Thoreau's first book wasn't a fast mover. He once quipped "I have now a library of nearly nine hundred volumes, over seven hundred of which I wrote myself."

Dear Bloggers, neighbors and friends...

As of Wednesday, April 26, 2006, I now have a library of exactly 1143 books (original order plus overruns) in Ann's new addition--a cube of books approximately the size of a large refrigerator on its side--and every one of them I wrote myself! Every one of them, I intend to match with a reader myself. And maybe you are or know one of those future readers.

Update 1 October: I've been told that the fall is a great time for book sales. I'm still relying on person-to-person to spread the word, so AFTER you purchase a half dozen copies of Slow Road Home as Christmas gifts, tell your friends to order theirs!

Update 1 August: Over half of the books are now in the hands of readers, and I'm planning for a second printing soon!

I hope to sell this first batch directly, with the intention to pay for the printing, cover the costs of the review copies, and support some travel to talk with readers about this personal and natural history I've penned largely beginning on and sustained by the blog. I'll look forward to meeting new friends I'd have never known had I not printed Slow Road Home to connect me to them.

And here's where you come in: I'm going word-of-mouth and of email with this first batch. Call me crazy, but I think this will get the job done. If each reader who finds some merit and enjoyment in the book will 1) consider buying an additional copy or copies as gifts; and 2) talk with their friends at work, their families and the neighborhood AND send the address, http://www.slowroadhome.com to everyone (or at least a chosen few) on their email lists...who will in turn do these same two things, well hey! How hard is that!? If you have a blog, consider putting up a post about the book, or a link in your sidebar is even better! (You might also tell me if you have a brilliant idea for a marketing or speaking or book placement opportunity near you! That wouldn't hurt a bit.)

If you'd like your copy of the book inscribed, tell me TO WHOM (if not you) and if you'd rather be referred to in the inscription as Lawrence rather than by your web name of Rednecromancer, just tell me.

Okay. You have your assignment, good folks. Light the lanterns! One if by Pay Pal, two if by check! The Books are coming! The Books are coming! Our friendly service reps are waiting for your call. (Sorry, no ginsu knives if you order by midnight tonight.)

Thanks for your good wishes and support all along the way. It has been quite the wild ride!

Fred