(Just want to nip a possible long running blogging feud in the bud here by use of your real name and by not pointing out any of your numerous spelling mistakes).

I love the idea of a new bestseller published within the confines of a technical document. Perhaps every IKEA instruction sheet should come with a short crime novel, and Washing Machines with an extract from a booker winner?

Seriously though it sounds like a post of your experiecnes of Singapore would be really interesting. For one I’d be glad to hear what kind genre of literature is most popular in Singapore?

Singapore was interesting and possibly worth a post. They don’t have a publishing industry and yet the government is putting money into increasing both literacy and Singapore’s presence in the world publishing market. The first year I went, the winners of the “contest,” were given grants to self publish. At my sugggestion, this past year they found actual printers–in this case industrial publishers who print directions and booklets that come with radios and the like. The only problem was that everything was going to press the day after we gave them our critiques. They’re working hard to build an industry and it is amazing that the government is funding it to the extent it is.

We were very well treated and while I had my usual problems at customs, I was only detained for a day this time. Very comfortable cell, but lousy cell reception. But the hardships one encounters while traveling are what one remembers, don’t you think?

All best,
Stupid Blogger

I’m not sure if you can “be” a salutation, but I’m prepared to keep an open mind . . .

What were your experiences of Singapore? I haven’t been there myself but Jenny Nimmo, author of the Charlie Bone series, was saying that she had a fantastic experience in China talking to a number of private schools.

Did you were find you were well looked after? And was the tour organised by your own publishers, or by a local contact?

(I think I’m going to have to call you Mark unless you insist otherwise!)

Great post–I’m always interested in hearing about how book festivals work in other parts of the world. I’ve done two in Singapore and they were huge learning experiences.

And BTW –GO EGMONT US!!! Elizabeth Law is awesome.

I like the acronym too; in fact, I like acronyms in general (see above). But when I contribute, should you feel like commenting, I actually prefer being the salutation “Hey Stupid.” Just a preference, certainly not compulsory.

All best,
Mark