Tonight we went to Borders in Fairfax to a book signing by “Erin Hunter” author of the Warriors (cats) series.  Her name is in quotes because we actually met Victoria Holmes.  She is the brains and inspiration behind the series, although she has other authors who help to perpetuate the series. 

Audrey was in her glory.  She has been a fan of this series from start to the latest book Sunrise she is reading now.  Vicky gave us lots of scoop on the upcoming books, their release, her favorites and what kinds of things were ahead.  The kids really liked getting the inside scoop!

Vicky (she told us to call her that) was no nonsense and a little—’cheeky’ I believe I’d say.  My favorite quote was when she spoke of Harper Collins posting Erin Hunter is inspired by her love of cats—and she said, she didn’t even like cats, she was inspired by her love of money.  She was very blunt and to the point—and kind of funny!

After the books were signed, Audrey gave Vicky a list of possible names for a new clan she thought of “moon clan” with complete cat descriptions.  Vicky seemed very impressed. 

She even wrote Audrey’s name on a piece of paper for future reference...but Audrey told her that wasn’t necessary—since she had written her full name, email and home phone number on the back!

Guess we’ll be waiting by the phone—or the bookshelf. 

Click HERE to see Audrey’s suggestions—that way you’ll know when one of her characters show up in a book!

Below are some video we took of the talk Vicky gave before the signing.

Link below, Erin Hunter reads from Sunrise.

Other things we found interesting: 

Erin Hunter chose the name “Hunter” not only because of its obvious connection to the Warriors theme, but also because she knew she would be placed next to Brian Jacques (author of the Redwall series) on the book shelves—more importantly, in front of him! 

Cinderpaw was the hardest Warrior for her to kill off, because it was a direct correlation to a diagnosed illness within herself.  Luckily she turned out fine...and Cinderpaw is reincarnated somewhere—I would have to ask Audrey about that one though!

Victoria Holmes makes a detailed story board for each of her co-writers before they start.  She is the bolster behind all of the story lines, and who lives or dies.  She is a big fan of CSI, mysteries and even horror stories!