Well, for the first time in nearly a month, the parking lot behind the bookshop is starting to look like a parking lot again. We are reliably informed that striping will happen tomorrow and some new landscaping. With luck, the end of the lot by the shop will be open on May 1st. Fingers crossed. We certainly have appreciated all your support -- whether it's been making an extra purchase or just friendly words of engagement -- during the past weeks. Come check it all out on Saturday!

In this issue of "Bookpost," I am experimenting with a new, briefer format for both event listings and with the book reviews. For the events, I am presenting a quick snapshot of what's up and why you should care. For the reviews, I am trying to convey in brief the essence of the book. I am doing all this because I had been hearing that "Bookpost" had become very long, so I am trying to make it a bit shorter and, as a result, friendlier. If you love it, let me know. If you hate it, let me know. I can't wait to hear what you think.

There are so many wonderful author events and new books over the next few weeks that we are thrilled to share with you. Thanks for being a part of our community here at Rakestraw Books -- the "books and mortar" version and out in cyberspace as well. Come see us soon and, until then, Happy Reading!