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On Friday, I joined 724 other book lovers, authors, and event workers at Maryland Hall in Annapolis, MD for Park Books' (Severna Park, MD) visiting author series. I've twice met authors through Park Books, but this event was by far the highest-profile authors I've heard speak: Jodi Picoult, a best-selling author of many works easily recognizable by even the least avid reader, and the UK's Duchess of York Sarah Ferguson.

Authors Jodi Picoult & Sarah Fergusion, Duchess of York, March 10, 2023

As takeaways, I found validation that my own literary journey is worthwhile, the pains that authors undertake in research are similar and necessary, and even the most successful authors occasionally struggle and doubt themselves.

As Jodi and "Fergie" talked, they revealed their humanity and spoke of goals they have yet to achieve, even at the ages of 57and 63, respectively. Their vulnerability proved inspirational to the hundreds of attendees, as evidenced by a particularly prolonged round of applause by the audience -- by yours truly included.

This is the second time I've seen Fergie in person, the first being at a PGA Byron Nelson golf tournament in the '90s. On both occasions, I was struck by Fergie's magnetism. She's had her share of media coverage, much of it negative, which she has endured as well as she can. What the media coverage does not make clear, however, is why she is so often a fodder for tabloids. She fits no mold, royal or otherwise, and she has come to terms that people will think what they will. It's unfortunate that tabloids and mainstream media alike do not cover her good works in the interests of women and children (Sarah's Trust, (sarahstrust.com)), with the same fervor they sensationalize her words or actions with a particular bent.

As for me, I am a Fergie fan, and I admire her resilience, intelligence, bravery, and heart.