Willy couldn’t be more excited to be reading at the world famous City Lights Bookstore in San Francisco with the iconic Barry Gifford. Barry will be reading from his new book of poetry, Imagining Paradise, and Willy will read from a new story, soon to be published in Tin House’s upcoming issue. Who knows – Willy might even play a song…

Hope to see you there: Thursday, May 31 @ 7:00pm

The 10 finalists for the prestigious International IMPAC Dublin Literary Award were announced this morning, and Lean on Pete made the cut from some 150 on the longlist. The Irish Times says Pete is a “stand out”. The IMPAC award is the largest and most international prize of its kind with nominations submitted by libraries all over the world for books in any language. Willy is overwhelmed by the honor. The winner will be announced June 13. Keep your fingers crossed for Pete and Charley!

Lean on Pete is on the longlist for the Dioraphte Jongeren Literatuurprijs, a prize for the best young adult book of 2011 in Holland (where “young adult” means under 30). You can help get it on the shortlist by voting here (much easier to do if you can read Dutch). There is a jury prize and an audience (vote) prize. Really cool to be on the list in one of Willy’s favorite places in the world!

Update March 30: Made the shortlist!

Cheers, and happy spring!