Last week I had the opportunity to attend a book signing in Little Rock, AR with Brad Thor. Brad is wrapping up a promotional swing in support of his latest release “Full Black”. (If you haven’t had a chance to read “Full Black”, it’s one of Brad’s best books to date. You can read my review of it here.) It was the first Brad Thor book signing I’ve had a chance to attend and after my experience – it definitely won’t be the last.
The signing was held at Books-A-Million in Little Rock. That meant a 3 ½ hour drive for me. I was a bit tired when I finally arrived, but the staff at Books-A-Million were all very helpful. The setting for the event was casual and intimate. When Brad arrived, he greeted the crowd and thanked everyone for coming out to support him. He then spent the next half hour talking about a wide range of subjects; everything from the inspiration for “Full Black” (“I went out to people I knew in the intelligence and special operations community and I said – I write about what keeps me up at night. This time, though, I want to know – what keeps you up at night?), an update on the adaptation of his Scot Harvath books into films (“We signed a big deal with Warner Brothers in November.”), and his views on Islam (“I’ve never been anti-Islam. I’m definitely anti-Islamist. There is a difference. If you say your religion compels you to go kill people – your interpretation of your religion sucks.”)
After a few questions from the audience, Brad jumped in to signing books. He was genuinely excited to meet and talk to his fans. He took time to speak to everyone personally as they reached the table, he took pictures with anyone and everyone who asked, and he was happy to sign as many books as people had brought with them. In short, he showed true class and an appreciation for those that have read and loved his books over the years. (In another classy move, he invited any veterans and any parents with small children to come directly to the front of the line. That, more than anything, impressed me – and spoke to his character.)
As the evening was wrapping up, only I was left, along with quite a few active members of the Thorum – Brad’s online discussion forum. As I sat and listened to Brad talk with them, I was struck by the camaraderie they all shared. It was more an easy conversation among friends than a book signing between author and fans. I realized that I was seeing the true secret to the success of Brad Thor – a desire and willingness to truly connect with people. To have a conversation – not just give a lecture.
After the event was over, every book signed and every picture taken, Brad was kind enough to spend some time talking with me. It was great to sit down and chat with him in person. He has an infectious energy about him and an engaging personality. It was late, he was feeling a bit under the weather, but he was more than gracious with his time. I hope you, faithful reader, enjoy our conversation.
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