Author of quilting-themed books to speak in Batavia
Bonita Deering of Prairie Shop Quilts was so excited about this program that she contacted me months ago and asked me to write about it.
"Jennifer Chiaverini is coming to Batavia to speak," she wrote in an e-mail. "She is an amazing author and quilter."
Deering is very familiar with Chiaverini's books since her book club at the shop, "PSQ Page Turners" has read two of the books in the series. Chiaverini has written 12 novels that feature quilting themes.
Chiaverini knew she wanted to be a writer when she was just a little girl.
"As soon as I could read, I knew I wanted to be a writer," she said. "I love writing, especially novels."
Chiaverini has also written two quilting pattern books and a few short stories for magazines. It is her quilting series that keeps her busy. Her most recent book, "The Quilter's Homecoming", was recently at No. 19 on the New York Times Best Seller list.
"I made my first quilt, a wedding quilt, when I got married," Chiaverini said. "I have always been fascinated with the different patterns of quilts and the history behind them. They always say to write what you know and it just seemed natural for me to tie quilting into my writing."
The books in the series take place in the fictional town of Elm Creek. The stories involve a little bit of everything -- history, romance, relationships and, of course, quilting. Even though she writes a series, Chiaverini feels that each book is a stand alone so that new readers can pick up anyone of the books and enjoy it.
"I always try and tie the new book to a previous character either by focusing on a secondary character or an ancestor of a character," she said. "But I always make sure there is something new -- new relationships and new experiences.
Deering has read all but two of the Elm Creek series. She looks forward to Chiaverini reading from her newest book due out this month, "The New Year's Quilt", at the 7 p.m. Nov. 19 program at the library.
Chiaverini will read from her book and answer any questions that audience member might have. Copies of her books will be available for signing.
The event is free, but you will need a ticket to get in. Tickets are available at Prairie Shop Quilts at 1911 W Wilson in Batavia.