I don't know about you but one of my greatest fears is public speaking. So back in November, when Bettendorf Library's Hedy Hustedde invited me to give a presentation on my latest novel, "The Waterkeeper's Daughter" as part of the 2015 Read Local program, I agreed but with great reservations. I thought long and hard then decided to invite Quad-Cities Waterkeeper, Art Norris, to share the spotlight. He could talk about his organization, the international Waterkeepers Alliance founded by Bobby Kennedy, Jr. and I would talk about and read from my novel.
The months passed and the date of the presentation approached. To say I was terrified would be an understatement. What could I possibly say that would be of interest to anyone? That's when I decided to make use of my new computer's videotaping capabilities. First I just stared at myself and then realized if I didn't write a script, I would freeze when it came time to speak. So I wrote my thoughts on paper and began to practice...and practice...and practice to the point that I was reciting it in my sleep!
The program, which was held Feb. 11th turned out far better than I anticipated. I had feared no one would come. After all it was the middle of the week and the temperatures were frigid to say the least. At six-thirty hardly anyone had arrived. Then around ten minutes to seven, the room began to fill up. Not only were people interested in what Art and I had to say, but they stuck around afterward asking questions of us both.
I'm happy to report it was a great experience and the next time I'm offered an opportunity to speak in public, I'll know exactly what to do: get a partner - and practice until I wake up with the words ringing in my ears!
The months passed and the date of the presentation approached. To say I was terrified would be an understatement. What could I possibly say that would be of interest to anyone? That's when I decided to make use of my new computer's videotaping capabilities. First I just stared at myself and then realized if I didn't write a script, I would freeze when it came time to speak. So I wrote my thoughts on paper and began to practice...and practice...and practice to the point that I was reciting it in my sleep!
The program, which was held Feb. 11th turned out far better than I anticipated. I had feared no one would come. After all it was the middle of the week and the temperatures were frigid to say the least. At six-thirty hardly anyone had arrived. Then around ten minutes to seven, the room began to fill up. Not only were people interested in what Art and I had to say, but they stuck around afterward asking questions of us both.
I'm happy to report it was a great experience and the next time I'm offered an opportunity to speak in public, I'll know exactly what to do: get a partner - and practice until I wake up with the words ringing in my ears!
Author Joan Mauch and QC Waterkeeper Art Norris
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