Friday, November 13, 2009

Good News, Michigan, and Q&A

Happy Friday! I'll have you notice that I've blogged THREE times this week. That is 3. Three times. Which means this week I'm averaging three times a week. Thank you.

I have two bits of AWESOME news. Then I'll answer some of your questions from the comments.

1. I am very honored and excited to announce that THE MAZE RUNNER is listed #1 on the Indie Next List for this winter. This is done by Indiebound/American Booksellers Association, which represents all the many wonderful and supercool independent bookstores across this great country.

You can read about it (CLICK HERE) and see the full list of selections (CLICK HERE). Congrats to all my other author peeps as well (I'm looking at you Bree Despain)!

Now, I'm not sure what it means that I'm listed as #1. But considering I've never seen myself listed as #1 on any type of list, I will take it and love it.

2. I'm also being honored by the Hudson Booksellers Book Committee. We've all seen their stores in the airports, have we not? It's one reason I don't mind being early for flights! I hang out in that place till the last second.

They've chosen MAZE as one of five best books for young readers for 2009 and it will be prominently displayed in their stores in December and January. I can't wait to see that! That'll definitely be one of those surreal moments for me. Anyone need to be picked up at the airport?

3. So, a very heartfelt and sincere thanks to Indiebound and Hudson. You have certainly made my week.

4. Important Appearance Notice!!!!!

I will be in Michigan next week, visiting some schools (all arranged by the very cool Charlie Stratton) and having a luncheon with the good people at Borders corporate. I also have two public events - please come see me if you live within 1,000 miles!!!

Tuesday, November 17, 7:00 pm
Borders Ann Arbor - Waters Place
3140 Lohr Rd.
Ann Arbor MI 48108

Thursday, November 19, 7:00 pm
Barnes and Noble Huron Village
3235 Washtenaw Ave.
Ann Arbor MI 48104

5. Now, for some Q&A:

Mr. Vincent and Mary asked when THE MAZE RUNNER will be released in the UK. The rights have definitely been sold there (Scholastic/Chicken House), but I don't have a release date yet. I'm guessing spring or summer of 2010?

Erin G asked if I still love peanut butter toast with tomato soup. YES!!!!!!

CTW asked if I'll be doing any signings in northern Utah this Christmas. Nothing scheduled as of right now. Sorry! Always check back here on the blog for events.

Many people have asked about the release date for THE SCORCH TRIALS. No exact date yet, but probably October of 2010. Or that vicinity. I put up a countdown on the right side of the blog.

Blue asked if it's not better to just wait until a series is done and then read the whole thing at once. Hmmmm. I don't know. I think there's a definite joy in waiting and anticipating something you look forward to. Agonizing sometimes, yes. But fun. Fun to talk about the story and speculate while you wait. Fun to long for it. Isn't that the magic of Christmas? The waiting?

Lula didn't necessarily ask a question, but made comments about the greatest college football team in the land (if not by record, by everything else), Georgia Bulldogs. Lula, you are wise and awesome.

Jen Jenkins asked if it's too motherly to say she's proud of me. Absolutely not!!!!! Nor is it too grandmotherly or first cousin once removedly.

Tamara Hart Heiner asked what it's like to be with more than one publisher. It is cool in many ways, most ways. I certainly would be a complete idiot to complain at all. I guess the only slightly hard part would be figuring out how to show them all your faithfulness to them. :)

Anonymous asked about advance copies of SCORCH. Those will probably be available in May. As for who gets them? Let the battle begin! One good way to set yourself up: have a book blog and talk lots and lots about how much you like MAZE. :)

MattE asked about my 13th Reality books. Matt, it's going to be a 5 book series. My favorite characters are Edgar and Mothball. Sally, too.

And to everyone else - THANK YOU for the comments. I read them all, often more than once. And they really help get me through each day. Thank you very much. I'm thrilled that so many of you are enjoying my books.

Lyrics of the Day:

And I don't want the world to see me,
Cause I don't think that they'd understand.
When everything's made to be broken,
I just want you to know who I am.

Iris, Goo Goo Dolls (Has there ever been a group of people more confident in themselves that they can go by Goo Goo Dolls and not apologize for it?)

