Westminster Resident Wins Galley of Sarah Pekkanen’s Forthcoming Book, “These Girls”

Earlier this week we ran a contest through our e-newsletter to win an advance (signed) copy of “These Girls,” the new novel (due out in April 2012) from GBF favorite Sarah Pekkanen.

The winner? Westminster resident Donna Crafton. We asked Donna a few questions about her past experiences with the GBF (all good, we’re proud to report) and with Sarah (none yet, but we’re sure she’ll be pleased when she gets her book).

GBF: Did you attend the 2010 or 2011 GBF? If so, what were the highlights?
CRAFTON: Yes, I attended the 2011 Book Festival. The highlight for me was the opportunity to hear Elizabeth Berg speak and have her sign a book. I brought  granddaughter along so she could get her copy of “Chicken Butt” signed by Erica Pearl.  The entire event exceeded my expectations. I was so impressed with the quantity and quality of authors and I can’t wait for 2012! (Editor’s note: She honestly said that. We didn’t even have to prompt her!)

GBF: Have you read any of Sarah’s other books? If so, which ones and what did you think of them? (Editor’s note: Yes, we realize this could have been a dangerous question! But we assumed that she wouldn’t have entered to win this book if she had read and not liked Sarah’s previous books.)
CRAFTON: I have not read any of Sarah’s other book but as a book club member I am always on the lookout for new selections for our club.

GBF: What are some of your favorite books that you’ve read this year? 
CRAFTON: So many – “Joy for Beginners” by Erica Bauermeister, “Swamplandia” by Karen Russell, “If Jack’s in Love” by Stephen Wetta, “State of Wonder” by Ann Patchett, “Townie” by Andre Dubus III – and I am and avid collector of children’s books.