Tips for tackling BEA

Book Expo America is a week away, and we know a lot of you are headed to NYC to attend. We've thought back on past experience and each of us has come up with some last minute tips that could help if you prepare and have an enjoyable show.

• Wear comfortable shoes.
• Have a plan. 
• Be ready for that plan to fly out the window. (AKA Be flexible.)
• Pack snacks. 
• Always bring back-up. (i.e. a friend or blog partner)

• Pace yourself. BEA is a marathon, not a sprint. Do everything you can, but remember it's supposed to be a good time. 
• Keep your eyes and ears peeled. Look for signs listing signings or galley drops. Listen to people chatting next to you in line to learn what signings and books have them excited. You may find something to add to your list. 
• Be bold. Approach people working the booths and ask about a forthcoming title you're anxious to read. Better yet, ask them what upcoming book they adore. Who knows? They may just put a copy in your hands. 
• Stay hydrated. Bring a water bottle you can refill and drink up. It's easy to get caught up walking the floor or waiting in lines then suddenly realize you haven't had a beverage in hours. 
• Remember where you are and that you're representing yourself or your blog because other people will remember how you act. I won't belabor the point, but like the saying goes "you never get a second chance to make a first impression."

•  Acquire effective cab-hailing skills for easy travel. I cannot provide tips, as I have poor cab-hailing skills.
• Pack comfy footwear in the event that #1 does not occur. 
• Have backup coffee vending locations for when the Javits Starbucks has a line of 900 people. You may not know my backup coffee location.
• When someone takes the last copy of the book you want, suddenly stops in front of you, or bites you, remember this simple stress-reduction motto from Bad Boys 2: wooosaaah. 
• Have a great time. It's New York City and more books than you could ever hope to read. 

Check out previous posts on BEA... 

BEA on a Budget 

BEA: The Low-Down 

BEA: What the heck do I do now? 

BEA: Packing 101

We'll see you at the Javits!