45 comments:

Brodi Ashton said...

Great news on the Indie list, for both you and Bree. Have a great trip to Michigan!

MARY IN SCOTLAND said...

Congrats! That is great news!

Great news on the UK release. I'm SO excited about it! I did ask my mom in America to send me a copy for Christmas. I'm going to NEED it before Summer 2010. Thanks!

Aubrey said...

Love Iris! One of my fave songs... and um

"Anonymous asked about advance copies of SCORCH. Those will probably be available in May. As for who gets them? Let the battle begin! One good way to set yourself up: have a book blog and talk lots and lots about how much you like MAZE. :)"

Does that mean I get one? ;) Guess I need to talk to your publicist!

Hoontah said...

That's awesome! I am so excited for you! Yay for the Dashner Dude!

Anonymous said...

I frickin' LOVE Goo Goo Dolls! You've always rocked, James but man--you just totally ROCKETED even higher!

I'm pretty excited for Bree's Dark Divine, myself. Congrats to you both!!

My question for you is, since you love cheese, which is your true love? Is it a nicely aged gouda? A brie? The more bland but always-lovely-on-a-sandwich Havarti? Tell us, James. Inquiring minds want to know.

Congrats on all this lovlines, James! You deserve it!

Randol said...

Hi! Randol (or Randi) here from Atlanta Georgia, I just finished The Maze Runner about 15 minutes ago after non-stop reading for about two days and I just wanted to say I loved it! Congratulations on writing such an awesome and exciting book..it really was difficult to put down :)
Anywho, I'm definitely looking forward to The Scorch Trials and wish me luck on finding something to read in between now and then! Ha. Hope all is well!

P.S.-Go Bulldogs!!!

Nichole Giles said...

Okay, first of all, awesome news at finally finding yourself as #1 on a list--even if you don't know what it means. I'll tell you, it means you're cool. =) But I know for certain that you didn't need a list to tell you that.

Congratulations on all that stuff. Maze is awesome and you totally deserve it.

On your question about the Googoo dolls, (btw that's a great song) I have to include that it takes a truck load of confidence for a band of men to call themselves the Barenaked Ladies. So, apparently, bands like this do exist, and there is more than one.

Also by the way, my humor book goes to press...TODAY! Watch for it in December--it'll make you laugh. Promise.

Elysia said...

Congrats on the listings!! An additional comment re: Blue's question -- The Maze Runner (specifically) is one of the rare first-in-a-series books that actually is a complete story. I eagerly anticipate The Scorch Trials' release -- and I felt the set-up for Maze Runner sequels was FANTASTICALLY done -- but I didn't get that oh-so-common feeling of regret for reading it now (Thank you, Mr. Dashner). The nice thing about reading the books as they come out is that you have the opportunity to re-read them.... and maybe catch the clues that you missed the first time around.

Eli said...

Aww I wish I still lived in Michigan!

Congrats on the Indie Next list!! :)

Erin G. said...

That toast and soup thing just creeps me out. Yuck! You lost points for still loving it. But then again, you blogged three times this week, so I guess you earned them back and then some.

All joking aside, you're amazing! I seriously read your blog and your books and it makes me really want to be like you. You're great. :)

P.S. You know I'm just kidding about the soup thing, right? I like pretzels and string cheese which lots of my friends think is weird. So see! We all have our vices. ;)

Q said...

The Goo Goo Dolls are my favorite. When I tell people so, they look at me funny. And I shake my head and mourn the fact that they have not yet been enlightened.

Laura said...

Your books will be on every shelf in America. The world will know James Dashner. Then you'll finally get a movie deal.. the world needs to see your work in print and on film.

It has to happen.

Have fun in Michigan. Think freezing.

Diva Donna said...

Dude, James! Michigan in November Huh? Take your longjohns and mittens. Have fun and congrats on all the great news.

Dinner. That's all I'm saying on behalf of the Inkers.

Vanessa M. said...

You forgot to mention that today is friday the thirteenth. Don't step on any cracks today. :P Oh yea, I already did that. Hehe.

Vanessa M. said...

ugh... have to be signed in to get email follow ups.

