Neil Gaiman – what a legend!  I already was prepared to adore him from afar loving virtually everything that he writes but following today he’s gone even further up the adoration ladder, in fact he’s beyond the ladder (there’s a book title in there somewhere!)

Anyway, this weekend has just become officially awesome.  I went this afternoon to see a reading of Fortunately the Milk by Neil Gaiman, whilst I admit that this book is not aimed at me I was so looking forward to going and seeing Gaiman and he certainly doesn’t disappoint.  I had no idea what to expect as I’ve never been to a reading before!  But we were treated to a short introduction followed by a reading of the first two or three chapters of FtM, Q&A and then what turned into a mega book signing!

Basically he’s a great narrator.  Plus he tells such wonderful little stories about where he came up with the inspiration for some of his stories together with answering questions with real warmth and feeling, relating previous experiences and basically simply charming the audience.  On top of this he doesn’t rush through the signings – he makes everyone’s dedication personal and unique, takes time for photos and draws little characters galore!  Okay, it was a long wait in queue but he was still there signing away when I left and chatting easily with people – like I said a hero!

So, I learned that:

• next year (don’t know the release date) there will be six more Sandman novels, one released every two months, prequels to the original Sandman and giving the story of Morpheus, before his capture – and why he was so easily caught (sorry, Gaiman gave a much more eloquent description of this than I just did!
• There are going to be a series of novels (I think 3?) in which we will again be able to read about the Marquis de Carabas – can’t wait for those – and more about London Below – particular mention to the Shepherds of Shepherds Bush was made
• I’m sorry but I’ve forgotten any other news because my brain went to mush.
• and, I didn’t ask any questions because I was just too nervous – I so wanted to ask about The Ocean at the End of the Lane but I just totally wimped out

A photo of my signed book and a question – would it be silly to sleep with this book underneath my pillow!  (Probably more uncomfortable than silly)

The conclusion: Gaiman = gushing, fangirlyness.  Plus he’s completely spoiled me now for any future book readings!