaz (about whom I should probably be more enthusiastic) and Melba Pattillo Beals, who was one of the students who helped desegregate Little Rock Central High School. But the one that made my heart go pitter-patter and start looking for hotels is Michael Connelly.

Holy moly! This guy is right up there with Elmore Leonard! This is reading-under-the-covers, don't-put-it-down-or-shower-until-it-is-finished reading. In a world that allows action/mystery bestsellers to include rehashed storyline galore, if the writing is adequate--Harlan Coben I'm talking to you--or even where the writing is drivel--too many to list here--evocative, clear prose; a deep protagonist; and a good plot are like finding gold.

Lawrence Block, you still rawk and I'd come to see you speak if you were there too.