Fournier.pasa@Xerox.ARPA (07/17/85)
From: Fournier.pasa@Xerox.ARPA In Digest #216, the subject of autographs was raised, and I'd like to add my two cents worth, now that I can finally grab the time to reply. At a bookstore (e.g., Change of Hobbit, Dangerous Visions), the manager/owner will often set a limit on # of books PER PASS through the line, especially if there are long lines anticipated (at a convention, a similar ruling may hold true). You might wish to call ahead for info. Sometimes the owner will make a differentiation based on whether you have purchased from the store at the time of the autograph party, any of the books you wish to get signed, such as 3 without purchase, 5 with purchase. Most bookstores will give you a receipt upon entry to differentiate your own books from those for sale. I think Wendel Phillips went to CoH, but DV also gives receipts. VERY SELDOM does an sf author specify that thon will only sign the book for which the autograph party is being held (usually a new publication). Many authors appreciate seeing different editions, or the breadth of your collection of thon's material. Also, don't be afraid to talk to the author about some aspect of the book being signed, if time permits, or to ask That Burning Question (esp. if no one else is asking it). Anne McCaffrey was suprised to find her works published in France, as she was not getting royalties for same. Larry Niven understood that many of his readers could not afford clothbound books in terms of price and shelfspace, and said he had ceased to be upset by the dearth of them in fannish collections. Roger Zelazny seemed surprised when I walked in with my entire collection of his work, but didn't complain. And on a final note, let me say that Dangerous Visions Bookstore in Sherman Oaks, Calif., will be holding an autograph party for Norman Spinrad to celebrate the publication of CHILD OF FORTUNE, on Saturday, August 3rd, from 2-5 pm. Please call 818/986-6963 for the limit on books.