The Beginning Of The Twilight At Terracotta Indigo Journey

The evening was quite a slow one at “Waterfalls” restaurant off the ever busy Ajose Adeogun on Victoria Island (which co-incidentally is one the places that gets mentioned in my book). I was almost in knots over the arrival of the guests and the celebrities who were supposed to grace the event. The reason? – I am not the best public speaker this side of the planet.

Time has plans of its own. It has decided to pass with such alarming speed that evening my fervent prayers for a slower evening make very little difference. Soon, Mona Lisa Chinda of the Nollywood fame arrives and has to sit some uncomfortable minutes in her car when it becomes clear that her fans have not even arrived. Aren’t we Nigerians such a unique bunch?

Thankfully, I have the support of Rose Peter of NTA who has employed her people management skills to reassure Mona Lisa of a hitch free book reading without drama. Then, the fans begin to trickle in. Instead of this to reassure me, I am becoming more frazzled than ever. The camera man for Silver bird entertainment television makes a grand entry and he’s got news. He has other places to report on.

Well, long story short. We have Frank Edoho of the “who wants to be a millionaire?” finally make his much anticipated entry, followed by Cordelia Okpei of the FRCN fame. Then, bam! The evening begins. Mona Lisa’s reading of my book almost had a movie feel to it. She gave the most dramatic reading of the evening. Frank had us spell bound with the captivating rise and fall of his voice. Cordelia’s reading was just as bewitching. As for the fans, as the reading began in full swing, it became clear that they were enjoying the intimate atmosphere the venue provided and the stars who had by their own free will decided to share an evening of literary entertainment with them. At the end of it all, the camera man had done his interviews, I delivered my own author speech and answered a few questions, the stars had read and chatted up their fans, the offering of light snacks and drinks had come and gone, and it was DONE.

It was a perfect end to a hectic beginning. I am thankful for all that took time from their busy schedules to celebrate the launch of my novel “Twilight at Terracotta Indigo”. I look forward for more readings as my book gets ready to hit bookstore stands round the country. Stay with me for more update on “Twilight at Terracotta Indigo.” Thank you.

Love,

Umari Ayim.