by Public Service Associate & Content Coordinator Hannah
When I saw an email announcing that an author event featuring Meg Cabot still had tickets available, I did a double take. In my mind, she should always be sold out! So, I invited a friend, bought our tickets from the wonderful hosts at Westerville Public Library, requested the day off—it landed on my birthday, after all—and started counting down!
I first discovered Meg Cabot’s books on my older sister’s bookshelf. She would have been the target age group and probably would have let me borrow them too, but just in case, I’d sneak read. Ever since, I’ve had a soft spot for Cabot’s characters: flawed, funny, strong girls living life and facing extraordinary circumstances.
But if you’re anything like me, you might register for an author event and immediately wonder: is it okay to admit I haven’t read all their books? I debated rereading All-American Girl, brushing up on Princess Diaries trivia, and putting Enchanted to Meet You on hold before it hit me: there’s no pop quiz at the door. Meg Cabot, under her own name and at least three pseudonyms, has written more than 80 books! Sure, some fans might aim for total completion, but libraries welcome all readers.
And for the other practical questions:
- Can I bring something for them to sign?
- Do I need to dress up?
- Is it acceptable to take photos?
- What should I say if I get the chance to talk to them?
- And how early should I arrive?
Most programs are casual, but specifics can usually be found in the event description, confirmation email, or announcements from library staff. Organization and helping people are kinda our thing, so feel free to call or send an email!
After weeks of anticipation and nostalgia, the evening arrived—and we were greeted with a fun surprise: attendees received a tiara in a nod to Mia and Grand-mère. We found our seats in the well-appointed high school auditorium, where the energy was chill but everyone from young teens to lifelong fans was surprisingly engaged.
Cabot didn’t do a typical sit-down Q&A or panel. Instead, she delivered a slide-show-meets-stand-up talk that was conversational, funny, and personal. She shared how some personal trauma fueled her creativity, but in a way that made us laugh, reflect, and cheer for the creative process. When an audience member asked if she used AI, she joked, “No—I wrote my first book by hand at age 7. It was about a puppy in a tornado. And now AI just copies my love of em dashes!”
She also talked about her early love of sci-fi, especially Princess Leia from Star Wars, and how a librarian helped her discover fantasy novels. While Cabot wasn’t heavily involved in the first screenplay, we got behind-the-scenes tidbits from The Princess Diaries film adaptations—including the hilarious fact that very few people recognized her at the premiere! It was heartwarming to hear that she loved seeing her story come to life, especially the gentleman singing Genovia’s national anthem.
This event reminded me why author visits—and libraries—are so special. Their time, openness, and creativity are gifts we should honor. Meg Cabot has been a major voice in literature for decades, and hearing her speak gave me a deeper appreciation for her, her work, and her dedication to storytelling. What I’ll remember most? Her generosity with fans, hilarious stories, and the camaraderie in the room. I’m looking forward to seeing how today’s young readers connect with the forthcoming Princess Diaries graphic novel adaptations.
Tips for attending an author event:
- You don’t need to cram or re-read everything.
- Go with an open heart and curiosity.
- Be respectful.
- Bring a friend!
Explore upcoming author events at Bexley Public Library!