Crisandra said...

Just finished reading your book, it's totally awesome! I loved it from beginning to end. The strange words the gladers used were hard to get used to at first, but near the end I don't think it would have been the same book without them. :D

I'll be waiting for the second book, counting down the seconds until it's in my hands and I can continue the story. :D And yes, it was even in the elite list of books that actually made a shiver run down my spine near the end.

Congrats on such a wonderful book.

Shannon O'Donnell said...

Woo-hoo! Maze can't win enough awards to make me happy!

I have a big question - I teach high school in Kalispell, MT and am on the State Reading Council. We are wondering what it would take to book you as a featured author speaker at next year's October conference. This year we had Chris Crutcher and Patricia Reilly Giff. Next year we want James Dashner, James Dashner, and James Dashner! What say you?

Shannon O'Donnell
www.shannonkodonnell.blogspot.com
mrso_d@yahoo.com

Austin said...

Advanced Copy! I don't really know how to make a blog and don't have a camera but I do have a picture that may have you giving it to me NOW! Now, you may have seen those posters of teachers holding their favorite books and on the poster it says READ, well you probobly have cause you go to schools. Well in my 2nd period we were able to make one for ourselves. The book I was holding had to be Maze Runner, and it was, FAVORITE BOOK EVER!!!!!!!!!! Now I don't really know until I get me that Advanced Copy Now! Sorry for being mean, but the way you said that sounds like it's supposed to be a battle. In the meantime I will try making a blog and upload a pic of that pic of me holding the BEST BOOK EVER!

Anonymous said...

Congrats on the Indie list and I wanted to tell you how much I loved your book. Great work! I was on Richelle Mead's blog and saw this photo... thought you might like it.

http://blue-succubus.livejournal.com/221696.html

Trish.

Austin said...

Ok I made my blog. I tried to finish my first post and my sister wants the computer ah oh well heres the link http://mahbookblog.blogspot.com/
Oh and if anyone can help me get videos on it please tell.

Jewel Allen said...

Hi James!! Congratulations, that is wonderful news.

-Jewel

J.N. Future Author said...

I remember that that is your favorite also ^.^

Man, you just keep getting more and more popular! Its so exciting!!!

I'll be waiting to fight for my fair share of Scorch! Trust me, its not going to be a pretty sight.

I love Iris, my second favorite song in the world!

Anonymous said...

I will have to check your book out for http://mittenlit.com

Krista said...

Finished Maze Runner about 2 hours ago (I bought it for my son for Christmas, but had to read it while he was out of town) and I am still reeling! Loved Thomas, loved the rush, loved the whole discovering potential thing. Thanks!! My son will love it. Actually, both of them will after my younger son steals it from big brother. I'll review it on my blog. Congratulations!

KA said...

Well, I've lost track of how many times I've said this, but congratulations! You keep pumping out the great news--it's inspirational.

Anonymous said...

You blogging 3 times this week=YAYYY!! It's nice to see authors blogging consistently and not sporadically and such. It makes me feel like I'm up to date with everything thats going on, that I don't accidentally miss the release of a new book (heavens forbid!!) or something :]
I feel happy to know that you appreciate our comments. Because you deserve every single positive one out there and more!

firstRainbowRose said...

My uncle got his hands on one of the ARCs of "Maze Runner" that publishers weekly (I think) was sending out back in August and let me borrow it... and I couldn't put it down. I've been waiting impacently for it to come out so I can get me my own copy. It was just as amazing as you made it out to be at LTU&E (by the way, will you be going again in Febuary? It was so intresting to hear your insight. I expeically loved when you came to Brandon's class. I still laugh about your private soundtrack. But I digress)

Will you be doing any signings in/around Provo any time soon?

Matt Hayes said...

I finally finished MAZE after 6 days. I planned to finish it in 1, but I didn't. I have a question, James. Do you like MAZE or REALITY better?

Dave said...

Dash,
You never cease to aMAZE me. Getting on book lists, having like a gazillion newer fans. The old timers here knew you were capable! Good luck in Mich! BBBrrr is all I can think. Can't wait for 13th 3 and Scorch. After that will be the Maze hitting the big screens. I'm hoping I qualify for ARC's of them. After all, you were my first ever post on our site with many more of you later on. Good luck and keep on keepin on! We are right behind you all the way.

Dave

Dave said...

Dash,
Forgot to ask.. Who's actually publishing 13th 3? I know you have the 2 working together now (I think).

Dave

Erin G. said...

James!!! I remembered my question from a couple days ago. I swear college is making me forgetful. Or maybe I've already hit my stride at 18 and it's all downhill from here. Sad thought. . . .

Anyway, my question. So in my human development class we were learning about play vs. work. And they did this study where they went to an elementary school. At the school there were these little girls who everday at recess drew pictures. So the people told the little girls they would pay them to draw pictures for them. They did this for about two weeks before saying they had enough picture and left. After that the little girls didn't draw at recess anymore.

So the point of this really long story is that if you pay someone to do something, then they won't just do it on their own anymore. Which brings me to the question: do you think you would still write books even if no one paid you to do it anymore?

Emily said...

Not sure if this gets old or not but I wanted to say that I love, love, love The Maze Runner! I posted a review on my blog if you want to check it out
(http://redhousebooks.blogspot.com/2009/11/book-review-maze-runner-by-james.html).
I have the ARC but absolutely must get the hardcover - I love that cover! Can't wait for the next one :)

Mrs. L said...

Mr. Dashner,
It is my pleasure to inform you that The Maze Runner has been selected for the 2010 Texas Lone Star Reading List. Congratulations and thank you for writing such an incredible book that is sure to connect with our readers in grades 6-8!
Lori Loranger, Chair
Texas Lone Star Reading List Committee

Bree Biesinger Despain said...

Thanks for the shout-out, James! Have fun freezing your rear off in Michigan.

tapestry100 said...

Holy cow!! Ann Arbor is only about an hour away from me!! I'm totally going to come and finally get to meet you! w00t!!

tapestry100 said...

It was awesome getting to meet you tonight!! Enjoy the rest of your stay in Michigan!

DKuzNY said...

Mr. Dashner, James, DUDE! I just finished reading "The Maze Runner" lent to me by a friend, and I must say, I haven't been THAT involved in a story in a long time. VERY refreshing read, and the best part was the very last page, the very last line. No, not that one. The LAST one that says "END OF BOOK ONE"! LOL absolutely excited that this is a trilogy, and I can't wait for more. Any chances this might be made into a film??? *get to work on that too bud*

Jackson Porter said...

Hey Dashner, while I was reading the Maze Runner I came across a mistake.
On page 114, "You've got a lot to learn" was all Minho said.

There's no punctuation at the end of Minho's sentence.

Just thought I might tell you. Love the book, It's one of my favorites.

aubtobobtolob said...

I think Naomi is you number one fan, she tells EVERYONE about you, and checks your books in stores all over. I got her maze runner for Christmas, (thank you Amazon) I got it for several other people as well! Next book.... ADVANCE SIGNED COPY... we only have one! ;)
Keep it up Jamie, you ROCK the world!
Aubrey Hannig

numberonedashnerfan said...

Ummm....I belive me and jaocoby are james offical #one fans!!!..... tehe James I need to send you a picture...

Jack Porter said...

JAMES HOW COULD YOU!
I just finished The Maze Runner on Friday. And let me tell you, I thought Harry Potter and Hunger Games were good. Talk about fast paced. This book is definitely the best book I've ever read.
But at the end, I shuckin balled my eyes out. IT WAS SO SAD, I JUST MOURN OVER THAT. I CAN'T WAIT FOR THE SCORCH TRIALS. After that email at the end I wanted to klunk my pants. Shuck, the best book I have ever read.
BTW, great job on Michigan.
See ya lata

Unknown said...

is this another test?! you've been gone for 10 DAYS!! Did you die?

numberonedashnerfan said...

I think we need to call a search party for Le James Dashner for he has been missing for almost 2 weeks!!!!!

Matt Hayes said...

Okay, I've been looking for another post, but I can't find one. Where are you, James?

kanishk said...

have a book blog and talk lots and lots about how much you like MAZE.

Work from home India